Ophthalmology is a medical science that studies the occurrence, progression, and outcomes of diseases of the visual system, as well as their prevention, management, diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation.
The eye is an essential sensory organ of the human body. Approximately 90% of the external information obtained by humans through sensory organs is acquired via the eyes. By receiving external light stimuli and converting them into electrical signals transmitted to the visual cortex of the brain, the eye facilitates the process of vision. The structure of the eye is highly intricate, and even minor injuries can cause structural abnormalities, leading to impaired visual function or even vision loss. This can have significant impacts on an individual’s daily life, learning, and work, and may also result in considerable losses for families and society.
Ophthalmology is closely related to other clinical disciplines. Ocular diseases are often interconnected with systemic diseases, with reciprocal influences between them. Diseases of other bodily systems frequently involve the visual organs, resulting in structural and functional alterations that may lead to diminished or lost vision.
Ophthalmology is also deeply interlinked with foundational medical sciences. Disciplines such as physiology, genetics, immunology, biology, pharmacology, and biochemistry contribute to understanding the mechanisms underlying the development and progression of ocular diseases. They play a crucial role in advancing the prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of these conditions. At the same time, advancements in ophthalmology further drive progress in these foundational scientific fields.
Additionally, ophthalmology maintains strong connections with the physical, engineering, and information sciences. Mathematical, physical, chemical, materials science, and engineering advancements have driven innovations in diagnostic and therapeutic techniques in ophthalmology. The rapid development of information sciences, including artificial intelligence, big data, and the internet, is transforming diagnostic and treatment models in the field of ophthalmology.
The interplay and integration between ophthalmology and other disciplines have given rise to many new subfields, such as ocular epidemiology, neuro-ophthalmology, ocular genetics, ocular immunology, ocular pharmacology, laser ophthalmology, and ophthalmic informatics. This interdisciplinary collaboration not only promotes the development of ophthalmology but also contributes to advancements in other related fields.