This book introduces a structured framework that visually maps key ocular illnesses and conditions, integrating concept mapping and interactive elements to strengthen clinical reasoning. By linking basic science, disease mechanisms, and hierarchical relationships, it supports learners in organising and applying knowledge with clarity and precision. Undergraduate medical students, junior doctors, general practitioners, and members of ophthalmology multidisciplinary teams will find a practical resource that enhances diagnostic thinking through the identification of clinical features and the comparison of related conditions.

Ophthalmology illness scripts: Thinking like an eye doctor features graphic representations, conceptual networks, and visual integration of scientific and clinical information, to guide readers toward higher‑order reasoning by applying, analysing, synthesising, and evaluating information while navigating the progression from general principles to specific clinical presentations. The result is an accessible yet rigorous tool for developing strong, evidence‑based clinical reasoning in ophthalmology.

Marta Ugarte is an ophthalmologist and fellow of the Royal College of Ophthalmologists (London), with a subspecialty interest in retinal and choroidal disorders. She graduated from the University of the Basque Country Faculty of Medicine in Bilbao, Spain. She completed her higher research degree, DPhil, at the University of Oxford and her clinical ophthalmology specialist training in London and South Thames (St. Thomas’, Worthing and Maidstone hospitals) and Manchester Royal Eye Hospital/University of Manchester, where she was NIHR clinical lecturer in ophthalmology. She completed her retina fellowships at Manchester Royal Eye Hospital and Moorfields Hospital in London. She has been working as a consultant ophthalmologist in medical retina and uveitis since August 2014. First in Moorfields, prior to returning to Manchester in January 2019.

Marta Ugarte is actively involved in both basic science and clinical research on retinal physiology, aging and disease. She has published numerous papers in scientific peer-reviewed journals, as well as book chapters on retinal and choroidal disorders. She has presented at national and international ophthalmology and trace elements meetings.

Marta Ugarte is dedicated to, and involved in, teaching. She is currently the associate hospital dean for undergraduate clinical ophthalmology at Manchester Royal Eye Hospital/University of Manchester. Additionally, she is a member of the faculty of clinical informatics and a panel member of the faculty appraisers.