bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
NYCTOMETRY ‐ A NEW SCREENING METHOD FOR SELECTION OF PATIENTS WITH SIMPLE DIABETIC RETINOPATHY WHO ARE AT RISK OF DEVELOPING PROLIFERATIVE RETINOPATHY: Results of a 3‐year Follow‐up
Authors: FROST‐LARSEN KIM , LARSEN HANS‐WALTHER
Published: May 2009

A prospective long‐term study on the predictive value of nyctometry in the development of proliferative diabetic retinopathy in insulin‐dependent diabetes mellitus is in progress. Sixty‐one patients participated. At a follow‐up 3 years after the initial investigation, none of the patients initially showing results above the lower normal limit had developed proliferative retinopathy, whereas 6 out of 16 eyes initially displaying reduced values of nyctometry had advanced into proliferative retinopathy. It is concluded that nyctometry is valuable as an easily performed screening method in selecting those at risk of developing proliferative retinopathy within a few years.
INTRAOCULAR LENSES VERSUS EXTENDED‐WEAR CONTACT LENSES IN APHAKIC REHABILITATION
Authors: BERNTH‐PETERSEN PETER , SØRENSEN TORBEN
Published: May 2009

A controlled clinical study with random allocation of method of rehabilitation (lens implant or contact lenses) was designed for comparative outcome assessments. Sixty‐one patients were included in the study: 31 patients randomized to lens implantation and 30 patients to extended‐wear contact lens rehabilitation with early post‐operative fitting. Complication rates were low in both groups with slight accumulation of intraocular complications in the implant group and of external complications in the contact lens group. We found no significant differences between the groups in final visual acuity, in vision dependent practical functioning, or in patients' contentment.

Two main points summarize our results and impressions from this study: At the expense of a slightly higher risk the lens implant patients get the most convenient and comfortable rehabilitation and at the expense of frequent visits for follow‐up and lens cleaning the contact lens patients get the safest rehabilitation. The patient offered contact lens rehabilitation should be capable of alert cooperation, fairly mobile and living within easy access to ophthalmic service, while the patient offered lens implant does not need to fulfill these criteria.
THE CENTRAL CORNEAL THICKNESS IN PATIENTS WITH HORNER'S SYNDROME
Authors: NIELSEN PER JULIUS
Published: May 2009

In 14 patients with unilateral Horner's syndrome there was a significant increase in central corneal thickness on the affected side (mean difference 4.86 μm + sem 1.71 μm; P < 0.02). It is suggested that the sympathetic nerve supply of the eye is of importance for corneal hydration. Different possible mechanisms are discussed. Among the investigated patients no permanent ocular hypotonia or hyperaemia was found. On slit‐lamp investigation there was no corneal change. The corneal sensitivity was equal on both sides.
THE GLAUCOMA THEORY UPDATED
Authors: KRAKAU C. E.T. , BENGTSSON BO , HOLMIN CATHARINA
Published: May 2009

The natural history of splinter haemorrhages on the optic disc is an argument in favour of the belief that the glaucomatous process starts in the small vessels of the papilla. The probable existence of factors in the aqueous, whose generation depend on the state of oxygenation in the posterior parts of the eye and which affect the outflow resistance, supports the idea that the pressure increase is a secondary effect. Reduced perfusion by increased IOP or reduced blood pressure etc. is likely to accelerate a process already begun in the papilla.
TREATMENT OF DIABETIC RETINOPATHY WITH PHOTOCOAGULATION
Authors: MEYER‐SCHWICKERATH GERD , GERKE EDMUND
Published: May 2009

The results of photocoagulation treatment of proliferative retinopathy in childhood onset and maturity onset diabetes are compared with each other. It is clearly shown that childhood onset diabetes needs more photocoagulation treatment than maturity onset diabetes, and that this difference is statistically significant. From this comparison we approach the problem of the dosage of photocoagulation considering either the surface of the coagulated field or the volume of the coagulated retina. Further papers on the same problem will be published from our hospital.
VISUAL EVOKED POTENTIAL AS A PROGNOSTIC FACTOR FOR VITRECTOMY IN DIABETIC EYES
Authors: SCHERFIG ERIK , TINNING STEEN , EDMUND JENS , TROJABORG WERNER
Published: May 2009

To determine whether or not the electrophysiological status of the eye can give information as to the result of vitreous surgery, the visual evoked potential to flash stimulation was measured prior to vitreous surgery. Seventy‐four eyes were submitted to surgery. Latencies of flash evoked potentials showed a distribution suggestive of a Gaussian curve with an abnormal extension. Dividing the material into 2 groups based on a latency longer or shorter than 100 millisec revealed a highly significant difference in visual improvement after surgery between patients with long latency and patients with short latency (P < 0.001). With a latency longer than 100 millisec the patient has an almost equal chance of visual improvement or visual reduction by surgery. The frequency of operative complications was twice as high in patients with latency longer than 100 millisec compared to patients with a latency shorter than 100 millisec.
BINOCULAR VISION AFTER LENS IMPLANTATION
Authors: SCARPATETTI A.
Published: May 2009

Orthoptic tests for binocular vision were performed on 107 patients with intraocular lenses 3 to 10 months after surgery. The tests carried out were: cover test, Worth‐test, Lang's two‐pencil‐test, the TNO‐test and Lang's stereo‐test. The implanted lenses were of the four‐loop Binkhorst type. They were all implanted after planned extracapsular surgery. Visual acuity 3 to 10 months after operation was 0.5 or more in 95% of the patients (0.8 or more in 53% of the patients). Refraction in spheric equivalents was ‐0.7 ± 1.26 diopters. The calculated optical aniseikonia was 2.2% ± 1.8%. Orthotropia as disclosed by the unilateral cover‐test prevailed in 81% of the patients. Most of the patients were exotrop (14 patients for the near, 6 patients for the near and the far). The results of Lang's two‐pencil‐test were positive in 89%. The Worth‐test (polarized, for distance) showed suppression in 23% of the patients. The random‐dot‐test (TNO‐test) showed positive results in 68% (retinal disparities 1980 arc seconds or less), in 57% (480 arc seconds or less), and the new Lang stereotest in 58% (1200 arc seconds or less) of the patients.
COMPARATIVE STUDY OF THE VISUAL PERFORMANCE OF VARIOUS APHAKIC CORRECTIONS
Authors: GUILLON MICHEL , BLESHOY HANS
Published: May 2009

