bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Oscillatory potentials, retinopathy, and long‐term glucose control in insulin‐dependent diabetes
Authors: Brinchmann‐Hansen Olaf , Dahl‐Jørgensen Knut , Hanssen Kristian F. , Sandvik Leiv
Published: May 2009

Abstract The main objective of the study was to assess effects of long‐term lowering of glucosylated hemoglobin (HbA1%) on neurosensory function in insulin‐dependent diabetes. Individual (OP‐1, OP‐2, OP‐3) and summed (OP‐sum) amplitudes of oscillatory potentials (OPs) of electroretinography were recorded at study start and 7‐years later in 45 patients (the Oslo study). As an overall 7‐year change, amplitudes of OP‐2, OP‐3 and OP‐sum were reduced (p < 0.0001‐0.01), retinopathy worsened (p = 0.005), intraocular pressure decreased (p < 0.001), systolic blood pressure increased (p < 0.0002), and glycemic control improved from HbA1 of 11.2 ± 2.2% at study start to a 7‐year cumulative mean of 9.5 ± 1.5% (p < 0.0001). Multiple regression analysis did not identify any independent relations between change in OP‐1, OP‐2, OP‐3, OP‐sum and change in glycemic control or background variables, including change in age and duration of diabetes. However, cross‐sectional observations at 7 years showed negative correlations between all OPs and age (p < 0.0001‐0.003), and between OP‐3 and duration (p = 0.003) and counts of microaneurysms (p = 0.02). The data suggest that various clinical background variables may influence individual and summed amplitudes of OPs differently. Reduced neurosensory retinal function (OPs) seemed to appear after 7‐years, independently of vascular defects of retinopathy and long‐term improvement in glucose control.
Neurological problems presenting to an ophthalmic casualty department
Authors: Simcock Peter R. , Jones Nicholas P. , Watson Allan P.
Published: May 2009

Abstract All patients presenting with neurological problems to an eye hospital casualty department over one year were prospectively studied. A total of 119 patients were identified. The most frequent diagnoses were retrobulbar neuritis (34; 28.5%), sixth cranial nerve palsy (22; 18.5%), third cranial nerve palsy (15; 12.6%) and Adie's tonic pupil (11; 9%). Cranial nerve palsies were most commonly due to diabetes or hypertension (16; 43.2%). Only one intracranial aneurysm was found. Symptoms included blurred vision (52; 43.7%), binocular diplopia (51; 42.8%), and eye pain (27; 22.7%). Fifty patients (42.0%) were referred by a general medical practitioner. Twenty‐two (18.5%) were admitted to hospital. Forty‐nine skull X‐rays were requested and all were normal. Twenty‐nine chest X‐rays were requested. One (3.4%) showed an abnormality (carcinoma of the bronchus). Neurological patients present to ophthalmic casualty departments because of ophthalmic symptoms. Ophthalmic casualty officers are able to make working diagnoses and to direct patients appropriately. The use of investigations in the casualty department, however, is unlikely to be productive.
An aetiological profile of optic atrophy
Authors: Menon Vimla , Arya Adarsh V. , Sharma Pradeep , Chhabra V. K.
Published: May 2009

Abstract 484 cases of optic atrophy were studied for the distribution pattern and significance of various etiological factors in different age groups of both sexes. Bilateral optic atrophy was found to be two and a half times as common as unilateral optic atrophy. Intracranial neoplasm (29.5%) was the most frequent known cause of bilateral optic atrophy in either sex and the most common tumor was chromophobe adenoma (48% of intracranial tumors) with highest incidence over 20 years of age. Craniopharyngioma was the most frequent tumor responsible for bilateral optic atrophy before 20 years of age. Intracranial glioma also emerged as an important cause of bilateral optic atrophy. Head injury due to road accidents and periocular trauma were the most common causes of unilateral optic atrophy in males, whereas no definite factor could be elucidated in unilateral optic atrophy in females. Vascular factors were the usual cause of optic atrophy after 40 years of age, highlighting the significance of thorough systemic evaluation.
Acquired dacryocystitis: Microbiology and conservative therapy
Authors: Huber‐Spitzy Veronika , Steinkogler F. J. , Huber E. , Arocker‐Mettinger E. , Schiffbänker Marion
Published: May 2009

Abstract The dacryocystitis in adults is mainly caused by postsaccal stenosis of the lacrimal ducts. The banking up of the lacrimal fluid leads to an accumulation of germs and following infection. This report describes the clinical and microbiological findings in a large consecutive series of patients that presented at the outpatient clinic of the 2nd Department of Ophthalmology of the University of Vienna with the signs of acute, chronic recurrent or chronic infections of the lacrimal system between 1983 and the end of 1990. Within the bacterial genus Staphylococci (S. aureus, S. epidermidis and S. saprophyticus) were the most frequently isolated organisms (74 cultures = 50% out of samples with positive cultures). It was quite interesting that a significant number of gramnegative rods (37 = 25.5%) could be isolated. Of these microorganisms Escherichia coli was most frequently growing on special media (17 cases = 11.7%) when cultures were obtained from acute inflamed lacrimal sacs of patients who suffered from chronic recurrent infections. Conservative therapy of purulent dacryocystitis constitutes the last possible preparation for a necessary surgical intervention and therefore the authors want to point out the importance of microbiological examinations so as to optimize antibiotic therapy.
Sampling methods for tear stix tests
Authors: Norn Mogens
Published: May 2009

