The Outcome of Corneal Transplantation in Infants, Children, and Adolescents

Pediatric keratoconus epidemiology: a systematic scoping review

BACKGROUND

Pediatric keratoconus (pediatric KC) causes progressive deformation of the cornea in children and adolescents, leading to a gradual loss of vision and a need for rehabilitation. However, new treatments may halt the disease and prevent worse outcomes that require penetrating keratoplasty and its associated morbidity and high cost, irreversible loss of vision, and amblyopia. Few systematic reviews focus on keratoconus-and even fewer, on pediatric KC.

METHODS

Here, we report a systematic scoping review of pediatric KC epidemiology and discuss the studies reporting data on pediatric KC. We used PRISMA-ScR methodology and checklists in the elaboration of the manuscript. The inclusion criteria were: English language; publication between August 7, 1998, and August 7, 2019 (20 years); theme of the study pediatric KC epidemiology. The search strategy: searches of the PubMed-MEDLINE database and Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, using eight combinations of the following MeSH terms: keratoconus; child; incidence; prevalence; pediatrics; adolescent; epidemiology.

RESULTS

We charted and reviewed the selected articles. Initial searches included 1802 records; after the exclusion of article duplicates, we screened 777 records, read 97 articles in full text, and included 76 articles in this review.

CONCLUSIONS

Recent epidemiological studies with better methodologies demonstrated increased prevalence rates in comparison to the older literature. This effect may be due to better diagnostic methods and better sample selection than those in historical studies. Diagnosis remains a major challenge as the early disease is usually asymptomatic. Economic and social aspects of pediatric KC remain understudied in the pediatric literature. Global, inclusive, and proactive screening studies in schools are imperative to better understand the great impact of this disease in the young.

General Treatment and Ophthalmic Management of Peters' Anomaly

Peters' anomaly (PA) is a manifestation of complex disorders in the development of the anterior segment of the eye. The most recognizable feature of the disease is a doughnut-shaped central corneal opacity and adhesions between the opacity and underlying iris. Glaucoma is observed in 30-70% of patients, with up to 50% of the patients showing concomitant vision-threatening disorders. Up to 60% of patients have systemic abnormalities or developmental delays. Being a rare malformation, PA is one of the most common congenital indications for corneal transplantation in infants. Penetrating keratoplasty is used as the primary method of treatment in cases with corneal opacification of a degree that forbids visual development in both eyes. The heterogeneity of co-occurring ophthalmic and systemic malformations in the spectrum of PA determines the wide range of success, defined by various endpoints: graft clarity or visual acuity. Although surgical advancement has made corneal grafting possible in younger children, it has a higher graft failure rate and worse visual prognosis than adult keratoplasty. Optical sector iridectomy, pupil dilation, or cornea rotation can alternatively be performed. Satisfying results of pediatric keratoprosthesis in particular cases of PA have been described. Postoperative treatment of PA aims to maintain a clear optical pathway and prevent amblyopia. This article therefore aims at reporting the ophthalmic treatment and need for multidisciplinary management of PA, including pharmacological and surgical treatment.

Pediatric corneal transplantation: techniques, challenges, and outcomes

Pediatric corneal transplant is a highly demanding and technically challenging procedure for the cornea surgeon in today's era. These cases pose unique challenges in clinical and surgical management. The indications of pediatric corneal transplant can be therapeutic, tectonic, optical, and cosmetic. Pediatric patients undergoing corneal transplants are at a high risk of graft infection, failure, rejection, dehiscence, and amblyopia due to young age, robust immune system, increased incidence of trauma, and compliance issues. The other factors contributing to graft failure can be allograft rejection, secondary glaucoma, corneal vascularization, multiple surgeries, vitreous prolapse, and lack of treatment compliance. A successful corneal transplant in children depends on meticulous preoperative evaluation, uneventful surgery, the expertise of a corneal surgeon, and regular and timely postoperative follow-up. Therapeutic and optical penetrating keratoplasty are the most commonly performed transplants in children. However, with the advancements in surgical technique and management protocol, the current focus has shifted toward lamellar keratoplasty. Lamellar keratoplasty offers early visual recovery and potentially fewer complications. Visual rehabilitation through corneal transplant in otherwise blind eyes can be a boon for the children. Recently, keratoprostheses have been promising in children with multiple graft failures. The current review gives insights into epidemiology, etiology, indications, clinical characteristics, investigations, management options, recent advances, and the future of pediatric corneal transplants. As surgical techniques continue to grow and comprehension of pediatric corneal transplants is improving, we can safeguard these eyes with the best possible anatomical and functional outcomes.

Demographic and Socioeconomic Determinants of Penetrating Keratoplasty Outcomes

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to determine possible associations between demographic and socioeconomic factors and graft survival after penetrating keratoplasty (PK).

METHODS

This study was a retrospective chart review of patients undergoing PK at a tertiary-care corneal practice at Wills Eye Hospital between May 1, 2007, and September 1, 2018. The first PK of the first eye was included. The primary outcome measure was graft failure, defined as irreversible and visually significant graft edema, haze, or scarring. Demographic and socioeconomic factors included yearly average adjusted gross income (AGI) based on residential zip code, age, sex, and race. Two income groups were created: 1) individuals from neighborhoods with the lowest 10% of AGI (N = 82, AGI=$32,100 ± 4000) and 2) the remaining 90% of individuals (N = 740, AGI=$86,900 ± 52,200). Logistic regression analysis was performed to identify factors predictive of graft prognosis.

RESULTS

The 822 patients (822 eyes) included had a mean age of 57.1 ± 22.1 years at the time of PK. Over an average of 4.2 ± 3.1 years of follow-up, graft failure occurred in 35.3%. Age, sex, and follow-up duration were comparable between income groups (all P > 0.05). Black race was disproportionately represented in the lower-income group (50.0% vs. 11.5%, P < 0.001). Multivariable analysis identified predictors of graft failure including residing in a lower-income neighborhood [hazard ratio (HR) = 2.27, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.24-4.19, P = 0.008], younger age (HR = 0.99, 95% CI = 0.98-1.00, P = 0.046), and Black race (HR = 1.63, 95% CI = 1.03-2.56, P = 0.035).

CONCLUSIONS

Individuals with a lower income, younger age, and Black race may be more vulnerable to graft failure after PK. Further studies are warranted to identify reasons for these associations.

Penetrating Keratoplasty in Congenital Glaucoma

BACKGROUND

Childhood glaucoma is one of the most common causes of corneal opacity in childhood and is associated with various pathological corneal changes, including corneal enlargement, corneal clouding, and edema. Congenital glaucoma (CG) may cause a decrease in vision outcomes due to corneal opacity or clouding, which is often associated with stimulus deprivation amblyopia. Therefore, to create a balance between preventing amblyopia and sustaining corneal clearance, patients with CG can be managed with early penetrating corneal transplantation surgery along with advanced glaucoma management.

AIM

To investigate the graft survival rate and factors affecting graft survival in patients with congenital glaucoma who underwent penetrating keratoplasty (PKP).

STUDY DESIGN

Cross-sectional.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Patients with congenital glaucoma who underwent PKP were retrospectively evaluated. The associations between age, corneal diameter, presence of ocular comorbidities, concurrent ocular surgeries with corneal graft, and visual outcomes were assessed.

RESULTS

Among the 30 eyes enrolled in the study, 6 (20%) had aniridia, 6 (20%) had Axenfeld-Rieger syndrome, and 18 (60%) were diagnosed with primary congenital glaucoma. Graft survival rates were 66.6% and 63.33% at 12 and 24 months, respectively. At the end of the follow-up, the overall graft survival rate was 60%. Statistical significance was observed between patient age at the time of surgery and graft failure (p = 0.02). Graft failure was associated with a younger patient age. Functional vision was achieved in 53.3% of patients.