The aim for the present study was to test the feasibility of using a front surface aspheric contact lens geometry to correct aphakic patients from a visual standpoint. Two aspheric contact lens designs are tested, using a standard visual acuity test and contrast sensitivity, and their performance is compared to a conventional spherical design. An hyperbolic front surface of eccentricity of 1.2 was chosen, as its performance was similar to the spherical contact lens.
X‐RAY EFFECTS ON LENS DNA — IMPLICATIONS OF SUPEROXIDE(O2·‐)
Authors: SRIVASTAVA V. K. , RICHARDS R. D. , VARMA S. D.
Published: May 2009

The photochemical generation of superoxide(O2·‐) during in vitro exposure of bovine lenses induced damage in the structure of lens DNA as indicated by hyperchromicity and Tm measurements. The damage in lens DNA was significantly protected by the inclusion of superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione (GSH) and ascorbate in the incubation medium before X‐ray exposure. The protection by SOD, GSH and ascorbate occurred due to their interaction with O2·‐ radicals. These results thus indicate the deleterious effect of O2·‐ in lens physiology and the protective role of such compounds against radiation damage.
THE FLUID CONTENT OF HYDROPHILIC CONTACT LENSES ON THE EYE
Authors: HØVDING GUNNAR
Published: May 2009

Hydroflex m, Hydroflex 72 and Saufion PW lenses were tested (declared fluid content 38.4%, 72% and 79%, respectively). At room temperature in vitro the mean fluid content of Hydroflex m and Saufion PW was significantly higher than declared (P < 0.002), but this might be due to insufficient blotting of the lens surface. The mean fluid content of Hydroflex 72 was about 2.5% lower than declared (P < 0.002). During wear the fluid content of Hydroflex m did not differ significantly from the in vitro recordings at room temperature, while the fluid content of worn Hydroflex 72 and Sauflon PW was about 2% lower than in vitro (P < 0.002). This difference was mainly due to the greater temperature succeptibility of these lens materials. Apart from a slight decrease during the first few h after insertion (P < 0.05), the fluid content of the lenses was not significantly influenced by the duration of wear. The mean contact lens surface temperature during wear was 30.7°C.
DAMAGE OF THE CORNEA EPITHELIUM CAUSED BY ULTRAVIOLET RADIATION
Authors: RINGVOLD AMUND
Published: May 2009

Rabbit cornea epithelium was exposed to UV‐radiation for 15 min from a distance of 50 cm, and specimens were studied after 1/2, 1, and 3 h, respectively. The following changes occurred: 1) Reduced number of the large impressions or the full‐thickness holes of the superficial cells. 2) Partly rejected cells. 3) Numerous small plasma membrane defects. This investigation shows plasma membrane defects at an early stage after the exposure, and this may be the locus for the initial damage.
SENSITIVITY AND FRAGILITY IN KERATOCONUS
Authors: MILLODOT MICHEL , OWENS HELEN
Published: May 2009

38 persons with various degrees of keratoconus were examined. Using the photokeratoscope an index of the severity of the cone was established and compared to a group of normal eyes. Sensitivity was measured in the centre and periphery of the cornea. It was found to be significantly lower than in normal eyes and those eyes wearing contact lenses exhibited the lowest sensitivity. There was no correlation between peripheral CTT (Corneal Touch Threshold) and the severity of keratoconus, but there was a significant correlation between central CTT and severity, though only for the group of eyes not wearing contact lenses. Corneal fragility was also found to be greater in keratoconus than in normal eyes and more so in those eyes wearing contact lenses. There was a significant correlation between the severity and the fragility.
LONG TERM RESULTS OF CORNEAL GRAFTING IN KERATOCONUS
Authors: EHLERS NIELS , OLSEN THOMAS
Published: May 2009

Fifty‐four corneal grafts in 45 keratoconus patients have been followed for 3 to 12 years (average 5.8 years). The corneal clarity, visual acuity, incidence of immune rejections, relation to HLA compatibility, corneal thickness and endothelial cell density are reported. At the follow‐up 98% (53 out of 54) of the grafts were clear. Visual acuity was ≥ 0.67 in 72% of the cases. Suboptimal vision was due to cataract or large astigmatism. Rejection had occurred in 5 cases (10%). The graft thickness was found to decrease steadily, reaching subnormal values about 1/2 year after the operation. Six years after grafting, however, the thickness did not differ from that of normal corneas. The endothelial cell density in uncomplicated cases ranged from 450 to 3000 cells/mm2, decreasing with length of post‐operative period. The HLA compatibility could not be shown to influence the endothelial cell density.
DERMOID OF THE CORNEA IN ASSOCIATION WITH CONGENITAL GENERALIZED FIBROMATOSIS
Authors: VANGSTED PETER , LIMPAPHAYOM PEW
Published: May 2009

A case of congenital generalized fibromatosis with a dermoid tumour of the right cornea, fibromatosis of the back of the left foot, a furrow of the left wrist and malformed fingers of the right hand is described. The changes were found in a 4‐year‐old girl from Thailand.
INTRALESIONAL CORTICOSTEROID INJECTION FOR THE TREATMENT OF CHALAZIA
Authors: PALVA JAAKKO , POHJANPELTO PEKKA E. J.
Published: May 2009

