bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effect of flat anterior chamber on the success of trabeculectomy
Authors: Kim Yong Yeon , Jung Hai Ryun
Published: May 2009

ABSTRACT The authors reviewed 70 eyes of 59 patients who underwent trabeculectomy. We divided the eyes into the flat anterior chamber group (23 eyes) and formed anterior chamber group (47 eyes, control group). The influence of clinical variables on the development of flat anterior chamber, and the effect of flat anterior chamber on the success of trabeculectomy were evaluated. The two groups were similar in terms of many variables, but the preoperative intraocular pressure (27.1 ± 15.4 vs. 18.1 ± 8.7 mmHg), incidence of cataract progression (9/18 vs. 10/44) and choroidal detachment (5/23 vs. 2/47) were higher in the flat anterior chamber group (p < 0.05). The overall success rates for the follow‐up period of 30 months were similar between the two groups (p > 0.05). However, the short‐term (2 to 8 months) postoperative success rates were lower in the flat anterior chamber group (p < 0.05). The development of flat anterior chamber following trabeculectomy can be reduced by lowering the preoperative intraocular pressure, and flat anterior chamber may be harmful to the postoperative course of trabeculectomy.
Socio‐demographic trends in ocular cysticercosis
Authors: Atul Kumar , Kumar Tewari Hem , Mallika Goyal , Sandip Mitra
Published: May 2009

ABSTRACT There has been a gradual change in the socio‐demographic trends of ocular/adnexal cysticerosis. We present the results of a 5‐year study of 33 cases of ocular/adnexal cysticercosis and compare our observations with those reported by previous authors. The male:female ratio in our study was 2:1 and maximum number of patients (45%) belonged to the age‐group of 31–40 years. Seventy percent of our patients were of low socio‐economic status and 70% were strictly vegetarians. The most common location of cysticerci was in the vitreous (50% of all cases); orbital cysts were present in 5% and subconjunctival cyst in 3%. Most common extraocular site for associated cysticercosis was the brain (18%): Ultrasonography proved to be an effective and economical alternative to magnetic resonance imaging and computerized tomographic scanning for the detection of cysticerci in the orbit and in eyes with hazy media.
Ultrasonographic findings in endophthalmitis
Authors: Marchini G. , Pagliarusco A. , Tosi R. , Castagna G.
Published: May 2009

ABSTRACT Ultrasonographic findings are reported in 7 cases of endophthalmitis (6 of bacterial and 1 of fungal origin) resulting from perforating injuries (2 cases), severe corneal ulcers (2 cases) and open‐eye surgery (3 cases). The most frequent ultrasonographic picture was characterized by a series of low reflectivity echoes in the vitreous with a high degree of mobility (7/7), fairly large endovitreal vacuoles (3/7) and hyaloid thickening (3/7). In one case the vitreous involvement was confined to only one quadrant. Choroidal thickening both of a homogeneous‐diffuse (2/7) and nodular‐multifocal type (3/7) was found. Localized choroidal detachment (1/7) and exudative pre‐equatorial retinal detachment (1/7) were detected in only two cases. Ultrasonography proved useful both for detecting involvement of the posterior segment and for monitoring the time course of the infection process.
Retinal choroidal anastomosis in classic choroidal neovascularization demonstrated by indocyanine green angiography
Authors: Schneider Ulrike , Gelisken Faik , Kreissig Ingrid
Published: May 2009

ABSTRACT Pathologic retinal choroidal anastomoses are relatively rare. Until now, they have been described in age‐related macular degeneration only in occult pigment epithelial detachments or following fibrous scarring. We report the occurrence of a retinal choroidal anastomosis with blood flow from an actively proliferating classic choroidal neovascular membrane into a retinal vein in a 72‐year‐old male with age‐related macular degeneration. Indocyanine green videoangiography performed by scanning laser ophthalmoscope demonstrated the anastomosis, whereas it could not be identified clinically or with fluorescein videoangiography.
Subretinal tumour in a patient with a limited form of Wegener's granulomatosis
Authors: Agostini Hansjürgen T. , Bräutigam Peter , Löffler Karin U.
Published: May 2009

ABSTRACT In 1939 F. Wegener published a report concerning a peculiar febrile syndrome with necrotizing inflammation of the upper respiratory tract, focal glomerulonephritis and systemic angiitis (Wegener 1939). Clinically Wegener's granulomatosis can be divided into a limited and a generalized form. We describe a patient presenting with unilateral ocular symptoms suspicious of a neoplasm, one episode of angina pectoris and general malaise without any clinical signs of upper respiratory tract involvement. Before Wegener's granulomatosis was diagnosed by a positive titre of antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies and open lung biopsy, immunoscintigraphy for malignant melanoma showed a false positive result. Systemic treatment with corticosteroids and cyclophosphamide resulted in an improvement of the ocular symptoms within weeks.
Squamous spindle cell carcinoma of the conjunctiva
Authors: Seregard Stefan , Kock Erik
Published: May 2009

ABSTRACT Squamous spindle cell carcinoma of the conjunctiva is an infrequent entity that behaves distinctly different from ‘ordinary’ squamous cell carcinoma. This case report reviews the clinical and histopathological features of a lesion, that despite an insidious clinical appearance caused the patient's death 14 months following the initial excision. Data from previous reports are outlined.
Odontogenic orbital cellulitis
Authors: Thakar M. , Thakar A.
Published: May 2009