Abstract Four different methods for transferring conjunctival fluid to stix test pads were studied. Onehundred and twenty eyes from 120 cataract‐extracted patients (35 in the operated eye 0–5 days post‐operatively and 85 in the contralateral eye) were included in the study. Transfer of fluid by a glass rod from the lateral part of the inferior fornix was demonstrated to be the most suitable method, showing the highest sensitivity to leucocyte‐esterase (83%, N = 120, p < 0.05) and with a specificity equal to that of the other methods tested (cotton, spongostan, Schirmer paper strip). The glass rod method is suitable for detecting blood, nitrite, albumin, pH, and glucose, and is a both quick and unintrusive procedure. All four transferring methods may, however, cause an increased desquamation of epithelial cells and an increased amount of mucus.
Long‐term results of anterior chamber tube shunt to an encircling band in the treatment of refractory glaucomas
Authors: Watanabe Joji , Sawaguchi Shoichi , Iwata Kazuo
Published: May 2009

Abstract We performed the anterior chamber tube shunt to an encircling band procedure in 34 patients (36 eyes) with refractory glaucoma, and evaluated the long‐term outcome. The preoperative mean intraocular pressure (IOP) was 36.8 ± 9.6 mmHg, the postoperative mean IOP was 21.6 ± 13.6 mmHg, a statistically significant (p < 0.01) reduction of IOP following this procedure. The final postoperative IOP was under 21 mmHg in 23 (63.9%) of the 36 eyes. The success rate of IOP control 36 months after the operation without any elevation of postoperative IOP was 30.3% (life‐table method). Complications of this procedure included flattening of the anterior chamber (61.1%), damage to the corneal endothelium (25%), hyphema (25%), and a transient IOP elevation (25%). As filtering surgery with 5‐fluorouracil is more effective and simple to perform, we conclude that the anterior chamber tube shunt to an encircling band procedure should be reserved for those with refractory glaucoma who have had multiple surgical interventions.
Radiotherapy of malignant melanoma of the uvea with I‐125 seeds
Authors: Heikkonen Jorma , Summanen Paula , Immonen Ilkka , Tommila Petri , Toivola Heikki , Forss Matti , Tarkkanen Ahti
Published: May 2009

Abstract Nineteen patients with malignant uveal melanomas were treated with I‐125 applicators. There were 10 males and 9 females with a median age of 61 years (range 42–76). The tumour was located in the choroid in 12 eyes and in the choroid and ciliary body in 7 eyes. The size of the tumours was 7–18 mm in maximal basal diameter (median 12), 5–16 mm in minimal basal diameter (median 10), and 5.5–15 mm in thickness (median 8.5). The volume of the tumours was 123–1890 mm3 (median 540). All tumours were classified as large (T3). For the irradiation, a computer program, which calculates three‐dimensional dose distribution of I‐125 seeds in gold plaques, was developed. By modifying the seed positions, activity and the orientation, patients can be treated individually. Iodine‐125 emits low energy photons, ideal for intraocular tumour therapy and tissue. Extra‐ocular tissue located behind the applicator can be completely shielded by a 0.5 mm gold layer. The dose at the apex of the tumour ranged from 30 to 120 Gy (median 93). The treatment time ranged from 44 to 600 h (median 235). Preliminary results are good. After a median follow‐up of 6 months, the tumour growth has been arrested in all eyes and in 10 eyes the tumour has decreased in size.
Giant cell arteritis and visual loss
Authors: Fledelius Hans C. , Nissen Kamilla Rothe
Published: May 2009

Abstract An ophthalmic status is given for 95 consecutive patients referred from other departments of the Central County Hospital 1986–88 due to suspected giant cell arteritis. Eventually, the diagnosis was confirmed in 51/95 (18 had positive biopsy of the temporal artery; in 33 it was on clinical grounds). Nine of the 51 had significant visual loss, in one even as bilateral blindness. Generalized malignancies were found in 2 of the 44 with diagnosis other than giant cell arteritis. Retrospectively, in the same 3‐year period a total of 263 cases of giant cell arteritis were registered in the somatic hospitals of the county (population 340 000). One further case with visual loss became known from requests to the primary health sector ophthalmologists. Between 3–4% were thus known to have significant visual loss, a result mainly in keeping with other Nordic clinical studies. Probably, the low figures of visual impairment are related to high diagnostic rates of giant cell arteritis, and to early treatment. Our hospital‐based data of giant cell arteritis gave a calculated annual incidence of 1 per 1000 of those older than 50 years in the county, or 27/100 000 including all ages. ‐ The true county incidence would be even higher had it been possible to find and include the additional cases of giant cell arteritis who were diagnosed and treated in the primary health sector only.
Quantification of the ocular response to treatment in posterior uveitis
Authors: Ferguson Veronica M. G. , Spalton David J.
Published: May 2009

Abstract Twenty patients with posterior uveitis were studied by anterior segment fluorophotometry to determine whether there was a relationship between the degree of breakdown of the blood‐aqueous barrier and the clinical recovery of posterior uveitis. In individual eyes the degree of breakdown and recovery of the blood‐aqueous barrier (as measured by changes in the anterior chamber fluorescein concentration) followed the resolution and relapse of disease making it possible to quantify the ocular response to treatment.
Myopia among medical students in Norway
Authors: Midelfart Anna , Aamo Berit , Sjøhaug Klaus A. , Dysthe Bjart Eirik
Published: May 2009