Twenty chalazia were treated with intralesional triamcinolone acetonide injections. The diameter of 9 of the chalazia was < 6 mm. Eight of them were cured after a single injection and 1 after 2 injections. The diameter of 11 of the chalazia was ≧ 6 mm. Four cases responded to 1 injection and 5 to 2 injections. Two were operated on. Six patients had a recurrence 3–6 months later and were operated on. Corticosteroid injection is a serviceable alternative to surgery in the treatment of small chalazia. The indications are discussed.
EPISCLERAL LIPID DEPOSITS AND SCLERAL PLAQUES IN JAPAN (KYOTO)
Authors: NORN MOGENS S.
Published: May 2009

Screening of 189 Mongolian Japanese of both sexes in all age groups for scleral degenerations revealed presence of lipid deposits, especially round the anterior ciliary vessels, in 52%. The prevalence exceeds that among Caucasians in Denmark (N = 689), Eskimos in Greenland (N = 340), and Arabs in Jordan (N = 127), all examined by the same worker employing the same technique. Scleral plaques (well‐defined transparency anterior to horizontal muscle) is present in no more than 0.5% of Japanese. This phenomenon is likewise rare among Eskimos, but frequent among Caucasians. The causes of the geographic differences are discussed.
LASER TRABECULOPLASTY I IN SIMPLE AND CAPSULAR GLAUCOMA
Authors: TUULONEN ANJA , AIRAKSINEN P. JUHANI
Published: May 2009

One hundred and thirty‐one phakic eyes of 109 patients with simple (52 eyes) and capsular (79 eyes) glaucoma were retrospectively followed at least for 12 months after laser trabeculoplasty (LTP). LTP was as effective in both groups with a success rate of 65% in simple glaucoma and 68% in capsular glaucoma. In half of the successful responders medication could be tapered. The mean intraocular pressure (IOP) reduction was greater in capsular glaucoma (37%) than in simple glaucoma (22 %). The average pressure reduction in successfully treated eyes obtained at one month was essentially the same throughout the entire time of observation with 27 patients followed for 18 months. In 2 eyes IOP increased 32 and 51 mmHg above the base line after LTP; no other severe complications were observed.
A COMBINATION OF ORAL AND TOPICAL BETA‐BLOCKERS WITH ADDITIVE EFFECTS ON INTRAOCULAR PRESSURE
Authors: ÖHRSTRÖM ARNE , KATTSTRÖM ÖRJAN
Published: May 2009

In a double‐masked randomised cross‐over study the effect of adding oral propranolol (40 mg × 2) to topical timolol‐treatment (0.5% × 2) was evaluated. Ten patients with glaucoma or ocular hypertension (totally 15 pathological eyes and 5 healthy) who had had topical timolol for at least 2 months received the coded oral treatment. A significant decrease of the intraocular pressure (3.68 ±0.72 SD, P < 0.01) was observed in the timolol‐treated eyes after the addition of the masked treatment with placebo/pro‐pranolol. Also the non‐timolol‐treated fellow eyes had a significant decrease of the intraocular pressure. It is suggested that this additive effects depends on a loss of efficacy of the topical beta‐blocker caused by an increase in the number of beta‐receptors and that the oral beta‐blocker restores the degree of blocking to a more efficient level.
[14C]6‐METHOXY‐1,2,3,4‐TETRAHYDRO‐β‐CARBOLINE IN RETINAL AND OTHER TISSUES AFTER INTRAVASCULAR AND INTRAVITREAL INJECTIONS IN MICE AND RATS
Authors: LEINO MARKKU , ANTIKAINEN RIITTA , AIRAKSINEN MAUNO M. , TUOVINEN ERKKI , KARI ILKKA
Published: May 2009

6‐Methoxy‐1,2,3,4‐tetrahydro‐β‐carboline (6‐MeO‐THBC) is a condensation product of 5‐methoxytryptamine and formaldehyde. It possesses diverse biochemical and pharmacological properties and has been suggested to act as a neuromodulator. 6‐MeO‐THBC has been shown to occur in various tissues including the retina in animals and human beings. The present results show that the mouse and rat retina as well as other tissues take up 14C‐labelled 6‐MeO‐THBC injected intravenously or intravitreally. The retinal concentrations show a prompt rise after the injection and significant levels are maintained after 2 days.
PSEUDOPAPILLOEDEMA WITH AND WITHOUT VERIFIED OPTIC DISC DRUSEN. A CLINICAL ANALYSIS II: VISUAL FIELDS
Authors: MUSTONEN EILA
Published: May 2009

An analysis of visual field findings in the material of 200 patients with pseudopapilloedema with and without verified optic disc drusen was performed. Goldmann and/or Friedmann visual fields were examined in 383 eyes. Visual field defects were found in 38.9% of the pseudopapilloedema eyes without verified drusen, but in 73.4% of the drusen eyes. The strongest field defects were found only in the eyes with drusen seen by oblique illumination or with superficial drusen. The eyes with superficial drusen showed visual field defects in 85.8%. Only 7 patients complained of visual field defects. A progression of visual field defects could be documented in 22 % of 118 patients with visual field examinations 2 or more times.
GRANULAR CORNEAL DYSTROPHY WITH LATE MANIFESTATION
Authors: FORSIUS HENRIK , ERIKSSON ALDUR W. , KÄRNÄ JUSSI , TARKKANEN AHTI , AUREKOSKI HEIKKI , FRANTS RUNE R. , DAMSTEN MARGARETA
Published: May 2009

Ninety‐two cases of granular corneal dystrophy, most of them belonging to 5 pedigrees are described. The age of manifestation in this Finnish type of granular dystrophy is first in the end of the second decade, and visual acuity is in mean normal through the whole life. An autopsy study showed no changes outside cornea elsewhere in the eyeball. In one family with granular dystrophy, another type of dystrophy, hereditary fleck dystrophy of the cornea, was accidentally found.
THE BLOOD‐RETINAL BARRIER PERMEABILITY IN ESSENTIAL HYPERTENSION
Authors: KROGSAA BENT , LUND‐ANDERSEN HENRIK , PARVING HANS‐HENRIK , BJÆLDAGER PETER
Published: May 2009