ABSTRACT A case of orbitral cellulitis following dental extraction is described. Orbital extension of infection occurred via the retromaxillary infra‐temporal fossa, which is an unusual feature.
Early cell kinetic effects of some drugs on the rat corneal and conjunctival epithelia
Authors: Estil Svein , Haaskjold Erling , Bjerknes Rolf , Refsum Sigvald B.
Published: May 2009

ABSTRACT The early cell kinetic response in the rat corneal and conjunctival epithelia was studied after a single topical application of dipivefrine, adrenaline and timolol with and without benzalkonium chloride. Benzalkonium chloride alone in different concentrations, 0.004%, 0.01%, 0.02% and 0.04%, respectively, was also evaluated. The stathmokinetic method and the tritiated thymidine technique were used to estimate the mitotic rate and the labelling index. Dipivefrine (Propine®) gave a significant depression of the mitotic rate almost to the same extent as adrenaline in the corneal epithelium, whereas no changes were found in the limbal area and in the conjunctiva. Timolol (Oftan®) with or without benzalkonium chloride, and benzalkonium chloride in different concentrations gave no obvious changes of the mitotic rate. No distinct drug effects on the labelling index were observed.
A comparative study of intraocular irrigating solutions: effects on electroretinography readings during closed vitrectomy in humans
Authors: Nao‐i Nobuhisa , Maruiwa Futoshi , Nakazaki Shuji , Sawada Atsushi
Published: May 2009

ABSTRACT The effects of intraocular irrigating solutions on electroretinography have been extensively studied in animal models, but effects on human electroretinography have not been reported. This study examined the effects of two commercially available irrigating solutions, S‐MA2 (Opeguard MA®) and DE‐057 (BBS‐Plus®) on 30‐Hz flicker electroretinography during closed vitrectomy in humans. Eight eyes of 8 patients were examined. All patients underwent a simple vitrectomy without treatment of proliferative membrane. For 30‐Hz flicker electroretinography recording, a contact lens with a built‐in light‐emitting diode was sterilized and used as both a stimulus source and a recording electrode. Replacing S‐MA2 with DE‐057 decreased the electroretinography amplitude from 55.8 ± 15.2 to 45.5 ± 13.2 μV (mean ± SEM). Changing the irrigation solution from DE‐057 back to S‐MA2 increased the amplitude from 45.5 ± 13.2 to 59.9 ± 17.3 μV. However, these changes were not statistically significant. Replacing S‐MA2 with DE‐057 significantly increased the peak time from 50.1 ± 1.5 to 57.6 ±1.3 msec (p<0.001). This change was reversible; after changing from DE‐057 back to S‐MA2, the peak time of flicker electroretinography significantly decreased from 57.6 ± 1.3 to 49.0 ± 2.1 msec (p<0.01). Thus intraoperative 30‐Hz electroretinography showed delayed peak time during irrigation with DE‐057, as compared with S‐MA2. The lower potassium concentration and higher glucose concentration of S‐MA2, as compared with DE‐057, may be the cause of such electroretinography changes.
The quantitative effect of Healon on early postoperative intraocular pressure after extracapsular cataract extraction with implantation of a posterior chamber lens
Authors: Anmarkrud Nils , Bergaust Bjørn , Bulie Tore
Published: May 2009

ABSTRACT In a prospective, randomized and masked study the quantitative effect of sodium hyaluronate (Healon) on early postoperative intraocular pressure after cataract surgery was evaluated. At the end of planned extracapsular cataract extraction with implantation of posterior chamber lens, 0.1 ml or 0.2 ml of Healon was injected into the anterior chamber. The intraocular pressure was measured preoperatively, 3–6 h and 24 h postoperatively. All patients received topical timolol at the end of surgery. The results were compared to eyes operated with identical techniques where Healon was aspirated at the end of surgery. Three to six hours postoperatively a significant drop in mean intraocular pressure from preoperative pressure occurred when Healon was aspirated, but no statistical differences in mean intraocular pressure appeared when 0.1 ml or 0.2 ml of Healon was injected. The frequencies of pressure rise above 30 mmHg show no differences among the groups. Tweny‐four hours postoperatively a significant pressure elevation from mean preoperative pressure occurred when 0.1 ml or 0.2 ml Healon was injected compared to the group where Healon was aspirated at the end of surgery. Similar results are seen when pressure rise above 30 mmHg are concerned.
External radiotherapy for circumscribed choroidal haemangiomas using a modified retinoblastoma technique
Authors: Eide Nils , Syrdalen Per , Tausjø Johan , Tverå Kjell
Published: May 2009

ABSTRACT This report describes two cases of circumscribed choroidal haemangiomas involving the fovea, complicated by serous retinal detachment. Laser photocoagulation, generally accepted as the treatment of choice for choroidal haemangioma, was considered either to be of no visual benefit or a risk for jeopardizing vision further due to the subfoveolar lesions. Fractionated radiotherapy using a lens‐sparing, modified retinoblastoma technique, was given, using circular fields of 15 mm diameter. The dose was 24 Gy in 8 fractions. In both eyes the retina reattached completely. The visual acuity improved markedly in the first, and was restored to the prior level in the second. Normalization of a high intraocular pressure was also achieved in the second case. We believe this method to be a reasonable and effective therapy for some choroidal haemangiomas after careful individual consideration.
Penetrating keratoplasty and transscleral fixation of posterior chamber lens
Authors: Jensen O. M. , Haamann P. , Schmidt P.
Published: May 2009

