bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Suboptimal vision after vitreous surgery in diabetics
Authors: Jaakkola Aino , Summanen Paula , Mustonen Raine , Laatikainen Leila
Published: May 2009

Abstract. Between 1979–1985, 105 diabetic patients underwent vitreous surgery for diabetic eye disease in one or both eyes. By spring 1991, 40 patients (38%) had died, and 36 (55%) of the living 65 patients had good or moderate vision (visual acuity, VA ≥ 0.3 in the better eye), 13 (20%) had low vision (VA 0.05–0.25), and 16 (25%) were blind (VA < 0.05). For 19 of the 65 patients (29%) impaired vision was the main factor that limited independent activities. Of the 29 patients with suboptimal vision, 2 were employed, and none needed institutional care. Nine (31%) participated in all household activities, and 14 (48%) were able to read. Near vision aids were used by 14 of the 19 patients (74%) with ambulatory vision (VA ≥ CF), but only 2 of them (11%) had accepted telescopic aids. Eight patients (28%) had a guide dog. In spite of vitreoretinal surgery, almost half of diabetic patients may end up with suboptimal vision, emphasizing the need for active visual rehabilitation.
Vogt‐Koyanagi‐Harada syndrome
Authors: Hammer Helga , Janáky Márta , Süveges Ildikó
Published: May 2009

Abstract. The case history is presented of a 40‐year‐old White woman with the Vogt‐Koyanagi‐Harada syndrome, who was successfully treated with a combination of low‐dose prednisolone and cyclosporine A. Cellular and humoral hypersensitivity to uveal and retinal antigens were demonstrated in the patient.
The effect of age on human corneal thickness
Authors: Siu Andrew , Herse Peter
Published: May 2009

Abstract The corneal thickness of 108 human subjects, ranging from 17 to 75 years of age, was measured using ultrasound pachometry. One central, four mid‐peripheral and four peripheral corneal positions along the vertical and horizontal meridians were assessed using ultrasound pachometry. No significant differences were found in the thicknesses of the central, midperipheral or peripheral cornea with increasing age using analysis of variance. These results suggest that ageing has no significant effect on human corneal thickness between the ages of 16 to 75 years. However the high Type II error probability (β = 0.90) suggests that 108 subjects (18 in each age group) were insufficient to adequately answer the question. Thus power analysis may help explain the conflicting reports available in literature. The diversity in data interpretation may be due to the statistically small sample sizes used in most studies. Power analysis shows that at least 80 subjects are needed in each age group (480 subjects in total) before a statistically reliable test of the null hypothesis is possible. This study emphasizes the importance of power analysis in calculating an adequate sample size.
The effect of age on the edema response of the central and mid‐peripheral cornea
Authors: Siu Andrew W. , Herse Peter R.
Published: May 2009

Abstract Corneal edema was induced by a 2‐h closed‐eye wear of a thick hydrogel contact lens. Corneal edema production and edema recovery responses were measured in the central and mid‐peripheral (3 mm inferior) cornea of 10 younger (20.4±2.0 years) and 10 older (69.0±3.4 years) subjects using optical pachometry. The amount of edema produced was not significantly different between the two corneal locations nor between the two age groups. The edema recovery rates of the central and mid‐peripheral cornea were not significantly different in either the younger or older group. The edema recovery rates at both corneal positions were significantly faster in the younger group than in the older group. The results of this study suggest that the mechanisms that control edema production and recovery in the inferior mid‐peripheral cornea are similar to those previously described in central and temporal mid‐peripheral locations. Ageing appears to influence the edema production and recovery mechanisms of both the central and mid‐peripheral cornea in similar ways.
Further evaluation of a method used for investigation of toxic drug effects
Authors: Medin Walther
Published: May 2009

Abstract Further evaluation of a method suitable for investigation of toxic drug effect was performed. Rabbit corneas kept in organ culture were exposed to gentamicin for 24 h, and their weights were recorded. The weight increase observed in all specimens was significantly higher (p < 0.0001) in the corneas exposed to gentamicin 0.6 mg/ml (n = 7) than in the controls (n = 14). This was not the case for the corneas exposed to 0.3 mg/ml and 0.1 mg/ml. The accuracy of each weight recording was tested by repeated recordings. The standard deviation (SD) was less than 1%, and there was no significant difference between series performed by two different recorders. The reproducibility of the test was focused upon by calculating the SD of the control group, and by comparing the present results with the results of a control group in a recently published study (Medin 1992). The SD was approximately 2.8%, and no significant difference was found.
Assessment of tear drainage by fluorescein dye disappearance test after experimental canalicular obstruction
Authors: Ögüt Mehdi Suha , Bavbek Tayfun , Kazokoglu Haluk
Published: May 2009

Abstract Controversy exists about the role of upper and lower canaliculi in tear drainage. Fluorescein dye disappearance test was used to evaluate tear drainage after experimental obstruction of upper, lower, neither or both canaliculi in 18 subjects by hydroxypropil cellulose rods. When both canaliculi were occluded marked impairment was noted in all subjects (p < 0.05). Monocanalicular obstruction (either upper or lower) generally resulted in minimal impairment in most of the cases. Only 11% of upper canilicular obstruction and 20% of lower canalicular obstruction resulted in marked impairment. There was no significant difference between upper and lower canalicular obstruction (p < 0.05). In this study it is concluded that both upper and lower canaliculus have equal importance in tear drainage.
On the Stiles‐Crawford effect and ocular imagery
Authors: Olsen Thomas
Published: May 2009