In a series of 8 patients with recently discovered moderate essential hypertension the blood‐retinal barrier permeability to fluorescein was determined by aid of quantitative vitreous fluorophotometry before and after normalization of the systemic blood pressure. The permeability before medical treatment was 1.69·10‐7 cm/sec (± SEM = 0.14) and after medical treatment and normalization of the blood pressure 1.27·10‐7 cm/sec (± SEM = 0.12), corresponding to the permeability in a normal population. Thus the blood‐retinal barrier permeability is pathologically increased even in moderate degrees of essential hypertension, but this increase in permeability is reversible.
THE IMPORTANCE OF OPHTHALMIC DISEASES IN THE ECONOMY AND NATIONAL HEALTH CARE SYSTEM
Authors: MIKKONEN PENTTI
Published: May 2009

The incidence of eye diseases in Finland and the use of glasses has not been much investigated. During 1979‐80 an inquiry was made in which a questionaire was sent by mail to 12 000 people. 1500 volunteers from Estern, Western and Southern Finland were invited to a clinical eye examination. The incidence of eye diseases was low. A little over 2% of the respondents needed continuous ophthalmic treatment. The mean visual acuity was normal in 80% with glasses. About half of the patients examined wore glasses, slightly more females than males.
MANAGEMENT OF COMPLICATIONS AFTER CATARACT SURGERY BY THE PARS PLANA APPROACH
Authors: PEDERSEN O. ØYVIND
Published: May 2009

Various ocular complications following cataract surgery were treated using vitrectomy instruments by the pars plana approach. A total of 11 eyes were operated. Eight of these eyes had various anterior segment problems: Secondary cataract (2 eyes), cyclitic pupillary membranes (2 eyes), up‐drawn pupils (3 eyes), and occluding pupillary membrane following haemorrhage (1 eye). In 2 of these eyes opacities in the posterior vitreous were present as well. In addition, pars plana vitrectomy was performed in 3 eyes with presumed bacterial endophthalmitis. In one of these eyes, the vitreous was sterile at the time of the vitrectomy. The vitreous of the 2 other eyes contained Staphylococcus epidermidis, and Staphylococcus aureus, respectively. In the eyes with anterior segment problems, clear optical media were obtained in all cases. The visual outcome in these patients was determined by the condition of the retina at the time of surgery. Two of the eyes with endophthalmitis were saved with some preservation of vision. The third of these eyes which suffered from endopthalmitis caused by penicillinase‐producing Staphylococcus aureus, was lost. In this case vitrectomy and adequate antibiotic therapy was delayed. The modern vitrectomy instruments designed for pars plana vitrectomies are highly suitable for management of anterior segment problems following cataract surgery. When these problems are combined with pathology of the posterior vitreous, both kinds of problems may be dealt with at the same operation. In cases of presumed bacterial endophthalmitis, early vitrectomy should be considered to remove infective organisms, to obtain a definite diagnosis, and at the same time the eye may be perfused with antibiotics.
A LONG‐TERM FOLLOW‐UP OF CATARACT EXTRACTION WITH AND WITHOUT INTRAOCULAR LENS IMPLANTATION
Authors: ERIKSEN JENS SINDBERG
Published: May 2009

In 176 consecutive intracapsular cataract extracted eyes with an iris clip lens (IOL) and 159 eyes with consecutively performed intracapsular extractions (ICCE), the visual outcome and complications were examined in a follow‐up study. The average observation time was 48 months in the IOL group and 53 months in the ICCE group. In both groups the main cause of a visual acuity < 0.5 was pre‐operatively recognized maculopathy. Eighty‐six per cent of the remaining IOL eyes and 93% of the remaining ICCE eyes achieved a visual acuity ≥ 0.5. Post‐operative complications were the cause of a visual acuity < 0.5 in 11.9% of the IOL and 6.9% of the ICCE group. The most frequent complications were corneal oedema and retinal detachment. Pre‐operative and early post‐operative complications were important factors in the development of late complications in the IOL group. With proper pre‐operative evaluation and good surgical technique intraocular lens implantation is a safe procedure.
AMAUROSIS FUGAX
Authors: SØRENSEN PER NELLEMANN
Published: May 2009

Forty‐four unselected patients with amaurosis fugax (AF) have been followed for 4.6 years (mean 2.6). Thirty per cent had atheromatous lesions, 20% had miscellaneous diagnoses (temporal arteritis 5, transitory ocular hypertension 2, glaucomatous iritis 1, benign intracraniel hypertension 1), 50% consisted of young, mainly women, in whom no cause was found. Prior to AF 2 had hemiplegia, 4 TCI, one optic atrophy and suspicion in 3. None died, one developed hemiparesis and one macular degeneration. An individuel conservative attitude to AF seems justified in this material.
OCULAR FINDINGS AMONG MENTALLY RETARDED CHILDREN IN FINLAND
Authors: TUPPURAINEN KAIJA
Published: May 2009

The distribution of refractive errors, astigmatism, anisometropia, visual acuity and organic ophthalmic diseases were determined among 149 Finnish mentally retarded (IQ < 70) children, aged 9–10 years. The case group was classified in 3 categories according to the degree of mental retardation. The control group (n = 100) was selected by random sampling.
CAPILLARY HAEMANGIOMAS OF THE EYELIDS AND ORBIT
Authors: PLESNER‐RASMUSSEN HANS‐JØRGEN , MARUSHAK DANUTA , GOLDSCHMIDT ERNST
Published: May 2009