ABSTRACT We reviewed the charts of 21 patients who underwent penetrating keratoplasty and transscleral fixation of a posterior chamber lens. One lens was sutured in an aphakic eye and 20 lenses were sutured after removal of an anterior chamber lens. Postoperative follow‐up averaged 13 months (2–39 months). Visual acuity improved in 20 patients (95%) and remained the same in 1 patient (5%). Postoperative visual acuity was less than 0.1 in 5 patients (23.8%), 0.1 to 0.33 in 14 patients (66.7%) and better than 0.33 in 2 patients (9.5%). Twelve patients (57.1%) expressed a substantial reduction in ocular pain, 7 patients (33.3%) had no pain either before or after the operation, 2 patients (9.5%) expressed no reduction in pain. No cases of endophthalmitis, choroidal hemorrhage or retinal detachment were found. In one case, the sutured lens was dislocated without disturbing vision. Intraocular pressure increased in 3 of 9 patients with preoperative glaucoma. Newonset glaucoma developed in 1 patient. We find transscleral fixation of a posterior chamber lens to be an acceptable procedure in penetrating keratoplasty with IOL implantation where capsular support is inadequate for conventional implantation of a posterior chamber lens.
Clinical usefulness of biopsy in giant cell arteritis
Authors: Skaug Thomas R. , Midelfart Anna , Jacobsen Geir
Published: May 2009

ABSTRACT To evaluate the diagnostic usefulness of temporal artery biopsy in the diagnosis of giant cell arteritis, the clinical records of 98 patients who underwent this procedure between 1984 and 1992 were reviewed. The biopsies were positive for giant cell arteritis in 13 (13%) cases. In addition, 9 patients with negative biopsy were considered to have giant cell arteritis based on clinical examination, while 76 patients had other diagnoses. About 90% of the patients with giant cell arteritis were women. Evaluating the clinical features and laboratory findings, a history of headache, a combination of headache and the erythrocyte sedimentation rate > 40 mm/h and a combination of headache and temporal tenderness were significantly more common among patients with positive diagnosis than among the other patients.
Visual acuity and contrast sensitivity in the elderly
Authors: Hirvelä Heli , Koskela Pentti , Laatikainen Leila
Published: May 2009

ABSTRACT The visual acuity of the better eye in the elderly inhabitants of three communities (476 persons, aged 70 years or more) ranged from 0 to 1.4 (mean 0.7), and 12% saw less than 0.3. The logarithm of binocular contrast senstivity ranged from 1.0 to 2.75 (n = 412, mean 2.19) in the Cambridge test and from 0.15 to 1.95 (n = 468, mean 1.48) in the Pelli‐Robson test. The 72 subjects with healthy eyes had a mean visual acuity of 1.03 (range 0.5–1.4) in the better eye, and the two contrast sensitivity tests gave mean values of 2.45 and 1.69, respectively. Cortical, nuclear and mixed cataracts and macular pathology impaired both contrast sensitivity and visual acuity. The correlation between the three tests was good in the whole sample and in the different subgroups of cataract and macular changes. Individually, however, a few contradictory results were obtained. According to these results measurement of contrast sensitivity does not add much to the general information obtained in the elderly by visual acuity measurement alone, but in selected cases it may give valuable information.
Effect of pharmacologically induced mydriasis on the normal variability of retinal oscillatory potentials in man
Authors: Polo Alberto , Di Summa Alfonsina , Perlini Stefano , Manganotti Paolo , Zanette Giampietro
Published: May 2009

ABSTRACT In this study we describe certain aspects of normal variability of oscillatory potentials, with particular reference to interaction between pupil size and stimulus intensity. The mean latencies of the earlier oscillatory potentials, O1 and O2, were significantly shorter when adopting the dilated pupil condition than when stimulating with a normal pupil. This occurred at various light intensities, although the difference was more significant at the highest intensity. O1 and O2 latencies became significantly longer as the stimulus intensity was progressively reduced. The latencies of the later components O3 and O4 were unaffected. The O1 and O2 amplitudes were not influenced by pupil size, but a significant reduction occurred with the progressive decrease in stimulus intensity. The later components O3 and O4 are greatly reduced in amplitude after pupil dilatation using higher stimulus intensities; the O4 potential may even disappear in 10% of the cases. These data provide further support for the existence of two distinct behavior patterns for earlier and later oscillatory potentials. Although light adaptation may affect oscillatory potentials, we suggest that in our experimental conditions, oscillatory potential changes may occur as a result of the activity of the neural modulating system, not only as a result of photoreceptor interaction.
Phospholipase A2 content of aqueous humour in cataract patients
Authors: Saari K. M. , Saaren‐Seppälä H. , Guillén‐Monterrubio O. , Hartikainen J. , Nevalainen T. J.
Published: May 2009