Abstract To study the modifying effect on spherical aberration of the retinal directional sensitivity (the Stiles‐Crawford effect), ocular imagery was simulated by computer ray‐tracing in a phakic and a pseudophakic model eye. The Stiles‐Crawford effect was found to reduce the distance between the paraxial focus and the effective least blur focus. The modifying effect on spherical aberration was found to be insignificant for pupil sizes below 4 mm, and to increase in magnitude above this size. For an 8 mm pupil, the effective focus was found to move 0.3 mm and 0.2 mm toward the paraxial focus for the phakic and the pseudophakic eye, respectively. This corresponded to a shift of 1.0 D and 0.6 D in the spectacle plane, respectively. The modifying effect of the retinal directional sensitivity should be taken into account in the theory of ocular refraction and in objective keratometry and refractometry.
Ophthalmic manifestations of epidemic nephropathy
Authors: Pärssinen Olavi , Klemetti Anneli , Rossi‐Rautiainen Eija , Forslund Terje
Published: May 2009

Abstract An ophthalmic examination was performed on 29 epidemic nephropathy patients consequently treated in the Central Hospital of Central Finland during the acute phase of the disease. Twentysix of those patients were reexamined after an interval of one month. In the acute phase of the disease pathological ophthalmic changes were found in 15 cases (52%). The symptoms observed were conjunctival injection, oedema, flare and cell reaction in anterior chamber, anisochoria, retinal oedema, acute glaucoma and myopic shift of refraction. The main effect of disease on intraocular pressure was pressure‐lowering. The myopic shifts were not dependent on initial refraction. In one case of acute glaucoma this shift could be explained by swelling and forward movement of the lens.
Visual acuity: Calculating appropriate averages
Authors: Moseley Merrick J , Jones Helen S
Published: May 2009

ABSTRACT Controversy surrounds the averaging of visual acuity scores We examine this debate and provide a series of guidelines and worked examples to enable investigators to select an average (eg arithmetic mean, geometric mean, median) appropriate for their data
Two‐year follow‐up of intra‐ocular pressure control with long duration argon laser trabeculoplasty
Authors: Hugkulstone Charles E
Published: May 2009

ABSTRACT The two‐year results of intra‐ocular pressure control in the first prospective study of standard (01 second) and long (02 second) duration argon laser trabeculoplasty are presented The two groups were comparable for intra‐ocular pressures and treatment scores at the start of the study An early benefit in intra‐ocular pressure reduction was found for 02 second trabeculoplasty in the first year, which disappeared during the second‐ond year of follow‐up No reduction in medications occurred following laser trabeculoplasty There was no difference in the frequency of further interventions (repeat trabeculoplasty or drainage surgery) between the two groups There was a strong correlation between the intraocular pressures of the first and second treated eyes No clinical benefit was demonstrated for the longer duration over standard argon laser trabeculoplasty
Variation of corneal thickness with age in young New Zealanders
Authors: Herse Peter , Yao Weiping
Published: May 2009

ABSTRACT The central thickness of the left eyes of 1082 New Zealand students aged 5 to 20 years were measured using optical pachometry No significant variation in corneal thickness was found with increasing age The mean corneal thickness of the left eye was 540±25 μm No significant differences in corneal thickness were found when the effects of sex or cultural groupings were examined Corneal thickness appears to remain constant between the age of 5 and 20 years, irrespective of sex or cultural grouping
Brown's syndrome
Authors: Gregersen E , Rindziunski E
Published: May 2009

ABSTRACT The prognosis for spontaneous improvement of Brown's syndrome has not yet been clarified The present longitudinal long‐term study comprised 10 patients with idiopathic Brown's syndrome arising or noticed during the first or second year of life They were followed for an average of 13 years during which each had a mean of 9 examinations Spontaneous improvement occurred in 9 of the patients, 3 of whom were cured, obtaining normal motility All three cases had initially been permanent and monolateral, with initially mild, moderate, and severe restriction, respectively In the remaining 6 patients who changed for the better, the spontaneous improvement consisted of a reduction of the initial hypotropia and the initial depression of the adducted eye When the patients were last seen, the sensorial state of binocular vision demonstrated in 4 of the 10 normal binocularity, in 2 binocularity corresponding to microstrabismus, and in 4 alternating suppression
Long‐term effectiveness of modified grid laser photocoagulation for diffuse diabetic macular edema
Authors: Ladas Ioannis D. , Theodossiadis George P.
Published: May 2009

Abstract Fifty eyes of 42 patients with background diabetic retinopathy and diffuse macular edema were included in a prospective, randomized, clinical study to determine the long‐term visual results of modified grid laser photocoagulation compared with the natural course of the disease. At the end of the three annual follow‐up visits there were more eyes with improved visual acuity in the treatment group and more eyes with worse visual acuity in the control group. However, statistical analysis of the data showed that only at the end of the first and the second year was there a significant statistical difference between the two groups. At the end of the third year no statistically significant difference was found. These results suggest that modified grid laser photocoagulation is not an effective procedure for the long‐term management of diffuse diabetic macular edema compared with the natural course of the disease.
Maculopathy caused by welding arcs
Authors: Fich Marianne , Dahl Helena , Fledelius Hans , Tinning Steen
Published: May 2009