Abstract. In this study the prevalence of myopia and age at onset among medical students were determined. Of the 140 senior medical students at The Faculty of Medicine, University of Trondheim, Norway, 133 (75 females, 58 males) were examined. Visual acuity was tested and the refractive error was measured using automated refraction and clinical refractive technique. The prevalence of myopia was found to be 50.3% in the right eye (n = 67) without significant difference between female and male students. The refractive state was unrelated to body height. Among the myopic students, the mean equivalent sphere was −2.34 ± 2.01 D in the right eye (range −9.25 D to −0.25 D). A clear relationship was detected between the current amount of myopia and the age at which corrective lenses were first prescribed. However, as much as 43.3% of the myopic students wearing corrective lenses first received these at the age of about 20 years, indicating a relatively high prevalence rate of adult‐onset myopia.
Effect of number of test points and size of test field in automated perimetry
Authors: Fujimoto Naoya , Adachi‐Usami Emiko
Published: May 2009

Abstract. Sensitivity variation in normal subjects was studied, by changing the number of test locations and the size of test fields on automated perimetry. Using the Sargon program, four different programs that differed in the number of test points or in the size of test field were made. Mean sensitivity and short‐term fluctuation were calculated from the same test points of each program. The program with the fewest points and the smallest size produced the greatest sensitivity and the least fluctuation. Our results showed that the number of test points and the size of test field affected the sensitivity and its reproducibility in automated perimetry.
Repeatability, reproducibility and intersession variability of the Allergan Humphrey ultrasonic biometer
Authors: Rudnicka Alicja R. , Steele Christopher F. , Crabb David P. , Edgar David F.
Published: May 2009

Abstract. We evaluated repeatability and reproducibility of the Allergan Humphrey model 820 ultrasonic biometer. Sixty eyes (30 subjects) free from ophthalmological abnormality were examined on two separate occasions by two experimenters, one experienced and one inexperienced. The 95% confidence limits for repeatability lie between +0.12/‐0.13 mm and reproducibility between +0.15/‐0.14 mm for AC depth, between +0.11/‐0.13 mm and +0.12/‐0.16 mm for lens thickness, between +0.17/‐0.19 mm and +0.19/‐0.18 mm for right axial length and between +0.26/‐0.40 mm and +0.22/‐0.25 mm for left axial length. The 40% gain used to measure left axial lengths produced poor retinal echospikes, which may account for reduced accuracy compared to the right eyes using 60% gain. Ten subjects (20 eyes) returned for 3 further visits and the variability over 5 sessions was examined using a two‐factor ANOVA with repeated measures on one factor. There were no significant experimenter or session effects and no interaction effect. This biometer gives clinically repeatable and reproducible results and is convenient to use.
Changes with age in Schiötz and Goldmann readings
Authors: Bengtsson Bo
Published: May 2009

Abstract. Three thousand one hundred and fifteen paired Schiötz and Goldmann readings in persons aged 10–79 years were re‐examined. There was first a drop and then a rise in IOP with increasing age. The two methods gave very similar results up to age 50. After the age of 50 Goldmann pressures rose faster than Schiötz pressures. Changes in Schiötz readings do not reliably reflect true changes in IOP over time within the same eye or between different age groups within the same population.
Light scatter in aging and cataractous human lens
Authors: Siik Seppo , Airaksinen P. Juhani , Tuulonen Anja
Published: May 2009

Abstract. We measured back light scattering of the human lens with the Lens Opacity Meter 701 in order to determine whether it can be used for objective assessment of lens opacities in various types of cataracts. One‐hundred and twenty‐seven eyes of 127 individuals were examined including 43 healthy volunteers in various age groups and 84 patients with cortical, nuclear, posterior subcapsular or mixed lens opacities. Almost 90% of the total variation in the light scatter values was accounted for by age in non‐cataractous eyes. Mean scatter value of every cataract group was statistically significantly higher than that of age matched healthy controls (p < 0.0001). Highest scatter values were measured in cortical cataracts while the mean values of other types of cataract were not statistically significantly different from each other. The regression between light scatter and visual acuity was statistically significant for each cataract group. However, large variation of visual acuity was found with scatter values below 60. The results indicate that the Interzeag Lens Opacity Meter is able to identify cataractous and non‐cataractous eyes and discern at least advanced cortical cataracts from other types of lens opacities.
Conjunctivo‐cytologic changes in response to intense physical activity
Authors: Albrechtsen Henrik Holst , Norn Mogens Stig
Published: May 2009

Abstract. Possible cytological changes of the conjunctival fluid in association with physical activity were studied in a series of 39 subjects practising aerobics, 22 football players, and 29 marathon runners by means of the quantitative pipette method and the qualitative stix method of Norn. The first group was only examined after exercise, the two latter both before and after. No significant changes were detected in the cytologic composition of the conjunctival fluid in association with exercise.
Full‐field electroretinograms during general anesthesia in normal children compared to examination with topical anesthesia
Authors: Andréasson Sten , Tornqvist Kristina , Ehinger Berndt
Published: May 2009

Abstract. Full‐field electroretinograms were obtained from 20 normal children during general anesthesia and compared with electroretinograms obtained with topical anesthesia. Disoprofol and fentanyl induced a reduction in the b‐wave amplitudes and an increase in the cone b‐wave implicit time, but the changes were small and fall within the range limits seen with topical anesthesia (i.e., average ± 2 sd).
Low‐grade myopia in children with regressed retinopathy of prematurity
Authors: Gallo Juan E. , Fagerholm Per
Published: May 2009

