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Primary Care Liaison

Abnormal red reflex and or white pupil

  • The following pre-referral guideline covers abnormal red reflex/white pupil. Please see other ophthalmology guidelines as needed including Abnormal pupil reaction and size.

    When to refer

    1: White or "glowing" pupil

    • IMMEDIATE REFERRAL for possible leukocoria
    • Fax to 03 9345 5034 and call 03 9345 6180 to highlight urgent referral.

    2: Absence of red reflex

    • IMMEDIATE REFERRAL
    • Fax to 03 9345 5034 and call 03 9345 6180 to highlight urgent referral.

    Pre-referral treatment

    Pre-referral treatment is not recommended for abnormal red reflex or white pupil.

    Contact information

    RCH Switchboardtelephone (03) 9345 5522

    For clinical advice ask for:

    • Ophthalmology registrar or consultant on-call
      • Department of Ophthalmology - clinical advice (or direct dial 03 9345 5630)
      • Emergency Department - for clinical advice after hours
    For outpatient bookings fax to 03 9345 5034 (number also on referral form)
    • For urgent appointments also call 03 9345 6180

    Admission enquiries ask for:

    • General admission enquiries (or direct dial 03 9345 6172)
    • ED admission enquiries: (or direct dial 03 9345 6477)

    Resources

    References

    Paediatric Handbook (2009). Eye Conditions, Chapter 23 (pp357-368). James Elder and Peter Barnett. 8th Ed, Blackwell Publishing by the Staff of the Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne. Australia.

    Feedback

    Please give feedback on this guideline - kids.connect@rch.org.au / telephone: (03) 9345 4645 / fax (03) 9345 4650

    Last updated

    Last update: August 2011

    Guideline developed by the RCH Department of Ophthalmology in consultation with a GP Review Group. Many thanks to the GPs involved in the review.  First published Dec 2007. Reviewed August 2009.  Please read  Copyright and Disclaimer.