Abstract It is well known that radiation from welding arcs can cause keratoconjunctivitis and ‘glassblower's cataract’. In literature only few cases of welding arc maculopathy have been reported. Three cases are presented.
The histopathological changes of keratoconus
Authors: Kaas‐Hansen Mette
Published: May 2009

Abstract Seven keratoconus corneas and two normal corneas were examined in a light microscope. The histopathological changes are described with emphasis on breaklines in Bowman's layer. They seem to be a late and a secondary phenomenon. The severity of the findings are compared to the loss of visual acuity. It seems that there is no fixed correlation between the histopathological findings and the loss of visual acuity. Two of the keratocononus corneas showed the same histological changes as those found in the normal corneas.
Bilateral intraoculár pressure elevation and decrease of facility of aqueous humour outflow as a consequence of regional lymphoedema of head and neck
Authors: Holló Gábor
Published: May 2009

Abstract Aqueous humour drainage to the deep cervical lymphatics has been proven in animal experiments, but there have been no observations of changes in intraocular pressure (IOP) or aqueous humour drainage as a consequence of lymph drainage dysfunction. The history of a patient with non‐Hodgkin's lymphoma, who underwent a left‐sided radical neck dissection in January 1991, is reported. From the end of 1991 lymphoedema of the head and neck, predominantly on the right side, developed without venous stasis but with significant bilateral IOP elevation and aqueous humour outflow reduction, refract to conventional treatment. Two days after cytostatic treatment the lymphoedema disappeared, and IOP and aqueous humour outflow became normal. Four days later the patient died because of an acute bronchopneumonia. The pathological examination revealed an intact internal jugular venous system, enlarged lymph nodes and, as a consequence of previous irradiation, cicatrization in the right side of the neck. On the left side, there was absence of the internal jugular vein and jugular lymphatic trunk due to previous radical neck dissection. Our case suggests that regional lymphatic stasis and the absence of the collateral drainage to the contralateral side significantly reduces the aqueous humour outflow and leads to a bilateral, secondary IOP elevation.
Visual field prognosis in early glaucoma A long‐term clinical follow‐up
Authors: Odberg Tor
Published: May 2009

Abstract. Fifty‐four eyes of 45 patients with ocular hypertension developed early glaucomatous optic disc or visual field changes after a mean follow‐up of 5.1 years without therapy. These changes initiated antiglaucomatous treatment, and the eyes have been followed further on therapy for 2–14 years (mean 8.0 years) in a retrospective study. The mean intraocular pressure (IOP) was lowered from 28.9 to 19.3 mmHg. Half of the eyes were still without field defects at the end of the study, whereas 7 eyes developed extensive field damage noticeable to the patients. The eyes with deteriorating visual fields could not be differentiated from the stable ones by means of the pre‐therapy IOP, nor the mean or peak IOP on treatment. There was an accumulation of topical and general risk factors in the progressive eyes. The results support the importance of taking other risk factors than the IOP into consideration in the management of our glaucoma patients.
Postoperative prognostic indicators following trabeculectomy
Authors: Stewart William C. , Pitts Rebecca A.
Published: May 2009

Abstract. We evaluated prognostic indicators for longterm filtration from the ocular examination within the first three months following primary trabeculectomy without antimetabolite therapy.

We found that in patients who were more easily controlled at one year postoperatively (intraocular pressure ≥ 16 mmHg and using 0–2 medications), compared to those who were more difficult to control (≥ 16 mmHg or on three medications), the intraocular pressure became significantly different between groups at three months and the number of glaucoma medications at eight weeks postoperatively. More easily controlled patients had greater bleb elevation by one month and extent of bleb formation at two weeks postoperatively. The presence of microcysts, anterior chamber depth, and avascularity did not differ between the two groups.

This study suggests that differences in the ocular examination exist within the first three months following trabeculectomy which reflect the postoperative intraocular pressure control at one year.
Prevalence and risk factors of retinopathy in children with diabetes A population‐based study on Finnish children
Authors: Falck A. A. K. , Käär M.‐L , Laatikainen L. T.
Published: May 2009

Abstract. The prevalence of retinopathy in children with insulin‐dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM) was studied in a population‐based survey on 194 of the 216 subjects (89.8%) with IDDM aged 4.6 to 16.6 years living in the county of Oulu, Finland. The diagnosis of retinopathy was based on fundus photography. The median age of the children was 12.2 years and the median duration of diabetes 4.5 years (range 0–14.2 years). Retinopathy was found in 21 (10.8%) of cases. All of the changes seen were mild and did not require treatment. All the children with retinopathy were pubertal or postpubertal, and an association was found between the presence of retinopathy and the long‐term diabetes control, duration of diabetes, age and albuminuria. Logistic regression analysis showed increasing duration of diabetes, puberty and elevated blood glycated haemoglobin to be the main risk factors explaining the occurrence of retinopathy. In patients aged 13–16 years retinopathy was also related to female sex and diastolic blood pressure, but in logistic regression analysis duration of diabetes and glycated haemoglobin were the best predictors.
Efficacy and retention time of a new tear substitute
Authors: Pálfalvi Mária , Kahán Ilona L.
Published: May 2009

