INTRODUCTION: Cataracts are the leading cause of blindness worldwide, with a notably high incidence rate. Endophthalmitis is the most severe complication following cataract surgery, often resulting in profound vision los...INTRODUCTION: Cataracts are the leading cause of blindness worldwide, with a notably high incidence rate. Endophthalmitis is the most severe complication following cataract surgery, often resulting in profound vision loss. This study evaluates the impact of risk factors such as age, sex, diabetes mellitus (DM), hypertension, posterior capsule rupture (PCR), type of surgery, and use of intraocular lens (IOL) material on the risk of endophthalmitis after cataract surgery. METHODS: English and Chinese public databases were searched from inception to March 1, 2024. We included studies reporting the number of occurrences of endophthalmitis after cataract surgery on potential risk factors, including age, sex, DM status, hypertension status, intraoperative PCR, type of surgery and use of IOL material. The quality of the included studies was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. RESULTS: A total of 57 studies were included and critically evaluated in the meta-analysis. The results showed that female sex was associated with a lower risk of endophthalmitis (odds ratio [OR]: 0.81; 95% CI: 0.75-0.87; p < 0.001). Individuals with diabetes who underwent cataract surgery were found to have a greater risk of endophthalmitis (I2 = 95%; OR: 4.90; 95% CI: 2.41, 9.95; p < 0.001), but the result may be influenced by publication bias. Individuals with hypertension (OR: 2.88; 95% CI: 1.53, 5.45; p = 0.001) and intraoperative PCR (OR: 9.18; 95% CI: 3.31, 25.43; p < 0.001) were found to have a greater risk of endophthalmitis. Phacoemulsification significantly reduced the risk of endophthalmitis compared with extracapsular cataract extraction (ECCE) (OR: 0.62; 95% CI: 0.45, 0.85) based on network meta-analysis. CONCLUSION: Male sex, hypertension, intraoperative PCR, and the use of the ECCE surgical approach are associated with a greater risk of postoperative endophthalmitis. Although an age-related trend in elevated risk was observed, this finding should be interpreted cautiously.
The article "Hydrogen Saline Treatment Attenuates Hyperoxia-Induced Retinopathy by Inhibition of Oxidative Stress and Reduction of VEGF Expression" [Ophthalmic Res. 2012;47:122-27; https://doi.org/10.1159/000329600] by L...The article "Hydrogen Saline Treatment Attenuates Hyperoxia-Induced Retinopathy by Inhibition of Oxidative Stress and Reduction of VEGF Expression" [Ophthalmic Res. 2012;47:122-27; https://doi.org/10.1159/000329600] by Lina Huang, Shihong Zhao, John H. Zhang and Xuejun Sun has been retracted by the Publisher and the Editor.After the publication of this article, concerns were raised about the integrity of some of the data presented. Specifically, internal image duplications were found in areas of Figure 4a and 4b of this article. The authors responded to the above concerns and stated that they no longer have access to the original data supporting the figures. In addition, they have discussed this matter with several of their co-authors and acknowledge that there may have been errors during their processing of their figures. The authors requested to retract their above article. Given that the concerns in the above article cannot be addressed, this article is being retracted. The authors agree with this retraction.
INTRODUCTION: Pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) is a primary surgical method for rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD). The introduction of the 3D head-up system has provided ophthalmologists with a new surgical experience....INTRODUCTION: Pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) is a primary surgical method for rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD). The introduction of the 3D head-up system has provided ophthalmologists with a new surgical experience. This study aimed to compare the surgical outcomes between 3D low-light intensity-assisted and traditional eyepiece-assisted PPV for RRD. METHODS: A prospective randomized controlled design was employed to compare the surgical outcomes of 3D low-light intensity-assisted and traditional eyepiece-assisted PPV for RRD. The optical intensity parameters of optical fibers and chandeliers were set according to the minimum lighting standard for 25-G PPV. Surgery duration and intraoperative conditions were documented. Post-surgery, the light intensity of the optical fiber and chandeliers during surgery was measured using a photometer. Patients were followed up for six months to assess their postoperative recovery. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS 26.0 software, with p < 0.05 indicating statistically significant differences. RESULTS: There was no statistically significant difference between the two groups in baseline data (p > 0.05). PPV was completed in all patients, and there was no statistically significant difference in surgery time between the two groups (p > 0.05). The optical fiber and chandelier light intensity in the 3D group were significantly lower than those in the eyepiece group and the difference being statistically significant (p < 0.001). Six months after surgery, the retinal attachment rate was 100%. Post-surgery, both best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and intraocular pressure (IOP) were significantly higher than presurgery levels. There were no significant differences between the two groups in terms of retinal attachment rate, BCVA, IOP, and flash electroretinogram (p > 0.05). CONCLUSION: Compared to the traditional eyepiece, the 3D head-up system can effectively complete surgery under lower illumination intensity. The anatomical restoration and functional success of the retina after surgery are equivalent.