Five children, previously treated for capillary haemangiomas of the eyelid and orbit, have been examinated concerning the functional and cosmetic results of the treatment. Different principles of treatment have been applied (surgical, X‐irradiation and systemic corticosteroid). All the children developed amblyopia in varying degrees in the affected eye, dependent on the localization of the tumour and duration of eyelid occlusion. They also developed persisted corneal astigmatism. The results of refraction, oculometric measurement and CT‐scan are compared and discussed. From the results of the follow‐up examination and the literature on the subject, we have attempted to give guidelines for the treatment of children with eyelid and orbital capillary haemangiomas.
LASER TRABECULOPLASTY IN OPEN ANGLE GLAUCOMA
Authors: RAITTA CHRISTINA , LEHTO ILKKA
Published: May 2009

Laser trabeculoplasty was performed in 72 patients (81 eyes) with open angle glaucoma. A positive correlation between pre‐laser pressure level and pressure reduction was found. In 23 eyes with POAG and an average pre‐treatment pressure of 26.4 mmHg, post‐laser IOP 6 months later was 21.6 (18% reduction) and 1 year later 21.8 mmHg (17% reduction). In 24 eyes with CG and an average pre‐treatment pressure of 32.9 mmHg, post‐laser IOP 6 months later was 23.8 mmHg (28% reduction) and 1 year later 22.8 mmHg (31% reduction). All eyes needed additional medical therapy for glaucoma control, and 8 eyes had to be operated. Three eyes had complications. One eye had a pressure rise on the 2nd post‐operative day, and two eyes had a haemorrhage from the chamber angle.
SELECTIVE TRABECULECTOMY. A REPORT OF A NEW SURGICAL METHOD FOR OPEN ANGLE GLAUCOMA
Authors: SKJÆRPE FINN
Published: May 2009

A new instrument, the trabeculectome, and an new surgical method for treating open angle glaucoma is described. The double‐edged instrument makes 2 cuts through the trabecular meshwork while being pulled through Schlemm's canal, thus cutting free a strip of the trabecular meshwork and the inner wall of Schlemm's canal. The results of the 21 first operations are presented. The observation time is 9–19 months. The characteristic postoperative pressure pattern is an immediate fall to 10–20 mmHg followed by a period of higher pressures which then converge to the range of 8–16 mmHg with most eyes in the 10–14 mmHg range. Four patients need timolol treatment to obtain this, the remaining 17 have no medication. The therapeutic results and additional observations are discussed with special interest to possible physiological mechanisms.
MEASUREMENT OF TOTAL AND SPECIFIC IgE LEVELS IN THE MANAGEMENT OF A FAMILY EXHIBITING A HIGH INCIDENCE OF KERATOCONUS
Authors: KEMP EWAN G. , LEWIS CATRIONA J.
Published: May 2009

A prospective survey of a family, some of whose members were suffering from keratoconus. has been assisted by estimating serum levels of total and specific immunoglobulin E. In this family of twelve there were initially 2 keratoconus sufferers identifiable clinically, and they both had raised serum levels of total and specific IgE. Of three other younger siblings with high levels of IgE 2 have become, over the course of the study period, patients requiring regular review due to established early keratoconus. The third, as yet, has no clinical evidence of altered corneal stroma. We consider, therefore, estimation of total and specific serum immunoglobulin E to be an objective test with the potential for indicating high risk patients within selected groups. The patients thus identified may have established keratoconus or may progress to develop the condition.
GALLIUM67 CITRATE SCANNING IN PATIENTS WITH LACRIMAL GLAND AND CONJUNCTIVAL SARCOIDOSIS
Authors: KARMA ANNI , POUKKULA ANNELI , RUOKONEN AIMO
Published: May 2009

Gallium citrate Ga67 scanning of the head and thorax of 3 patients with sarcoidosis is presented. Two patients had a progressive pulmonary sarcoidosis of recent onset and in one patient, with a chronic course of the disease, the lung changes had resolved. All 3 patients had a conjunctival sarcoid change confirmed by biopsy and a lacrimal gland affection suggested by clinical examination. A highly increased Ga67 uptake in the lacrimal and parotid glands as well as in the nasopharynx was found in all patients, and an increased lung uptake was found in the newly detected cases. It is concluded that gallium scanning is a sensitive method for detecting minute ophthalmic changes in sarcoidosis. It also reveals chronic localized ocular affection in cases in which the lung changes are no longer detectable. The mechanism and specificity of gallium uptake in sarcoidosis is also discussed.
THE PREVALENCE OF RETINOPATHY IN INSULIN‐DEPENDENT JUVENILE‐ONSET DIABETES MELLITUS ‐A FLUORESCEIN‐ANGIOGRAPHIC STUDY
Authors: JERNELD BENGT , ALGVERE PEEP
Published: May 2009

A fluorescein‐angiographic study was performed comprising all 171 insulin‐dependent diabetics with debut at ≤ 40 years of age who were census registered on the island of Gotland 1981–82. Children under 15 years of age were excluded. The overall prevalence of diabetic retinopathy was 66%, being 11% at 0–5 years duration of diabetes, 42% at 6–10 years, 84% at 11–15 years, 90% at 16–30 years and 100% after 30‐years duration. Proliferative retinopathy was first seen after 11 years duration, it had a prevalence of 18% and was twice as common in females as in males. Neovascularization was seen in 25% of patients with IDDM debut at ≤ 20 years of age and in only 7% of those with IDDM debut at 21–40 years (P < 0.01). Pigment epithelial defects were found in 91 subjects (56%).
CYCLOSPORIN A TREATMENT FOR CHRONIC UVEITIS ASSOCIATED WITH RETINITIS
Authors: KARJALAINEN KARI
Published: May 2009

A chronic bilateral non‐granulomatous uveitis triggered by a chlamydial infection developed in a patient with HLA‐B 27. Cyclosporin A was administered as an ultimate remedy. It had a rapid curative effect against the inflammation. Probable cytomegalovirus (CMV) retinitis, however, was observed 2 months after the onset of this treatment. Retinitis healed after discontinuation of Cyclosporin A therapy.
AN ACUTE OCULAR INFLAMMATORY REACTION INDUCED BY INTRAVITREAL BOVINE SERUM ALBUMIN IN PRESENSITIZED RABBITS: THE EFFECT OF PHENTOLAMINE
Authors: UUSITALO HANNU
Published: May 2009