Abstract. The tear substitute Lacrozym has been compared with Tears Naturale in a double‐blind study. Baseline tear film break‐up time, efficiency by determining the maximum of the break‐up time values after tear substitute administration, and retention time has been established. A similar increase of break‐up time values were found after 10, 15, 20 and 30 min administration of Lacrozym and Tears Naturale, respectively. Retention times of both tear substitutes were found to be about two hours, more exactly 110 and 120 min for Lacrozym and Tears Naturale, respectively.
Co‐existence of exfoliation syndrome, previous iris surgery, and heterochromia
Authors: Konstas Anastasios G. P. , Williamson Tom H.
Published: May 2009

Abstract. A case is described where exfoliation syndrome developed in a relatively young patient with heterochromia. The patient had previously undergone large radial iridotomies as part of penetrating keratoplasty procedures. This case illustrates an association between iris surgery and early manifestation of exfoliation syndrome.
Cataract patients in a defined Swedish population 1986–1990
Authors: Ninn‐Pedersen K. , Stenevi U. , Ehinger B.
Published: May 2009

Abstract. With the Cataract Analysis System (CAS(TM)) we have analyzed 5878 consecutive cataract patients operated from 1986 through 1990. The material is complete enough to be regarded as representative of the cataract surgery performed in the entire referral region of the Lund Health Care District during this period. There has been a striking increase in the number of operations, in 1990 reaching 3.6 per 1000 inhabitants in the referral region. Simultaneously, surgery has changed from being mainly an in‐patient to an out‐patient procedure. Females predominate in the material, also after adjustment for the female preponderance in the population. Most likely, this is due to a higher incidence of cataract in women than in men.
Cataract patients in a defined Swedish population 1986–1990
Authors: Ninn‐Pedersen K. , Stenevi U. , Ehinger B.
Published: May 2009

Abstract. With the Cataract Analysis System (CAS(TM)) we have analyzed 5.878 consecutive patients undergoing cataract operations from 1986 through 1990. The material is complete enough to be regarded as representative of the cataract surgery performed in the Lund Health Care District cataract surgery referral region during this period. There has been a striking increase in the number of operations, in 1990 reaching 3.6 per 1000 inhabitants in the referral region. A number of demographic factors have been analyzed previously, and the preoperative status of the patients is reported in this paper. In 1986, the cataract patients showed more visual impairment than in 1990, but the average age at surgery did not change between the years. We therefore suggest that the increase in the number of patients which were operated on represents a new category that was added. During the period, the planned refraction has changed towards emmetropia, presumably reflecting several kinds of improvements in the procedure. About 78 per cent of the population had a preoperative astigmatism < 1.5 D. As expected males had slightly longer eyes than women, and their corneal curvature was also slightly less.
Glare and contrast sensitivity before and after Nd:YAG laser capsulotomy
Authors: Claesson Margareta , Klarén Laila , Beckman Claes , Sjöstrand Johan
Published: May 2009

Abstract. The benefits of Nd:YAG laser capsulotomy on visual peformance were evaluated in 13 patients with after‐cataract following extracapsular cataract extraction. Besides clinical evaluation we measured: visual acuity, letter contrast sensitivity with and without the presence of a circular glare source (glare angle: 8°). Finally, the patients were asked to evaluate their subjective glare problems. In all patients, visual acuity had decreased markedly compared to measurements 2 months after cataract surgery. Before capsulotomy we observed impaired letter contrast sensitivity and increased intraocular light scatter compared to normals. Following capsulotomy, VA and contrast sensitivity both improved by a factor of 2. The subjective glare problems diminished, although most patients showed minor decreases in intraocular light scatter. The limited glare induced loss of letter contrast sensitivity, present before capsulotomy, remained after treatment. Our study indicates that after‐cataract impairs resolution and contrast sensitivity without necessarily causing a marked increase in light scatter as measured at a large angle.
Touch sensitivity of the eyelid margin and palpebral conjunctiva
Authors: McGowan D. P. , Lawrenson J. G. , Ruskell G. L.
Published: May 2009

Abstract. Using a slit‐lamp biomicroscope mounted Cochet‐Bonnet aesthesiometer, the touch sensitivity of the eyelid margin and palpebral conjunctiva was determined for both upper and lower lids in 30 subjects. Thresholds for the occlusal surface of the lid, the marginal angle and the middle of the tarsus were measured centrally. A significantly higher touch sensitivity was found for the marginal zone compared with the occlusal surface, and tarsal conjunctival sensitivity was substantially the lowest. The occlusal and marginal zones of the lower lid displayed a significantly higher touch sensitivity than the upper lid but the tarsal sensitivity of the two lids was similar. The sharp peaking of sensitivity at the leading edge of each eyelid provides a mechanism for the detection of superficial foreign bodies and presumably augments the protective role of the cornea. A large inter‐subject variation in marginal touch sensitivity was found which may explain individual variation in contact lens adaptation.
Systematic screening for diabetic eye disease in insulin dependent diabetes
Authors: Kristinsson Jóhannes Kári , Stefánsson Einar , Jónasson Fridbert , Gíslason Ingimundur , Björnsson Sigurdur
Published: May 2009