Abstract. Myopia is a frequent sequelae of retinopathy of prematurity. The mechanism for myopia development in children born preterm is not well understood. From a group of 33 myopic preterm children we selected those who had regressed retinopathy and myopic values ≤ 5 D. Seventeen children met our criteria. Of them, 10 patients could be re‐examined. Factors related to myopia development were analyzed and compared to a control group of 12 children born fullterm with emmetropia or low hypermetropia, as well as another group of 10 fullterm children with myopic values ≤5 D. The age of children ranged from 9 to 14 years in all groups. The mean birth weight in myopic premature children was 1249.3 g. Higher keratometric diopter values were found in myopic premature children than in emmetropic fullterm children (p <0.05) and myopic fullterm children (p <0.05). Increased axial length values were observated in myopic fullterm children when compared to myopic premature children (p <0.05). In children born preterm the corneal refractive power seems to play a major role in myopia development.
Effects of retrobulbar bupivacaine on post‐operative pain and nausea in retinal detachment surgery
Authors: Gottfredsdóttir Maria Soffia , Gislason Ingimundur , Stefánsson Einar , Sigurjónsdóttir Sigurborg , Nielsen Niels Chr.
Published: May 2009

Abstract. A prospective double‐masked clinical trial was conducted to determine whether retrobulbar bupivacaine block had an effect on post‐operative pain, nausea and intra‐ and post‐operative use af analgesics in retinal detachment surgery performed under general anaesthesia. Thirty‐two patients were randomized to have general anaesthesia with or without retrobulbar bupivacaine. Pain score was documented as 0–10 (0 = no pain. 10 = worst pain ever felt). Post‐operative pain score was significantly lower in the retrobulbar block group during the first post‐operative hours than in the control group. Men complained more about post‐operative pain than did women. The patients in the retrobulbar group complained less about nausea. Significantly fewer patients in the retrobulbar group required parenteral pain relief during operation and the first 48 h after.
NPY‐induced neurotransmitter release from the rabbit and chicken retina
Authors: Bruun A. , Ehinger B.
Published: May 2009

Abstract. Neuropeptide Y (NPY) or closely related peptides are present in the retina of certain vertebrates, but their actions are not known. We have therefore studied the NPY‐induced release of [3H]‐GABA, [3H]‐glycine, [3H]‐dopamine, [3H]‐5‐hydroxytryptamine, and [3H]‐choline chloride‐derived radioactivity in the rabbit and chicken retina. NPY affected the release of [3H]‐glycine, [3H]‐dopamine, [3H]‐5‐hydroxytryptamine, and [3H]‐choline chloride‐derived radioactivity in rabbit retina and of [3H]‐GABA, [3H]‐5‐hydroxytryptamine and [3H]‐choline chloride‐derived radioactivity in chicken retina in an energy requiring, NA+K+‐ATPase dependent and calcium dependent manner. Certain related peptides, APP (=avian pancreatic polypeptide), BPP (=bovine pancreatic polypeptide), and PYY (=peptide YY), had variable and less pronounced effects. The results suggest a neurophysiological role in both chicken and rabbit retina for NPY or some related peptide.
Structure of the vitreoretinal border region in spontaneously diabetic BB rats
Authors: Heegaard S.
Published: May 2009

Abstract. The morphology of the vitreoretinal border region, also termed the inner limiting membrane, was examined in spontaneously diabetic rats (BB rats), in nondiabetes‐prone rats (WB rats) and in Buffalo rats (BUF rats) by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). This was performed in order to visualize a possible increase in thickness of the lamina densa or in the whole vitreoretinal border region complex with duration of diabetes. The median thickness of the lamina densa in the three groups varied between 34 and 68 nm. In BB rats the thickness decreased with age and duration of diabetes. In WB rats the lamina densa thickened up to the 9th month and then decreased to the level of the young rats. In BUF rats the lamina densa decreased in thickness with age. The median thickness of the whole vitreoretinal border region varied between: BB rats: 84 and 126 nm (SEM) and 68 and 119 nm (TEM); WB rats: 42 and 84 nm (SEM) and 51 and 68 nm (TEM); BUF rats: 42 nm (SEM) and 34 and 68 nm (TEM). In BB rats the whole vitreoretinal border region appeared in SEM to thicken with duration of diabetes ≥ 27 weeks, whereas in TEM no specific pattern could be statistically demonstrated. In WB rats the whole vitreoretinal border region was thinner in 3‐month‐old animals than in 9‐month‐old animals in (SEM) and TEM. In BUF rats there was no difference in thickness between young and older animals. Light microscopy of older diabetic animals showed neovascularization of the iris stroma.
An 18‐month vitreous fluorophotometric follow‐up study in juvenile diabetics
Authors: del Castillo Jose M. Benitez , Castillo Alfredo , Sanchez Julian Garcia , Ruibal Jose L , Reverte Francisco , Ibarra Jose M.
Published: May 2009

Abstract. The authors assessed a fluorophotometry follow‐up study of 18 months in 24 juvenile insulin‐dependent diabetic patients with no retinopathy. The initial duration of diabetes was 5.96 ± 3.44 years and the glycosylated hemoglobin (HbAlc) was 10.12 ± 2.27%. The baseline Vitreous Penetration Ratio transmittance value (VPRt) was 4.13 ± 1.31 × 10–6 min‐1 and after 18 months was 5.36 ± 1.85 × 10–6 min‐1, yielding a statistically significant difference (p < 0.01). The average HbAlc during the follow‐up term was 9.80 ± 1.72%. VPRt values were significantly correlated with the duration of diabetes and HbAlc. During the follow‐up 3 patients developed foveal background diabetic retinopathy with respect to a high initial VPRt value (6.22 ± 0.27 × 10–6 min‐1), nevertheless, the other 7 patients with high baseline VPRt did not do so. We suggest that vitreous fluorophotometry could be a beneficial procedure in the management of insulindependent diabetic patients; however, there is not a cutoff value for VPRt values to help distinguish patients prone to develop retinopathy.
Functional outcome of branch retinal vein occlusion after photocoagulation with various laser wavelengths ‐ an automated perimetric analysis
Authors: Tewari H. K. , Goyal M. , Khosla P. K. , Kumar A.
Published: May 2009