ABSTRACT In order to determine the content of group II phospholipase A2 in the aqueous humour we studied 41 cataract patients including 8 men and 33 women with age ranging between 65 and 92 (mean ± SD being 77.0 ± 6.7) years. In all patients preoperative biomicroscopy showed neither aqueous flare nor cells. Eleven patients (26.8%) had pseudoexfoliation syndrome. Aqueous humour tap was done at the beginning of cataract surgery before perforating the corneoscleral wound. We used time‐resolved fluoroimmunoassay for the detection of group II phospholipase A2 in the aqueous humour. The group II phospholipase A2 content in the aqueous humor varied between less than measurable (in 23 patients) and 3.3 ng/ml, with an interquartile range from less than measurable to 1.4 ng/ml. There was no significant difference in the group II phospholipase A2 content of the aqueous humour whether or not the patient had pseudoexfoliation syndrome. The results show that the aqueous humour of cataract patients contains only minute amounts of group II phospholipase A2.
Fuchs' heterochromic iridocyclitis revisited
Authors: Fearnley Ian R. , Rosenthal A. Ralph
Published: May 2009

ABSTRACT Fuchs' heterochromic iridocyclitis is an unusual form of uveitis of unkown aetiology that continues to be poorly understood and underdiagnosed. We present the clinical features observed in 77 patients (89 eyes) seen in the Uveitis Clinic at Leicester Royal Infirmary over a 2‐year period. The most common presenting symptom was visual deterioration (96.1%) rather than pain (18.2%). Only 50.6% were diagnosed as Fuchs' heterochromic iridocyclitis at presentation. At review, clinical heterochromic iridum was observed in 70.1% and 15.6% were bilateral. Lens opacities were seen in 73.0%, 40.4% (of the total) having undergone cataract surgery. Glaucoma was diagnosed in 15.7% at presentation and in 21.3% at review, by which time 9.0% (of the total) had required filtration surgery. It is important that Fuchs' heterochromic iridocyclitis is diagnosed correctly since, although many patients do not require active treatment, all should be screened at regular intervals for glaucoma.
Sensitivity and specificity of structural optic disc parameters in chronic glaucoma
Authors: Gundersen Kjell Gunnar , Heijl Anders , Bengtsson Bo
Published: May 2009

ABSTRACT We studied different structural optic disc parameters and their ability to discriminate between normal and glaucoma eyes using computerized raster tomography. Two hundred and seventy‐six eyes of 138 normal subjects and 146 eyes of 102 glaucoma patients were examined with a raster tomographic imaging system (The Glaucoma‐ScopeTM, Ophthalmic Imaging Systems, Sacramento, CA). Glaucoma eyes were classified into four groups according to their perimetric mean deviation values. Minimum rim width within the 60° and 90° sectors across the vertical meridian, vertical and horizontal cup‐disc ratio, rim and cup area were calculated for each optic disc. Receiver operating characteristics curves were set up for comparisons of the different parameters. Representing localised changes of the optic disc, minimum rim width 60° and 90° showed the best separating characteristics with sensitivity values of 91% at a fixed specificity of 90%, followed by vertical cup‐disc ratio. Global indices like cup and rim area and horizontal cup‐disc ratio showed the poorest separation. These differences were particularly obvious in the group with mild to moderate glaucomatous visual field defects. Thus, global parameters were less likely to detect early focal glaucomatous optic nerve head changes, than parameters representing localised changes.
Day‐case trabeculectomies: Safety and efficacy
Authors: Beatty S. , Kheterpal S. , Eagling E. M. , O'Neill E.C.
Published: May 2009

ABSTRACT A comparison of 90 day‐case and 102 in‐patient trabeculectomies is presented. There was no statistically significant difference in the incidence of post‐operative hyphaema (Chi‐squared test p = 0.84), shallow anterior chamber (p = 0.46), flat bleb (p = 0.84) or hypotony (p = 0.87) between the two groups. Casualty attendances, readmissions and further surgery in the postoperative period were seen with similar frequency in each group. Intraocular pressure control three months following surgery was not compromised by undergoing the procedure as a day‐case (p = 0.29). This study demonstrates the safety and efficacy of ambulatory filtration surgery.
Animal models of myopia
Authors: Edwards M. H.
Published: May 2009

ABSTRACT The discovery that myopia can be induced in animals has resulted in renewed interest in the condition and it is hoped that information gained about the production, manipulation and prevention of myopia in animals might provide information about naturally occurring myopia in humans. Early experimental work was carried out using monkeys as subjects, but the high cost involved, and the difficulty of obtaining monkeys in adequate numbers for good experimental design and control, made researchers look for more suitable experimental animals. Myopia has also been induced in other animals species such as the domestic cat, the tree shrew, the marmoset, the guinea pig and, most successfully, the domestic chicken. The parallels between experimentally induced myopia, which can only be induced in infant animals, and human myopia which typically develops well after infancy, have still to be established.
Epithelial healing in the second eye after corneal abrasion
Authors: Rask Rune , Jensen Peter Koch , Ehlers Niels
Published: May 2009

ABSTRACT Corneal epithelial healing velocity was determined in patients admitted to excimer laser photo refractive keratectomy, by daily video planimetry of the denuded area until complete healing. The epithelial healing process was followed in fellow eyes with regard to intervals between surgery of the two eyes of 1 to 10 weeks. In cases where the fellow eye was treated at one week after the first eye, the lesions healed significantly faster in the second eye as compared to patients with longer delay between the two operations.
Retinopathy of prematurity in a Danish county
Authors: Fledelius Hans C.
Published: May 2009