Abstract. Under a national program established in 1980, the eyes of approximately 90% of the insulin dependent diabetic patients in Iceland have undergone annual eye examination and fundus photography. Laser treatment was given for proliferative retinopathy or diabetic macu‐lar edema according to Diabetic Retinopathy Study and Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study criteria. We report on 205 insulin‐taking patients whose age at diagnosis was less than 30 years of age. Retinopathy was present in 106 (52%) patients and proliferative retinopathy in 26 (13%). 196 patients (96%) had visual acuity equal or better than 6/12 in their better eye, 6 patients (3%) with 6/18–6/48 in their better eye, and 2 patients (1%) equal or worse than 6/60 in their better eye.
An unusual case of ocular Münchausen's syndrome
Authors: Anderton L. C. , Shah P. , Doran R. M. L.
Published: May 2009

Abstract. A patient with longstanding signs, claiming to be an acute emergency was discovered to be an unusual presentation of ocular Münchausen's syndrome.
Indocyanine green video angiographic findings in acute posterior multifocal placoid pigment epitheliopathy
Authors: Yuzawa Mitsuko , Kawamura Akiyuki , Matsui Mizuo
Published: May 2009

Abstract. The placoid lesions of acute posterior multifocal placoid pigment epitheliopathy consist of two distinct areas: a light yellow area surrounding a dark yellow center. On two occasions, the authors compared indo‐cyanine green video angiographic with fluorescein angiographic findings in a typical case of acute posterior multifocal placoid pigment epitheliopathy. In the acute stage, the multiple placoid lesions observed in the early phase of indocyanine green video‐angiography showed hypofluorescent lesions corresponding to those seen with fluorescein angiography which blocked choroidal vessels. Some fluorescent intermediate sized choroidal vessels, which traversed the hypofluorescent areas, were dark due to a slight degree of blocked fluorescence. On both indocyanine green video and fluorescein angiography, hypofluorescent lesions were almost the same size as the light yellow area and the dark yellow center of a placoid lesion. A hypofluorescent lesion, seen on fluorescein angiography, obscured a retinal vessel. When the placoid lesions had disappeared, fewer hypofluorescent lesions, corresponding to some of the hypofluorescent lesions originally observed, were seen in the early phase of indocyanine green video angiography. They were also smaller in size. These hypofluorescent lesions decreased in size and some had completely disappeared in the late phase. No hypofluorescent lesions were seen in the early phase of fluorescein angiography. Findings in the acute stage suggest that the hypofluorescence observed in the early phase of indocyanine green video and fluorescein angiography is mainly blockage due to a light yellow area of placoid. When the placoid lesion disappeared, filling delays, which were detectable on only indocyanine green video angiography, persisted in the choriocapillaris.
Neuropeptide Y inhibits adenylyl cyclase activity in rabbit retina
Authors: Bruun Anitha , Edvinsson Lars , Ehinger Berndt
Published: May 2009

Abstract. Neuropeptide Y is known to be present in significant amounts in the retina of most vertebrates, but its physiological actions are largely unknown. We have therefore studied its effects on the intracellular cyclic AMP accumulation in rabbit retina. Neuropeptide Y had no effect on the basal cyclic AMP level but was found to inhibit the forskolin induced cyclic AMP accumulation. There were no differences between the effects of neuro‐peptide Y 1–36 and neuropeptide Y 13–36 (2.4 times 10−6 M) suggesting the presence of the Y2 subtype of neuropeptide Y receptor. D‐myo‐inositol‐1,2,6‐trisphosphate, a novel neuropeptide Y‐antagonist, reduced per se the forskolin induced cyclic AMP production. The pronounced inhibitory effect of neuropeptide Y on the forskolin induced cyclic AMP production was, on the other hand, totally abolished by D‐myo‐inositol‐1,2,6‐trisphos‐phate. The results indicate that neuropeptide Y acts on Y2 receptors in the retina to cause an inhibition of the adenylyl cyclase activity which could be antagonized by D‐myo‐inositol‐1,2,6‐trisphosphate. Such an inhibitory action of neuropeptide Y is similar to what has been found in brain tissue, but it has not previously been reported in the retina for neuropeptide Y or any of the other retinal neuropeptides.
Pure anteropositioning of inferior oblique
Authors: Prakash Prem , Gupta Amit , Sharma Pradeep
Published: May 2009

Abstract. Anteropositioning of inferior oblique is of late becoming popular but it inadvertently also entails a compulsory recession which may be undesirable at times. We have evaluated the effect of a ‘pure’ anteropositioning procedure (11 eyes), with Elliot & Nankin's anteropositioning (10 eyes) and Parks' recession (17 eyes). The mean change of vertical deviation in elevation in adduction (surso adductioň) was 15.09 ± 8.3 prism dioptres (p.d.) in pure anteropositioning; 23.50 ± 5.6 p.d. in E & N's anteropositioning and 14.82 ± 5.9 p.d. in Parks' recession, showing this procedure to be as effective as a conventional recession procedure. However, while the latter two methods produced an intorsion, ‘pure’ anteropositioning produced no significant change in torsion. It is a much simpler procedure to weaken the elevation without affecting the torsion.
The microtrephine
Authors: Schrage Norbert Franz , Lorenz Ulrich , Von Fischern Tatjana , Reim Martin
Published: May 2009