Abstract. This study highlights the comparative efficacy of three different laser wavelengths ‐ argon green, argon blue‐green, and krypton red ‐ for sector photocoagulation in fresh cases of branch retinal vein occlusion. The mean Logarithm of minimal angle of resolution (LogMAR) improved in the argon green and argon blue‐green groups but decreased in the krypton red group. Statistical analysis of the automated visual fields in these eyes showed a mean change in corrected pattern standard deviation value, with increase in all three groups ‐ minimal increase in the argon blue‐green group and maximal in the krypton red group, suggesting maximum visual field defect in the krypton laser group. To conclude, the green and the blue‐green wavelengths gave results that were decidedly superior to those given by krypton red: further, argon blue‐green had an edge over the green wavelength.
Application of topical lomefloxacin against experimental Pseudomonas endophthalmitis in rabbits
Authors: Hatano Hiroshi , Inoue Katsuhiro , Shia Shiao , Liping Wang
Published: May 2009

Abstract. Lomefloxacin is a new quinolone compound with a broad antibacterial spectrum and excellent penetration into the aqueous humor by topical application. Therefore, an experimental study was done to evaluate the efficacy of topical lomefloxacin against experimental endophthalmitis with Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Lomefloxacin eye drops were instilled six times a day onto infected rabbit eyes and gentamicin, sulbenicillin and saline were also tested comparatively in the same manner as lomefloxacin. Clinical observation for 1 week and counting viable pseudomonas cell numbers in the anterior chamber were done. Among all topical eye drops tested, lomefloxacin was shown to be most effective in lowering clinical scores and viable cell numbers in the anterior chamber. In conclusion, lomefloxacin is expected to be a useful ophthalmic solution in the treatment of pseudomonal endophthalmitis.
Concentrations and antagonist activity of topically applied betaxolol in aqueous humour
Authors: Vuori Marja‐Liisa , Kaila Timo , Lisalo Esko , Saari K. Matti
Published: May 2009

Abstract.Aqueous humour concentrations and antagonist activity of betaxolol were studied after ocular administration in forty‐five patients scheduled for cataract surgery. The patients were randomly devided into five groups and received 40μl of 0.5% betaxolol into the lower cul‐de‐sac of one eye. In groups I, II, III and IV the drug was instilled 5–6, 12, 24 and 48 h, respectively, before surgery, into the eye to be operated, and in group V 4 h before surgery into the contralateral eye. Aqueous humour samples were aspirated at the beginning of the operation. Aqueous humour concentrations of betaxolol were analyzed using a radioreceptor assay, and the ex‐vivo‐ß1‐ and ß2‐receptor occupancies of betaxolol were calculated. The highest concentration of betaxolol in aqueous humour was found 5–6 hours after instillation of the drug. Topical betaxolol was found to stay in aqueous humour for 48 h, a much longer time than the recommended interval of dosage. Betaxolol ß1‐receptor occupancy was 99–95% during the study, but also ß2‐receptor occupancy was significant (52%) 24 h after instillation of the drug. Because receptor occupancy is the basis of antagonist activity, the role of ß2‐receptor blocking effect of betaxolol in lowering intraocular pressure cannot be excluded.
Intraocular pressure reduction with topically administered pilocarpine, timolol and betaxolol in normal tension glaucoma
Authors: Nyman Kristina
Published: May 2009

Abstract. The IOP‐lowering effect of topical glaucoma medication has been studied mainly in eyes with ocular hypertension or high tension glaucoma. We tested the IOP‐lowering effect of the commonly used topical medications (pilocarpine, timolol and betaxolol) in eyes with normal tension glaucoma. Instillation of 2% pilocarpine hydrochloride three times a day had no statistically significant lowering effect on the IOP level (F test, P = 0.0596, n = 18). 0.5% timolol maleate administered twice a day (n = 16) and 0.5% betaxolol hydrochloride administered twice a day (n = 17) led to statistically significant lowering of the IOP level (F test, P < 0.0001 for timolol and P = 0.0001 for betaxolol). There was no statistically significant difference in IOP‐reducing effect whether topical IOP‐lowering medication had been used previously or not. The results for 11 eyes participating in all three tests were similar to the results for the other eyes in the three test groups.
The influence of age upon inflammatory cell counts and structure of conjunctiva in chronic open‐angle glaucoma
Authors: Gwynn David R. , Stewart William C. , Hennis Hugh L , McMillan Tod A. , Pitts Rebecca A.
Published: May 2009

Abstract. We evaluated the influence of age upon conjunctival structure and number of inflammatory cells by studying perioperative conjunctival biopsies from 54 consecutive primary open‐angle glaucoma patients undergoing initial filtering surgery (trabeculectomy alone or combined cataract extraction and trabeculectomy). All patients had received chronic topical glaucoma therapy for >1 year. We divided the patients into three age groups for analysis: 40–60 (n = 10), 61–74 (n = 28), and > 75 (n = 16) years. We found no statistical difference (p > 0.05, chi‐square) in cell counts of neutrophils, eosinophils, mast cells, macrophages, fibroblasts, lymphocytes, plasma cells and goblet cells across the three age groups. In addition, no statistical differences were observed between age groups in vascular density, epithelial thickness as well as mucopolysaccharide and collagen composition (p > 0.05, chi square). This study suggests that conjunctival structure and inflammatory cell counts change little with advancing age in primary open‐angle glaucoma patients.
Ferning of aqueous humor in the pseudoexfoliation syndrome
Authors: Recupero Santi Maria , Leucci Ezio , Contestabile Maria Teresa , De Bella Francesco , Plateroti Rocco , Abdolrahimzadeh Solmaz
Published: May 2009