INTRODUCTION: The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of estimated individual vitreous volume (VV) on intraocular pressure (IOP) spikes after intravitreal anti-vascular endothelial growth factor injections (IVIs)....INTRODUCTION: The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of estimated individual vitreous volume (VV) on intraocular pressure (IOP) spikes after intravitreal anti-vascular endothelial growth factor injections (IVIs). METHODS: VVs of eyes were calculated using an axial length (AL)-based formula AL3 × (π/6) × 0.76 + 0.012 × (AL - 24), and study eyes were divided into four groups according to their VVs; <4.5 cm3 (Group 1, n = 52), 4.5-5.0 cm3 (Group 2, n = 60), 5.0-5.50 cm3 (Group 3, n = 60), and >5.50 cm3 (Group 4, n = 35). IOP measurements were taken Pre-IVI, immediately after (Post-IVI-0), 5 min (Post-IVI-5), 15 min (Post-IVI-15), and 30 min after the IVI. RESULTS: A significant IOP change was found between the five-time points in all groups (p < 0.001 for all). Regarding the same time point measurement comparison between the groups, only a statistically significant change was found in the Post-IVI-0 point (p = 0.001). In a post hoc analysis, Group 1, Group 2, and Group 3 had significantly higher IOP values when compared to Group 4 (p < 0.05 for all). Patients treated with prefilled ranibizumab syringes exhibited lower IOP increases than vial-prepared aflibercept injection at the Post-IVI-0 time point (p = 0.042). CONCLUSIONS: A similar increase in IOP was observed in eyes with low and intermediate volumes, but the increase was less pronounced in those with high volumes after the IVI. Prefilled syringe form showed a lower IOP increase tendency in comparison with vial-prepared forms of the molecules.
INTRODUCTION: The aim of the study was to evaluate clinical and biometric factors leading to a prediction error related to lens position in pars plana vitrectomy. METHODS: This study was conducted as a consecutive retros...INTRODUCTION: The aim of the study was to evaluate clinical and biometric factors leading to a prediction error related to lens position in pars plana vitrectomy. METHODS: This study was conducted as a consecutive retrospective case series at the Department of Ophthalmology, Montpellier University Hospital. All medical files and PCI biometrical reports from a single surgeon were reviewed from 2017 to 2019. Patients who had phacoemulsification with the ASPHINA 509 MP® intraocular lens were selected and stratified into 3 groups: phacoemulsification alone (group 1), phacoemulsification and vitrectomy with gas tamponade (group 2), and phacoemulsification and vitrectomy without tamponade (group 3). Clinical factors and biometry factors from initial and final biometry were collected. Refractive error, actual lens position, C constant, axial length delta, and pre-operative and post-operative anterior and posterior segment variation parameters were calculated. RESULTS: A total of 140 eyes were analyzed, 90 in group 1, and 25 in group 2 and 3. The mean prediction error was 0.10 ± 0.55 D (group 1); -0.36 ± 0.74 D (group 2); and -0.12 ± 0.54 D (group 3) with p < 0.05 for group 1 vs. group 2. The mean actual lens position was 5.25 ± 0.29 mm; 5.66 ± 0.60 mm; and 5.50 ± 0.43 mm for the 3 groups, respectively (p < 0.001). Axial length delta was -0.10 ± 0.13 mm in group 1, -0.062 ± 0.20 mm in group 2, and -0.022 ± 0.17 mm in group 3 (p = 0.015). Multilinear regression analysis found a significant and independent influence of vitrectomy and gas tamponade on prediction error. CONCLUSION: Myopic shift in the case of vitrectomy is multifactorial, effective lens position is modified by vitrectomy and vitreous refractive index is changing. The integration of these data in formulas may improve refractive outcome after cataract and vitrectomy surgery.
