Proton Shell Gaps in N=28 Nuclei from the First Complete Spectroscopy Study with FRIB Decay Station Initiator

The first complete measurement of the β-decay strength distribution of _{17}^{45}Cl_{28} was performed at the Facility for Rare Isotope Beams (FRIB) with the FRIB Decay Station Initiator during the second FRIB experiment. The measurement involved the detection of neutrons and γ rays in two focal planes of the FRIB Decay Station Initiator in a single experiment for the first time. This enabled an analytical consistency in extracting the β-decay strength distribution over the large range of excitation energies, including neutron unbound states. We observe a rapid increase in the β-decay strength distribution above the neutron separation energy in _{18}^{45}Ar_{27}. This was interpreted to be caused by the transitioning of neutrons into protons excited across the Z=20 shell gap. The SDPF-MU interaction with reduced shell gap best reproduced the data. The measurement demonstrates a new approach that is sensitive to the proton shell gap in neutron rich nuclei according to SDPF-MU calculations.

Large orbital masses due to longstanding hydrogel retinal explants

AIM

To describe the features of orbital masses occurring as a late complication of hydrogel retinal explants.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Retrospective review of patients presenting with orbital masses at decades after retinal surgery.

RESULTS

Two patients with huge orbital masses are described, their presenting 25 and 28 years after retinal detachment repair with expansile hydrogel explants. In one case, the preoperative diagnosis was pleomorphic adenoma, and the other-with extreme distortion of the globe-was considered to be lymphoma or chronic inflammation arising around prior retinal explants. At orbitotomy, the masses were found to be grossly expanded hydrogel explants that were removed piecemeal from their fibrous capsules. Histopathology showed very mild inflammation with occasional multinucleate giant cells and patchy capsular calcification, and an eosinophilic amorphous material staining strongly with Alcian-blue. Surgery was uncomplicated and both orbits healed with marked functional improvement.

CONCLUSION

Expansile hydrogel retinal explants were largely used in the 1980s and can present, often decades after the retinal surgery, with impaired orbital functions due to large parabulbar masses. The hydrophilic material appears to expand very slowly over decades, leading to gross distortion of neighbouring structures and a tumour-like mass.

Long-Term Outcome for Primary Papillomas of the Lacrimal Drainage System

AIMS

To report long-term outcomes after surgery for primary benign papillomas of the lacrimal drainage system.

METHODS

Retrospective review of patients with primary lacrimal drainage system papillomas, first seen between 1984 and 2021, but excluding lesions with sino-nasal origin or malignant histology. Patients were categorized by tumor histology (squamous, transitional, and mixed cell) and growth pattern (exophytic, endophytic, or mixed).

RESULTS

Thirty patients (18 female; 60%) presented at a mean age of 46.1 years (12-79 years). Over an average follow-up of 10.4 years, 30% of patients experienced recurrence, with rates differing slightly by growth pattern: 25% for exophytic tumors and 40% for endophytic and mixed-pattern tumors (p = 0.431). The overall 5-year recurrence-free survival was 67% (± 9% standard error), this being slightly higher for exophytic lesions (75% ± 10%) as compared to 48% (± 19%) for tumors with an endophytic component (p = 0.370). No cases of malignant transformation were observed, and the tumor type at recurrence matched the initial diagnosis.

CONCLUSION

Primary benign papillomas of the lacrimal drainage system have a long-term recurrence rate of about one-third, with a higher frequency in those exhibiting an endophytic growth pattern. The study highlights the importance of prolonged surveillance for recurrence, especially for endophytic and mixed growth pattern tumors, and for the potential to undergo malignant transformation. The results support the effectiveness of endoscopic surgical excision or laser thermos-ablation in managing recurrent lacrimal drainage system papillomas after dacryocystorhinostomy.

Repeated Lacrimal Gland Biopsies

INTRODUCTION

To examine the indications for repeated lacrimal gland biopsies, and the rate of detection of a new diagnosis.

METHODS

A single-center, retrospective review of patients who underwent more than 1 lacrimal gland biopsy, either ipsilateral or contralateral, between 2000 and 2022.

RESULTS

One hundred and twenty-three patients (80 female; 65%) had repeated lacrimal gland biopsy. The commonest diagnosis on initial biopsy was chronic nonspecific dacryoadenitis (NSD) (49/123; 40%). Indications for repeated biopsy were uncertainty in making a histopathological diagnosis (16/123; 13%), poorly-responsive or recurrent ipsilateral disease (61/123; 50%), new or continued/worsening contralateral disease (30 patients; 24%), and planned tumor resection after initial biopsy (16/123; 13%). Of the 40 patients (33%) with a different histopathological diagnosis after repeated lacrimal biopsy, 4 (10%) had lymphoma, initially reported as NSD (4/49 with NSD; 8%), and 7/40 (18%) (14% of the 49 NSD patients) were reclassified as having specific inflammations (including 2 with granulomatous polyangiitis); of the 7 having reclassification as a specific dacryoadenitis, 6/7 had ipsilateral disease failing to respond to primary treatment, and 1/7 had new onset or progression of contralateral disease. All histology after the primary biopsy of 16 patients with lacrimal gland malignancies retained the same tissue diagnosis.

CONCLUSION

Repeated biopsy for lacrimal gland disease in this study revealed a diagnosis of malignancy in 20%, including lymphoma in 8% of those initially diagnosed with NSD. There was a 14% rate of diagnostic progression from "non-specific" dacryoadenitis to a more specific inflammatory disease.