Abstract. The authors report on the results obtained in the crystallization of the aqueous humor in 6 patients suffering from cataract with pseudoexfoliation syndrome. The principle characteristics of the aqueous in these cases are described and are compared with the features of aqueous humor in 20 cases of uncomplicated cataract. Tetragonal shaped masses of material with a distinct tendency to localization in the intersections of fern patterns were demonstrated in the crystallized aqueous from patients with pseudoexfoliation syndrome. These aggregates most probably correspond to exfoliation material.
The effect of topical steroid on postoperative corneal edema and endothelial cell loss after intracapsular cataract extraction
Authors: Nissen J. N. , Ehlers N. , Frost‐Larsen K. , Sørensen T.
Published: May 2009

Abstract In a prospective study of 89 patients the postoperative corneal edema and endothelial cell count was studied after cataract extraction. A double blind investigation was performed as the patients during the first 6 postoperative days were treated with three different types of eye‐drops: Maxidex®, Pred‐Forte® 1% or placebo, all containing Benzalkonium Chloride 0.004%. The content of steroid in Maxidex® and Pred‐Forte® was equivalent. We found no significant difference in estimates of endothelial cells in the three groups postoperatively. Corneal edema was less in the two groups treated with steroid. There was no significant difference between the two postoperative groups (p > 0.05) treated with Maxidex® and Pred‐Forte®. The group treated with Pred‐Forte® showed significantly less postoperative corneal edema, calculated as the graphical area represented by the increase of central corneal thickness (CCT) after operation.
Elevated serum sialic acid in idiopathic acute iridocyclitis
Authors: Lam Sheridan , Tessler Howard H. , Farber Marilyn D. , Matalon Reuben , Deaching Minerva N. , Rychlik Daniel S. , Lam Byron L.
Published: May 2009

Abstract We measured the serum levels of sialic acid in 12 patients with idiopathic acute iridocyclitis and 18 normal controls. Sialic acid levels were significantly elevated in the patients with idiopathic acute iridocyclitis. Since animal studies have shown that intraocular inflammation alone cannot elevate serum level of sialic acid, the results of our study suggest that idiopathic acute iridocyclitis may be a multiorgan disease with systemic effects.
Optic disc diameter influences the ability to detect glaucomatous disc damage
Authors: Heijl Anders , Mölder Harras
Published: May 2009

Abstract We studied the influence of optic disc diameter on the diagnostic power of subjective disc evaluation in glaucoma. One hundred and thirteen colour disc photographs of 91 patients with primary open angle glaucoma and 174 photographs of 89 randomly selected normal subjects were studied. Five ophthalmologists independently classified all eyes as glaucomatous or normal by disc appearance using a masked forced choice design. Sensitivities and specificities varied strongly as a function of disc diameter. Overall sensitivity for recognizing glaucoma by disc inspection was 58% in small discs, 72% in the middle group and 85% in the group of large discs. These differences were significant, and the odds of recognizing a glaucomatous disc as such increased by a factor of 2.07 between each group. Overall specificity was 99.6% in small discs, 95% in the middle group, and 79% in large normal discs. Thus, larger discs were more likely to be classified as glaucomatous whether they were glaucomatous or not, while small discs were more likely to be classified as normal.
Infectious mononucleosis presenting as a unilateral conjunctival tumour
Authors: Urbak Steen F.
Published: May 2009

Abstract A case of a unilateral conjunctival tumour as the initial manifestation in the course of acute infectious mononucleosis is reported. The tumour was observed two weeks before occurrence of fever, general malaise, and sore throat.
Mikulicz syndrome and disease: 2 case reports highlighting the difference
Authors: MacLean Hunter , Ironside James W. , Cullen James F. , Butt Zahida
Published: May 2009

AbstractWe present 2 case reports highlighting the essential differences between Mikulicz syndrome and Mukulicz disease. A review of the literature appears to show some confusion over the terminology and we therefore also present an historical account of the evolution of the two terms and review their relative merits and relationship with other disorders. In conclusion, we would not advocate the use of the term Mikulicz syndrome and suggest that Mikulicz disease be replaced by the title ‘Benign Lymphoepithelial Lesion’.
Treatment of concomitant eye and genital chlamydial infection with erythromycin and roxithromycin
Authors: Stenberg K , Mårdh P‐A
Published: May 2009

ABSTRACT A single blind study of 10 days' randomly allocated treatment with erythromycin (1000 mg/day) and roxithromycin (300 mg/day) in 14 (group A) and 13 (group B) adults, respectively, all with culture‐proven chlamydial conjunctivitis was performed For comparison, 14 days' treatment with 1 g erythromycin daily given to 35 adults (Group C) with chlamydial conjunctivitis was also evaluated Follow‐up was made approximately one month after start of therapy Only 2 of the 37 men and 1 of the 25 women studied, all of whom had signs of conjunctivitis, had noticed concomitant symptoms of infection from the genital tract Nasopharyngeal cultures were chlamydia‐positive in 7 (50%), 7 (54%) and 20 (57%) of the patients in Group A, B and C, respectively, while for genital cultures the corresponding figures were 9 (64%), 8 (62%) and 23 (66%), respectively The course with erythromycin in group C cured the conjunctivitis in 34 (97%) of the patients both clinically and microbiologically Ten days' treatment with the same dose (Group A) did not eradicate chlamydiae from the eye in one, from the nasopharynx in 5 and from‐the genital tract in still another patient The roxithromycin treatment (Group B) resulted in negative chlamydial cultures from the eyes in all 13 cases, while the nasopharyngeal and genital cultures were still positive in one patient each The study showed that in spite of the eye being cured by macrolide therapy, other sites like the nasopharynx and the genital tract may still be colonized, why sampling for C trachomatis from these sites should be made in tests for cure in chlamydial conjunctivitis cases The study did indicate that the two types of drugs used for 10 days gave equally unfavourable results with regard to cure of chlamydial conjunctivitis
Toxic effects of ouabain on the rabbit corneal endothelium
Authors: Medin Walther , Davanger Martin
Published: May 2009