Abstract. We have developed a new tool for obtaining biopsies of the cornea in a manner which is less traumatic than former biopsy techniques. The new instrument consists of a drill with an aperture of 160 μm which functions as a trephine and is powered at 30 000 rpm. The instrument contains a 120 μm mandrel to remove the samples. In order to monitor electrolyte contents in alkali burnt corneas, 32 rabbit eyes underwent an alkali burn of one cornea (1 n NaOH for 30 sec) followed by a sequence of microtrephinations at different times. A total of 81 microtrephinations were performed. Fifty samples were obtained. One corneal perforation occurred. Forty‐four puncture sites were examined by means of histology. Forty‐eight biopsies were examined in a scanning electron microscope and identified as punctures of corneal tissue by way of an energy dispersive X‐ray analysis. Human corneas had been punctured with this device.
Transretinal histopathological changes in capillary‐free areas of diabetic retinopathy
Authors: Bek Toke
Published: May 2009

Abstract. The histopathology of capillary‐free areas in diabetic retinopathy was studied in 27 lesions from 12 human donor eyes. Localised capillary‐free areas were identified on casts of the retinal vascular system, and on subsequent histological sections of these areas the casted vessels acted as points of reference to accurately combine the histological appearance of the retina with the vascular morphology as seen on the cast. All studies lesions showed inner retinal changes with loss of ganglion cells, attenutation of the inner nuclear layer and hyalinisation of the retinal capillary network. In 21 of the studied lesions a homogeneous eosinophile substance was seen accumulated between the photoreceptor outer segments and the retinal pigment epithelium corresponding to the areas with inner retinal changes. The findings may help explain the blocking of choroidal fluorescence in capillary‐free areas as seen on fluorescein angiograms in diabetic retinopathy. The study suggests future guidelines for further illumination of the pathophysiology of proliferative diabetic retinopathy.
Topical cyclosporin treatment of keratoconjunctivitis sicca in secondary Sjögren's syndrome
Authors: Gündüz Kaan , Özdemir ÖOzden
Published: May 2009

Abstract. Topical cyclosporin 2% in olive oil was investigated for its possible immunoregulatory role on the dry eye state in patients with secondary Sjögren's syndrome. The study was a randomized, double‐masked, placebocontrolled trial. Thirty eyes of 15 patients were randomized to undergo treatment with topical cyclosporin in olive oil and 30 eyes of the other 15 patients received a placebo, which was the sterile olive oil used as a vehicle for the cyclosporin. The effect of the 2‐month long treatment with either medication on the status of the dry eye state was measured by Schirmer‐I test, tear film break‐up time and rose bengal staining. There was a significant increase in the break‐up time and a significant decrease in rose bengal staining score between the cyclosporin and control groups at the end of the 2‐month study period (p < 0.01). Schirmer‐I test remained unaffected (p > 0.05). These results probably indicate that topical cyclosporin modulates the goblet cell function in secondary Sjögren's associated keratoconjunctivitis sicca and through this mucus enhancing action or some other mechanism not yet known, helps to maintain the structural integrity of the epithelium.
Treatment of recurrent corneal erosions with the excimer laser
Authors: Öhman Lena , Fagerholm Per , Tengroth Björn
Published: May 2009

Abstract. Seventy‐six patients with recurrent corneal erosions resistant to conventional therapy with ointment, abrasion or contact lenses were treated with the excimer laser. The patients were treated in 3 different ways; ablation of 3 or 5 μm after epithelial removal, or ablation of 20 μm directly on the epithelium. Twenty out of the 76 treated eyes showed recurrences. Thirty‐five of the patients had no symptoms after treatment and 21 patients had minor symptoms. The 3 different treatment modes were equally successful in the present study.
Uveitis survey at the University Eye Clinic in Turku
Authors: Päivönsalo‐Hietanen T. , Vaahtoranta‐Lehtonen H. , Tuominen J. , Saari K. M.
Published: May 2009

Abstract. We conducted a retrospective analysis of 1122 patients with endogenous uveitis treated at the University Eye Clinic in Turku during the eyars 1980–1982 and 1988. Of the 1122 patients 568 were men and 554 women; 1034 (92.2%) had anterior uveitis, 15 (1.3%) intermediate uveitis, 64 (5.7%) posterior uveitis and 9 (0.8%) panuveitis; 867 (77.3%) were unilateral and 255 bilateral; 789 of 1067 cases (73.9%) were of sudden onset and 278 of insidious onset; 808 of 1102 cases (73.3%) were of short duration and 294 of long duration; and 519 (46.3%) single and 603 repeated. In this study uveitis occurred significantly more often (44.2%) in the age group 20–39 years than in other age groups (p < 0.00001). Anterior and posterior uveitis were more often unilateral than bilateral (p < 0.0005) and of sudden onset than of insidious onset (p < 0.00008). Acute anterior uveitis was the most common uveitic entity and accounted for 745 cases (66.4%). Acute anterior uveitis associated with ankylosing spondylitis was the single most frequently seen diagnostic group including 144 cases (12.8%) with a statistically significant male predominance (p < 0.00001).
Age differences of visual field impairment and mutation spectrum in Danish choroideremia patients
Authors: Rosenberg Thomas , Schwartz Marianne
Published: May 2009