CONCLUSIONS

The management of congenital glaucoma and its corneal complications is a delicate issue that requires great effort. PKP in congenital glaucoma was moderately successful in the present study. To provide functional vision, PKP could be the treatment of choice.

Amplified Natural Killer Cell Activity and Attenuated Regulatory T-cell Function Are Determinants for Corneal Alloimmunity in Very Young Mice

BACKGROUND

Corneal transplantation outcomes are generally less favorable in young children compared with adults. The purpose of this study was to determine the immunological mechanisms underlying this difference.

METHODS

A murine model of allogeneic corneal transplantation was used in the study, and graft survival was determined by evaluating opacity scores for 8 wk. Syngeneic transplantation in the very young host served as a surgical control. The frequencies of total and activated natural killer (NK) cells in cornea posttransplantation were kinetically evaluated using flow cytometry. The regulatory T cell (Treg) frequency and function in naive animals were assessed by flow cytometry and in vitro suppression assays, respectively. Finally, graft survival and immune responses were determined in NK cell-depleted, or adult naive Treg-transferred, young hosts.

RESULTS

Corneal allograft survival in the very young recipients was significantly lower than in adult hosts. The frequencies of total NK cells and their interferon gamma-expressing subset in the cornea were significantly higher in the very young mice posttransplantation. In ungrafted mice, frequencies of Treg in draining lymph nodes as well as their capabilities to suppress NK-cell secretion of interferon gamma were lower in the very young compared with adults. In NK cell-depleted or adult Treg--transferred very young recipients, the allograft survival was significantly improved along with the suppressed NK-cell response.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data demonstrate that amplified activity of NK cells, together with lower suppressive function of Treg, contributes to early rejection of corneal allografts in very young graft recipients.

Clinical Analysis of Repeat Penetrating Keratoplasty in Children

(1) Background: To analyze the indications, graft survival, and graft failure-related risk factors of repeat penetrating keratoplasty (RPK) in children. (2) Methods: In this case series, children younger than 12 years who received RPK at Beijing Tongren Hospital were reviewed. The indications for RPK, postoperative complications, and graft survival were analyzed. The analysis of the potential variables associated with graft survival was performed using Cox proportional hazards regression. (3) Results: A total of 30 RPK eyes of 29 children were included in this study. The mean follow-up time was 26.98 ± 18.75 months. The most common indication for RPK was a vascularized corneal scar (86.67%). Postoperative complications occurred in 27 eyes (90%), including immune rejection (46.67%), epithelial defects (36.67%), and glaucoma (26.67%). About 60% of the regrafts remained clear one year after RPK, while the overall graft survival rate was 30% at the last visit. The most common cause of regraft failure was irreversible immune rejection (8/21). The significant risks of graft failure included an age of less than 60 months at surgery (p = 0.009), corneal vascularization (p = 0.018), and a postoperative epithelial defect (p = 0.037). (4) Conclusions: A vascularized corneal scar is the most common indication of RPK in children. Immune rejection is the most prevalent complication, and irreversible immune rejection always causes regraft failure.

Keratoplasty Registries: Lessons Learned

ABSTRACT

Clinical registries have been developed for decades in the field of ophthalmology, and they are especially well-suited to the study of keratoplasty practices. A comprehensive donor/recipient registry system can provide insight into donor, recipient, and surgical factors associated with immediate and long-term outcomes and adverse reactions. Furthermore, linkage with demographic databases can elucidate relationships with social determinants of health and potentially shape public policy. The vast sample size and multicenter nature of registries enable researchers to conduct sophisticated multivariate or multilayered analyses. In this review, we aim to emphasize the importance of registry data for keratoplasty practice and 1) summarize the structure of current keratoplasty registries; 2) examine the features and scientific contributions of the registries from Australia, the United Kingdom, Singapore, the Netherlands, Sweden, Eye Bank Association of America, and European Cornea and Cell Transplant registries; 3) compare registry-based studies with large single-site clinical studies; 4) compare registry-based studies with randomized control studies; and 5) make recommendations for future development of keratoplasty registries. Keratoplasty registries have increased our knowledge of corneal transplant practices and their outcomes. Future keratoplasty registry-based studies may be further strengthened by record linkage, data sharing, and international collaboration.

Combined Corneal Transplant, Glaucoma Drainage Implantation, and Pars Plana Vitrectomy Outcomes in a Pediatric Population

PURPOSE

The combination of glaucoma drainage device (GDI), pars plana vitrectomy (PPV), and corneal transplantation is well reported in adults. However, little is known about the outcomes of such combined procedures in pediatric patients. We present a retrospective, single-center study to evaluate the safety and outcomes of concurrent GDI and/or PPV with corneal transplantation in patients 18 years and younger.

METHODS

Retrospective chart review of pediatric patients (aged 0-18 years) who received either corneal transplants or keratoprosthesis in combination with at least 1 additional procedure (either GDI and/or PPV) at the Illinois Eye and Ear Infirmary, Chicago, IL, between 2003 and 2017. Primary outcomes included vision, intraocular pressure, and cup-to-disc ratio (C/D). Secondary outcomes included the number of repeat surgeries and intraoperative and postoperative complications.

RESULTS

Thirty-six patients were included with a mean age of 8.4 years and an average follow-up of 49.7 months. Nineteen patients received corneal surgery, GDI, and PPV; 4 received corneal and GDI surgery; and 13 received corneal and PPV surgery. Of the 19 patients with all 3 procedures, 48% experienced an increase in vision with an average improvement of 0.9 lines at the last follow-up. Intraocular pressure decreased by an average of -7.2 mm Hg for all groups. Fifty-three percent of all patients experienced complications.

CONCLUSIONS

Combined keratoplasty, GDI, and PPV seems to be effective in the management of complex pediatric eye disease. However, owing to the high risk of complications in this vulnerable patient population, careful consideration must be taken when determining a patient's surgical candidacy for combined cornea/glaucoma/retina procedures.

Outcomes following tacrolimus systemic immunosuppression for penetrating keratoplasty in infants and young children

OBJECTIVE

To report outcomes of tacrolimus immunosuppression after penetrating keratoplasty (PK) in very young children.

METHODS

Retrospective, consecutive, cohort study of children undergoing PK at a tertiary children's hospital between 2005 and 2016. Oral tacrolimus immunosuppression was given for 2 years, followed by topical tacrolimus.

RESULTS

Fourteen children (20 eyes) had 24 PKs; nineteen eyes had primary PKs, five eyes had repeat PKs. Mean age at primary graft was 95 days (3.1 months) for anterior segment dysgenesis (ASD), 430 days (14.3 months) for non-ASD children. Eleven children (15 eyes) had ASD. Three children (five eyes) had non-ASD: two children (three eyes) had glaucoma-related corneal opacity and one child (two eyes) had congenital hereditary endothelial dystrophy (CHED). One-year rejection-free survival rates following primary PK was 80% for ASD (n = 15) and 100% for non-ASD (n = 4). At final review, 5/15 of primary grafts for ASD were clear. 10/15 failed after a mean of 19 months, specifically attributable to infection (n = 2), rejection (n = 2) and glaucoma (n = 2). 4/4 primary non-ASD grafts are clear at final review (mean follow-up = 77 months). All repeat grafts (n = 5), failed after a mean of 38.25 months. Considering all grafts, 15/24 (62.5%) failed: 5/15 due to infection, 2/15 due to rejection, 8/15 due to glaucoma, phthisis, perforation or vascularised with no rejection. At last review (mean = 58.1 months, range 28-84), overall cohort survival is 37.5%. Final visual acuities range between 0.86 and 2.4 LogMAR.