An acute inflammatory reaction in the uvea was challenged by an intravitreal injection of bovine serum albumin (BSA) in presensitized rabbits. During the observation time of 3 h, intraocular pressure (IOP) increased, anterior uveal blood vessels were dilated, miosis was produced, and as a sign of the breakdown of the blood aqueous barrier, protein content in the aqueous humour was increased. In the contralateral eye, the reaction consisted of an increase in IOP and a disruption of the blood aqueous barrier. As an evidence of the immunological mehcanism of this acute reaction, presensitized animals intravitreally injected with saline or unimmunized rabbits which were injected with BSA showed no significant changes in IOP, pupillary diameter or protein content in aqueous humour. Phentolamine significantly reduced protein leakage into the anterior chamber of the experimental eye. It also significantly inhibited the increase in IOP and protein leakage in the contralateral eye. The present findings demonstrate that a hypertensive inflammatory phase is present in the acute experimenal uveitis. The mechanisms of the reaction and the mode of action of phentolamine are discussed.
THE FREQUENCY DISTRIBUTION OF EARLIEST GLAUCOMATOUS VISUAL FIELD DEFECTS DOCUMENTED BY AUTOMATIC PERIMETRY
Authors: HEIJL ANDERS , LUNDQVIST LEIF
Published: May 2009

2500–3000 eyes with ocular hypertension, with or without established glaucoma in the fellow eye, were followed with automatic perimetry for several years. Forty‐five eyes showed a documented change from repeated normal fields to reproducible glaucomatous visual field loss. The location of the defective points in the first pathological field of each eye was registered. The resulting frequency distribution is shown and discussed.
ORAL AND TOPICAL ADRENERGIC β‐RECEPTOR BLOCKERS IN GLAUCOMA TREATMENT A Multicenter Study
Authors: ÖHRSTRÖM ARNE , KÄTTSTRÖM ÖRJAN , POLLAND WERNER , MORTENSEN JESS , STENSTRÖM BO
Published: May 2009

In a long‐term multicenter open randomized study of 103 patients with glaucoma or intraocular hypertension, oral propranolol combined with 2% pilocarpine was compared with 0.5% topical timolol also combined with 2% pilocarpine, with respect to the effects on intraocular pressure and other signs of glaucoma. The results showed that the hypotensive effects were highly significant and equal for both treatments. There were no significant differences between the 2 groups in the amount of cupping of the nerve head or the visual field defects developing during treatment. An additive hypotensive effect was recorded when both propranolol and timolol were combined with pilocarpine, which indicates the development of tolerance to both β‐blockers. Pulse rate and blood pressure were moderately reduced in both groups, both significantly more so in the propranolol group. The investigation indicates that when combined with pilocarpine the 2 adrenergic β‐receptor blockers are equally effective. We believe that oral propranolol can improve drug compliance in the treatment of glaucoma.
ZINC THERAPY OF ACETAZOLAMIDE‐INDUCED SIDE‐EFFECTS
Authors: DAHL HELENA , NØRSKOV KNUD , PEITERSEN ERIK , HILDEN JØRGEN
Published: May 2009

A double‐blind cross‐over trial extending over 4 weeks with administration of 0.2 g zinc sulphate 3 times daily and a placebo was carried out on 12 patients having grave acetazolamide‐induced side‐effects manifesting themselves as gustatory disorder, anorexia, and paraesthesia. All the patients had S‐zinc levels within the normal range. These rose during zinc therapy periods, to fall again within placebo periods. Recording of the degrees of subjective side‐effects based on interviews showed the side‐effects to abate towards the conclusion of the trial period, independently of the randomizing programme. In other words, no significant difference was demonstrable between zinc period and placebo period. Taste tests according to Börnstein showed the gustatory disorders to be related exclusively to beverages contalning carbon dioxide. However, in no more than 3 out of 10 patients did the gustatory sense return to normal after administration of zinc and one after placebo. Thus, this controlled trial has not served to disclose any statistically significant effect of zinc administration on acetazolamide‐induced side‐effects.
PHYSIOLOGIC CORRELATES OF THE ERG HYPERVENTILATORY RESPONSE IN DOGS
Authors: MURRAY MICHAEL J. , BORDA ROBERT P.
Published: May 2009

Previous studies in man have shown that hyperventilation consistently enhances the amplitude of the electroretinogram (ERG) b‐wave, but has little effect on the a‐wave. The present study examined this phenomenon in the dog; central (centrifugal) and peripheral (sympathetic) neural effects and changes in arterial pO2 and blood pH were excluded as physiologic bases for the phenomenon. It was concluded, therefore, that the underlying mechanism must be decreased pCO2 (hypocapnia), although the specific site of action and the method by which the ERG b‐wave is enhanced remain topics for future research.
RETINAL VEIN OCCLUSION: C‐REACTIVE PROTEIN AND ARTERIAL HYPERTENSION
Authors: DODSON P. M. , SHINE B.
Published: May 2009

Eighty‐six patients with retinal vein occlusion (37 with central, 49 with branch vein occlusion) and 31 patients with treated essential arterial hypertension were investigated for comparison to an age‐matched control group. Serum C‐reactive protein (CRP) levels, erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) and plasma viscosity were measured. Serum CRP levels (log10 values) were significantly elevated in patients, with hypertension (P < 0.001) or with retinal vein occlusion (P < 0.001) compared to control. The highest mean value of serum CRP were found in patients with both hypertension and retinal vein occlusion, and the values of ESR and serum CRP were significantly higher in this group when compared to normotensive patients with retinal vein occlusion (P < 0.05 and P < 0.01, respectively) or to control (P < 0.001). Increased inflammatory activity may be present in patients with hypertension or retinal vein occlusion. In particular hypertensive patients with elevated serum CRP levels may be more at risk of developing retinal vein occlusion.
OBSERVED INCIDENCE OF GLAUCOMA IN HÄLSINGLAND, SWEDEN
Authors: LINDBLOM BERTIL , THORBURN WILLIAM
Published: May 2009

