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Csorba A, Kormányos K, Csidey M, Náray A, Kovács K, Németh O, Knézy K, Bausz M, Szigeti A, Szabó D, Corton M, Tory K, Nagy ZZ, Langenbucher A, Maka E, Szentmáry N. Examination of Subbasal Nerve Plexus and Central Corneal Stromal Microstructure in Subjects With Congenital Aniridia, Using in Vivo Confocal Laser Scanning Microscopy. Curr Eye Res 2024; 49:582-590. [PMID: 38444179 DOI: 10.1080/02713683.2024.2320779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE During life up to 70% of aniridia subjects develop aniridia-associated keratopathy (AAK). AAK is characterized by limbal stem cell insufficiency, impaired corneal epithelial cell differentiation and abnormal cell adhesion, which leads to centripetal spreading vascularization, conjunctivalization, and thickening of the cornea. Our aim was to examine the subbasal nerve plexus and central corneal stromal microstructure in subjects with congenital aniridia, using in vivo confocal laser scanning microscopy CLSM. METHODS 31 eyes of 18 patients (55.6% males, mean age: 25.22 ± 16.35 years) with congenital aniridia and 46 eyes of 29 healthy subjects (41.4% males, mean age 30 ± 14.82 years) were examined using the Rostock Cornea Module of Heidelberg Retina Tomograph-III. At the subbasal nerve plexus, corneal nerve fiber density (CNFD), corneal nerve fiber length (CNFL), corneal total branch density (CTBD), and corneal nerve fiber width (CNFW) were analyzed using ACCMetrics software. Keratocyte density in the anterior, middle and posterior stroma was assessed manually. RESULTS The CNFD (2.02 ± 4.08 vs 13.99 ± 6.34/mm2), CNFL (5.78 ± 2.68 vs 10.56 ± 2.82 mm/mm2) and CTBD (15.08 ± 15.62 vs 27.44 ± 15.05/mm2) were significantly lower in congenital aniridia subjects than in controls (p < 0.001 for all). CNFW was significantly higher in aniridia subjects than in controls (0.03 ± 0.004 vs 0.02 ± 0.003 mm/mm2) (p = 0.003). Keratocyte density was significantly lower in all stromal layers of aniridia subjects than in controls (p < 0.001 for all). Stromal alterations included confluent keratocytes, keratocytes with long extensions and hyperreflective dots between keratocytes in aniridia. CONCLUSIONS Decrease in CNFD, CNFL, and CTBD, as well as increase in CNFW well refer to the congenital aniridia-associated neuropathy. The decreased keratocyte density and the stromal alterations may be related to an increased cell death in congenital aniridia, nevertheless, stromal changes in different stages of AAK have to be further analyzed in detail.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anita Csorba
- Department of Ophthalmology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Kitti Kormányos
- Department of Ophthalmology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Mária Csidey
- Department of Ophthalmology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
- Heim Pál National Pediatric Institute, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Annamária Náray
- Department of Ophthalmology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
- Dr. Rolf M. Schwiete Center for Limbal Stem Cell and Congenital Aniridia Research, Universität des Saarlandes - Campus Homburg, Homburg/Saar, Germany
| | - Klaudia Kovács
- Department of Ophthalmology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Orsolya Németh
- Department of Ophthalmology, Markusovszky University Teaching Hospital, Szombathely, Hungary
| | - Krisztina Knézy
- Department of Ophthalmology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Mária Bausz
- Department of Ophthalmology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Andrea Szigeti
- Department of Ophthalmology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Dorottya Szabó
- Department of Ophthalmology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Marta Corton
- Department of Genetics and Genomics, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria-Fundación Jiménez Díaz University Hospital, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid (IIS-FJD, UAM), Madrid, Spain
- Center for Biomedical Network Research on Rare Diseases (CIBERER), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Kálmán Tory
- MTA-SE Lendület Nephrogenetic Laboratory, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Budapest, Hungary
- 1st Department of Pediatrics, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Zoltán Zsolt Nagy
- Department of Ophthalmology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | | | - Erika Maka
- Department of Ophthalmology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Nóra Szentmáry
- Department of Ophthalmology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
- Dr. Rolf M. Schwiete Center for Limbal Stem Cell and Congenital Aniridia Research, Universität des Saarlandes - Campus Homburg, Homburg/Saar, Germany