ABSTRACT An analysis of the ophthalmic recordings from the pre‐term infants born 1991‐93 considered at risk of developing retinopathy of prematurity is added to three previous 3‐year clinical surveys from the same Danish county. Out of the 203 subjects of the recent study 34 showed evidence of retinopathy of prematurity. In 27 the maximum retinopathy of prematurity stage was 1 or 2 prior to regression. Out of the seven subjects with stage 3, one progressed to bilateral blindness in spite of the cryotherapy given in this single case. Comparing with the four retinopathy of prematurity‐blind born 1982‐84, the trend over the 12 years appears to be towards a better overall ophthalmic outcome. Along with an increasing number of survivors of the low GA/BW groups, the retinopathy of prematurity percentage has shown a decline, and apparently with less serious sequelae. Together with other Danish experience, eventually the present data may lead to lower screening limits for retinopathy of prematurity regarding GA/BW. Prior to this, however, there should be support from the case data currently collected in the compulsory Danish register of visually impaired children. Hence our present basic recommendation is that gestational ages up to (and including) 31 full weeks qualify for serial eye examination.
Pre‐term delivery and subsequent ocular development
Authors: Fledelius Hans C.
Published: May 2009

ABSTRACT Eighty‐eight children of pre‐term delivery 1982‐84 (mean birthweight 1467 g, mean gestational age 31 weeks) with regular early control for retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) had ophthalmic follow‐up at the age of 7–10 years. Bilateral blindness appeared in four out of the 28 in the regional survey who had ROP. In the remaining 60 there had been no ROP. ‐ In this article focus is on various size parameters, general (height, weight, head circumference, interpupillary distance) and ophthalmic (corneal transversal diameter and curvature radius, axial eye measurements by ultrasound). Comparing with available standards the group average for height was 2–3 cm below the norm for age. With regard to ±ROP, growth parameters had lower values in the subgroup with ROP. Oculometrically, there was a more curved cornea and a shorter axial length than expected from refractive value. The average values for emmetropia (n = 23) and for myopia of prematurity (6 eyes) were: refraction ±0.54 D and ‐7.8 D, Crad 7.58 and 7.47 mm, and axial length 22.93 and 25.3 mm, respectively.
Influence of androgens and pituitary hormones on the structural profile and secretory activity of the lacrimal gland
Authors: Sulliva David A. , Block Linda , Pena Janethe D. O.
Published: May 2009

Abstract. The present study was designed to examine the influence of androgens on the size, morphological appearance, and fluid and protein secretory capacity of the lacrimal gland in a variety of species. For comparison, we also sought to determine whether other hormones might stimulate the growth and secretory ability of this tissue. Lacrimal glands and tears were obtained from intact, surgically‐operated and/or hormone‐treated rats, mice, guinea pigs and rabbits and the processed for histological and/or image analysis techniques. Our results demonstrated that: 1) androgens modulate the ultrastructural features of rat lacrimal tissue; 2) androgens may influence the weight, morphological aspects, and secretion of the lacrimal gland, however, these effects are not uniform in mice, rats, guinea pigs and rabbits, but instead are dependent upon the species and/or the animal's endocrine status; and 3) treatment with testosterone, prolactin, growth hormone, α‐melanocyte stimulating hormone, insulin, or thyroxine plus dexamethasone had no impact on the absolute or relative size of the lacrimal gland, or the tear volume, of hypophysectomized male rats. Overall, these findings indicate that androgens may regulate the structure and secretion of the lacrimal gland. However, the nature and extent of this hormone action is species‐dependent and may be modified by alterations in the endocrine environment.
Autologous transplantation of nasal mucosa after severe chemical and thermal eye burns
Authors: Kuckelkorn Ralf , Schrage Norbert , Redbrake Claudia , Kottek Alexander , Reim Martin
Published: May 2009

Abstract. Between February 1992 and March 1994, reconstruction of the fornices in 17 patients with extensive symblephara or lid fusion after most severe eye burns was performed with nasal mucosa from the inferior conchae as graft material. The time between accident and transplantation ranged from 2–64 months. All patients were followed for 6 to 31 months. Reconstruction of the fornices was achieved in 13 patients. Postoperative Schirmer‐tests revealed markedly improved results. Impression cytology showed a persistence of goblet‐cells and an excess of mucus. We have subsequently performed keratoplasties in 5 of these patients and are planning penetrating keratoplasties in a further 8 cases. In 4 patients, partial symblepharon formation recurred within 2–3 months after transplantation of nasal mucosa. The main advantage of nasal mucosa over buccal or labial mucosa may be the transplantation of intraepithelial goblet cells, leading to an improvement and stabilisation of the tear film.
Binocular function and amblyopia after early surgery in infantile eosotropia
Authors: O'Keefe Michael , Abdulla Namir , Bowell Roger , Lanigan Bernadette
Published: May 2009

Abstract. We report on binocular function and amblyopia in children who had surgery for infantile eosotropia in the first 24 months of life. Fourteen (56%) achieved peripheral fusion and no child obtained high grade stereopsis. Following surgery and treatment for amblyopia 20% remained amblyopic.
Keratouveitis ‐ two families with a dominantly inherited disorder
Authors: Eriksson Anders , Fagerholm Per , Olsson Kristina
Published: May 2009