One-stage Intraconal Volume Modification for Exposed and Nonexposed Ball Implants

PURPOSE

To assess long-term outcomes and reinterventions for exposed and nonexposed intraconal orbital implants after single-stage socket revisional surgery.

METHODS

Retrospective case-note review of patients with exposed or nonexposed orbital ball implants, who underwent a single-stage ball exchange (Group I) or ball removal with dermis-fat graft (Group II); Group I was subdivided as having either exposed (A) or nonexposed (B) implants. Outcomes were compared with similar cohorts undergoing multistage surgery.

RESULTS

Of 172 patients (54% male), 153 (89%) underwent ball exchange (Group I) and 19 (11%) had dermis-fat graft (Group II). With a mean follow up of 7.8 years, Group I patients without ball exposure (Group IB) had a slightly higher rate of reintervention for persistent volume deficit (21% vs. 9%; p = 0.163) and implant migration (6% vs. 0%; p = 0.091), while Group IA patients-having surgery for exposed implants-had more reexposures (7% vs. 3%; p = 0.270). Single-stage and 2-stage surgery had similar reintervention rates, with the exception of a trend toward fewer volume enhancements for those with nonexposed implants (17% vs. 30%; p = 0.380), and a shorter time to (re)exposure for exposed implants after 2-stage procedures (mean 0.33 vs. 3.5 years; p = 0.571). Group II patients required further volume enhancement in 32% of 1-stage procedures, and one patient needed graft removal.

CONCLUSION

Single-stage volume modification is effective and the results are comparable to staged surgery for either exposed or nonexposed implants. Most patients report a stable prosthesis and satisfactory cosmesis, after a faster rehabilitation.

Orbital infarction during drug abuse: tissues of the globe do not appear to recover function

AIM

To describe the features of an orbital infarction syndrome arising after prolonged orbital pressure during drug-induced stupor in young people.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The clinical presentation and course for drug-induced orbital infarction is described, based on a retrospective review of clinical notes and imaging.

RESULTS

Two cases of orbital infarction syndrome, due to prolonged orbital compression caused by sleeping with pressure on the orbit during drug-induced stupor, are described. Both patients presented with very poor vision and mydriasis, marked periorbital swelling with some pain, and complete external ophthalmoplegia. Whilst the orbital changes and eye movements recovered, the affected eyes had persistent wide mydriasis, and remained blind with marked optic atrophy.

CONCLUSION

With a mechanism analogous to prolonged orbital pressure due to improper head positioning during neurosurgical procedures, drug-users appear to risk developing an orbital infarction syndrome if they rest with prolonged pressure on the orbit during a drug-induced stupor.

Progressive Necrotizing Ocular Surface Disease, Despite Immunosuppression

A 60-year-old man was referred with 2 years of left conjunctivitis that persisted despite antibiotic and systemic corticosteroid therapy. The severity and extent of surface disease had increased slowly after prior dacryocystorhinostomy. Subsequent conjunctival biopsies demonstrated granulomas with patchy necrosis but no evidence of malignancy or organisms; systemic screening for sarcoidosis and tuberculosis was negative. A markedly thickened and inflamed left ocular surface was present on referral, with areas of conjunctival ischemia and patchy white slough on the tarsi. Further ocular surface biopsy did not reveal malignancy, and therefore mycobacterial infection was considered a possible cause. Mycobacterium tuberculosis was cultured, albeit only after repeated conjunctival swabs and biopsies. Appropriate treatment led to a very rapid resolution of ocular surface disease. Localized periocular tuberculosis is extremely rare outside developing nations, and its rarity may cause this differential diagnosis for persistent severe ocular surface disease to be overlooked in industrialized nations.

Long-Term Outcome of Staged Socket Surgery for Acquired Anophthalmos

PURPOSE

To evaluate long-term outcomes of staged volume rehabilitation for acquired anophthalmos.

METHODS

Case-note review of patients who had preceding i) eye removal without implant, ii) eye removal with an intraconal implant, but ball-related problems, or iii) removal of exposed implant. Secondary interventions were a) a first-time ball implant, b) dermis-fat graft, c) ball repositioning, d) ball replacement after prior removal, or e) orbital floor implantation.

RESULTS

Secondary volume-augmenting surgery was performed in 175 sockets at a mean age of 42.7 years (range 2-91), with 62% secondary ball implants, 3% dermis-fat grafts, 6% ball repositioning, 19% ball replacement after prior removal for exposure, and 10% having orbital floor implantation. After this surgery, further volume enhancement was required in 21% of sockets, this being 40% for spheres ≤18 mm diameter, in contrast to 6% for those ≥20 mm (p < 0.001). Exposure or malposition of the secondary implant occurred in 8% (12/151) and was unrelated to implant type, size, wrapping, or prior irradiation. Tertiary surgery addressed lining deficiency (18%) or eyelid malposition (25%). Overall, 92/175 (53%) had tertiary surgery to improve cosmesis and comfort, with 49% (36/92) being related to small implants. At a mean follow-up of 9.1 years, 82% of sockets had adequate volume, 79% had excellent lining, and 93% were comfortable. Prosthetic fit was satisfactory in 96% of cases, and 97% reported improved cosmesis.