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Sanchez V, Dobzinski N, Fox R, Galor A. Rethinking Sjögren Beyond Inflammation: Considering the Role of Nerves in Driving Disease Manifestations. Eye Contact Lens 2024; 50:200-207. [PMID: 38350094 PMCID: PMC11045324 DOI: 10.1097/icl.0000000000001068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2024]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Sjögren syndrome (SS) is a chronic inflammatory autoimmune disease characterized by destruction of mucosal glands resulting in dry eye and dry mouth. Ocular presentations can be heterogenous in SS with corneal nerves abnormalities that are structural, functional, or both. Some individuals present with corneal hyposensitivity, with a phenotype of decreased tear production and epithelial disruption. Others present with corneal hypersensitivity, with a phenotype of neuropathic pain including light sensitivity and pain out of proportion to signs of tear dysfunction. A similar correlate can be found outside the eye, with dry mouth predominating in some individuals while pain conditions predominate in others. Understanding how nerve status affects SS phenotype is an important first step to improving disease management by targeting nerve abnormalities, as well as inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victor Sanchez
- New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, 10016
| | - Noa Dobzinski
- Miami Veterans Administration Medical Center, Miami, FL, 33125
| | - Robert Fox
- Rheumatology, Scripps Memorial Hospital and Research Foundation, La Jolla, CA, 92037
| | - Anat Galor
- Miami Veterans Administration Medical Center, Miami, FL, 33125
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami, Miami, FL, 33163
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3
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Schmitz F, Klimas R, Spenner M, Schumacher A, Hieke A, Greiner T, Enax-Krumova E, Sgodzai M, Fels M, Brünger J, Huckemann S, Stude P, Tegenthoff M, Gold R, Philipps J, Fisse AL, Grüter T, Pitarokoili K, Motte J, Sturm D. Morphological Differentiation of Corneal Inflammatory Cells: Proposal of Pragmatic Protocol. Cornea 2024:00003226-990000000-00534. [PMID: 38588437 DOI: 10.1097/ico.0000000000003543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2023] [Accepted: 02/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Corneal confocal microscopy is a noninvasive imaging technique to analyze corneal nerve fibers and corneal inflammatory cells (CICs). The amount of CICs is a potential biomarker of disease activity in chronic autoinflammatory diseases. To date, there are no standardized criteria for the morphological characterization of CICs. The aim was to establish a protocol for a standardized morphological classification of CICs based on a literature search and to test this protocol for applicability and reliability. METHODS A systematic review of the literature about definitions of CICs was conducted. Existing morphological descriptions were translated into a structured algorithm and applied by raters. Subsequently, the protocol was optimized by reducing and defining the criteria of the cell types. The optimized algorithm was applied by 4 raters. The interrater reliability was calculated using Fleiss kappa (K). RESULTS A systematic review of the literature revealed no uniform morphological criteria for the differentiation of the individual cell types in CICs. Our first protocol achieved only a low level of agreement between 3 raters (K = 0.09; 1062 rated cells). Our revised protocol was able to achieve a higher interrater reliability with 3 (K = 0.64; 471 rated cells) and 4 (K = 0.61; 628 rated cells) raters. CONCLUSIONS The indirect use of criteria from the literature leads to a high error rate. By clearly defining the individual cell types and standardizing the protocol, reproducible results were obtained, allowing the introduction of this protocol for the future evaluation of CICs in the corneal confocal microscopy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fynn Schmitz
- Department of Neurology, St. Josef-Hospital, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
- Immune-mediated Neuropathies Biobank (INHIBIT), Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Rafael Klimas
- Department of Neurology, St. Josef-Hospital, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
- Immune-mediated Neuropathies Biobank (INHIBIT), Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Marie Spenner
- Department of Neurology, St. Josef-Hospital, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
- Immune-mediated Neuropathies Biobank (INHIBIT), Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Aurelian Schumacher
- Department of Neurology, St. Josef-Hospital, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
- Immune-mediated Neuropathies Biobank (INHIBIT), Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Alina Hieke
- Department of Neurology, St. Josef-Hospital, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
- Immune-mediated Neuropathies Biobank (INHIBIT), Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Tineke Greiner