ABSTRACTRabbit corneas kept in a standard tissue culture medium, were continually exposed to ouabain 10‐3M, and cultivated for 2, 3, and 4 days The endothelium was still intact with a complete cell cover after 2 days of ouabain exposure Total destruction of the endothelium was found in the corneas cultivated for 3 and 4 days The corneal epithelium, however, appeared to be unaffected Other rabbit corneas were exposed for three days to ouabain concentrations of 10‐4M, 10‐5M, 10‐6M, 10‐7M, 10‐8M, and 0 M The corneas exposed to 10‐4M demonstrated total endothelial cell damage The specimens exposed to concentrations from 10‐5M to 10‐8M, presented dose dependant endothelial impairment as compared with the control corneas (0 M) Tracer experiments showed that the endothelial barrier was intact as long as there was a continuous cell cover, as estimated by light, transmission and scanning electron microscopy
Intraocular pressure after extracapsular cataract extraction with implantation of posterior chamber lenses
Authors: Calissendorff B M , Hamberg‐Nyström H
Published: May 2009

ABSTRACT To determine factors which influence postoperative intraocular pressure (IOP) we retrospectively reviewed changes in pressure during the first postoperative week in 633 consecutive eyes undergoing extracapsular cataract extraction (ECCE) with implantation of a posterior chamber lens The material was restricted to four surgeons and two types of lenses IOP was measured preoperatively, one day and one week after surgery Glaucomatous eyes (n=113) as well as exfoliative non‐glaucomatous eyes (n=79) had a higher mean IOP (278 and 261 mmHg) the first postoperative day compared to ‘simple’ cataract eyes (201 mmHg) After one week mean IOP in glaucomatous eyes still remained elevated while exfoliative non‐glaucomatous eyes had regained preoperative values Mean IOP on the first postoperative day (188, 245, 231 and 132 mmHg respectively) was also dependent on surgeon To some extent the IOP could be correlated to tightness of suturing as estimated by keratometry Only one surgeon had significant difference between irrigated and non‐irrigated visco‐elastic substance Postoperative pressure was not only dependent on the status of the patient̂s eye, but factors for the individual surgeons seemed to be as important
Intraocular lens prediction and oculometric harmony
Authors: Fich Marianne , Fledelius Hans C.
Published: May 2009

Abstract The oculometric features have been analysed in two groups of cataract patients, each comprising 30 subjects. All had undergone ECCE and insertion of biconvex Rayner 2 Superflex posterior chamber IOL. Using Binkhorst and SRK II routinely, the groups were given by a good fit between methods (discrepancy between emmetropia predictions numerically<1D) and a poor fit (actual discrepancy range 1.6‐4.1D, all with the same sign, the lower values being predicted by Binkhorst). A certain overlapping between groups was found regarding axial length and corneal curvature radius, the ranges being 21.5–25.1/22.7–29.9 mm and 7.3–8.5/7.2–8.1 mm, respectively. In contrast there was no overlapping regarding the ratio between axial length and corneal curvature radius; the ranges were 2.80‐3.05 and 3.06‐3.90 in the two groups. Evaluating the actual prediction errors by the two methods (follow‐up after at least 4 months), they did not primarily pertain to very short or very long eyes, as usually advanced. Skew ratios between axial length and corneal curvature appeared more decisive. Possible implications for the current IOL prediction formulas, including the newer generations, are discussed.
Intra‐operative use of 5‐Fluorouracil in glaucoma filtering surgery
Authors: Cunliffe I. A. , Longstaff S.
Published: May 2009

Abstract. This study reviews the otucome of 14 eyes considered to be at risk of surgical failure undergoing trabeculectomy with 5‐Fluorouracil (5‐FU). The antimetabolite was administered intra‐operatively by placing a surgical sponge soaked in 5‐FU (25 mg/ml) directly on the sclera under the conjunctival flap for 5 minutes. All eyes showed a reduction in intraocular pressure (IOP) at a mean follow‐up of 18.5 weeks, and only one eye required topical antiglaucoma medication. Mean IOP reduction at final follow‐up was 43.1%. No eyes showed any corneal problems associated with the intra‐operative use of 5‐FU. These results suggest that the intra‐operative use of 5‐Fluorouracil is an effective way of improving surgical success in at risk eyes. The early complications appear to be less than those associated with post‐operative subconjunctival injections of 5‐FU, but the long‐term differences are still to be shown.
Pseudoexfoliation syndrome and extracapsular cataract extraction
Authors: Drolsum Liv , Haaskjold Erling , Davanger Martin
Published: May 2009