INTRODUCTION: Laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) is a common refractive surgery. But it may lead to temporary dry eye due to reversible damage to the corneal subbasal nerve plexus. However, evidence on chronic...INTRODUCTION: Laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) is a common refractive surgery. But it may lead to temporary dry eye due to reversible damage to the corneal subbasal nerve plexus. However, evidence on chronic ocular surface changes are unclear. This study reports the ocular surface changes, partial blinking rates, and meibomian gland statuses in eyes that underwent LASIK for at least 48 months. METHODS: Cross-sectional, matched case-control comparison study, including 48 post-LASIK patients and 48 sex-, age-, smoking-, and axial length-matched healthy controls, recruited from a community eye screening program. Outcome measures include anterior segment clinical findings, keratographic and meibographic imaging. RESULTS: Totally, 48 right eyes of 48 post-LASIK Chinese patients (39 females, 2 smokers) were analyzed with 48 right eyes of 48 matched healthy controls. The mean age at the time of ocular surface examination was 50 ± 11 years, and the axial length 26±1 mm. Post-LASIK eyes had a lower quality of meibum (p = 0.008) compared to healthy controls. Post-LASIK eyes were associated with a shorter Schirmer's test (p = 0.03). The ocular surface disease index (OSDI) score was higher in post-LASIK patients (p = 0.00001). Other anterior segment examination parameters, partial blinking rate, meibomian gland dropout, lipid layer thickness, noninvasive tear break-up time, and tear meniscus height were comparable between the 2 groups. CONCLUSIONS: Up to 75% of post-LASIK patients complained of on-going, chronic dry eye symptoms. Post-LASIK eyes were associated with a reduced aqueous tear production. Post-LASIK patients with chronic dry eye symptoms are advised to have periodic ocular surface evaluation. Treatments might be considered in patients with poor tear film stability.
INTRODUCTION: Dry eye disease (DED) is a prevalent ocular condition that significantly impacts quality of life. Umbilical cord serum (UCS) has emerged as a promising therapeutic option, but its efficacy requires further...INTRODUCTION: Dry eye disease (DED) is a prevalent ocular condition that significantly impacts quality of life. Umbilical cord serum (UCS) has emerged as a promising therapeutic option, but its efficacy requires further investigation. This systemic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the therapeutic effects of UCS eye drops in the treatment of DED. METHODS: A comprehensive literature search was conducted across multiple databases, including PubMed, Web of science, Embase, Science Direct, Cochrane Library, and China National Knowledge Network, to identify relevant clinical trials. The efficacy of UCS was assessed based on key outcome measures, such as the ocular surface disease index (OSDI), tear break-up time (TBUT), Schirmer I test, and corneal fluorescein staining scores. Meta-analyses were performed to pool the results, and the findings were presented in a forest plot. RESULTS: Eight studies were included in the meta-analysis, with two relevant randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving a total of 204 patients. Most of the included studies had a follow-up time of less than 2 months. The pooled results showed that UCS treatment significantly improved the OSDI, with a mean difference (MD) of -9.16 (95% confidence interval [CI], -12.0, -6.36) compared to baseline. Additionally, the TBUT values were higher in the UCS group, with an MD of 2.65 (95% CI, 0.93, 4.36). The Schirmer I test results showed an improvement, with an MD of 1.18 (95% CI, 0.30, 2.06). The fluorescein staining score were also lower in the UCS treatment group, with an MD of -4.71 (95% CI, -5.72, -3.69). CONCLUSION: This meta-analysis suggested that UCS eye drops had a beneficial therapeutic effect on DED, significantly improving the OSDI, TBUT, Schirmer I test, and corneal fluorescein staining scores. However, larger RCTs with longer follow-up periods were needed to further evaluate the long-term efficacy and safety of UCS in the management of DED.
INTRODUCTION: The aim of the study was to systematically review the evidence from randomized controlled trials that evaluate the efficacy and safety of perfluorohexyloctane in the treatment of dry eye disease. METHODS: L...INTRODUCTION: The aim of the study was to systematically review the evidence from randomized controlled trials that evaluate the efficacy and safety of perfluorohexyloctane in the treatment of dry eye disease. METHODS: Literature search was conducted on PubMed and Scopus in April 2024 with the search strategy ("perfluorohexyloctane" or "NOV03" or "semifluorinated alkane") and "dry eye." Extension and paired-eyes study were excluded. The risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane risk-of-bias tool. Forest plots and a summary of findings were prepared for total corneal fluorescein staining (tCFS), tear film break-up time (TFBUT), eye dryness score (EDS), and Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI). RESULTS: The pooled standardized mean difference (SMD) for tCFS after 8 weeks of treatment was -0.53 (95% CI: -0.68 to -0.38; p < 0.001), indicating a significant improvement in patients treated with perfluorohexyloctane. The between-study heterogeneity was moderately high (I2 = 52.0%). No significant differences in TFBUT were observed (SMD = 0.05; 95% CI: -0.16 to 0.25; p = 0.654). Regarding symptoms, patients treated with NOV03 had significantly lower EDS compared to controls (SMD = -0.49; 95% CI: -0.66 to -0.32; p < 0.001), with moderately high heterogeneity (I2 = 71.1%). Conversely, the pooled SMD of OSDI was -0.13 (95% CI: -0.43 to 0.17; p = 0.412), indicating no significant difference. CONCLUSION: Perfluorohexyloctane is an effective and safe alternative for the treatment of evaporative dry eye disease due to MGD that can significantly reduce tCFS and eye dryness symptoms. More well-designed non-sponsored randomized clinical trials are required to investigate the impact on other ocular surface parameters.