- Department of Neurology, BG University Hospital Bergmannsheil, Ruhr-University Bochum, Germany
| | - Elena Enax-Krumova
- Immune-mediated Neuropathies Biobank (INHIBIT), Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
- Department of Neurology, BG University Hospital Bergmannsheil, Ruhr-University Bochum, Germany
| | - Melissa Sgodzai
- Department of Neurology, St. Josef-Hospital, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
- Immune-mediated Neuropathies Biobank (INHIBIT), Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Miriam Fels
- Department of Neurology, St. Josef-Hospital, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
- Immune-mediated Neuropathies Biobank (INHIBIT), Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Jil Brünger
- Department of Neurology, St. Josef-Hospital, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
- Immune-mediated Neuropathies Biobank (INHIBIT), Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Sophie Huckemann
- Department of Neurology, St. Josef-Hospital, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
- Immune-mediated Neuropathies Biobank (INHIBIT), Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Philipp Stude
- Department of Neurology, BG University Hospital Bergmannsheil, Ruhr-University Bochum, Germany
| | - Martin Tegenthoff
- Immune-mediated Neuropathies Biobank (INHIBIT), Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
- Department of Neurology, BG University Hospital Bergmannsheil, Ruhr-University Bochum, Germany
| | - Ralf Gold
- Department of Neurology, St. Josef-Hospital, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
- Immune-mediated Neuropathies Biobank (INHIBIT), Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Jörg Philipps
- Department of Neurology and Neurogeriatrics, Johannes Wesling Klinikum Minden, Minden, Germany
| | - Anna Lena Fisse
- Department of Neurology, St. Josef-Hospital, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
- Immune-mediated Neuropathies Biobank (INHIBIT), Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Thomas Grüter
- Department of Neurology, St. Josef-Hospital, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
- Immune-mediated Neuropathies Biobank (INHIBIT), Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Kalliopi Pitarokoili
- Department of Neurology, St. Josef-Hospital, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
- Immune-mediated Neuropathies Biobank (INHIBIT), Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Jeremias Motte
- Department of Neurology, St. Josef-Hospital, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
- Immune-mediated Neuropathies Biobank (INHIBIT), Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Dietrich Sturm
- Immune-mediated Neuropathies Biobank (INHIBIT), Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
- Department of Neurology, BG University Hospital Bergmannsheil, Ruhr-University Bochum, Germany
- Department of Neurology, Agaplesion Bethesda Krankenhaus, Wuppertal, Germany; and
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Musa M, Chukwuyem E, Ojo OM, Topah EK, Spadea L, Salati C, Gagliano C, Zeppieri M. Unveiling Ocular Manifestations in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus. J Clin Med 2024; 13:1047. [PMID: 38398361 PMCID: PMC10889738 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13041047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2023] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) is a complex autoimmune disorder characterized by immune dysregulation and multi-organ involvement. In this concise brief review, we highlight key insights into Ocular Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE), an intricate autoimmune disorder with diverse organ involvement. Emphasizing the formation of autoantibodies and immune complex deposition, we delve into the inflammation and damage affecting ocular structures. Clinical presentations, ranging from mild dry eye syndrome to severe conditions like retinal vasculitis, necessitate a comprehensive diagnostic approach, including clinical exams, serological testing, and imaging studies. Differential diagnosis involves distinguishing SLE-related ocular manifestations from other autoimmune and non-inflammatory ocular conditions. The multidisciplinary management approach, involving rheumatologists, ophthalmologists, and immunologists, tailors treatment based on ocular involvement severity, encompassing corticosteroids, immunosuppressive agents, and biologics. Follow-up is crucial for monitoring disease progression and treatment response. Future perspectives revolve around advancing molecular understanding, refining diagnostic tools, and exploring targeted therapies. Novel research areas include genetic factors, microbiome composition, and biotechnology for tailored and effective SLE ocular treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mutali Musa