Abstract. Herein we describe a relapsing acute keratouveitis without known aetiology. The disorder has been found in two families and shows an autosomal dominant inheritance. Acute anterior uveitis can be traced for five generations in one of these families. In the same family there is also an association to an autosomal dominantly inherited vascular disorder (Osler‐Rendu‐Weber disease). The anterior uveitis has an acute onset, a recurrent pattern and a mild activity. The associated keratitis is seen as a midstromal thin flat disc in the central cornea, sometimes with folds in Descemet's membrane as a sign of oedema. This causes a change in refraction and a mild reduction of the corrected visual acuity. There is a prompt response to topical steroid treatment, but the corneal changes have in one case become permanent. Clinical documentation and the mode of inheritance is presented.
Screening of amblyopic children and long‐term follow‐up
Authors: Latvala Marja‐Leena , Paloheimo Markku , Karma Anni
Published: May 2009

Abstract. A prospective study of amblyopic children was carried out in 1982–1992 in the ophthalmology unit of a community health center, a referral center for 14 000 preschool children. Five hundred and twentysix children in 1982–1983 were referred to an ophthalmologist because of a suspicion of amblyopia, strabismus or other visual disorders. Amblyopia was diagnosed in 109 children. In 18 children amblyopia was on an organic basis and among them 4 children had X‐chromosomal retinoschisis. Risk factors for functional amblyopia were convergent strabismus, spherical equivalent of the refractive error of 3.5 dioptres or more or anisometropia of 1.0 dioptres or more. The children with established functional amblyopia (91 children) were treated with a full‐time occlusion, or, at the age of younger than 18 months, with 0.5% atropin, and, at the minimum of 6 years, with pleoptics when indicated. One hundred amblyopic children were followed for a minimum of 4 years, reinstituting the occlusion therapy if visual acuity deteriorated. Seventy‐two children with functional amblyopia (79%) were available for a detailed ophthalmological examination 9.7 years, on the average, after the initial examination. Only three of these children (4%) had visual acuity of less than 0.4 at that time. Well‐functioning child health centers and school health care, as well as the availability of ophthalmological services, are important for a good final visual result of amblyopic children.
Trends regarding myopia in video terminal operators
Authors: Rechichi Caterina , Scullica Luigi
Published: May 2009

Abstract. A longitudinal study with a 4‐year follow‐up was carried out on 6101 employees of the Italian Telecommunications Company (Telecom Italia) to study the role of work at Video Display Units (VDU) for the evolution of different types of myopia (mild, intermediate and pathologic). The refractive modifications of myopic VDU operators were further studied with regard to differences in time of use of VDU (daily hours and years spent working at a VDU). No statistically significant difference was found for refractive modifications, neither with regard to the type of myopia, nor to the daily hours and years spent working at a VDU. The results have indicated that the use of VDU is not responsible for a worsening of myopia.
Electroretinographic alterations in the Laurence‐Moon‐Bardet‐Biedl phenotype
Authors: Iannaccone Alessandro , Vingolo Enzo M. , Rispoli Eduardo , De Propris Giampaolo , Tanzilli Paolo , Pannarale Mario R.
Published: May 2009

ABSTRACT Maximal 0.5‐Hz and cone 30‐Hz ERG responses were recorded from 19 patients showing a Laurence‐Moon‐Bardet‐Biedl (LMBB) phenotype. Off‐line averaging of 80 to 100 iterations was routinely performed. When needed, our previously described low‐noise techniques and off‐line fast Fourier transform procedures were used. The maximal ERG response was non‐detectable in 52.6% of cases. About half of the recordable signals were below 5% of the lower normal amplitudes. Cone 30‐Hz ERGs were measurable in 64.7% of cases. Of these, 63% of tracings were below 5% of the lower normal range. In most cases no dystrophic pattern was definable, due to severe reduction of both signals. Statistical analyses showed no correlation between ERG amplitudes and residual visual field areas. Clinical and electroretinographic observations suggest that retinopathy in most LMBB patients is a widespread form of degeneration, initially affecting rods but rapidly involving cones as well. However, there are also cases with a clear‐cut cone‐rod pattern, with fairly well preserved maximal ERG responses. The lack of correlation between maximal ERG responses and visual field residual areas, different from non‐syndromic retinitis pigmentosa (RP) patients, could be related either to a low reliability of visual field testing in LMBB patients or to mechanisms accounting for the ongoing retinal degeneration in LMBB syndrome that are different from those of pure RP. Variable findings are in line with the documented genetic heterogeneity of the syndrome.
Vascular occlusion in diabetic retinopathy
Authors: Bek Toke , Ledet Thomas
Published: May 2009

ABSTRACT The retinal vessels from seven diabetic patients and from six age‐matched normal controls were studied qualitatively and quantitatively using various histological staining techniques. In diabetic patients the walls of retinal arterioles and capillaries showed significantly more staining than normals for periodic acid Schiff (neutral glycoproteins), Sirius red (connective tissue), and for Alcian blue at pH 2.6, pH 5.8 and at pH 5.8 combined with MgCl2 in concentrations less than 0.9 M (acid mucopolysaccharides). In the retina from diabetic patients there was no difference between the number of capillaries staining with these dyes in areas of vascular occlusion and in adjacent control areas. Furthermore, in areas of vascular occlusion, the material accumulated centrally to occlude the lumen of ghost vessels did not stain with any of the dyes used. A homogenous material, accumulated in the outer retina in areas of vascular occlusion in the retina from diabetic patients, only stained with Alcian blue at pH 5.8 combined with MgCl2 in concentrations less than 0.4 M, suggesting a different molecular composition from the Alcian blue material accumulated in the retinal vascular walls. The findings are in accordance with the knowledge that basement membranes of retinal vessels are thickened in diabetes mellitus. However, the findings also indicate that basement membrane thickening cannot fully account for vascular occlusion in diabetic retinopathy.
Effects of hyper‐ and hypothyroidism on oxidative stress of the eye in experimental acute anterior uveitis
Authors: Bilgihan Kamil , Bilgihan Ayse , Diker Seyda , Ataoglu Omur , Dolapci Mete , Akata Fikret , Hasanreisôglu Berati , Turkozkan Nurten
Published: May 2009