INTRODUCTION: Intrableb structures are hallmark features of the filtering bleb. This study aimed to compare the characteristics of functioning blebs using anterior segment optical coherence tomography (AS-OCT) according...INTRODUCTION: Intrableb structures are hallmark features of the filtering bleb. This study aimed to compare the characteristics of functioning blebs using anterior segment optical coherence tomography (AS-OCT) according to amniotic membrane transplantation (AMT). METHODS: Forty eyes from 40 patients diagnosed with primary open-angle glaucoma who underwent trabeculectomy, either with AMT (20 eyes) or without AMT (control group, 20 eyes), were included. Parameters including bleb height, bleb wall thickness, striping layer thickness, striping to bleb wall ratio, bleb wall reflectivity, fluid-filled space score/height/area, and presence of microcysts were assessed using AS-OCT. Surgical success was defined at the time of AS-OCT as an intraocular pressure (IOP) ≤18 mm Hg and IOP reduction ≥30% without medication. In these patients, if the bleb had a clinically diffuse and healthy without any signs of an encapsulated bleb, the bleb was then defined as functioning bleb. RESULTS: Except for bleb height (p = 0.352) and microcyst formation (p = 0.266), significant differences were observed between the two groups. The functioning blebs of the AMT group exhibited greater fluid-filled space score, area, and height than those of the control group, following adjustment for AS-OCT time (all p < 0.001). Conversely, the functioning bleb of the control group demonstrated thicker bleb wall and striping layer, higher striping to bleb wall ratio, and lower bleb wall reflectivity than those of the AMT group, following adjustment for AS-OCT time (all p ≤ 0.001). CONCLUSION: Distinct intrableb structures were identified in functioning blebs according to AMT. The reflectivity and thickness of the bleb wall structures were more pronounced in the functioning bleb after trabeculectomy alone. In contrast, the extent of the fluid-filled space emerged as a more distinctive feature of the intrableb structures in the functioning bleb after trabeculectomy with AMT.
INTRODUCTION: Moyamoya disease (MMD) is a chronic cerebrovascular occlusive disorder. Ocular involvement in patients with MMD has increasingly been recognized and reported in recent years. This study aimed to investigate...INTRODUCTION: Moyamoya disease (MMD) is a chronic cerebrovascular occlusive disorder. Ocular involvement in patients with MMD has increasingly been recognized and reported in recent years. This study aimed to investigate the changes of optic disc morphology and the peripapillary retinal and choroidal thickness in patients with MMD. METHODS: This cross-sectional study included 56 patients diagnosed with idiopathic MMD and 56 healthy controls matched by age and gender. All participants underwent swept-source optical coherence tomography to capture the optic disc morphology as well as the peripapillary retinal and choroidal thickness. Optic disc parameters, including cup area, rim area, cup volume, rim volume, cup-disc area ratio (CDR), linear CDR, and vertical CDR were measured and compared between the two groups. Additionally, the thickness of the whole peripapillary retina, retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL), ganglion cell layer (GCL), and choroid were evaluated and analyzed across 12 clock-hour segments around the peripapillary region. RESULTS: The rim area in MMD patients was significantly less than in controls, while the CDR in MMD patients was significantly larger than that in the control group. There was no statistically significant difference between the two groups regarding disc area, cup area, cup volume, rim volume, vertical and horizontal diameter of disc. The retinal thickness at the 7 o'clock position was significantly thinner in the MMD group compared to the control group and the temporal RNFL thickness, particularly at the 7 o'clock and 9 o'clock positions, was significantly reduced in the MMD group (p < 0.05). The GCL layer at the 7 o'clock position was thinner in the MMD group than in the control group (p < 0.05). The MMD group showed a notably reduced average choroidal thickness, particularly in the inferior-temporal region (p < 0.05). There was a correlation between peripapillary choroidal and GCL layer thickness in the MMD group, but no significant correlations were found with rim area, CDR, or RNFL. CONCLUSIONS: In patients with MMD, there is an increase in the CDR accompanied by a decrease in the rim area. Additionally, there is thinning of the temporal RNFL, GCL, and choroidal thickness, notably in the inferotemporal quadrant of the optic disc.