CONCLUSION

Over half of the sockets having planned 2-stage volume enhancement may need further procedures, especially after small-volume secondary implants, but, with meticulous surgery, reasonable long-term results can be achieved with few complications.

Long-Term Surgical Outcome for Orbital Solitary Fibrous Tumors

PURPOSE

To report long-term outcomes after surgery for orbital solitary fibrous tumors.

METHODS

Retrospective review of patients with orbital solitary fibrous tumor, first seen between 1971 and 2022. Primary excisions were grouped as (A) surgically intact, (B) macroscopic, but with cell spillage, or (C) known incomplete excision.

RESULTS

Fifty-nine patients (31 female; 53%) presented at a mean age of 43.0 years (19-82 years), with 5 patients (8.5%) having malignant solitary fibrous tumors. Average follow up was 11.4 years (median 7.8; range 1-43 years). There were 28 of 59 (47%) group A patients with 1 of 28 (3%) having recurrence, 20 of 59 (34%) group B having 6 of 20 (30%) recurrences, and 11 of 59 (19%) group C with 9 of 11 (82%) recurrence ( p < 0.001 for recurrence rate). At a mean of 8.9 (range 1-23.6) years after initial treatment, continued local tumor growth was evident in 16 (27%) patients, with higher-grade recurrence in 3 of 14 (21%) cases. No patient had systemic disease at presentation, but 2 of 59 patients (3%) developed metastases at 22 and 30 years after first treatment. The 10-year progression-free survival was 94% (group A), 60% (group B), and 36% (group C). Tumor disruption or incomplete excision (groups B + C) carries the highest risk of tumor recurrence (hazard ratio 15.0; 95% confidence interval, 1.98-114; p = 0.009), with no correlation to tumor size or histology.

CONCLUSIONS

Orbital solitary fibrous tumors have a low recurrence rate with surgically intact excision; piecemeal excision, capsular disruption, or known incomplete resection have a high recurrence rate, which can occur decades later. Baseline postoperative scans is recommended, together with long-term clinical and interval imaging.

Periocular Mass Due to Persistent Secretion Within a Transplanted Parotid Duct

A male patient underwent microvascular transplantation of an autologous submandibular gland and its associated (Wharton's) duct for management of very severe right keratoconjunctivitis sicca due to Stevens-Johnson syndrome; due to hypersecretion, the gland was later removed in toto. Twenty-two years later, he presented with a nontender, sausage-like mass lying subcutaneously in the right temple. Intraoperatively a fluctuant tubular mass passing from the temporalis fossa to the superotemporal conjunctiva was identified and excised intact. Histology showed a slightly proteinaceous fluid within a duct lined with cuboidal epithelium, this being compatible with Wharton's duct. This case highlights that iatrogenic causes should be considered with any history of periocular injury or surgery.

Presentation of orbital solitary fibrous tumours

AIMS

To evaluate presenting features of patients with orbital solitary fibrous tumours (SFTs), based on histological phenotype.

METHODS

A retrospective case-note review was performed for demographics and presenting features for patients with orbital SFTs. The tumours were classified as "Group IA" hypocellular SFT phenotype, "Group IB" haemangiopericytoma phenotype and low mitotic activity, and high-grade "Group II" haemangiopericytoma phenotype with high mitotic activity.

RESULTS

Sixty-four patients (34 female; 53%) presented at a mean age of 42.2 years (median 38; range 19-82), with Group II patients presenting at an older age (mean 53 years). Median symptom duration was 12 months for Groups IA and IB, compared to 4 months for Group II, the commonest symptoms being proptosis (53%), diplopia (41%), periorbital swelling (31%), and altered vision (19%). Mean LogMAR was 0.17 (median 0.0; range -0.2-4), and 14% had ipsilateral optic neuropathy, with no significant difference between the three groups. Non-axial displacement was noted in 69%, a palpable mass in 45%, and reduced eye movements in 59%; choroidal folds and optic disc swelling were recorded in 12% and 9%. SFTs were mostly extraconal (59%), within the superior and superonasal quadrants (44%), with an average estimated tumour volume of 4.9 ml (median 3.6; range 0.31-14.5 ml).

CONCLUSION

SFTs may present with impaired visual function (∼15%), fundal abnormalities (a fifth), globe displacement (two-thirds), and reduced ocular motility (over a half). High-grade tumours tend to present more than a decade later, with a shorter duration of symptoms.

Incidence and Risk Factors for Poor Postoperative Visual Outcome After Excision of Orbital Cavernous Venous Malformations

AIMS

To determine the incidence and risk factors for poor postoperative visual outcome (PPVO) after removal of orbital cavernous venous malformations (OCVMs).

METHODS

Retrospective case-note and imaging review for patients undergoing excision of OCVMs, with estimation of odds-ratios (ORs) and relative risks (RRs) for visual loss in relation to the position of the mass, surgical approach, and patient factors.