CONCLUSION

We compare our results to published literature: 1-year graft survival was higher than previously reported, with lower failure due to rejection. Overall infection rates did not increase, however, proportionally, severe infections were higher. Overall graft survival is at least comparable to reported literature.

Outcomes of Penetrating Keratoplasty After Open Globe Injury

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to investigate the clinical features, surgical outcomes, and prognostic factors of penetrating keratoplasty (PKP) after open globe injury (OGI).

METHODS

A retrospective review of all patients treated for OGI between January 2000 and July 2017 was conducted. Demographic, preoperative, perioperative, and postoperative data were collected for those who underwent PKP after OGI. The predictive value of each preoperative variable on graft failure was assessed using univariate and multivariable Cox proportional hazards models, and the predictive value of variables on post-PKP visual outcome was assessed using both univariate and multivariable logistic regression models. All eyes that underwent PKP after OGI were included unless they had less than 365 days of follow-up.

RESULTS

Forty-six eyes that underwent PKP met inclusion criteria. The median age was 46 years (interquartile range = 23.00-61.25), median follow-up was 78.5 months (interquartile range = 38.63-122.02), and 37 of 46 subjects (80.4%) were male. The observed 1- and 5-year graft survival estimates were 80.4% and 41.7%, respectively. Factors statistically associated with graft failure in multivariable analyses were rejection episode, hazard ratio (HR) = 3.29; retinal detachment (RD), HR = 3.47; and endophthalmitis, HR = 6.27. Fifteen of 42 eyes (35.7%) regained ambulatory vision (20/200 or better). The strongest predictors of vision worse than 20/200 at the last follow-up were RD, odds ratio (OR) = 43.88; graft rejection, OR = 12.42; and injury outside the workplace, OR = 25.05.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite a high graft survival at 1 year, most of the patients did not regain ambulatory vision. Graft rejection, RD, and endophthalmitis were risk factors for graft failure. These factors should be considered when counseling patients regarding PKP after OGI.

Update on Pediatric Corneal Diseases and Keratoplasty

Managing pediatric corneal disorders is challenging as the prognosis of pediatric keratoplasty depends on several factors. Advancements in the genetic basis of congenital corneal diseases and investigations in congenital corneal conditions provide a better understanding of pediatric corneal conditions. Surgeons performing keratoplasty in children now have a choice of various techniques. Evolving surgical techniques of anterior lamellar and endothelial keratoplasties has expanded the management interventions in these pediatric corneal morbidity conditions; however, considerable concerns still exist in association with corneal transplantation in infants and children. Outcomes in pediatric keratoplasty depend upon the preoperative indications, the timing of surgical intervention, intraoperative and postoperative factors including the patient/care givers' compliance. Factors such as low scleral rigidity, higher rate of graft failure, need for frequent examinations under anesthesia, and difficulty in optimal visual acuity assessment still remain a considerable challenge in pediatric scenarios. In children, deprivation amblyopia as a result of the corneal opacification can adversely affect visual development, causing dense amblyopia. Outcomes to surgical interventions for management of corneal opacification in children is further compromised by the pre-existing amblyopia apart from the concerns of refractive outcome of the graft. Graft rejection, graft infection, amblyopia, and glaucoma continue to be serious concerns. In recent years both anterior and posterior lamellar keratoplasty techniques are being increasingly performed in pediatric eyes, which offer advantages in the form of lower risk of graft rejection. The timing of surgery, careful case selection, cautious intraoperative approach, and optimal postoperative management can improve the anatomical and functional outcome in difficult cases.

[Optical rehabilitation and pediatric ophthalmological care following keratoplasty for childhood corneal opacities]

BACKGROUND

The younger the children are at the time of corneal transplantation, the worse the survival prognosis of the graft.

PREOPERATIVE CONSIDERATIONS

Preoperative considerations are significant in terms of accurate parental education, ensuring adherence to treatment and choosing the appropriate surgical time frame (amblyopia versus graft failure, compliance of the patient). Parental education must include the reduced visual prognosis in young children, exceptions being later acquired corneal pathologies such as inflammatory corneal scars (herpes) and keratoconus.

POSTOPERATIVE CARE

A distinction must be made between morphological care after transplantation and refractive correction as well as treatment of amblyopia. The younger the children, the less favorable the prognosis for the transplant and the more often multiple examinations with anesthesia are necessary in order to detect complications, such as infiltrates or suture loosening at an early stage. Especially unilateral congenital pathologies often do not lead to a sufficient improvement of amblyopia (refractory amblyopia, poor compliance).

CONCLUSION

The prognosis after keratoplasty in childhood is already partly decided by the careful evaluation of indications (no surgery of a sclerocornea) and the detailed and realistic clarification for the parents (cooperation with long-term ocular and systemic treatment even if the child has poor compliance, frequent check-ups, reduced chances of amblyopia treatment). The younger the child is at the time of transplantation, the more frequent are graft failure and the development of complications. Later manifesting diseases in older children (herpetic corneal scars, keratoconus) have a better prognosis.

Outcomes of combined endoscopic vitrectomy and posteriorly placed glaucoma drainage devices in pediatric patients

Background

This study aims to describe outcomes of posteriorly-placed glaucoma drainage devices (GDD) with concurrent endoscopic vitrectomy in pediatric patients with glaucoma and corneal opacification.

Methods

This retrospective case series identified patients under 18 years of age who underwent posteriorly-placed GDD implantation with concurrent endoscopic vitrectomy between 2012 and 2021. Data collected included ocular diagnoses, prior intraocular surgeries, type and position of GDD, surgical complications, and additional surgeries. Preoperative and final visual acuity, intraocular pressure (IOP), number of glaucoma medications, and exam findings were also recorded. Surgical data included type and position of GDD, Success was defined as IOP between 5-21 mmHg without visually devastating complication or need for additional glaucoma surgery.

Results

Ten patients (14 eyes) with sclerocornea (6), Peters Anomaly (4), corneal decompensation from increased IOP (3), and corneal scar (1) underwent combined endoscopic vitrectomy with posteriorly-placed GDD (Baerveldt (10 eyes), Ahmed (4 eyes)) at 4.6 ± 5.8 years of age. Four eyes of 3 patients remained successful at final follow-up, while 10 eyes of 7 patients required 2.4 ± 1.3 additional surgeries for glaucoma (7) or hypotony (3). Kaplan Meier analysis demonstrated 1- and 2-year survival rates of 36% and 18%, respectively. At final follow-up (3.7 ± 2.4 years), after an average of 4.4 ± 2.4 glaucoma surgeries, 13 of 14 eyes had obtained IOP control on significantly fewer (p<0.0001) IOP-lowering medications. Additional complications included retinal detachment (2), chronic corneal graft failure (2), phthisis (1) and band keratopathy (1).

Conclusions

Management of glaucoma in pediatric eyes with corneal opacification is challenging and often requires multiple surgeries. A combined endoscopic vitrectomy and posteriorly placed GDD is a viable technique to establish aqueous humor outflow. Although the success rate is low, this surgical approach may be useful in ultimately obtaining IOP control and preserving vision in these complex eyes.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12886-022-02373-3.