Abstract. Visual prognosis is a crucial theme in the councelling of individuals affected by a progressive retinal dystrophy. Unfortunately prognostic predictions are hampered by large interindividual differences in disease courses even within well defined nosological entities. Ten patients from 8 families affected by choroideremia were studied. The clinical signs in our patients were rather uniform. Deterioration of the peripheral visual fields typically began in the second decade of life, and progressed during the following one or two decades. Esterman transformation of peripheral visual field measurements was chosen as the best single indicator of visual impairment. Noticeable age differences in residual visual fields among patients were demonstrated. The age difference between the mildest and the severest cases amounted to 25 years. One of the expectations of the exploration of disease genes, is the potential predictive value of mutation identification with regard to phenotypic variability. Different presumed causative mutations were identified. Nevertheless, all the mutations are predicted to cause premature stops during translation, resulting in a non‐functional or missing protein. Consequently, the observed age variation in the photopic visual field degradation must be due to still unrecognized factors, either constitutional and/or environmental.
Ocular effects and systemic absorption of cyclopentolate eyedrops after canthal and conventional application
Authors: Lahdes K. K. , Huupponen R. K. , Kaila T. J.
Published: May 2009

Abstract. Ocular effects and plasma concentrations of cyclopentolate were studied in 8 volunteers after eyedrop application with two methods. While recumbent two 30 μl drops of 1% cyclopentolate hydrochloride were instilled in randomized order either conventionally to the lower conjunctival cul‐de‐sac or on the inner canthus with eyes closed, followed by immediate opening of the eyes. The cycloplegic responses as well as the extent and time of maximal mydriasis did not differ significantly between the two methods. None of the parameters describing the systemic absorption of the drug differed between the treatment groups. Conventionally applied drops caused slightly longer subjective discomfort. Instilling eyedrops on the inner canthus with eyes closed is an alternative method to deliver ocular cyclopentolate with similar efficacy and safety as the conventional technique. This method could be useful especially when treating non‐cooperative children.
Peribulbar anaesthesia
Authors: Bjømstrøm Larsbjørn , Hansen Anders , Otland Niels , Thim Kirsten , Corydon Leif
Published: May 2009

Abstract. Fifty‐four consecutive cases of single injection peribulbar anaesthesia performed by the same ophthalmologist were evaluated concerning clinical effect on motility/akinesia and pain. The patients were randomly selected to one of two different mixtures of anaesthetics, one containing lidocaine, bupivacaine, adrenaline and hyaluronidase. The other lidocaine and bupivacaine. The mixture with adrenalin and hyaluronidase was significantly more effective than the other (success rates of 77.8% and 25.9%, p < 0.005).
Evaluation of subconjunctival anaesthesia vs peribulbar anaesthesia in cataract surgery
Authors: Khurana A. K. , Sachdeva R. K. , Gombar K. K. , Ahluwalia B. K.
Published: May 2009

Abstract. A comparative study was carried out to evaluate peribulbar anaesthesia (group A) vs subconjunctival anaesthesia (group B). The results proved peribulbar anaesthesia to be more effective than subconjunctival anaesthesia as regards orbicularis akinesia (p < 0.05) and ocular akinesia (p < 0.05). There was no significant difference in the sensory anaesthesia, analgesia and intraocular pressure changes in the two groups (p > 0.05). Block assessement was ideal in 80% of patients in group A in comparison to 51% in group B (p < 0.05), and unsatisfactory in 14% in group A and 30% in group B (p < 0.05). Further, no signifiant complications were observed with peribulbar anaesthesia. Therefore, we conclude that peribulbar anaesthesia should be preferred over subconjunctival anaesthesia for conventional extracapsular cataract extraction with or without intraocular lens implantation.
The effects of corticosteroid and reduced glutathione on the endothelial viability during culture in MK medium
Authors: Panda Anita , Kumar Gautam , Basak Samar K. , Mohan Madan , Gupta S. K.
Published: May 2009

Abstract. The effect of addition of dexamethasone and reduced glutathione to MK medium, in a concentration of 10−3 Molar and 0.92 g/1, respectively, was evaluated. The post preservation corneal endothelial viability was assessed using light microscopy. Our results showed that the addition of dexamethasone to MK medium increased the preservation time of dog cornea from 7 to 10 days and that reduced glutathione could further increase the storage period to 12 days. It can be concluded that the addition of reduced glutathione to MK medium is an excellent means for intermediate term corneal preservation.
Progressive proliferative diabetic retinopathy after transplantation of the pancreas
Authors: Schmidt D. , Kirste G. , Schrader W.
Published: May 2009

Abstract. The unusual case history of the development of a progressive diabetic retinopathy despite normal blood glucose after transplantation of the pancreas and despite panretinal laser coagulations is described. A 26‐year‐old male with diabetic background retinopathy underwent a segmental transplantation of the pancreas in 1988. One year after surgery, a progressive proliferative retinopathy despite normoglycemia was found, which required an intensive panretinal photocoagulation during the following months. However, despite massive retinal coagulations, vitreous hemorrhages and retinal neovascularisations continuously occurred, thus requiring two vitrectomies. After these procedures, visual acuity recovered distinctly. It is suggested that the ‘point of no return’ for the development of proliferative changes in the retina had been passed at a time when a background retinopathy was still present. The effect of normoglycemia during follow‐up of patients with diabetic retinopathy, described in the literature, is compared to this unusual case history.
Oral fluconazole therapy for keratomycosis
Authors: Thakar Meenakshi
Published: May 2009

Abstract. A 12‐year‐old girl with fungal keratitis following injury with a vegetable foreign body was successfully treated with oral fluconazole, a new antifungal agent. The infection resolved completely with good visual recovery. Fluconazole was well tolerated systemically.
Filtering surgery with mitomycin‐C in uncomplicated (primary open angle) glaucoma
Authors: Mirza G. Ertuǧrul , Karaküçük Sarper , Doǧan Hakki , Erkiliç Kuddusi
Published: May 2009