ABSTRACT Glutathione peroxidase activities and malondialdehyde levels were measured in the homogenated anterior segment of rat eyes with endotoxin induced acute anterior uveitis in euthyroid, hyperthyroid and hypothyroid rats. Malondialdehyde concentrations were found to be significantly increased (p < 0.0005) and glutathione peroxidase activities significantly decreased (p<0.01) in the hyperthyroid group when compared with controls. Malondialdehyde concentrations of the hypothyroid rat eyes were higher than the control group (p < 0.05), but glutathione peroxidase activities of the same group showed no difference with controls (p>0.05). These results suggest that excess or deficiency of the thyroid hormones cause alterations in the malondialdehyde levels and glutathione peroxidase activities of the rat eyes in endotoxin induced uveitis, and hyperthyroidism may increase the oxidative stress in endotoxin induced acute anterior uveitis.
Assessment of cataract surgery in rural India. Visual acuity outcome
Authors: Murthy G. V. S. , Gupta Sanjeev K. , Talwar Dinesh
Published: May 2009

ABSTRACT A socio‐epidemiological assessment of what happens to the visual outcome after camp‐based intracapsular cataract extraction was conducted in 6 villages and periurban areas in North India. 120 patients (143 eyes) were included in the study. The mean age at cataract extraction was 64.39 (range 33–83) years. 44.7% of the operated eyes obtained a good vision (6/18) while 39.9% had low vision (6/24‐3/60). The duration since the cataract extraction was seen to influence visual outcome. 70% of the respondents were satisfied with the surgical outcome. 76% of those with unilateral aphakia and 8.3% of those with bilateral aphakia were regularly using spectacles. 58.3% were satisfied with the spectacles. Dissatisfaction was generally due to lack of visual improvement. The major benefits accruing to the patients were improved personal activity, increased mobility and recognition of family members. It is our opinion that camp‐based intracapsular cataract extraction with aphakic correction is still an important alternative in rural India.
Congenital hypertrophy of the retinal pigment epithelium (CHRPE) and familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP)
Authors: Rossato Marco , Rigotti Michela , Grazia Maurizio , Turco Alberto E. , Bonomi Luciano
Published: May 2009

ABSTRACT Familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) is a genetically transmitted disease affecting the colon. It is characterized by the presence of several (at least 100) adenomatous polyps, each able to develop into carcinomas, and by other extra‐colonic signs such as skin and bone lesions. Within the framework of research studies to identify phenotyphic markers for early detection of subjects at risk within a family affected by FAP, attention has recently been paid to congenital hypertrophy of the retinal pigment ephitelium (CHRPE). With the aim of evaluating the relationship between FAP and CHRPE, 36 members of 7 FAP families were examined. We found that 43.75% of the subjects presenting CHRPE areas were also affected by FAP, whereas 58.33% of patients affected by FAP had CHRPE. Our findings indicated a lower incidence of CHRPE in FAP patients, compared to other studies reported so far. Moreover, in a control group of 160 healthy individuals we found a CHRPE prevalence of 5.5%.
Glycoprotein deposition in vascular walls of diabetic retinopathy A histopathological and immunohistochemical study
Authors: Bek Toke , Ledet Thomas
Published: May 2009

ABSTRACT The association between periodic acid Schiff staining and immunoreactivity to laminin, fibronectin, vitronectin, and type VI collagen was studied qualitatively and quantitatively in the retinal vascular bed from 7 eyes of 5 diabetic patients and from 5 eyes of 5 normal persons. In the retina from diabetic patients the number of arterioles showing immunoreactivity to vitronectin, the number of venules showing immunoreactivity to type VI collagen, and the number of both arterioles and venules showing immunoreactivity to laminin and fibronectin, was higher than in normals. There was no difference between the number of capillaries showing periodic acid Schiff staining and immunoreactivity to laminin, fibronectin, and vitronectin when comparing areas of vascular occlusion with adjacent control areas. However, the number of capillaries displaying immunoreactivity to type VI collagen was higher in control areas than in areas of vascular occlusion in diabetic patients and in normal controls. Staining with periodic acid Schiff correlated topographically with immunoreactivity to laminin and fibronectin, but not with immunoreactivity to vitronectin and type VI collagen. In areas of vascular occlusion there was seen no immunoreactivity or histological staining corresponding to the material accumulated to occlude the ghost vessels.
Topical urea as a treatment for non‐infectious keratopathy
Authors: Charlton Judie F. , Schwab Ivan R. , Stuchell Robert
Published: May 2009

ABSTRACT The purpose of this study was to evaluate topical urea ophthalmic ointment as an agent to promote epithelial healing. Corneal epitheliopathy and epithelial defects were chemically induced in rabbits. Urea ophthalmic ointment was administered to one eye and control ointment to the fellow eye. The rabbits were examined by a masked observer for eleven days and points were awarded for steps of improvement in their ocular surface disease. The eyes receiving the urea ointment improved an average of 5.73 points while the control eyes improved 4.2 points (p<0.0001). In conclusion, topical urea dissolved in a bland ointment encourages corneal reepithelialization and limits epithelial damage after toxic injury to corneal epithelium.
The incidence of registered blindness caused by age‐related macular degeneration
Authors: Rosenberg Thomas , Klie Flemming
Published: May 2009