Current Perspectives on Corneal Transplantation (Part 2)

Disease of the cornea is the third leading cause of blindness worldwide. Corneal graft surgery is one of the most successful forms of solid organ transplantations in humans, with ever increasing developments in surgical technique. To date, approximately 4504 corneal transplants are performed in the UK each year. While full thickness transplantation was the most commonly performed keratoplasty over the last few decades, selective lamellar transplantation of the diseased layers of the cornea has been universally adopted. This comprehensive review aims to provide an updated synthesis on different types of corneal transplantations, their treatment outcomes, and the associated complications of each procedure both in adult and pediatric populations. In addition, we also present an up-to-date summary of the emerging therapeutic approaches that have the potential to reduce the demand for donor-dependent keratoplasty.

Possible association between viral infection and poor survival of the corneal graft after penetrating keratoplasty in patients with congenital corneal opacity: a cohort study

BACKGROUND

Congenital corneal opacity (CCO) is a rare disorder. Penetrating keratoplasty (PK) is the main surgical option for CCO, but many factors affect graft survival. Therefore, this study aimed to perform a virological examination of CCO specimens after PK to explore the relationship between virological factors and graft survival after PK.

METHODS

This prospective study included consecutive patients (<6 months of age) diagnosed with CCO and treated with PK at Beijing Tongren Hospital from August 2017 to January 2018. Next-generation sequencing was used to detect viral DNA in the CCO specimens. The survival of the primary graft was analysed using the Kaplan-Meier method.

RESULTS

Overall, 24 eyes of 24 infants were treated with PK during the study period. The mean age at surgery was 4.8±1.1 months. Epstein-Barr virus DNA was detected in two specimens, varicella-zoster virus DNA in one specimen, herpes simplex virus DNA in three specimens and cytomegalovirus DNA in one specimen. In the virus-positive group, only one (14.3%) graft remained clear during follow-up. In contrast, in the virus-negative group (n=17), 13 (76.5%) grafts were still clear at the last follow-up. The mean survival of the grafts in the virus-positive group was significantly shorter than in the virus-negative group (11.0±9.8 months vs 27.1±7.7, p<0.001).

CONCLUSION

The presence of viral DNA in CCO specimens might be associated with poor graft survival after PK.

Long-term Experience and Visual Acuity Outcomes in Patients With Peters Anomaly

PURPOSE

To report the results from a cases series of patients with Peters anomaly and propose management and treatment approaches according to the alterations associated with each case.

METHODS

The records of 27 patients (32 eyes) clinically diagnosed as having Peters anomaly were analyzed retrospectively. Each patient underwent different treatment modalities (from medical follow-up consultations to penetrating keratoplasty procedures) according to the type of Peters anomaly.1 Results: Of 32 eyes of 27 patients (74% male and 26% female), 5 patients (18.5%) were bilateral and 22 (81.5%) were unilateral. The average number of years of follow-up consultations was 10.2 years (range: 3.5 to 18 years). The long-term visual acuity (VA) results correlated directly with the type of Peters anomaly. Mean VA for all patients was 1.71 ± 1.04 logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution (logMAR). The results by group were 0.30 ± 0.00 logMAR for type I Peters anomaly with only medical monitoring, 0.97 ± 0.78 logMAR for type I Peters anomaly with only optical iridectomy, 1.22 ± 0.97 logMAR for type I Peters anomaly with penetrating keratoplasty, 2.41 ± 0.80 logMAR for type II Peters anomaly without a compromised posterior pole with penetrating keratoplasty, and 2.56 ± 0.48 logMAR for type II Peters anomaly with a compromised posterior pole with penetrating keratoplasty.

CONCLUSIONS

The VA result and long-term corneal failure is directly related to the type of Peters anomaly. Patients with type I Peters anomaly who only required medical follow-up consultations had the most favorable prognosis. Patients in whom penetrating keratoplasty was performed had a poor prognosis. [J Pediatr Ophthalmol Strabismus. 2021;58(5):304-310.].

Development of a Nomogram to Predict Graft Survival After Penetrating Keratoplasty

PURPOSE

To develop a nomogram to predict the 3- and 5-year likelihood of graft survival after penetrating keratoplasty (PK) based on preoperative assessment and intraoperative plan.

DESIGN

Retrospective clinical case-control study.

METHODS

Data from 1,029 consecutive PKs in 903 eyes of 835 patients performed at a single tertiary center from May 2007 to September 2018 were extracted from electronic medical records and evaluated for corneal graft failure, defined as irreversible and visually significant graft edema, haze, or scarring. Thirty-seven variables were assessed by multivariable Cox models. A nomogram to predict the probability of graft survival was created.

RESULTS

Mean recipient age was 57.1 ± 22.0 years and mean follow-up was 4.22 ± 3.05 years. Overall, 37.4% of grafts failed during follow-up. Eleven variables were significantly associated with graft failure, including active microbial infection at the time of PK (hazard ratio [HR] = 5.10, 95% confidence interval [CI] 3.53-7.37), intraocular silicone oil at the conclusion of the PK (HR = 4.28, 95% CI 2.38-7.71), history of systemic autoimmune disease (HR = 2.83, 95% CI 1.63-4.90), 4 quadrants of corneal neovascularization (HR = 2.76, 95% CI 1.56-4.86), any prior anterior segment surgery (HR = 2.41, 95% CI 1.55-3.75), and lens status as anterior chamber intraocular lens at the conclusion of surgery (HR = 2.35, 95% CI 1.30-4.26). The nomogram exhibited a concordance index of 0.76 (95% CI 0.74-0.78); internal calibration plots depicted strong correlation between prediction and observation of graft survival.

CONCLUSIONS

PK graft prognosis may be predicted relatively accurately based on 11 variables. Although established from retrospective data, this nomogram would be valuable for data-driven patient counseling prior to corneal transplantation.

Keratoplasty for Keratoconus in Young Patients: Demographics, Clinical Features, and Post-transplant Outcomes

PURPOSE

To examine pretransplant findings and outcomes of corneal transplants for keratoconus in children.

DESIGN

Retrospective cohort (national registry) study.

METHODS

Data on all patients aged 16 or younger (n = 170) who had a first transplant for keratoconus between 2003 and 2018 in all corneal transplant centers in the UK were compared to adult patients aged 17 and older (n = 7,191). The influence of demographic variables, pretransplant corneal findings, and transplant type on 2-year visual, rejection-free, and transplant survival outcomes was examined.

RESULTS

Children had poorer pretransplant visual acuity and higher rates of corneal vascularization and ocular surface disease than adults. However, 2-year post-transplant corrected visual acuity reached 20/20 or better in 35% of children compared to 28% of adults (P = .1). Transplant rejection and failure rates were 11% (P = .79) and 3% (P = .31), respectively, for children, which were comparable to rates for adults. Endothelial rejection was reported following penetrating keratoplasty (PK) in 13% of children (10% in adults). Irreversible rejection was not recorded for any transplant in a child. Despite a lack of difference in transplant outcomes, there was a significant age effect in the Cox regression model for transplant rejection, such that for every 5-year increase in age there was a 6% reduction in the hazard of rejection. Transplant survival following anterior lamellar keratoplasty and PK in children was similar.

CONCLUSIONS

Young keratoconus patients have excellent transplant outcomes and visual results comparable to adults. Overall, the hazard of rejection was found to decrease with advancing age. However, in this large cohort of young patients with keratoconus and poor vision, there is no evidence of outcome advantage in delaying transplant until adult years.

Penetrating Keratoplasty Versus Deep Anterior Lamellar Keratoplasty in Children and Adolescents With Keratoconus

PURPOSE

To compare the outcomes of penetrating keratoplasty (PK) and deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty (DALK) for pediatric keratoconus.