Abstract. Extracapsular cataract extraction (ECCE) in 139 eyes with pseudoexfoliation syndrome was compared to 762 eyes without pseudoexfoliation syndrome in a consecutive study. Preoperative findings, operative procedure and problems were registered, stored and analyzed in a computer program package. Of the patients with pseudoexfoliation syndrome 88.5% were 70 years or older, compared to 67.2% of the patients without pseudoexfoliation syndrome (p < 0.001). Glaucoma occurred in 48.9% of eyes with pseudoexfoliation syndrome and in 6.8% of eyes without pseudoexfoliation syndrome, respectively. Poorly dilated pupil was demonstrated in 46.8% and in 5.8% of eyes with and without pseudoexfoliation syndrome, respectively. Capsule/zonulae tears (without vitreous loss) occurred in 4.3% of the pseudoexfoliation syndrome eyes, compared to 1.3% in eyes without pseudoexfoliation syndrome (p < 0.05). The incidence of vitreous loss was similar in both groups. We found no correlation between the pupil size and capsule/zonulae tears or vitreous loss in either group. In conclusion, when appropriate care is undertaken, ECCE with posterior chamber IOL implantation is a safe procedure in pseudoexfoliation syndrome eyes.
Retinal detachment following intracapsular and extracapsular cataract extraction A comparative, retrospective follow‐up study
Authors: Urbak Steen F. , Næser Kristian
Published: May 2009

Abstract. In a retrospective study we reviewed the postoperative incidence of retinal detachment in a consecutive series of 762 eyes operated on with intracapsular cataract extraction and a consecutive series of 1351 eyes operated on with extracapsular cataract extraction. Follow‐up time was 2 1/2 ‐ 4 1/2 years in both series. The incidence of retinal detachment was 0.79% after intracapsular cataract extraction and 0.44% after extracapsular cataract extraction. The difference was not statistically significant. Age below 70 years was not statistically significantly correlated to retinal detachment.
Retrobulbar anesthesia with and without hyaluronidase in extracapsular cataract surgery
Authors: Krohn J. , Seland J. H. , Høvding G. , Bertelsen T. , Aasved H. , Haugen O. H.
Published: May 2009

Abstract. Eighty patients with senile cataract were subjected to a planned extracapsular cataract extraction (ECCE) with implantation of a posterior chamber intraocular lens. Retrobulbar anesthesia was administered by injection of 4 mg lidocaine 2% with adrenalin. In 40 patients 150 I.U. hyaluronidase (Kinetin®) was added to the anesthesia. The hyaluronidase group had a significantly lower frequency of iris prolapse, and deeper anterior chamber, both before and after expression of the lens nucleus. Possible mechanisms explaining the beneficial effect of hyaluronidase in extracapsular cataract surgery are discussed.
Evaluation of a flexible one‐piece open‐loop anterior chamber lens ‘Symflex 350B’ 3–4 years after implantation
Authors: Anmarkrud Nils , Bergaust Björn , Bulie Tore , Sand Anton Bratberg
Published: May 2009

Abstract. One‐piece, open‐loop flexible anterior chamber lens, Symflex 350B, was implanted in 90 eyes, 26 after extracapsular cataract extraction (ECCE) and 57 after intracapsular cataract extraction (ICCE), and in 7 cases the operation was done as a secondary implantation. The cohort was followed 3.4‐4.4 years, 68 eyes were included in the last examination. At the final examination 7 eyes (10.29%) had developed corneal oedema. 6 eyes had undergone ICCE and one eye had been secondarily implanted. In no case was vaulting or malposition of the intraocular lens (IOL) found. The decompensation appeared shortly after the operation in 2 cases, one case being a secondary implantation between 1 year and 3–4 years after implantation. All extracapsularly operated eyes showed normal corneas, but the difference was not statistically significant. Neither ovalling of the pupils, nor tissue growth over the haptic feet in the anterior chamber angle, nor the visual acuity (VA) changed significantly from the 1‐year to the 3–4‐years examination. The intraocular pressure (IOP), however, was statistically significantly lowered 3–4 years postoperatively.
Conjunctival amyloidosis: Is it related to trachoma?
Authors: Gupta V. P. , Aggarwal Rajesh , Aggarwal Sarla
Published: May 2009

Abstract. Due to presence of trachoma in a large percentage of cases of conjunctival amyloidosis, trachoma has been blamed for causing secondary localized amyloidosis. However, there is no study to demonstrate evidence of amyloidosis in tarsoconjunctival specimens of trachomatous lids. 50 eyes of 35 patients having trachomatous eyelids with thickened tarsal plate, trichiasis and entropion had a tarsoconjunctival biopsy (3 mm × 20 mm) from the upper lid. Histopathological examination using Haematoxylin – eosin and congo red stains failed to reveal evidence of amyloid deposition in any of the biopsies. This is the first histopathological study of amyloidosis in trachomatous patients. Our study rules out the long‐standing concept of trachoma having causal relationship with conjunctival amyloidosis. It is concluded that conjunctival amyloidosis occurring in trachomatous lids should be considered as primary localized amyloidosis.
The importance of DNA analysis in sporadic aniridia
Authors: Mannens M. , Hoovers J. M. N. , Bleeker‐Wagemakers E. M. , Mäntyjärvi M. , Tuppurainen K.
Published: May 2009

Abstract. Total aniridia was found in a 2‐month‐old baby boy. Otherwise the baby was healthy. Ophthalmological examination of the elder sister, parents and paternal grandparents revealed no abnormalities. There was no consanguinity between the parents. Hence, the aniridia was considered sporadic, and the possibility of Wilms' tumour had to be taken into consideration. The chromosomes of the baby were normal, as judged by conventional cytogenetic analysis. In addition, DNA analysis demonstrated that there was no subchromosomal deletion in band 11p13, spanning the aniridia‐Wilms' tumour region. Therefore, we conclude that the genetic defect leading to aniridia is confined to the aniridia locus and that the child has no increased risk of developing Wilms' tumour.
Unilateral congenital fibrosis syndrome presenting with hypertropia
Authors: Tandon Radhika K. , Burke John P. , Strachan Ian M.
Published: May 2009

Abstract. A case of sporadic unilateral congenital fibrosis is described. The patient had the additional unusual features of primary position hypertropia and minimal ptosis.