INTRODUCTION: New anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) treatments are emerging for the treatment of diabetic macular edema (DME)/neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD). This study aimed to explore...INTRODUCTION: New anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) treatments are emerging for the treatment of diabetic macular edema (DME)/neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD). This study aimed to explore the treatment attributes patients find important when deciding on treatment options. METHODS: This noninterventional survey study assessed treatment preferences through a discrete choice experiment (DCE) among patients with DME/nAMD in the USA, Canada, France, Italy, Spain, and the UK. The DCE design was informed by a targeted literature review and qualitative interview research and included five treatment attributes: mode of administration, frequency of examinations, frequency of injections or refills, likely change in visual acuity, and eye-related side effects. Conditional logit models were used to analyze the choice data. RESULTS: Overall, 537 patients completed the DCE (DME, n = 173; nAMD, n = 364). Patients reported preferring "injection" over "implant surgery and refills" and better visual outcomes over "stabilization," which were also the most important attributes driving preference (35.1% and 31.5%, respectively). They also showed a preference for less-frequent treatment and examinations and for "mild-moderate, frequent" over "severe, rare" side effects. These findings were generally consistent across the two conditions, although significant differences were found depending on anti-VEGF treatment duration (nAMD, DME) and number of reported barriers (nAMD). CONCLUSION: Patient preferences for treatment are driven by several factors. Considering these preferences is essential when designing/introducing new therapies. Individual treatment preferences should be identified and given key consideration when helping patients select from an expanding array of treatment options.
INTRODUCTION: The aim of the study was to report the global, regional, and national burden of retinoblastoma between 1990 and 2021, by age, sex, and sociodemographic index (SDI). METHODS: We leveraged the Global Burden o...INTRODUCTION: The aim of the study was to report the global, regional, and national burden of retinoblastoma between 1990 and 2021, by age, sex, and sociodemographic index (SDI). METHODS: We leveraged the Global Burden of Disease 2021 Study to elucidate the epidemiological landscape of retinoblastoma, encompassing prevalence, incidence, mortality, and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) across 204 nations and territories spanning the period from 1990 to 2021. The SDI was employed to evaluate the interplay between socioeconomic development and the burden of retinoblastoma. RESULTS: In 2021, global estimates unveiled 57,333 prevalent cases of retinoblastoma, yielding 6,274 incident cases, 2,762 deaths, and 243,204 DALYs. Globally, the age-standardized prevalence, incidence, mortality, and DALY rates for retinoblastoma in 2021 were 0.86, 0.09, 0.04, and 3.65 per 100,000 population, respectively. Tokelau, Kenya, and Portugal demonstrated the highest age-standardized prevalence and incidence rates of retinoblastoma in 2021. The global prevalence of retinoblastoma peaks among children aged 2-4 years and subsequently declines with increasing age. At the regional level, the correlation between SDI and age-standardized prevalence rates for retinoblastoma manifested a V-shaped pattern. CONCLUSIONS: This comprehensive examination of retinoblastoma epidemiological trends underscores the imperative for heightened vigilance and more efficacious therapeutic interventions, especially within resource-limited environments. The findings accentuate the need for targeted strategies to address the disparate burden of retinoblastoma across diverse socioeconomic landscapes.
INTRODUCTION: This study aimed to elucidate the role and molecular mechanisms of acidic leucine-rich nuclear phosphoprotein 32 kDa B (Anp32b) deficiency in ocular development. METHODS: We used constitutive C57BL/6-derive...INTRODUCTION: This study aimed to elucidate the role and molecular mechanisms of acidic leucine-rich nuclear phosphoprotein 32 kDa B (Anp32b) deficiency in ocular development. METHODS: We used constitutive C57BL/6-derived Anp32b-/- mice to elucidate the role of Anp32b in ocular development, including the phenotype and proportion of eye malformation in different genotypes. RNA-seq analysis and rescue experiments were performed to investigate the underlying mechanisms of Anp32b. RESULTS: Deletion of Anp32b contributes to severe defects in ocular development, including anophthalmia and microphthalmia. Moreover, Anp32b is highly expressed in the lens, and Anp32b-/- embryos with microphthalmia often exhibit severely impaired lens development. Mechanistically, ANP32B directly interacts with paired box protein 6 (PAX6), a master transcriptional regulator, and enhances its transcriptional activity. Overexpression of PAX6 partially but significantly reverses the inhibition of proliferation observed in ANP32B knockdown lens epithelial cells. CONCLUSIONS: Our findings indicate that Anp32b deficiency suppresses ocular development by repressing Pax6 and identify that Anp32b is a viable therapeutic target for ocular developmental defects.