DESIGN

Retrospective comparative interventional case series.

METHODS

This study included consecutive pediatric keratoconus cases (≤18 years of age) who received PK (n=45) or DALK (n=54) in 2 different time periods. Postoperative best spectacle-corrected visual acuity (BSCVA), refraction, and complications were compared between the study groups.

RESULTS

The mean follow-up was 83.3±46.1 and 63.3±45.6 months in the PK and DALK groups, respectively (P = .10). Postoperatively, BSCVA was 0.20±0.19 logMAR in the PK group and 0.26±0.19 logMAR in the DALK group (P = .11), with a BSCVA of ≥20/40 in 91.1% and 83.3% of eyes, respectively (P = .25). Two groups were comparable regarding postoperative refractive outcomes. Graft epitheliopathy and suture-associated complications were more commonly encountered after DALK, which was attributable to the effect of low-quality grafts on the clinical outcomes of DALK. Ten PK eyes (22.2%) and 9 DALK eyes (16.7%) experienced at least 1 episode of graft rejection within 5 years of corneal transplantation (P = .49). Rejection was reversible in 93.1% and 100% of episodes in the PK and DALK groups, respectively (P = .63). At the postoperative year 5, 95.6% of grafts in the PK group and 98.2% in the DALK group remained clear (P = .45).

CONCLUSION

No significant difference was observed in the outcomes between PK and DALK in pediatric keratoconus. Low-quality donor tissues in DALK increased the incidence of graft epithelial problems and suture-related complications as compared to PK.

Analysis of Graft Failure After Primary Penetrating Keratoplasty in Children With Peters Anomaly

PURPOSE

To investigate the causes of graft failure and risk factors associated with total graft opacity after primary penetrating keratoplasty (PK) in children with Peters anomaly (PA).

METHODS

In this retrospective study, patients with PA (younger than 5 years) who received primary PK in Beijing Tongren Hospital were reviewed. The follow-up period was a minimum of 6 months. A modified PA classification system was used, and all failed grafts were categorized into partial and total opacity groups. Patient demographics, PA classification, operation details, degree of graft opacity, and causes of graft failure were recorded.

RESULTS

Of the 165 eyes, 54 eyes (32.7%) demonstrated graft failure along with various degrees of graft opacity. Approximately half of the grafts applied failed within 6 months postoperatively. The partial and total opacity groups did not demonstrate any significant differences regarding diagnosis distribution. Irreversible immune rejection accounted for 61.1% of all graft failures; furthermore, it had a significantly higher proportion in the partial opacity group than in the total opacity group (71.0% and 47.8%, respectively; P = 0.058). The degree of graft opacity was significantly associated with patient age at surgery (P = 0.002), preoperative corneal vascularization (P = 0.009), and iris defects (P = 0.001). However, administration of intensive topical corticosteroids could reduce the risk of total opacity in the rejected grafts.

CONCLUSIONS

Irreversible immune rejection is the most common cause of graft failure after primary PK in pediatric patients with PA. The degree of graft opacity is closely related to patient age at surgery, preoperative corneal vascularization, and iris defects.

Penetrating Keratoplasty in Infants With Peters Anomaly: Visual and Graft Outcomes

PURPOSE

To determine the prevalence of survival of corneal grafts and visual outcomes of primary penetrating keratoplasty (PK) in infants with Peters anomaly (PA) in Beijing, China.

METHODS

Twenty-nine patients (37 eyes) with PA who underwent PK before the age of 1 year were included. Optical correction for all eyes and occlusion therapy of amblyopia for a unilateral opacity were performed 2 weeks after suture removal. All infants underwent assessment of visual acuity after surgery using Teller Acuity Cards. Survival probabilities were estimated using the Kaplan-Meier method and log-rank test. Visual outcomes and prognosis factors were analyzed using the χ2 test.

RESULTS

The mean age of 29 infants undergoing primary PK was 5.7 ± 2.3 months. The mean follow-up duration was 18.0 ± 3.0 months. Twenty-seven (73.0%) of 37 grafts retained full clarity at final follow-up. Visual acuity above ambulatory was achieved in 67.6% (25/37) and >20/260 was achieved in 48.6% (18/37) of cases. Of all surgical indications, vascularized PA I (50.0%, 6/12) and PA II (18.2%, 2/11) showed a lower proportion achieving visual acuity >20/260 than nonvascularized PA I (71.4%, 10/14) (P = 0.030 < 0.05). There was no significant difference in the prevalence of graft survival and vision outcome between infants younger than 6 months and older than >6 months.

CONCLUSIONS

For infants with PA who underwent PK, the prevalence of graft survival and visual acuity were related mainly to the indication. The main risk factors were corneal vascularization and an abnormal lens.

Pediatric keratoconus - Current perspectives and clinical challenges

Keratoconus is an ectatic corneal disease characterized by progressive stromal thinning, irregular astigmatism, and defective vision. It can be unilateral or bilateral with asymmetric presentation. It starts at puberty and either progresses rapidly to an advanced stage of the disease or stops in case of delayed onset and slow progression. Pediatric keratoconus is more aggressive than in adults and the management protocols differ because of various rationales such as accelerated progression, advanced stage of disease at the time of diagnosis and co-morbidities. It poses a burden to the society as it affects the quality of life, social, and educational development in children. Hence early diagnosis, recognition of progression, and timely intervention with collagen crosslinking is imperative to arrest the worsening. Association with systemic syndromes and ocular comorbidities can be of concern in pediatric keratoconus. Severe ocular allergy when associated hastens progress and complicates timely intervention of crosslinking treatment and compliance to contact lens wear. Keratoplasty in pediatric keratoconus has good outcomes but can encounter frequent suture-related concerns. This article discusses the epidemiology, etiopathogenesis, clinical challenges, and current perspectives of management of pediatric keratoconus.

Intracorneal Ring Segment Implantation for the Management of Keratoconus in Children

The short-term safety and efficacy of intracorneal ring segment (ICRS) implantation in keratoconus eyes of children are investigated in this study. A retrospective interventional case series study including a total of 33 keratoconus eyes (age 8 to 17 years) that had undergone ICRS (Keraring segments, Mediphacos) implantation was conducted. Information about visual, refractive, pachymetric, corneal topographic and aberrometric, and corneal endothelial changes during a 3-month follow-up were extracted and analysed. A significant improvement was observed in logMAR corrected distance visual acuity (p = 0.005), combined with a statistically significant reduction in keratometric readings (p < 0.001). A reduction in the magnitude of corneal astigmatism of ≥1 D was observed in 52.8% of eyes. No significant changes were observed in corneal endothelial density (p = 0.317). Significant changes were found in the anterior vertical coma component (p = 0.002) as well as in the spherical aberration of the posterior corneal surface (p = 0.004). Only two relevant complications were described: one corneal microperforation with penetration of the ring segment into the anterior chamber (1 eye, 2.8%), and a case of ring extrusion (1 eye, 2.8%). ICRS implantation in children keratoconus eyes allows a reduction of corneal astigmatism, irregularity, and aberrations, leading to a significant visual improvement.