RESULTS

The 290 patients (179 female; 62%) presented at a mean age of 46.4 years: 243/287 (85%) OCVMs were intraconal, with 213/243 (88%) located freely in the posterior two-thirds of the orbit, and 30/243 (12%) wedged tightly in the apex. PPVO was observed in 6.9% (20/290) patients, solely after removal of intraconal lesions, Univariate analysis showed increased risk with preoperative relative afferent pupillary defect (RAPD) (14/107 [13%]; RR 2.9; P = 0.011), apical lesions (9/30 [30%]; RR 5.8; P < 0.001), situated below optic nerve (15/115 [13%]; RR 3.3; P = 0.007), fibrous masses (14/78 [18%]; RR 6.7; P = 0.005), or intraoperative diastolic blood pressure below 50mmHg (10/64 [16%]; RR 2.8; P = 0.007). Multivariate analysis found apical extension (OR 4.9; P = 0.036) and fibrous lesions (OR 10.0; P = 0.035) as strongest predictors for PPVO. The incidence of complete visual loss (no light perception) was 4.1% (12/290); half of these patients had preoperative acuity of counting fingers or worse, 8 (67%) had RAPD, 7 (58%) wedged apical lesions, and 8 (67%) were below the optic nerve.

CONCLUSION

PPVO after excision of OCVMs can occur in up to 5% of "free" retrobulbar intraconal lesions and in approximately one-third of apical lesions.

Chorio-Retinal Folds Associated With Orbital Cavernous Venous Malformations

PURPOSE

To determine the incidence of clinically detectable chorio-retinal folds (CRFs) with orbital cavernous venous malformations (OCVMs) and their recovery.

METHODS

Retrospective case-note and imaging review, with estimation of odds ratios in relation to the position and volume of the mass.

RESULTS

Records for 402 patients were reviewed, 83 (21%) having CRFs. The mean logarithm of minimum angle of resolution acuity was similar with or without CRFs (0.37 and 0.31, respectively; p = 0.46), but induced hyperopia was commoner with CRFs (76% vs. 12%; p < 0.001), exophthalmos greater (4.52 mm vs. 2.97 mm; p < 0.001), eye movement restriction commoner (37% vs. 21%; p = 0.004), and disc swelling more prevalent (42%, vs. 17%; p < 0.001). Orbital cavernous venous malformations with CRFs were almost all intraconal (98%; odds ratio 9.96; p = 0.002), and 93% (77/83) midorbital (odds ratio 6.02; p < 0.001). The median size with CRFs was twice that of those without (3.85 ml vs. 1.92 ml; p < 0.001), and two-thirds OCVMs with folds had volumes >2.5 ml ( p < 0.001). The OCVM was excised in 76 of 83 (92%) of CRF group and 213 of 319 (67%) of those without ( p < 0.001). The postoperative acuity was improved or unchanged in 67 of 76 (88%) eyes with folds, and 184 of 213 (83%) without CRFs ( p = 0.84). The proportion recovering an acuity within 1 Snellen line (or better than) the unaffected side was 80% with CRFs and 77% in their absence ( p = 0.63). Induced hyperopia persisted in 39% of all patients, with the mean being higher with CRFs (2.22D vs. 1.02D; p = 0.017).

CONCLUSIONS

CRFs occur in ~25% of mid-intraconal OCVMs. Despite OCVM excision, 39% of operated patients retain significant residual hyperopia (54% if CRFs present before surgery), and 41% of such CRFs remain clinically detectable after surgery (with variable visual impairment). Earlier surgery might, therefore, be advisable in patients with CRFs and/or induced hyperopia.

Residual Apical Lamina Papyracea as a Cause for Persistent Dysthyroid Optic Neuropathy After Orbital Decompression

Two patients had persistent compressive dysthyroid optic neuropathy after decompression of the medial orbital wall and floor. In both cases, there was ~3 mm of unresected lamina papyracea anterior to the Annulus of Zinn, and removal of this residual bone led to resolution of the neuropathy. These illustrative cases suggest that, in some patients, even small amounts of residual crowding at the orbital apex can critically embarrass optic nerve perfusion, with resulting continued ischemic optic neuropathy.

Presenting features for developmental cysts of the orbit

PURPOSE

To evaluate the clinical features of developmental cysts of the orbit.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Retrospective study of patients who had excision of cysts between 1992 and 2020.

RESULTS

Three hundred and 58 patients (189 male; 53%) with orbital developmental cysts were identified, all being unilateral. Age at surgery varied from birth to 77 years (mean 17, median 18 years) and the average symptom duration was 5 years (median 18 months; range 1 day-50 years). The commonest presenting features were a peribulbar lump or upper lid swelling, followed by proptosis, pain, diplopia and reduced vision. Most patients (82%) had a palpable mass, with epidermoids, sebaceous dermoids and keratinised dermoids commonly affecting the superotemporal quadrant, and conjunctiva-containing cysts usually being biased to a medial location. Cysts were lined by keratinised epithelium with dermal structures (224/358; 63%), non-keratinised epithelium with dermal structures (69/358; 19%), epidermis without identifiable dermal structures (19/358 'epidermoids'; 5%), conjunctiva (12/358; 3%), respiratory epithelium (4/358; 1%), or mixed dermal and conjunctival epithelia (30/358 'dermo-conjunctival' cysts; 8%). Overall, two-thirds (242/358; 66%) had histological evidence of chronic intramural inflammation, and a half of cysts showed granuloma formation (178/358 cysts). Chronic inflammation was less common with conjunctival cysts (54%, 7/12 patients) and none showed granuloma formation.

CONCLUSION

Developmental cysts of the orbit vary from the relatively common dermoid cysts to the extremely rare respiratory epithelial-lined cysts. Respiratory cysts, being deeper, may present late in life and cysts containing conjunctival epithelium tend to be less inflamed and typically favour the superonasal quadrant.