- Department of Optometry, University of Benin, Benin City 300238, Nigeria;
- Centre for Sight Africa, Onitsha 434112, Nigeria
| | | | - Oluwasola Michael Ojo
- School of Optometry and Vision Sciences, College of Health Sciences, University of Ilorin, Ilorin 240003, Nigeria
| | - Efioshiomoshi Kings Topah
- Department of Optometry, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, College of Health Sciences, Bayero University, Kano 700006, Nigeria
| | - Leopoldo Spadea
- Eye Clinic, Policlinico Umberto I, “Sapienza” University of Rome, 00142 Rome, Italy
| | - Carlo Salati
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital of Udine, 33100 Udine, Italy
| | - Caterina Gagliano
- Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, University of Enna “Kore”, Piazza Dell’Università, 94100 Enna, Italy
- Eye Clinic, Catania University San Marco Hospital, Viale Carlo Azeglio Ciampi, 95121 Catania, Italy
| | - Marco Zeppieri
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital of Udine, 33100 Udine, Italy
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Mercado C, Muñoz-Ortiz J, Godin F, Galor A. Confocal Microscopy Abnormalities Preceding Antibody Positivity and Manifestations of Sjogren's Syndrome. Ocul Immunol Inflamm 2023; 31:1741-1745. [PMID: 35914299 PMCID: PMC9889574 DOI: 10.1080/09273948.2022.2103713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2021] [Accepted: 07/14/2022] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
An asymptomatic 26-year-old woman underwent confocal microscopy as part of a control population for a research study. Images revealed reduced sub-basal corneal nerve density and multiple activated dendritic cells. Three years later, she presented with a self-limited cutaneous vasculitis in her lower extremities which prompted an evaluation for autoimmune diseases. Laboratory testing revealed positive antinuclear antibodies (1:320, thick granular pattern), and anti-SSA/SSB (SSA, 53.6 U/mL, moderately positive; SSB, 142.7 U/mL, strongly positive). Two weeks later, she presented with ocular pain and an ophthalmologic examination revealed ocular surface staining. An ocular ultrasound was consistent with posterior scleritis. Based on this picture, a diagnosis of Sjögren syndrome (SS) was made. SS is a chronic autoimmune disease that can present with symptoms that diminish the patient's quality of life. Confocal microscopy might be a valuable tool for the early diagnosis of disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolina Mercado
- Escuela Superior de Oftalmología, Instituto Barraquer de América, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Juliana Muñoz-Ortiz
- Escuela Superior de Oftalmología, Instituto Barraquer de América, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Fernando Godin
- Department of Ophthalmology, Universidad El Bosque. Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Anat Galor
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami, Miami, Florida, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology, Miami Veterans Administration Medical Center, Miami, Florida, USA
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Petropoulos IN, John K, Al-Shibani F, Ponirakis G, Khan A, Gad H, Mahfoud ZR, Altarawneh H, Rehman MH, Al-Merekhi D, George P, Ibrahim F, Francis R, Canibano B, Deleu D, El-Sotouhy A, Vattoth S, Stettner M, Own A, Shuaib A, Akhtar N, Kamran S, Malik RA. Corneal immune cells as a biomarker of inflammation in multiple sclerosis: a longitudinal study. Ther Adv Neurol Disord 2023; 16:17562864231204974. [PMID: 37915502 PMCID: PMC10617262 DOI: 10.1177/17562864231204974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Corneal immune cells (ICs) are antigen-presenting cells that are known to increase ocular and systemic inflammatory conditions. Objective We aimed to assess longitudinal changes in corneal IC in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) and relation to disability and ongoing treatment. Design Prospective observational study conducted between September 2016 and February 2020. Methods Patients with relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS) (n = 45) or secondary progressive MS (SPMS) (n = 15) underwent corneal confocal microscopy (CCM) at baseline and 2-year follow-up for estimation of corneal IC density [dendritic cells with (DCF) (cells/mm2) or without nerve fiber contact (DCP); and non-dendritic cells with (NCF) or without nerve fiber contact (NCP)]. Optical coherence tomography, neuroimaging, and disability assessments were additionally performed. Healthy controls (n = 20) were assessed at baseline. Results In both RRMS and SPMS compared to controls, DCP (p < 0.001 and p < 0.001, respectively) and DCF (p < 0.001 and p = 0.005) were higher and NCF (p = 0.007 and p = 0.02) was lower at baseline. DCP showed excellent performance in identifying patients with MS (sensitivity/specificity = 0.88/0.90) followed by DCF (0.80/0.75) and NCF (0.80/0.85). At follow-up compared to baseline, DCP (p = 0.01) was significantly reduced, and NCP (p = 0.004) and NCF (p = 0.04) were increased. Subgroup analysis showed that baseline NCP and NCF were significantly higher (p = 0.04-0.05) in patients who switched disease-modifying treatment, and baseline NCP (p = 0.05) was higher in patients on interferon. Conclusion Baseline and change in corneal IC were related to axonal degeneration and treatment status. Evaluation of corneal IC using CCM may allow an assessment of ongoing inflammation, disease progression, and the effect of treatment in MS.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Karen John