Histopathological examination of congenital corneal staphyloma and prognosis after penetrating keratoplasty

The aim of this study was to investigate the histopathological manifestations of congenital corneal staphyloma accompanied by anterior segment dysgenesis and evaluate the prognosis after penetrating keratoplasty with an ultralarge button graft.We retrospectively studied 8 pediatric patients with large congenital corneal staphylomas in the Department of Ophthalmology of Peking University Third Hospital, China, between September 2014 and December 2018. All patients underwent penetrating keratoplasty with ultralarge button grafts, as well as additional operations according to the abnormality of each eye. Pathological investigations of all samples obtained during penetrating keratoplasty were performed with hematoxylin and eosin staining.The main clinical characteristic of congenital corneal staphyloma was an extremely opaque and ectatic cornea. Histopathological examination showed abnormal corneal epithelia and stroma and an absence of Bowman membrane, Descemet membrane, and the endothelium. Different severities of anterior segment dysgenesis, presenting as various histopathological manifestations, were observed in all cases. Several postoperative complications occurred after penetrating keratoplasty in some of the patients; however, the complications were discovered and treated accordingly in a timely manner. Six patients achieved good visual outcomes and a satisfactory cosmetic appearance after penetrating keratoplasty. One patient eventually lost the transparency of the button because of corneal neovascularization, and 1 patient lost visual function because of retinal detachment.Congenital corneal staphyloma combined with anterior segment dysgenesis can exhibit various manifestations on histopathological examination. Penetrating keratoplasty with an ultralarge button graft seems to be a suitable treatment for congenital corneal staphyloma to obtain good functional and aesthetic prognoses.

Descemet Membrane Endothelial Keratoplasty in Children

PURPOSE

To describe the outcomes of Descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty (DMEK) performed in amblyopic aged (younger than 8 years) children.

METHODS

This is a single-center retrospective study, including 11 eyes (7 congenital hereditary endothelial dystrophy and 4 congenital glaucoma) of 6 children in amblyopic age undergoing DMEK by a single surgeon (N.C.P.) at Sorocaba Eye Hospital from December 2015 to November 2017. Best spectacle-corrected visual acuity, biomicroscopy, pachymetry, endothelial cell density, and complications were evaluated.

RESULTS

No intraoperative complications occurred. Graft detachment occurred in 1 eye (9.1%) and was successfully managed with rebubbling. No primary graft failure or pupillary block was observed. All pachymetric measurements improved, and the corneal edema clinically resolved in all eyes within 2 weeks after the procedure. At the last follow-up (mean 30 months), best spectacle-corrected visual acuity was ≥20/40 in 7 (77.8%) of 9 eyes from patients cooperative enough to assess vision. All children began visual stimulation therapy and amblyopic treatment within 1 month of surgery, and all grafts remained clear until the last follow-up. The mean preoperative donor endothelial cell density was 2588 ± 236 cells/mm, which decreased to 1726 ± 292 cells/mm 2 years after surgery, yielding a 33% reduction (P < 0.001). No immunologic graft reaction, secondary graft failure, or cataracts were observed during the follow-up period.

CONCLUSIONS

In this series, DMEK was performed to successfully treat endothelial dysfunction in children. However, the procedure is more challenging, and more studies with more patients and longer follow-up are needed to confirm the superiority of DMEK in treating endothelial dysfunction in children.

Outcome of a penetrating keratoplasty in a 3-month-old child with sclerocornea

Sclerocornea is a rare congenital anomaly with clouding of the peripheral cornea that possibly extends up to the center of the cornea. Characteristically, a clear distinction (limbus) between sclera and cornea is lacking. Early surgical treatment is essential for preventing amblyopia, but penetrating keratoplasty in children carries a relatively high risk of complications. Especially for sclerocornea, penetrating keratoplasty has generally been reported to have a poor surgical outcome and a high risk of complications, including corneoscleral adhesions. Here, we report the 4-year follow-up on a child with sclerocornea, who was successfully operated on at the age of 3 months and had a favorable outcome. Our findings suggest that in some cases, penetrating keratoplasty may be an option to treat sclerocornea in young children.

Anatomic and visual outcomes of corneal transplantation during infancy

PURPOSE

To determine the effect of age at penetrating keratoplasty (PKP) on graft survival and visual outcome in children with corneal opacities transplanted during infancy.

METHODS

In this two-center retrospective consecutive cohort study, the medical records of infants who underwent unilateral or bilateral PKP during the first year of life between 2004 and 2011 were reviewed retrospectively. PKP was categorized as early (age 0-90 days) or late (age 91-365 days). Main outcome measures were graft survival and vision (classified as poor, fair, or good, considering both testing method and age norms).

RESULTS

A total of 62 eyes of 52 infants were included: 19 eyes underwent early PKP; 43 eyes, late PKP. Of the 62 eyes, 61 had central congenital corneal opacities; 1 was acquired. Median follow-up was 38.1 months (range, 12.2-150.5 months). Kaplan-Meier graft survival estimates were 0.92 at 1 year (95% CI, 0.81-0.96) and 0.61 at 5 years (0.44-0.74). Graft survival (early PKP, 73.7%; late PKP, 65.1% [P = 0.57]) did not differ between groups. Of the 55 eyes with recorded visual acuities, no significant difference existed in proportion with ambulatory or better vision at latest follow-up between early and late PKP (42.1% vs 55.6%; P = 0.61).

CONCLUSIONS

Visual outcomes were better for PKP performed during infancy compared to results of prior reports of late PKP; however, clearing of congenital opacities in the first 3 months of life did not improve visual outcomes compared to later PKP. One-half of grafts survived >5 years. Early PKP did not worsen graft survival, but PKP may be technically easier to perform later in infancy.

Case Series of Brittle Cornea Syndrome

Purpose

This case series demonstrate diagnostic features, treatment options, and challenges for Brittle Cornea Syndrome. Observations. Three cases presented with bluish sclera and extremely thin cornea. Genetic workup was performed and confirmed the diagnosis of Brittle Cornea Syndrome, a rare autosomal recessive disorder characterized by corneal thinning and blue sclera. Case 1 was a 4-year-old boy who developed cataract and glaucoma after undergoing right tectonic penetrating keratoplasty (PK) secondary to a spontaneous corneal rupture. Glaucoma was controlled medically. Later, the kid underwent right transcorneal lensectomy and vitrectomy with synechiolysis. After 6 weeks, he sustained graft dehiscence that was repaired using onlay patch graft. Case 2 was a 7-year-old boy who underwent PK in the right eye, then a pericardial patch graft in the left eye following spontaneous corneal rupture. Glaucoma in both eyes was controlled medically. Case 3 was the 2-year-old sister of the 2^nd case. She had a pachymetry of 238 μm OD and 254 μm OD and 254 

Conclusions

Long-term follow-up of children diagnosed with Brittle Cornea Syndrome is paramount to minimize the morbidity of corneal rupture and late-onset extraocular conditions.

Primary Pediatric Keratoplasty: Etiology, Graft Survival, and Visual Outcome

PURPOSE

Interventional study to evaluate the etiology, visual outcome and survival of corneal transplantation in children and to identify the risk factors associated with graft failure.

DESIGN

Retrospective, interventional consecutive case series.

METHODS

Medical records of every child 7 years of age or younger who underwent primary penetrating keratoplasty at Department of Ophthalmology, Federal University of São Paulo were reviewed. The parameters evaluated were indications for keratoplasty, graft survival, and postoperative visual acuity (VA) improvement. Children underwent ophthalmologic examination before and after corneal graft, including VA, assessed by the preferential looking test and visual evoked potential. The analysis of transplant survival was performed using the Kaplan-Meier method.

RESULTS

Fifty-six penetrating transplants were performed in 51 eyes of 43 children. The patients were divided into 2 groups: congenital (72.5%) and acquired (17.5%) corneal opacity. The main indication was congenital glaucoma (29.4%). The overall Kaplan-Meier graft survival rates were 64.7% in the postoperative average follow-up period of 24 months. There was no significant difference in graft survival between the congenital and acquired groups (Mantel-Cox P = .1031). There was significant improvement in VA in both groups (P = .0022 for congenital and P < .0001 for acquired). Rejection and diagnosis of congenital glaucoma were risk factors for graft failure.