INTRODUCTION: The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of intracameral administration of Mydrane® in children undergoing lens surgery. METHODS: We set up a single center prospective cohort trial including 40 co...INTRODUCTION: The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of intracameral administration of Mydrane® in children undergoing lens surgery. METHODS: We set up a single center prospective cohort trial including 40 consecutive patients between 8 weeks and 17 years old who were planned for lens surgery, including cataract, persistent fetal vasculature or lens subluxation. We injected 0.1 mL of intracameral Mydrane at the beginning of surgery, no preoperative mydriatic eye drops were used. The aim of the study was to measure pupil size and to monitor the evolution of the pupil size during surgery and the need for additional pupil expanding techniques. RESULTS: In 30 patients (75% [95% CI: 59-87%]), we did not need additional manipulations to obtain sufficient pupillary dilatation to perform the surgery and to implant an intraocular lens following the bag-in-the-lens (BIL) technique. In the remaining 10 patients (25%), we saw an initiation of dilatation but not to the required pupil diameter to continue the surgery without additional surgical maneuvers. The duration of surgery was significantly longer in the partial response group, reflecting the need for additional surgical steps. A significant relation between increase of pupillary diameter and age (p = 0.003), gender (p = 0.032), and horizontal corneal diameter (p < 0.001) could be shown. Even at baseline, there is a larger pupil diameter in eyes with larger horizontal corneal diameters (p = 0.039). No adverse events were observed during this study. CONCLUSION: Intracameral administration of Mydrane resulted in some degree of dilatation in all eyes in this series, 75% of eyes did not need additional techniques to proceed with the surgery. Smaller pupils at baseline, younger age, male sex and small horizontal corneal diameter were related to a poorer response to Mydrane. The mydriasis persisted for the entire duration of the surgery, no ocular adverse events were observed during this study. This leads us to conclude that intracameral Mydrane is an effective and safe way to dilate the pupil in pediatric lens surgery.
INTRODUCTION: Optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) is an emerging technique to investigate retinal and choroidal microvascular alterations in patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc). This systematic review and...INTRODUCTION: Optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) is an emerging technique to investigate retinal and choroidal microvascular alterations in patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc). This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the features of retinal and choroidal microvasculature using OCTA among SSc patients. METHODS: The methodology of the study was based on PRISMA guidelines. PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Embase were searched systematically on November 25, 2023, for relevant studies utilizing OCTA as the main diagnostic tool to assess the retinal and choroidal microvasculature in SSc patients versus healthy controls. Random-effect or fixed model meta-analysis was used based on the heterogeneity of studies. RESULTS: Eleven observational comparative studies, including 366 patients with SSc and 350 healthy controls, conducted between 2020 and 2023, were included in this review. Meta-analysis findings revealed a significant decrease in vessel densities in both the superficial and deep capillary plexuses among SSc patients compared to controls. However, there were no significant differences observed in the foveal avascular zone area and choriocapillaris flow area between SSc patients and controls. Moreover, central macular thickness (CMT) consistently exhibited a decrease in SSc patients, while retinal nerve fiber layer thickness showed no significant differences. Although radial peripapillary capillary vessel density, subfoveal choroidal thickness, and cup/disk ratio yielded mixed results, with some studies indicating significant changes in the SSc group, meta-analysis could not be performed due to variations in the OCTA machines used across the included studies. CONCLUSION: This systematic review demonstrates retinal and choroidal microvascular abnormalities in SSc using OCTA. Longitudinal studies are needed to understand how these abnormalities evolve over time in patients with SSc and whether these abnormalities correlate with the clinical features of SSc.