Ophthalmic Presentation and Outcome for Sinonasal Mucoceles

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to evaluate ophthalmic features and outcomes for patients who present with sinonasal mucoceles expanding into the orbit.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Retrospective chart review for patients seen in a specialist orbital clinic over 25 years, with a review of demographics, clinical characteristics, imaging features, and outcomes after treatment.

RESULTS

Sixty patients (38 males; 63%) presented at a mean age of 51 years (range 3-89). Symptom duration was extremely variable (1 week-15 years) with a mean of 14 months and median of 4 months-the commonest being periorbital swelling (33/62 orbits) or ache (20 orbits), proptosis (30 orbits), and diplopia (19/50 patients without visual impairment; 38%). Of mucoceles affecting orbital function, 60/62 (97%) were of frontal and/or ethmoid sinus origin, and probable predispositions included past trauma (12/62 orbits) or prior ipsilateral sinus surgery (14 orbits). Forty-two of the 59 (71%) patients who underwent sinus surgery had complete resolution of symptoms within 6 months. Of 10 orbits presenting with moderate to severe visual loss (Snellen 20/60 or worse), the acuity improved in 7/10 (70%) of these after sinus surgery. Although 12/62 (19%) of eyes presented with epiphora, this persisted after sinus surgery in 9 orbits, and areas of occult malignant change were found in 3/9 (33%).

CONCLUSION

Sinus mucoceles expanding into the orbit can cause significant globe displacement, dysmotility, or visual impairment. Symptoms usually resolve within several months after functional sinus surgery, but where symptoms persist (particularly periorbital swelling or epiphora) this might indicate underlying secondary causes, such as occult malignancy.

Pupillary Abnormalities After Excision of Orbital Cavernous Venous Malformations

AIMS

The aim of this study was to determine the incidence and recovery rate for pupillary abnormalities after excision of orbital cavernous venous malformations (OCVMs).

METHODS

Retrospective case-note and imaging review for patients with OCVMs, with an estimation of odds ratios (ORs) in relation to the position of the mass and surgical approach.

RESULTS

The 287 included patients (176 female; 61%) presented at a mean age of 46.5 years: 243/287 (85%) OCVMs were intraconal, 253/287 (88%) located in the posterior two-thirds of the orbit, and 29/287 (11%) wedged tightly in the apex. Pupillary changes-varying from minor sectoral paresis (only evident on slit-lamp examination) to a marked mydriasis-were noted in 21% (60/287) of patients and were strongly associated with removal of intraconal (60/243 [25%]; p < 0.001), apical (14/29 [48%]; OR, 4.3; p < 0.001), inferior or inferotemporal (41/105 [39%]; OR, 5.5; p < 0.001) masses. Lateral approaches-either with (23/129; 18%) or without (30/71; 42%) osteotomy-were associated with 88% (53/60) of all abnormalities (OR, 4.1; p < 0.001). Where known, the abnormalities improved in 43/50 (86%), although 15/43 (35%) had a persistent tonic pupil.

CONCLUSION

Pupillary abnormalities after excision of OCVMs can occur in up to a quarter of intraconal lesions-particularly those located inferotemporally or inferiorly-and in about a half of apical lesions. Lateral or inferolateral orbital approaches that disrupt the inferior intraconal fat appear to be associated with a higher risk. Most changes resolve or improve markedly, although a third of those affected may have a persistent tonic pupil.

Presenting Characteristics for Symptomatic, as Compared to Asymptomatic (assumed), Orbital Cavernous Venous Malformations

AIMS

To compare the characteristics for symptomatic and asymptomatic orbital cavernous venous malformations (OCVMs).

METHODS

A retrospective case-note review for patients with OCVMs was performed for demographics and presenting features.

RESULTS

Four hundred and fourteen patients (258 female; 62%) presented at a mean age of 49.4 years and all were unilateral. Ninety-two (22%) asymptomatic OCVMs were found a decade later than 322 symptomatic patients (57.8 vs. 47.0 years; p < 0.001). Patients with symptomatic OCVMs had an average symptom duration of 3.3 years with the commonest being altered vision (57%), proptosis (55%), orbital ache (21%), and diplopia (13%). Visual obscurations were reported by 11% of symptomatic patients, whereas 30% had a hyperopic shift.Mean LogMAR was 0.39 for symptomatic OCVMs and 0.1 for asymptomatic ( p < 0.001), and a relative afferent pupillary defect was detected in 38% symptomatic and 7% asymptomatic patients ( p < 0.001). Mean relative exophthalmos was 3.9 mm in symptomatic patients and 1.5 mm in asymptomatic ( p < 0.001), but there was no correlation between age and exophthalmos. Symptomatic lesions had higher rates of nonaxial displacement (30% vs. 7%; p < 0.00001), more palpable masses (17% vs. 2%; p = 0.0001), and more impairment of motility (29% vs. 10%; p = 0.0024). Fundal abnormalities were noted in 63% of patients with symptomatic OCVMs, as compared to 26% of asymptomatic ( p < 0.0001).

CONCLUSION

Symptomatic OCVMs may present with reduced visual function, either due to the globe or optic nerve compression, or proptosis. Asymptomatic (presumed) OCVMs- representing 22% of all OCVMs-are usually found a decade later than symptomatic lesions, and a few may have only mild functional impairment.