CONCLUSIONS

Congenital glaucoma was the main indication for corneal transplantation and despite the difficulties, prolonged survival and improved VA can be achieved in pediatric transplant. Complications such as rejection and early glaucoma were significantly associated with graft failure.

Outcomes of big-bubble deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty for pediatric keratoconus

PURPOSE

To evaluate the outcomes and complications of deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty (DALK) performed for pediatric keratoconus.

METHODS

This retrospective study enrolled 44 consecutive eyes of 39 keratoconus-affected children (≤ 18 years of age). All patients underwent big-bubble DALK from March 2004 to June 2016. The outcome measures included postoperative best spectacle-corrected visual acuity (BSCVA), manifest refraction, keratometry readings, and complications.

RESULTS

The mean participant age was 16.8 ± 1.4 years, and the mean follow-up period was 68.5 ± 39.9 months. Successful big bubble was achieved in 33 eyes (75.0%), while the surgical technique was predescemetic DALK in 11 (25.0%). The mean BSCVA changed from 1.34 ± 0.49 LogMAR preoperatively to 0.24 ± 0.10 LogMAR postoperatively (P < 0.001). The mean keratometry decreased from 59.54 ± 5.17 D preoperatively to 46.23 ± 2.17 D postoperatively (P < 0.001). The complications encountered during the study period were intraoperative Descemet's membrane perforation (n = 5, 11.4%), the Urrets Zavalia syndrome (n = 1, 2.3%), graft epithelial problems (n = 3, 6.8%), subepithelial graft rejection (n = 5, 11.4%), high intraocular pressure (n = 8, 18.2%), and traumatic wound dehiscence (n = 2, 4.6%). Suture-related complications included premature loosening (n = 13, 29.6%), broken sutures (n = 12, 27.3%), suture-tract vascularization (n = 6, 13.6%), suture-associated abscesses (n = 5, 11.4%), and suture cheese wiring (n = 2, 4.6%). A clear graft was found in 40 eyes (90.9%) at the last follow-up examination.

CONCLUSION

This study showed promising results with big-bubble DALK in keratoconus-affected children. A frequent and close follow-up with dedicated parental involvement is essential for the early recognition and management of postoperative complications.

Glaucoma and Cornea Surgery Outcomes in Peters Anomaly

PURPOSE

To conduct a qualitative description of corneal and glaucoma outcomes in Peters anomaly.

DESIGN

Retrospective case series.

METHODS

Children with Peters anomaly who presented between 1982-2017 were included. Visual acuity, intraocular pressure (IOP), survival of corneal grafts, and success of glaucoma surgery (defined as IOP of 5-20 mm Hg and no additional IOP-lowering surgery or visually devastating complications) were analyzed.

RESULTS

Fifty-eight eyes of 37 patients (19 males) with Peters anomaly presented at 0.7 ± 1.5 years of age and had a follow-up of 10.2 ± 10.8 years. Twenty-three eyes underwent penetrating keratoplasty (PKP) with an average of 2.0 ± 1.3 grafts per eye. PKP survival at 1 year was 60% (95% confidence interval 41-75%) but decreased at 10 years to 34% (95% confidence interval 18-51%). Thirty-four eyes were diagnosed with glaucoma at 2.8 ± 6.4 years of age. Twenty eyes required glaucoma surgery, and the average number of IOP-lowering surgeries was 2.9 ± 2.0 per eye. Glaucoma drainage devices (15 eyes) had a 53% success rate. Laser cycloablation (9 eyes, transcleral or endoscopic) had a success rate of 67% with 2.0 ± 1.0 treatments per eye. Trabeculectomy with mitomycin C (8 eyes) and trabeculotomy (8 eyes) had 25% and 0% success rates, respectively. Fifteen eyes that underwent glaucoma surgery obtained IOP control, and GDD with or without cycloablation accounted for 80% of the successes. Eyes that underwent PKP did not show increased rates of glaucoma, higher IOP, or a greater necessity for IOP-lowering surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

In Peters anomaly, PKP shows poor long-term success. In addition, >50% of eyes with Peters anomaly have secondary glaucoma that often requires multiple surgeries.

Spontaneous regression of congenital corneal opacity

PURPOSE

To determine the incidence of spontaneous regression of congenital corneal opacity (CCO) and identify clinical factors associated with the regression.

METHODS

Medical records and anterior segment photographs were reviewed of 57 eyes in 35 patients with CCO that were not related to congenital glaucoma, tumors, infection, trauma, or metabolic disorders and were followed up without corneal transplantation for longer than one year at Seoul National University Hospital. Spontaneous regression of corneal opacity was defined as a decrease in corneal opacity significant enough for visual axis clearance. Data on demographics, systemic, and ocular characteristics were collected and compared between patients who had spontaneous regression of CCO and those who did not.

RESULTS

Spontaneous regression of corneal opacity developed in 32 eyes (22 patients, 56.1%) out of 57 CCO eyes (35 patients) at the mean 8.2 ± 5.4 months of age (the median 6.7 months). Absence of combined ocular anomalies such as iris anomaly, lens opacity, and peripheral corneal vascularization was significantly associated with the regression of opacity.

CONCLUSIONS

Corneal opacity can spontaneously regress in 56.1% of eyes with CCO during the first year of life. Careful follow-up with amblyopia management can be one of treatment options for CCO.

[Keratoplasty in children : Indications and results]

Penetrating keratoplasty in children is associated with very specific difficulties for the surgeon as well as for the patient and the parents. Special features are specific pediatric indications, which do not occur in adults, a more difficult examination and treatment adherence depending on the parents. Diseases with a favorable prognosis include keratoconus and herpetic keratitis. Especially sclerocornea and the Peters' anomaly often have a limited prognosis regarding vision and graft survival due to secondary malformations of the eye. In addition, younger age represents a risk factor. This is most likely due to the impaired examination during follow-up and reduced compliance. For successful penetrating keratoplasty in children the timing for the operation, in which the risk for the graft is weighed up against the risk for amblyopia, is crucial.

Distribution of Keratoconus Indices in Normal Children 6 to 12 Years of Age

OBJECTIVES

To determine the distribution of keratoconus indices in normal children 6 to 12 years of age.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study was conducted in children living in urban and rural areas of Shahroud, northeast Iran in 2015. After careful optometric examinations, the Pentacam was used for corneal imaging and measurement of keratoconus indices.

RESULTS

Of 5,620 students who participated in the study, the data of the right eye of 4,947 children were analyzed after applying the exclusion criteria. The mean age of all children was 9.23±1.71 years (range: 6-12 years). The mean and 95% confidence intervals (in the parentheses) of index of surface variance (ISV), index of vertical asymmetry, keratoconus index (KI), central keratoconus index (CKI), index of height asymmetry, index of height decentration (IHD), and average pachymetric progression index (PPIAve) was 17.770 (17.610-17.930), 0.137 (0.135-0.139), 1.022 (1.022-1.023), 1.010 (1.010-1.010), 3.299 (3.230-3.368), 0.007 (0.007-0.008), and 0.948 (0.943-0.952), respectively. The results of multilevel mixed-effects linear regression analysis showed that ISV, KI, CKI, IHD, and PPIAve were significantly higher in girls. Index of surface variance and CKI were higher in urban students, and PPIAve was higher in rural students. Except for PPIAve, which was increased with increasing age, the mean values of other keratoconus indices were significantly lower in 12-year-old students compared with 6-year-old ones.