- Division of Research, Weill Cornell Medicine, Doha, Qatar
| | | | | | - Adnan Khan
- Division of Research, Weill Cornell Medicine, Doha, Qatar
| | - Hoda Gad
- Division of Research, Weill Cornell Medicine, Doha, Qatar
| | - Ziyad R. Mahfoud
- Division of Medical Education, Weill Cornell Medicine, Doha, Qatar
- Division of Epidemiology, Department of Population Health Sciences, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | | | | | | | - Pooja George
- Neuroscience Institute, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Faiza Ibrahim
- Neuroscience Institute, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Reny Francis
- Neuroscience Institute, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | | | - Dirk Deleu
- Neuroscience Institute, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | | | - Surjith Vattoth
- Neuroscience Institute, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
- Department of Radiology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA
| | - Mark Stettner
- Department of Neurology and Center for Translational Neuro- and Behavioral Sciences (C-TNBS), University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Ahmed Own
- Neuroscience Institute, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Ashfaq Shuaib
- Neuroscience Institute, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
- Department of Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Qatar
| | - Naveed Akhtar
- Neuroscience Institute, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Saadat Kamran
- Neuroscience Institute, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Rayaz A. Malik
- Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar of Cornell University, Research Division, Qatar Foundation, Education City, Al-Luqta street, Doha 24144, Qatar
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7
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Bitirgen G, Kucuk A, Ergun MC, Satirtav G, Malik RA. Corneal nerve loss and increased Langerhans cells are associated with disease severity in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Eye (Lond) 2023; 37:2950-2955. [PMID: 36808180 PMCID: PMC10516870 DOI: 10.1038/s41433-023-02447-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2022] [Revised: 01/05/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/19/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a multisystem autoimmune disorder characterized by articular and extra-articular manifestations. Neuropathy is a poorly studied manifestation of RA. The aim of this study was to utilize the rapid non-invasive ophthalmic imaging technique of corneal confocal microscopy to identify whether there is evidence of small nerve fibre injury and immune cell activation in patients with RA. SUBJECTS/METHODS Fifty consecutive patients with RA and 35 healthy control participants were enrolled in this single-centre, cross-sectional study conducted at a university hospital. Disease activity was assessed with the 28-Joint Disease Activity Score and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (DAS28-ESR). Central corneal sensitivity was measured with a Cochet-Bonnet contact corneal esthesiometer. A laser scanning in vivo corneal confocal microscope was used to quantify corneal nerve fibre density (CNFD), nerve branch density (CNBD), nerve fibre length (CNFL), and Langerhans cell (LC) density. RESULTS Corneal sensitivity (P = 0.01), CNFD (P = 0.02), CNBD (P < 0.001), and CNFL (P < 0.001) were lower, and mature (P = 0.001) and immature LC densities (P = 0.011) were higher in patients with RA compared to control subjects. CNFD (P = 0.016) and CNFL (P = 0.028) were significantly lower in patients with moderate to high (DAS28-ESR > 3.2) compared to mild (DAS28-ESR ≤ 3.2) disease activity. Furthermore, the DAS28-ESR score correlated with CNFD (r = -0.425; P = 0.002), CNBD (ρ = -0.362; P = 0.010), CNFL (r = -0.464; P = 0.001), total LC density (ρ = 0.362; P = 0.010) and immature LC density (ρ = 0.343; P = 0.015). CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrates reduced corneal sensitivity, corneal nerve fibre loss and increased LCs which were associated with the severity of disease activity in patients with RA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gulfidan Bitirgen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Necmettin Erbakan University Meram Faculty of Medicine, Konya, Turkey.