Risk and Lag-time for Development of Lacrimal Gland Carcinoma Expleomorphic Adenoma: Observations and Conjectural Study

AIMS

To estimate the proportion of de novo lacrimal gland pleomorphic adenomas (PAs) and carcinomas expleomorphic adenomas (CEPAs), together with age at presentation and first symptom. Conjectural models of tumor growth are considered.

METHODS

Retrospective review of patients with orbital lobe PA or CEPA. The presenting age was examined for conformation to a Gaussian distribution and the cumulative distribution function derived for both tumor types. The risk of CEPA with age was estimated by logistic regression.

RESULTS

About one-sixth (27/172; 16%) of these primary orbital lobe tumors were CEPAs, with 145 PAs (76/145 male; 52%) and 27 CEPAs (12/27 male; 44%). The mean presenting age for PAs was 48.3 years (median 47.7; range 11-84 years) and 57.7 years for CEPAs (median 61.2, range 27-91 years) ( p = 0.0062), and the standard deviations for each group are almost identical (16.3 for PAs, 15.9 for CEPAs; p = 0.92). Five (3.4%) PAs and 1 (3.7%) CEPA were asymptomatic: otherwise, the median symptom duration was 24 months for both PAs and CEPAs ( U test: p = 0.65). The odds of CEPA rises significantly with age, increasing 1.04-fold annually ( p = 0.0079).

CONCLUSION

The almost identical measures of dispersion for the presenting ages of PA and CEPA suggests that, once malignant transformation occurs, there might be a relatively constant period before it is evident. CEPAs present about a decade after PAs, this unexpectedly later presentation for the malignancy possibly being explained by a gradual replacement of the PA by the newly arising carcinoma within the preceding benign tumor.

Periosteal fixation of the medial and lateral recti for large-angle incomitant exotropia

PURPOSE

To describe the evolution of a surgical technique for the correction of large-angle incomitant exodeviations.

METHODS

Retrospective review of an interventional case series from 2005 to 2019 in a single centre, with analysis of surgical procedure, prism diopter (PD) deviations and complications.

RESULTS

Thirty-one patients underwent surgery at an average age of 42 years (range 4-75 years) for minimal medial rectus function, mostly from oculomotor nerve palsy (23/31; 74%). The mean pre-operative exodeviation was 75 PD (range 30-200PD). Sixteen patients (52%) had undergone previous strabismus surgery. Thirty-eight operations were performed in which the medial rectus insertion was anchored to the periosteum of the posterior lacrimal crest via a retrocaruncular transconjunctival approach. The ipsilateral lateral rectus (LR) was disinserted and fixed to lateral orbital tissue in 29/38 (76%) operations, injected with botulinum toxin in 5, recessed in 2 and had already undergone maximal LR recession in 2. In all but the first 8 operations, temporary limbal sutures were passed through the eyelids to maximally adduct the globe post-operatively. At last follow-up (mean 24 months; range 2-130), the mean reduction in exodeviation was 49PD (range 10-80) and overall residual deviation was 26PD (range 80PD base-in to 14PD base-out). The 5 LR toxin procedures had a mean reduction of 22PD (range 10-40). Seven patients had persistent diplopia, one a transient corneal erosion and one caruncle suture exposure 4 years after surgery.

CONCLUSION

Large-angle exodeviations can be markedly improved by bi-rectus fixation. This approach is both safe and effective and can be performed in complex patients with multiple previous procedures.

The association between nocturia, hormonal symptoms and bladder parameters in women: an observational study

OBJECTIVE

Postmenopausal nocturia is poorly understood. This study aimed to identify hormonal and lifestyle factors associated with nocturia and to understand the relative contribution of altered urine production and bladder storage dysfunction in women.

DESIGN, SETTING, POPULATION AND METHODS

Women ≥40 years presenting to public continence services were enrolled in a cross-sectional study. A total of 153 participants completed a hormone status questionnaire, a validated nocturia causality screening tool and a 3-day bladder diary. Descriptive statistics and logistic regression models for nocturia severity and bladder diary parameters were computed.

RESULTS

Overall, 91.5% reported nocturia, 55% ≥2 /night. There was a difference of 167.5 ml (P < 0.001) in nocturnal urine volume between women with nocturia ≥2 (median 736 ml) versus less often (517 ml). Significant predictors of self-reported disruptive nocturia were age (odds ratio [OR] 1.04, 95% CI 1.002-1.073) and vitamin D supplementation (OR 2.33, 95% CI 1.11-4.91). Nocturnal polyuria was significantly more common with nocturia ≥2 compared with less frequent nocturia (P < 0.002). Exercise for 150 minutes a week was protective for nocturnal polyuria (OR 0.22, P = 0.001). Nocturia index >1.3 was significantly predicted by age (OR 1.07, P < 0.001), regular exercise (OR 0.41, P = 0.036), day flushes (OR 4.00, P = 0.013) and use of vitamin D (OR 2.34, P = 0.043). Maximum voided volumes were significantly lower with nocturia ≥2 versus less often (night: 268 ml versus 350 ml; day: 200 ml versus 290 ml).

CONCLUSIONS

Bothersome nocturia in postmenopausal women is associated with changes to both nocturnal diuresis and bladder storage. Regular physical activity, prolapse reduction and oestrogen replacement may be adjunctive in managing bothersome nocturia in women.