INTRODUCTION: The aim of the study was to investigate the rate of choroidal thinning and Choroidal Vascularity Index (CVI) changes over time in eyes with different stages of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and con...INTRODUCTION: The aim of the study was to investigate the rate of choroidal thinning and Choroidal Vascularity Index (CVI) changes over time in eyes with different stages of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and control eyes. METHODS: Retrospective longitudinal study of 105 eyes with different stages of AMD: non-advanced (n = 46), exudative (n = 28), central complete retinal pigment epithelium and outer retinal atrophy (cRORA) (n = 5) and healthy eyes (n = 26). We evaluated choroidal thickness (CT) and CVI at baseline and during 2-4 years of follow-up. After adjustment for age and sex, we estimated the rate of change per year of CT and CVI in each group. We also performed logistic regression to analyze the relationship between baseline CT and CVI with AMD progression. RESULTS: The mean age of the included patients was 77.1 years with a mean follow-up of 3.36 years. Healthy eyes had higher baseline CT and CVI values compared to eyes with AMD. Exudative AMD showed a significant annual decrease in subfoveal CT (-5.1% per year vs. -3.5% in controls) and in the temporal and nasal sectors (-5.3% and -6.3%). CVI decreased during follow-up in all study groups, most in eyes with central cRORA (-1.09% per year). CONCLUSION: CVI and CT values are reduced in eyes with AMD compared to healthy eyes. Eyes with exudative AMD have the highest annual rate of choroidal thinning, while CVI decreases most in eyes with central cRORA. CT and CVI may aid in a further stratification of AMD progression risk.
INTRODUCTION: This study investigated the intraocular pressure (IOP) fluctuation as assessed by the water drinking test (WDT) in open-angle glaucoma (OAG) patients after combined cataract surgery with iStent implantation...INTRODUCTION: This study investigated the intraocular pressure (IOP) fluctuation as assessed by the water drinking test (WDT) in open-angle glaucoma (OAG) patients after combined cataract surgery with iStent implantation. METHODS: This was a prospective non-randomized comparative study. Eyes with OAG and cataracts that were planned for either combined phacoemulsification and iStent implantation (iStent+CS) or phacoemulsification alone (CS) were recruited. The iStent inject (Model G2-M-IS) or iStent injectW (Model G2-W) trabecular micro-bypass stent (Glaukos Corporation, San Clemente, CA, USA) was implanted in the iStent+CS group. WDT was performed before and 3 months after surgery. WDT-IOP parameters including peak IOP, IOP fluctuation, and area under the curve (AUC) were compared between the two groups. RESULTS: There were 20 eyes in the iStent+CS group and 16 eyes in the CS group. Both groups had similar pre-operative baseline IOP (15.6 ± 3.7 mm Hg vs. 15.8 ± 1.8 mm Hg in the iStent+CS and CS group, respectively, p = 0.883). The iStent+CS group experienced greater numerical reduction in peak IOP (2.6 ± 1.9 mm Hg vs. 1.9 ± 2.4 mm Hg; p = 0.355), IOP fluctuation (1.7 ± 2.2 mm Hg vs. 0.8 ± 2.5 mm Hg; p = 0.289), and AUC (54.8 ± 103.6 mm Hg × minute vs. 25.3 ± 79.0 mm Hg × minute; p = 0.355) than the CS group. There was more reduction in the number of anti-glaucoma medications in the iStent+CS group (1.4 ± 1.2) than the CS group (0.3 ± 0.9; p = 0.005). CONCLUSION: Both combined phacoemulsification with iStent inject implantation and phacoemulsification alone reduced peak IOP, IOP fluctuation, and AUC, and none of these parameters showed statistically significant difference. Greater reduction in anti-glaucoma medications was seen in the combined group.
INTRODUCTION: The splice variant of retinal G-protein-coupled receptor deletion (RGR-d) is a persistent component of drusen and may be involved in the pathogenesis of dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Increasin...INTRODUCTION: The splice variant of retinal G-protein-coupled receptor deletion (RGR-d) is a persistent component of drusen and may be involved in the pathogenesis of dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Increasing evidence has demonstrated the critical role of autophagy in AMD. In this study, we investigated whether RGR-d disrupts autophagy in early dry AMD in vivo and in vitro. METHODS: Fundus imaging and fluoroscopy were performed on RGR-d mice created by multiplex gene editing. The retina microstructure was evaluated by performing hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining as well as transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Retinal function was assessed by full-field electroretinography (ERG). After lentivirus transfection and stimulation, the permeability, phagocytosis, and tight junctions of ARPE-19 cells were evaluated. Western blotting of ATG5, Beclin-1, LC3II/I, and P62 was performed to detect the changes in autophagy pathways. RESULTS: Atrophy and patchy penetrating hyperfluorescent foci, consistent with early AMD-like defects, were observed in the fundus of 12-month-old RGR-d mice. H&E staining of retinal tissues indicated thinning of each layer of the retinal structure. H&E staining of retinal tissues indicated thinning of each layer of the retinal structure. TEM analysis showed some diffuse granular deposits. And the morphology of choroidal microvascular endothelial cells was degraded and distorted. The morphology of the photoreceptor outer segments showed structural damage, and Bruch's membrane was thickened. ERG indicated that the photoreceptor of RGR-d mice were dysfunctional. Changes in autophagy-related protein expression were observed in the retinal pigment epithelium and retinal neurepithelium, and autophagy regulation was decreased. Palmitic acid (PA) stimulation caused permeability, phagocytosis, and tight junction dysfunction in cells overexpressing RGR-d. Beclin-1 and LC3II/I expression levels were significantly decreased and that of P62 was elevated in RGR-d cells after PA stimulation. CONCLUSION: RGR-d disrupts the autophagy pathway, causing the development of an early AMD-like pathophysiology.