| | - Adem Kucuk
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Necmettin Erbakan University Meram Faculty of Medicine, Konya, Turkey
| | - Mustafa Cagri Ergun
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Necmettin Erbakan University Meram Faculty of Medicine, Konya, Turkey
| | - Gunhal Satirtav
- Department of Ophthalmology, Necmettin Erbakan University Meram Faculty of Medicine, Konya, Turkey
| | - Rayaz A Malik
- Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Research Division, Qatar Foundation, Doha, Qatar
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, Cardiac Centre, Faculty of Medical and Human Sciences, University of Manchester and NIHR Clinical Research Facility, Manchester, UK
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8
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Sonkodi B, Marsovszky L, Csorba A, Balog A, Kopper B, Nagy ZZ, Resch MD. Neural Regeneration in Dry Eye Secondary to Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Is Also Disrupted like in Rheumatoid Arthritis, but in a Progressive Fashion. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:10680. [PMID: 37445856 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241310680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2023] [Revised: 06/16/2023] [Accepted: 06/23/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Our objective in this study was to analyze the aberrant neural regeneration activity in the cornea by means of in vivo confocal microscopy in systemic lupus erythematosus patients with concurrent dry eye disease. We examined 29 systemic lupus erythematosus patients and 29 age-matched healthy control subjects. Corneal nerve fiber density (CNFD, the number of fibers/mm2) and peripheral Langerhans cell morphology were lower (p < 0.05) in systemic lupus erythematosus patients compared to the control group. Interestingly, corneal nerve branch density, corneal nerve fiber length, corneal nerve fiber total branch density, and corneal nerve fiber area showed a negative correlation with disease duration. A negative correlation was also demonstrated between average corneal nerve fiber density and central Langerhans cell density. This is in line with our hypothesis that corneal somatosensory terminal Piezo2 channelopathy-induced impaired Piezo2-Piezo1 crosstalk not only disrupts regeneration and keeps transcription activated, but could lead to Piezo1 downregulation and cell activation on Langerhans cells when we consider a chronic path. Hence, Piezo2 containing mechanosensory corneal nerves and dendritic Langerhans cells could also be regarded as central players in shaping the ocular surface neuroimmune homeostasis through the Piezo system. Moreover, lost autoimmune neuroinflammation compensation, lost phagocytic self-eating capacity, and lost transcription regulation, not to mention autoantibodies against vascular heparin sulfate proteoglycans and phospholipids, could all contribute to the progressive fashion of dry eye disease in systemic lupus erythematosus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Balázs Sonkodi
- Department of Health Sciences and Sport Medicine, Hungarian University of Sports Science, 1123 Budapest, Hungary
| | - László Marsovszky
- Department of Ophthalmology, Semmelweis University, 1085 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Anita Csorba
- Department of Ophthalmology, Semmelweis University, 1085 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Attila Balog
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Albert Szent-Györgyi Health Center, University of Szeged, 6725 Szeged, Hungary
| | - Bence Kopper
- Faculty of Kinesiology, Hungarian University of Sports Science, 1123 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Zoltán Zsolt Nagy
- Department of Ophthalmology, Semmelweis University, 1085 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Miklós D Resch
- Department of Ophthalmology, Semmelweis University, 1085 Budapest, Hungary