Abstract Mitomycin is an antibiotic with antineoplastic activity which inhibits fibroblast proliferation in the operative field in glaucoma filtering surgery. The authors retrospectively evaluated the effectiveness of trabeculectomy with mitomycin‐C as an initial surgical procedure in uncomplicated (primary open angle) glaucoma in 17 eyes of 17 patients; 12 eyes of 12 patients that received standard trabeculectomy constituted the control group. Mitomycin was applied at a concentration of 0.5 mg/ml for 3 min to the episclera and 2 min under the scleral flap. Median values for preoperative intraocular pressure was 43 mmHg (range 26–65) in the control group and 40 mmHg (range 30–60) in the mitomycin group (p ≥ 0.05, Mann‐Whitney U‐test). After an average follow‐up of 17 months, median postoperative IOP was 10 mmHg (range 3–18) in the control group and 4 mmHg (range 1.1–20) in the mitomycin group (p < 0.05, Mann‐Whitney U‐test). Percentage IOP drop was 75.6% in the control group (range 30.8–93.5%) and 89.6% (range 54.2–98%) in the mitomycin group (p < 0.05, Mann‐Whitney U‐test). The postoperative visual acuities of the two groups did not differ significantly (p > 0.05, Fisher exact test). Although there was not a statistically significant difference between complications, such as elevated intraocular pressure, wound leakage or bleb ulceration in both groups (p > 0.05, Fisher exact test), the number of hypotonous eyes (having an average IOP ≤ 5 mmHg) was significantly higher in the mitomycin‐C group compared to the controls (p < 0.05, Fisher exact test). Mitomycin established a well formed bleb and reduced the IOP more effectively than did the standard filtering procedure (p < 0.05, Mann‐Whitney U‐test); however, further work is necessary to evaluate the long‐term complications of mitomycin‐C surgery such as hypotony. This would help clear any doubts about the safety of this procedure on long‐term.
Cystoid macular oedema after complicated cataract surgery and implantation of an anterior chamber lens
Authors: Bergman Mervi , Laatikainen Leila
Published: May 2009

Abstract During the period January 1988 to August 1990, 48 anterior chamber intraocular lenses were implanted during primary cataract surgery. In 6 eyes an anterior chamber intraocular lens was implanted after intracapsular cataract extraction, in 42 eyes after extracapsular cataract extraction complicated by posterior capsular or zonular rupture. Of the 40 cases which had been followed for at least 6 months (mean 23 months), 5 eyes (12.5%) developed clinically significant cystoid macular oedema. All these eyes had an extracapsular cataract extraction with a posterior capsular tear and anterior vitrectomy and in addition all had some other surgical or postoperative complications. Thus, in this series of complicated cataract surgery, cystoid macular oedema was an important cause of visual impairment but cystoid macular oedema was hardly due to the presence of an anterior chamber intraocular lens.
Severity of background retinopathy in Type 1 diabetes increases with the level of long‐term glycated haemoglobin
Authors: Kullberg Carin E. , Finnström Kerstin , Arnqvist Hans J.
Published: May 2009

Abstract The relationship between severity of background retinopathy, and prior long‐term glycaemic control was studied. Ninety patients with background retinopathy and Type 1 diabetes mellitus, diabetes duration ≤25 years, and HbA1c monitored >5 years (on average 9.2 years with 32 HbA1c measurements) were included. All patients had microaenurysms/haemorrhages, 33 had hard exudates, 27 soft exudates, 8 IRMA (intraretinal microangiopathy), three venous beading, and no patient had macula oedema. Patients with mean HbA1c > 8% had higher relative risks for all kinds of background retinopathy, compared to patients with HbA1c ≤7%. In multiple regression analysis, long‐term glycated haemoglobin had significant impact on all types of background retinopathy. Women had lower scores for all types of background retinopathy. No sex differences in HbA1c, age, or duration were found. We conclude that poor long‐term glycaemic control is a major risk factor for all types of background retinopathy.
Patterned light flash evoked short latency activity in the visual system of visually normal and in amblyopic subjects
Authors: Sjöström A. , Abrahamsson M.
Published: May 2009

Abstract In a previous experimental study on anaesthetized cat it was shown that a short latency (35–40 ms) cortical potential changed polarity due to the presence or absence of a pattern in the flash stimulus. The results suggested one pathway of neuronal activation in the cortex to a pattern that was within the level of resolution and another to patterns that were not. It was implied that a similar difference in impulse transmission to pattern and non‐pattern stimuli may be recorded in humans. The present paper describes recordings of the short‐latency visual evoked response to varying light flash checkerboard pattern stimuli of high intensity in visually normal and amblyopic children and adults. When stimulating the normal eye a visual evoked response potential with a peak latency between 35 to 40 ms showed a polarity change to patterned compared to non‐patterned stimulation. The visual evoked response resolution limit could be correlated to a visual acuity of 0.5 and below. In amblyopic eyes the shift in polarity was recorded at the acuity limit level. The latency of the pattern depending potential was increased in patients with amblyopia compared to normal, but not directly related to amblyopic degree. It is concluded that the short latency, visual evoked response that mainly represents the retino‐geniculo‐cortical activation may be used to estimate visual resolution below 0.5 in acuity level. The possible value of the method in analyzing general maturation and lesions in the visual system is discussed.