In a well defined population, the observed incidence of different types of glaucoma during the years 1980–82 is presented. The great majority of glaucoma patients was found to have primary open angle glaucoma, and of these approximately 3/4 had capsular glaucoma. The observed annual incidence of all types of glaucoma increases with increasing age to a maximum of 0.7% in the age group 81–85 years. In the same age group, the annual incidence of primary open angle glaucoma with visual field defects was 0.44%.
PHOTOMETRIC OCULOMETRY. I
Authors: KROGSAA BENT , FLEDELIUS HANS , LARSEN JESPER , LUND‐ANDERSEN HENRIK
Published: May 2009

The optical principles of slit‐lamp fluorophotometry are analysed by aid of a mathematical model of the optical system. The analysis forms the theoretical basis for a slit‐lamp technique called photometric oculometry, which makes possible an estimation of intraocular axial distances and axial length. The technique is based on a calculation ‐ by aid of a mathematical model of the eye — of the ratio between intraocular movement of the slit‐lamp focal plane and corresponding movement of the slit‐lamp. Intraocular axial distances can be calculated by aid of this ratio and a direct measurement of the slit‐lamp movement when the focal plane is moved in the optical axis from retina to cornea. These items are prerequisites for a quantitative determination of the blood‐retinal barrier permeability to fluorescein during vitreous fluorophotometry.
PTERYGIUM AND BETA IRRADIATION
Authors: MONSELISE M. , SCHWARTZ M. , POLITI F. , BARISHAK Y. R.
Published: May 2009

The results of the combined use of Beta Irradiation, topical Thio‐Tepa and dexamethasone in the post‐operative treatment of pterygium in 169 patients (213 eyes) are reported. The recurrence rate has been evaluated statistically only in eyes with true pterygia, anf for this purpose the material has been divided into 3 groups: group I includes all the bilateral cases who either had both eyes treated with Beta therapy or not, group 2 includes all the unilateral cases, and group 3 is made up of the total number of eyes operated. In the group comprising the bilateral cases, the recurrence rate was 2/60 in the eyes treated with Beta rays and 4/18 in the non‐treated ones (P<0.10). In the group comprising the unilateral cases, the recurrence rate was 8/73 in the Beta rays treated eyes and 18/41 in the non‐treated ones (P < 0.025). When the total number of eyes was considered, the recurrence rate was 10/135 in the eyes treated with Beta rays and 22/61 in the non‐treated ones (P < 0.05). The difference in the recurrence rate between the eyes submitted to Beta therapy and those not submitted is considered statistically significant.
CONGENITAL GLAUCOMA AND INCOMPLETE CONGENITAL GLAUCOMA IN TWO SIBLINGS
Authors: POLLACK A. , OLIVER M.
Published: May 2009

The case histories and eye findings of 2 siblings of a non‐sanguinous marriage are reported. The first child, a girl, had the typical findings of a unilateral congenital glaucoma. Her brother had an enlarged unilateral cornea (13 mm) without Descemet breaks, and normal intraocular pressure on repeated follow‐up examination over 4 years. Gonioscopy showed numerous iris processes covering the iridocorneal angle. Fundus examination revealed a cup‐disc ratio of 0.4 in the affected eye and 0.1 in the normal eye. Patients whose clinical picture resembles that of our second patient should be classified as having incomplete or abortive congenital glaucoma; such patients may develop raised intraocular pressure at a later stage. The term megalocornea should be reserved for eyes with enlarged cornea, normal intraocular pressure, normal iridocorneal angles, no cup‐disc asymmetry and no family history of congenital glaucoma.
PERFORATING EYE INJURY IN THE STOCKHOLM POPULATION
Authors: BLOMDAHL SVEN , NORELL STAFFAN
Published: May 2009

We studied the occurrence of perforating eye injury (PEI) during the period 1974–1979 in the population (1.5 million) of Stockholm county. Information was obtained from medical and population registries, medical records and personal interviews. PEI was almost 6 times more common in men than in women, and age specific incidence rates varied from 94.3 per million person years in young men (10–19 years) to 3.9 in elderly women (60–69 years). The risk appeared somewhat increased in the unmarried, but not in foreign citizens. Most injuries occurred during the day with no less than 54% between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., and only 2% after 9 p.m. The most common activity at the time of injury was paid work (27%) followed by play or sport (23%), while 10% of the cases were due to fight or assault. Among those injuried in paid work, the most common occupation was construction worker or building metal worker. Metal and glass fragments were the most common perforating objects, but thorns from planted bushes caused many perforating injuries in children.
PREVALENCES OF ASTIGMATISM AND ANISOMETROPIA IN ADULT DANES
Authors: FLEDELIUS HANS C.
Published: May 2009

A report is given of astigmatism and anisometropia prevalences in an adult hospital sample considered refractively unselected. Astigmatism of at least 0.75 cyl value (by subjective trial) appeared in 20% (n = 600), or in 16% of all eyes (some cases being unilateral). Twenty per cent of astigmatic eyes had an oblique axis. Inverse astigmatism (against rule) showed increasing frequency with age. In a sample analysed for anisometropia (n = 1.200) 9% had a side difference of 1 D or more, while 75% had strict isometropia. Eyes with astigmatism and anisometropia are grouped mainly towards the ametropic ends of the refractive distribution curve, away from emmetropia. The data are used for assessing to what extent the presbyopic population can expect benefit from some newly introduced supermarket standard reading‐glasses (+1 to +4 D). Probably, about two thirds can use them. Having had a tradition of individual prescription in our country, the offer of standard glasses without professional trial may eventually result in fewer ophthalmic disorders being diagnosed ‘by chance’.
MITOCHONDRIAL MYOPATHY AS A CAUSE OF PTOSIS AND OPHTHALMOPLEGIA IN ELDERLY FEMALES
Authors: KAMIENIECKA Z. , SJÖ O.
Published: May 2009