INTRODUCTION: This study aimed to examine the impact of cataract surgery on the corneal endothelium and central corneal thickness (CCT) in pediatric patients, and to identify the factors associated with corneal alteratio...INTRODUCTION: This study aimed to examine the impact of cataract surgery on the corneal endothelium and central corneal thickness (CCT) in pediatric patients, and to identify the factors associated with corneal alterations. METHODS: This retrospective study included consecutive children undergoing bilateral or unilateral cataract surgery and intraocular lens implantation at the Eye Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, with or without posterior capsulorhexis and anterior vitrectomy, and an age-matched normal control group. This study aimed to assess whether changes in corneal parameters, including CCT, corneal endothelial cell density (CD), average cell area (AVE), standard deviation of size (SD), coefficient of variation (CV), percentage of hexagonal cells (6A) before and after surgery, and endothelial cell loss (ECL) differed among the bilateral cataract, unilateral cataract, and control groups. Furthermore, the potential effects of anterior vitrectomy, axial length, preoperative anterior chamber depth, surgical duration, horizontal corneal diameter, intraoperative pupil diameter (PD), and the number of corneal sutures on corneal endothelial parameters and CCT were investigated. RESULTS: A total of 107 eyes from 107 children were included in the study. In the bilateral cataract group, CD significantly decreased, AVE and CCT significantly increased, and ECL was significantly higher than in the control group. The unilateral cataract group also exhibited a significant increase in CCT. Additionally, the number of corneal sutures was negatively correlated with CD, and PD was negatively correlated with CV in the unilateral cataract group. CONCLUSION: Cataract surgery in pediatric patients results in increased CCT, reduced CD, and morphological changes in corneal cells. A greater number of corneal sutures and a smaller PD increased the risk of CD reduction and elevated CV in the unilateral cataract group, underscoring the need for ophthalmologists to minimize corneal damage in these children.
INTRODUCTION: This study was conducted to assess the systemic pharmacokinetic profiles of half-dose verteporfin photodynamic therapy (PDT) using concentration data from a previous clinical trial and to subsequently sugge...INTRODUCTION: This study was conducted to assess the systemic pharmacokinetic profiles of half-dose verteporfin photodynamic therapy (PDT) using concentration data from a previous clinical trial and to subsequently suggest safety precaution guidelines. METHODS: Coefficients for the bi-exponential model were obtained from published data on post-infusion plasma verteporfin concentrations within a period of 0.17-4 h. Using the extrapolative forecasting method, we plotted the 48-h post-verteporfin plasma concentration model. The time required to achieve a comparable level of verteporfin 48 h after a conventional dose (6 mg/m2 body surface area, BSA) infusion was calculated for a half-dose infusion (3 mg/m2 BSA). RESULTS: At 24 and 48 h post-verteporfin infusion, the plasma concentration following the conventional dose was 1.28 × 10-4 µg/mL and 5.06 × 10-8 µg/mL, compared to 3.57 × 10-5 µg/mL and 7.54 × 10-9 µg/mL for the half-dose PDT, representing concentrations that were 3.6 times and 6.7 times higher, respectively. The estimated time required to attain the same level of verteporfin 48 h after a conventional dose was calculated as 42-h post-half-dose PDT. CONCLUSIONS: The results of this study indicate that precautionary measures should be taken to avoid sunlight following both half and conventional doses of PDT during the similar post-treatment periods of two days. Nevertheless, given the substantially higher plasma concentration levels associated with conventional-dose PDT compared with the half-dose, systemic safety should be carefully considered when administering conventional-dose PDT.