Chronic Granulomatous Dacryoadenitis Associated With Pleomorphic Adenoma

Chronic granulomatous inflammation occurs rarely alongside pleomorphic adenomas of the major salivary glands but would not appear to have been reported with lacrimal gland adenomas. We describe the clinical features, imaging and histopathology for 4 patients (3 female) who had granulomatous inflammation alongside lacrimal gland adenomas-the patients being with age 39, 44, 48, and 53 years at time of surgery. One patient had an asymptomatic lesion found on imaging, and the other 3 had symptoms for between 3 years and several decades. Conjecturally, this rare phenomenon might arise from an inflammatory response to leakage of secretions from the ductular components of the glands.

Periocular Presentation of Solitary Plasmacytomas and Multiple Myeloma

AIMS

To describe patients with periocular solitary extramedullary plasmacytoma (SEMP) and multiple myeloma (MM), together with an estimate of the risk of progression from SEMP to MM.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A retrospective case-note review for patients seen between 1978 and 2020, examining demographics, presentation, imaging, pathology, management, and outcome.

RESULTS

Twenty patients (10 male; 50%) presented at a mean age of 60.9 years, with an average symptom duration of 4.5 months. Ten (50%) patients had known systemic myeloma at ophthalmic presentation (the MM group) and, on average, they presented one decade earlier than those with occult MM discovered after orbital biopsy (p = 0.06); the majority (9/15; 60%) of patients with MM were female, whereas there was a male bias (4/5; 80%) with SEMP (p = 0.30). Most tumors (15/20; 75%) were within the anterior part of the orbit, especially superolaterally (16 patients; 80%), and the soft-tissue mass often appeared to "explode" from the frontal bone or greater wing of the sphenoid (16/20; 80%). Full treatment details were known for 19 patients: 6 (32%) had solely orbital radiotherapy, 4 (21%) chemotherapy, 6 (32%) combined chemoradiation, and 3 (16%) had combined chemoradiation with stem-cell transplant (Table 3). After an average follow up of 58 months, 1/5 (20%) patients with SEMP and 11/15 (73%) with MM had tumor-related death. The overall survival probability for all 20 patients with periocular plasmacytoma was 34% at 5 and 10 years, with MM patients having a worse outlook (27% 5-year, and 18% 10-year survival) compared with SEMP (53% survival at 5 and 10 years) (p = 0.18). None of the 5 patients with SEMP progressed to systemic MM over an average follow up of 9.1 years.

CONCLUSIONS

Although 50% patients with periocular plasmacytoma appear to have a SEMP at ophthalmic presentation, a half of these patients were found to have occult MM within 6 months of biopsy. Of those without systemic disease around the time of biopsy, none developed MM over an average follow up of more than 9 years.

Persistent orbital inflammation following complete excision of deep dermoid cysts

Piecemeal excision of dermoid cysts carries the risk of implanting epithelial fragments into orbital fat, which is well recognized to continue secreting oily debris, inciting chronic, often granulomatous inflammation. The authors present the clinical and histological details for two patients with persistent lipogranulomatous inflammation for years after piecemeal excision of deep orbital dermoid cysts, in the absence of any residual epithelium. The importance of copious saline lavage - to 'float-out" and reduce microscopic lipid droplets - is also emphasised.

Extensive Sclerosis ("mummification") in Lacrimal Gland Pleomorphic Adenoma May Indicate Neighboring Malignant Transformation

Salivary gland pleomorphic adenomas not uncommonly show extensive sclerosis ("dense hyalinization," "coagulative necrosis," or "mummification"), which arise spontaneously or after prior surgery, and this change is considered a high-risk factor for malignant transformation of benign salivary adenomas. While minor hyalinization is common in lacrimal gland adenomas, massive sclerosis-where almost all (90% or more) of the tumor is replaced by an amorphous hyaline material-is extremely rare. Four patients (2 males) are described in whom, despite not having an acute inflammatory episode, their lacrimal gland tumor showed marked sclerotic necrosis within the majority of either the benign or malignant parts of the tumor. Three tumors had evidence of malignant change, 2 to adenocarcinoma, and 1 to mucoepidermoid carcinoma, but none of the malignant areas showed perineural or endovascular invasion. Extensive sclerosis in association with a lacrimal gland pleomorphic adenoma (LGPA) is rare (4/110 of the cases) and-as with salivary adenomas-appears to be associated with a high chance of associated malignant change. Both the surgeon and the histopathologist should regard extensive sclerotic necrosis as a harbinger for malignant change in association with benign pleomorphic adenomas of the lacrimal gland.

Could Extension Into the Lacrimal Gland and Sac Thwart Topical Chemotherapy for Intraepithelial Sebaceous Carcinoma?

PURPOSE

To identify the frequency of intraepithelial (Pagetoid) spread beyond the ocular surface-namely beyond conjunctiva and cornea-in patients undergoing orbital exenteration for advanced periocular Sebaceous carcinoma (SC).

DESIGN

A retrospective, noncomparative observational case series.

SUBJECTS

Patients undergoing orbital exenteration for biopsy-proven SC, at Moorfields Eye Hospital between 1997 and 2013.

METHODS

Review of clinical records and histological specimens, with particularly reference to involvement of conjunctiva and the extent of Pagetoid infiltration beyond the examinable ocular surface-here termed "hidden" disease.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Histological evidence of intraepithelial SC within the lacrimal sac or lacrimal gland.