Of 27 patients with ptosis and ophthalmoplegia or both, and abnormal mitochondria in proximal limb muscles, 13 were elderly females, in whom symptoms began late in life. Clinical, electrophysiological, and morphological findings are presented, and possible etiological factors are discussed. The ocular mitochondriopathy in post‐menopausal females seems to represent a separate, previously not described syndrome.
LACRIMAL AND SALIVARY SECRETION IN SJÖGREN'S SYNDROME: THE EFFECT OF SYSTEMIC TREATMENT WITH BROMHEXINE
Authors: PRAUSE J. U. , FROST‐LARSEN K. , HØJ L. , ISAGER H. , MANTHORPE R.
Published: May 2009

In a randomized clinical study, 32 patients with Sjögrens syndrome (SS) were given placebo/bromhexine (Bisolvon®) 48 mg daily for 3 weeks. Various ophthalmological and oral variables as well as different proteins in tear fluid and saliva were registered. Bromhexine stimulated the tear secretion significantly, presumably without changing the protein composition of the tear fluid. In saliva the IgM concentration in contrast to other proteins decreased in patients with high pre‐treatment values. Bromhexine may be of valuable help in the treatment of some patients with SS.
DESWELLING OF THE GRAFT CORNEA FOLLOWING HYPOXIC OEDEMA
Authors: VANNAS ANTTI , HOLDEN BRIEN A. , SWEENEY DEBORAH F. , EFRON NATHAN , POLSE KENNETH A.
Published: May 2009

Both corneas of 12 unilateral graft patients were subjected to 9%. hypoxic oedema. Following removal of the hypoxic stimulus, the grafted corneas deswelled at a significantly slower rate (P < 0.01) than the fellow unoperated corneas. We suggest that this can be attributed to a change in the barrier properties and/or pump efficiency of the endothelium. Monitoring corneal deswelling following hypoxic oedema could form the basis of a clinical test of corneal endothelial function.
THE EFFECT OF STEROIDS ON THE HEALING OF THE CORNEAL ENDOTHELIUM
Authors: OLSEN ERLING GRØNVOLD , DAVANGER MARTIN
Published: May 2009

The effect of steroids on the repair of a corneal endothelial defect in rabbits was studied by in vivo and by organ culture experiments. A standard 4 mm defect was produced by transcorneal freezing. The situation after 2, 3, and 4 days was studied by scanning electron microscopy. Preliminary experiments demonstrated that topical eye treatment influenced on the repair process of the untreated, contralateral eye. The preservants of commercial eye drops caused delayed healing in organ culture. These effects were excluded from the control experiments. Topical eye treatment with steroid eye drops for 3 days caused a one day delay in the repair process. In culture medium, delayed repair was found at hydrocortisone concentrations ≥ 0.125 mg/ml. The visible influence of hydrocortisone increased with the concentration in the range examined, between 0.05 mg/ml and 1 mg/ml.
ON THE SPATIAL ORGANIZATION OF THE CORNEA ENDOTHELIUM
Authors: RINGVOLD AMUND , DAVANGER MARTIN , OLSEN ERLING GRØNVOLD
Published: May 2009

A hexagonal pattern is formed by the apical aspects of the corneal endothelial cells. However, by electron microscopy of surface‐parallel sections it can be seen that the basal part of these cells has a highly irregular shape with deep indentations and high ridges. Near the Descemet membrane numerous cytoplasmic processes are tangled together in a bewildering pattern. A few of these processes are exposed to the posterior surface, where they may be seen as small cell‐like areas delineated by cell borders. The hexagonal apical pattern of the endothelium is related to minimum total length of the intercellular apical sealing. This pattern may develop by a minimizing process with analogy to the minimum surface formation of soap bubble film.
CHANGES IN THE CONTENT AND COMPOSITION OF COLLAGEN IN THE GLAUCOMATOUS EYE ‐ BASIS FOR A NEW HYPOTHESIS FOR THE GENESIS OF CHRONIC OPEN ANGLE GLAUCOMA ‐ A Preliminary Report
Authors: TENGROTH BJORN , AMMITZBOLL THORKIL
Published: May 2009

The pressure theory is still predominant in explaining the pathophysiology of the chronic open angle glaucoma. An insufficient drainage system resulting in an increased intraocular pressure is the hasis for this theory. The pressure will exert an effect upon the optic disc which either directly on the nerve fibres or indirectly via the vascular system will result in a characteristic optic atrophy. The collagen fibres, both in the trabeular meshwork of the anterior chamber and in the lamina cribrosa of the optic disc, form a mesh through which the aqueous humour and the nerve fibres, respectively, pass through the wall of the eye. A hypothesis explaining the pathophysiology of this disease, and based on the assumption that there is a primary change in the collagen molecules, resulting in a weaker structure than normal both in the trabeculae and in the laminae, is forwarded. The structures analysed for the content of hydroxypro‐line, hydroxylysine and proline were the trabecular meshwork, the sclera and the lamina cribrosa. Three categories of autopsy eyes were studied, i.e. normal eyes, glaucomatous eyes, and eyes under a suspicion of glaucoma. In the normal eyes, the collagen composition in the trabecular meshwork was different from that in the sclera and the lamina cribrosa. There is also a difference in the composition between the sclera and the lamina cribrosa. In glaucoma, the content and/Or the composition of the collagen molecules in the lamina were significantly changed. In the eyes under suspicion of glaucomathe same changes as in the glaucomatous eyes could be demonstrated. However, 5 of the 7 eyes in this category had no demonstrable nerve atrophy. The findings suggest that the change in collagen pattern is primary. This study has not demonstrated which types of collagen are present or the physical properties of this collagen. Further tests to demonstrate the different types of collagen and their rigidity are planned.