CONCLUSION

The results provide valuable information about normal distribution of keratoconus indices in children aged 6 to 12 years. These findings can be used in future research and detection of abnormal cases in the clinical setting.

Recent Surgical Trends in Pediatric Corneal Transplantation: A 13-Year Review

PURPOSE

Corneal transplantation is the standard of care for pediatric corneal opacities, but little consensus exists on optimal surgical management. Our goal was to evaluate cross-sectional data of donor and recipient characteristics collected from eye banks providing tissue for pediatric corneal transplant cases to assess surgical trends in pediatric keratoplasty over the past 13 years.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective review of recipient data, collected from 4 major eye banks, for pediatric patients (<18 years) who underwent corneal transplantation between January 2005 and December 2017. We analyzed trends in surgical indications, types of keratoplasty, and donor/recipient characteristics.

RESULTS

Our database included 2620 total pediatric cases. Penetrating keratoplasty (PKP) remains the most common surgery performed (79.8%), but more partial-thickness transplant cases [eg, endothelial keratoplasty (EK)] have been performed since 2008. The most commonly reported transplant indication was ectasias/thinnings (34.1%) overall and congenital opacities (17.0%) in children less than 5 years. Average donor age was significantly lower for the youngest recipient age group of less than 5 years (P < 0.001); endothelial cell count was also higher, and death-to-surgery time was lower for PKP and EK cases versus other keratoplasties.

CONCLUSIONS

Indications for transplant vary across age groups but are consistent with previous reports. Popularity of partial-thickness transplants has increased since 2008. Surgeons prefer younger donor tissue for younger patients and have higher thresholds for endothelial cell count for PKP and EK cases. Centralized tracking of pediatric keratoplasty cases is necessary for further investigation of long-term outcomes.

Clinical features and possible founder mutation of the 8bp duplication mutation in the SLC4A11 gene causing corneal dystrophy and perceptive deafness in three South American families

BACKGROUND

Corneal Dystrophy and Perceptive Deafness (CDPD) or Harboyan syndrome is an autosomal recessive rare disorder, characterized by congenital corneal opacities and progressive sensorineural hearing loss, which usually begins after the second decades of life. This study reports the ophthalmic, audiological and genetic features, in five CDPD affected patients from three Chilean families.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Five individuals affected with CDPD from three unrelated Chilean families were clinically and genetically examined. To evaluate a putative founder mutation 7 SNPs were analyzed in the three families, an Argentinian patient (carrier of the same mutation previously reported) and 87 Chilean controls.

RESULTS

The ophthalmic symptoms in the five patients were bilateral and symmetric, starting before one year of age, and visual acuity varied from 0.1 to 0.3. In all cases, hearing loss began over 8 years old. The sequence of the 19 exons of SLC4A11 gene of all the affected patients exhibited homozygous eight nucleotide sequence duplication (c.2233_2240dup TATGACAC, p.(Ile748Metfs*5)) at the end of exon 16. All the affected patients of the three families were homozygous for a haplotype composed of five SNPs and covering 4,1 Mb. The same haplotype was present in one allele of the heterozygous Argentinean patient and has a frequency of 2.76% in Chilean population.

CONCLUSIONS

The five CDPD patients were homozygous for the same mutation in the SLC4A11 gene. Haplotype analysis of all the affected, including the case reported from Argentina was in accordance with a founder mutation.

Indications, Clinical Outcomes, and Survival Rate of Pediatric Penetrating Keratoplasty in Suburban Malaysia: A 10-year Experience

Purpose To describe the demographics, indications, clinical outcomes and survival rate of penetrating keratoplasty in Malaysian children living in a suburban area, and discuss the literature on paediatric penetrating keratoplasty. Methodology A retrospective review of medical records was performed on children younger than 17 years of age who had undergone penetrating keratoplasty in Hospital Universiti Sains Malaysia from January 2008 to December 2017. We recorded demographic data, presenting visual acuity, indications, final visual acuity, and graft survival at 12 months into the postoperative period. Results Sixteen eyes of 14 children had penetrating keratoplasty. Mean age was 7.8 ± 5.9 years. Both genders were equally affected. The main indications were infective keratitis (56.25%), congenital corneal opacity (18.75%) and trauma (12.50%). There were 62.50% of patients who had a preoperative visual acuity worse than 6/60. Fifty percent had other combined procedures during the surgery, including lens aspiration, peripheral iridectomy, pupilloplasty and glaucoma tube implant. Best corrected visual acuity of 6/12 or better was achieved in 18.75% of patients. A hazy graft was noted in 68.75% of patients, and was attributed to graft rejection, glaucoma and graft failure. There was a statistically significant association between the presence of vascularized cornea, intraocular inflammation and combined surgery with survival rate of the graft at one-year postoperative period (p < 0.05). Conclusions Infective keratitis is the main indication for penetrating keratoplasty in our pediatric patients. Good visual outcome was documented in a small percentage of the patients. Amblyopia and hazy graft were the main barriers to success in this group of patients. Vascularized cornea, inflammation and combined surgery had significantly affected the survival rate of the grafts in our series.

Indications and Outcomes of Penetrating Keratoplasty in Infants and Children of Beijing, China

PURPOSE

To retrospectively investigate the indications and outcomes of pediatric penetrating keratoplasty (PKP) and to explore factors that affect graft survival.

METHODS

Patients who had undergone PKP from May 2010 to December 2016, aged ≤12 years were categorized as infants (≥3 months and <4 years) or children (≥4 years and ≤12 years). Clinical data including patient demographics, indications, surgical procedures, postoperative follow-up, and graft clarity were recorded and analyzed.

RESULTS

Among 160 eyes of 146 patients, 79 eyes and 81 eyes were treated from the infant and child groups, respectively, and followed up for 33.7 ± 21.7 months (range, 6 months to 7 years). The most common indication for PKP was congenital corneal opacity (71.9%). The survival rate of all corneal grafts was 68.1%. The rejection reaction rate was 33.8%. More children than infants underwent PKP that was combined with other intraocular surgeries (P < 0.05). The graft failures were in the regraft (52.0%), congenital opacities (30.4%), and acquired opacities (15.0%) groups. The rate of graft failure in patients who received PKP combined with other intraocular surgery (40.0%) was higher than those who received PKP only (30.0%). The univariate logistic regression analysis revealed that the graft failure was associated with the graft indication (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The most common indication for PKP in children younger than 12 years was congenital corneal opacity in Beijing, China. The graft survival was 68.1%, with a mean follow-up of 33.7 months. Graft failure was associated with the indication.

Pediatric keratoconus: a review of the literature

PURPOSE

To describe the epidemiology and prevalence, rates of progression, difference between adult and pediatric populations, and therapeutic approaches to pediatric keratoconus from documented literature.

METHODS

A literature search was done on PubMed using key words including pediatric keratoconus, children with keratoconus, adult keratoconus, penetrating keratoplasty, corneal cross-linking and intracorneal ring segments. The literature was reviewed and reported to explore the key epidemiological differences between the pediatric and adult population with regards to presentation and treatment options.

RESULTS

Pediatric keratoconus is more aggressive than adult keratoconus, which has been explained by structural differences in the cornea between both populations. High rates of progression were documented in pediatric populations. While corneal collagen cross-linking, intracorneal ring segments and penetrating keratoplasties have been used as therapies in the pediatric population, the literature overwhelmingly shows higher rates of failure and progression despite these measures as compared to adults.

CONCLUSION

Pediatric keratoconus is more aggressive than adult keratoconus, and current therapies used in adults may not be sufficient for the pediatric population.