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Asif MI, Kalra N, Sharma N, Jain N, Sharma M, Sinha R. Connective tissue disorders and eye: A review and recent updates. Indian J Ophthalmol 2023; 71:2385-2398. [PMID: 37322648 PMCID: PMC10418020 DOI: 10.4103/ijo.ijo_286_22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2022] [Revised: 03/20/2023] [Accepted: 04/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Collagen vascular disorders (CVDs), also known as connective tissue diseases (CTDs), are a heterogeneous group of entities that affect the connective tissues and are capable of causing end-organ damage to multiple systems, primarily cardiopulmonary and musculoskeletal. However, the occurrence and severity are highly variable among patients. Ocular involvement occurs in a significant number of these disorders and may precede the onset of other extraocular features, thereby serving as an important marker in the diagnosis of these diseases. A timely and accurate diagnosis enables the management of complications. CTDs are primarily immune-mediated inflammatory diseases; however, classifications have encompassed heritable disorders affecting collagen-containing structures and disorders of vascular development. A review of literature published until 25 January 2022 and collected from various databases using the relevant keywords was conducted. All publications (original articles, review articles, as well as case reports) describing the ocular features in CTDs were studied in detail. The objective of this review is to recognize the common ophthalmic presentations of various autoimmune and heritable CTDs, distinguish them from overlapping diseases, elaborate on the prognosis and management of these varied eye presentations, and deliberate on their impact on other ophthalmic surgeries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed I. Asif
- Dr. Rajendra Prasad Centre for Ophthalmic Sciences, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Nidhi Kalra
- Dr. Rajendra Prasad Centre for Ophthalmic Sciences, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Namrata Sharma
- Dr. Rajendra Prasad Centre for Ophthalmic Sciences, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Neha Jain
- The Cornea Institute, KAR Campus, L. V. Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
| | - Mohita Sharma
- Tirupati Eye Centre & Research Institute, Noida, India
| | - Rajesh Sinha
- Dr. Rajendra Prasad Centre for Ophthalmic Sciences, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
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Elhusseiny AM, Gouda J, Farag C, Chauhan MZ, Arfeen SA, Elhilali HM. Central corneal thickness profile in relation to pediatric cataract morphology. J AAPOS 2022; 26:260-262. [PMID: 36113702 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaapos.2022.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2022] [Revised: 06/15/2022] [Accepted: 07/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Several studies have demonstrated that central corneal thickness (CCT) increases in pediatric eyes after cataract extraction with or without intraocular lens (IOL) implantation. This thickening has been hypothesized to be the result of endothelial dysfunction caused by direct trauma during surgery, toxic effects of irrigating fluids, or postoperative inflammation. Limited literature is available regarding the preoperative profile of CCT in pediatric cataract eyes. The purpose of the current study was to evaluate the differences in the mean preoperative CCT in eyes with pediatric cataract related to the presence or absence of persistent fetal vasculature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdelrahman M Elhusseiny
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kasr Al-Ainy Hospitals, Cairo University, Egypt; Department of Ophthalmology, Harvey and Bernice Jones Eye Institute, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas.
| | - Jylan Gouda
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kasr Al-Ainy Hospitals, Cairo University, Egypt
| | - Christina Farag
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kasr Al-Ainy Hospitals, Cairo University, Egypt
| | - Muhammad Z Chauhan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Harvey and Bernice Jones Eye Institute, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas
| | - Shaimaa A Arfeen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kasr Al-Ainy Hospitals, Cairo University, Egypt
| | - Hala M Elhilali
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kasr Al-Ainy Hospitals, Cairo University, Egypt
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