ABSTRACT Membership applications to the Danish Society of the Blind were used as a register source of legal blindness (visual acuity ≤6/60). Based on application forms completed by specialists in ophthalmology 1585 subjects were recorded as blind in 1993. 1132 subjects (71.4%) had age‐related macular degeneration. Only 5% of the registered subjects with age‐related macular degeneration were below 70 years of age. The median age was 82, equal for both gender. A female overrepresentation of 2.8:1 was found. Five‐year age‐specific incidence rates demonstrated an exponential rise of registered blindness due to age‐related macular degeneration from age 60 to 90. A decline in incidence after the age of 90 is assumed to reflect underregistration of very old persons. This tendency of non‐registration was particularly pronounced in elderly males. Estimated prevalence rates of registered blindness due to age‐related macular degeneration increased 100‐fold from the age group 60–64 to the age group 80–84. The age specific incidence rate for the age group 60–99 years was 140:100,000 for females and only 66:100,000 for males. The corresponding incidence rate for both sexes was 108:100,000. It is still a matter of dispute whether ‘true’ prevalence rates of blindness are higher in females than in males. The sex difference seems not to be explained by differences in ‘visual impairment threshold of registration’ among the registered persons.
The effects of nasolacrimal canal blockage on topical medications for glaucoma
Authors: Aritürk Nurşen , Öge İIhsan , Erkan Dilek , Süllü Yüksel , Şahin Mustafa
Published: May 2009

ABSTRACT Twenty patients with primary open angle glaucoma who have been treated with identical antiglaucoma eye drops in both eyes were examined. Silicone punctal plugs were used to occlude the inferior punctum of one eye, in order to block the nasolacrimal canal. The intraocular pressures and effects of the medical therapy before and after punctal occlusion were compared. Punctal occlusion significantly decreased the intraocular pressure with an average of 2.00±0.43 mmHg in the plugged eyes (p <0.001). The intraocular pressure in the unplugged control eyes did not change significantly (p>0.05) after punctal occlusion of the fellow treated eye.
Prevalence of diabetic retinopathy in relation to age at onset of the diabetes, treatment, duration and glycemic control
Authors: Henricsson Marianne , Nilsson Anders , Groop Leif , Heijl Anders , Janzon Lars
Published: May 2009

Abstract. To study the frequency of diabetic retinopathy in relation to age at diagnosis, treatment, duration of diabetes and glycemic control as measured by means of HbA1c levels, we performed a cross‐sectional, register‐based study in the Helsingborg area of southern Sweden, comprising 2232 diabetic patients. Of the known diabetic population < 75 years old, approximately 70% were estimated to be included. We graded retinopathy according to the alternative classification of the Wisconsin study. With an age at diagnosis < 30 years (19% of patients) the prevalence of retinopathy was 64%, whereas with an age at diagnosis ≥ 30 years the prevalence of retinopathy was 57% in insulin‐treated, and 26% in non‐insulin treated patients. Levels of glycated hemoglobin and duration of diabetes were as‐sociated with retinopathy in the group with younger onset. In the older‐onset group, there was a relationship between retinopathy and duration of diabetes and insulin treatment; glycated hemoglobin had a relationship which was of borderline significance with any retinopathy, but clearly significant with the pooled group: severe non‐proliferative, proliferative retinopathy and/or macular edema. Hyperglycemia and duration of diabetes were thus associated with retinopathy in both younger‐ and older‐onset diabetes, but hyperglycemia less so in the older‐onset group.
Incidence of blindness and visual impairment in diabetic patients participating in an ophthalmological control and screening programme
Authors: Henricsson Marianne , Tyrberg Maria , Heijl Anders , Janzon Lars
Published: May 2009

Abstract. We studied the incidence of blindness and visual impairment in patients who were enrolled in a photographic control‐ and screening program for diabetic retinopathy. The study cohort consisted of 2133 patients examined between January 1990 and December 1992 and followed until October 1st 1995. The occurrence of blindness (visual acuity ≤ 0.1) and moderate visual impairment (visual acuity 0.2‐0.4) was assessed. The Wisconsin scale was used to grade retinopathy. The mean HbA1c value for the last 8 years was used to represent long‐term glycaemic control. Average follow‐up time was 2.9 years. Seven patients were blind and 24 had visual impairment caused by retinopathy at the entry of the study. Six patients went blind due to retinopathy during the study period, corresponding to an incidence of 1.0 per 1000 person‐years (95% confidence interval 0.4‐2.1), and 28 became visually impaired, corresponding to an incidence of 4.6 per 1000 person‐years (95% confidence interval 3.0–6.6). Multivariate analysis showed a statistically significant association between blindness/visual impairment and old age, long duration of diabetes, and poor glycaemic control. HbA1c values in the highest quartile, i.e ≥ 8.5%, were associated with a 65% increase in risk of blindness/visual impairment (95% confidence interval 14–130%). Retinopathy was the major cause of blindness and visual impairment in patients with diabetes. The study revealed a low incidence of blindness, which is in line with recent reports. Control of hyperglycaemia may be of value for the prevention of visual loss.