RESULTS

Twenty-nine patients had clinical data and histological specimens adequate for review. Seventeen (59%) did not have a discrete mass (clinically or histologically) and, on clinical examination, were thought to only have extensive intraepithelial carcinoma; foci of microscopic invasion were, however, detected histologically in 11/17 (65%) of these specimens. Moreover, the in situ carcinoma was found to have invaded far in lacrimal gland ductules in 1/17 patients, in the lacrimal sac (in 2 patients; 12%) or in both the gland and sac (in 2 patients); these 5/17 (29%) cases all showed extensive poorly differentiated intraepithelial SC. Of the 12 other patients who had both Pagetoid spread and a clinically evident nodule, 3 had histological evidence of "hidden" disease.

CONCLUSION

Although-due to their being operated in the era prior to the accepted usage of topical therapy for this condition-some of these exenterations might have had particularly advanced in situ SC, over a quarter of patients with periocular SC warranting orbital exenteration show "hidden" intraepithelial tumor within the lacrimal gland and sac. This important finding might significantly reduce the efficacy (particularly in the lacrimal gland) of the various topical therapies used for in situ SC of the ocular surface, and it also emphasizes the importance of excising both the lacrimal gland and sac in all orbital exenterations for this particular tumor.

Ophthalmic Presentation and Outcomes for Malignant Sinonasal Tumors

PURPOSE

To evaluate the ophthalmic clinical features and functional outcomes for patients with malignant sinonasal tumors who initially presented with orbital symptoms.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Retrospective chart review for patients seen at Moorfields Eye Hospital between 1997 and 2020. Patient demographics and clinical features, radiology, histology, and treatment outcomes were reviewed.

RESULTS

Forty patients (22 females; 55%) with sinonasal cancers first presented to an ophthalmologist at an average age of 53.9 years (median 56; range 8-92 years), with their having had first symptoms at 53.6 years (median 55.8; range 7.8-91.9 years). The commonest symptoms were persistent periorbital ache (19/40; 48%), periocular swelling (18; 45%), proptosis (16; 40%), and diplopia (15; 38%). All midface tumors affected only 1 orbit, and 13 of 40 (33%) eyes presented with an acuity of 20/60 or worse-5 having no perception of light-and 10 eyes (25%) had a relative afferent pupillary defect. An average of 4.5 mm relative exophthalmos was present (median 4 mm; range 0-9 mm), and a palpable mass in 19 of 40 (48%) orbits. Reduced eye movements and nonaxial displacement were recorded in 29 (73%) and 34 (85%) patients, respectively, and 9 (23%) had an abnormal optic disc or fundus. Bone erosion affected 95% of orbits, and almost a half had involvement of the neighboring extraocular muscles, orbital apex, or intracranially. The commonest tumor groups were sinonasal carcinomas (45%), sarcomas (28%), or lymphomas (11%). Of 37 globe-sparing treatments, 25 (68%) had persistence of previously impaired ophthalmic functions and 6 of 37 (16%) developed new impairment; only 6 of 37 (16%) of affected orbits retained normal function, and 6 patients lost all vision on the affected side.

CONCLUSIONS

Sinonasal malignancies that present with orbital invasion are probably at the more aggressive end of the cancer spectrum, might be expected to carry a worse prognosis, and usually arise from the ethmoid or maxillary sinuses. In our series, carcinomas and sarcomas were the commonest malignancies, with similar 5-year overall survivals (of just over 50%), and over three-quarters of patients developed permanent impairment of orbital function and/or visual loss.

Developmental Cysts of the Orbit With Mixed Conjunctival and Cutaneous Epithelial Phenotypes

AIM

To describe the characteristics of patients presenting with congenital orbital cysts containing epithelia of both cutaneous phenotype-that is, epidermis with or without keratin, and at least one dermal structure (sweat gland or pilosebaceous unit)-and conjunctival phenotype (with goblet cells); these cysts with mixed lining are termed "dermo-conjunctival" cysts.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Review of clinical records for patients having dermo-conjunctival cysts that were treated between 1997 and 2017; patients with cysts of solely conjunctival or solely cutaneous origin were omitted. Data recorded included gender, age at presentation, laterality, orbital location, ophthalmic features, surgical and radiological data, and light microscopic findings.

RESULTS

Of 241 patients with congenital orbital cysts, 22 (9%) contained both cutaneous and conjunctival epithelium; unlike the relatively common congenital cysts lined with solely cutaneous epithelia, these dermo-conjunctival cysts typically occupied the superonasal or nasal quadrants of the orbit (p < 0.000001). Fifteen (68%) of the 22 patients were male, and the group presented at a median age of 22 years (range 8-51 years), with symptoms for a median duration of 5 years (range 1 month-33 years). Fourteen (64%) had noted an orbital mass, 3 (14%) had inflammatory pain, and 1/22 (4%) had reduced acuity. Globe displacement was axial in 7 patients (32%) and nonaxial in 13 (59%), and ocular motility was restricted in 4/22 (18%). Of 17 patients with imaging, 9 (53%) had bone expansion, and the cyst was intimately related to the trochlea in 10 (59%). By definition, all cysts contained conjunctival epithelium with goblet cells: hair shafts were present in 13/22 (59%) specimens, sebaceous units in 18 (82%), sweat glands in 6 (27%), and keratinized epithelium was present in 8 (36%). Fourteen (63%) of cysts had mild chronic inflammation within the cyst wall, and granulomas were present in 8 (36%).

CONCLUSION

Congenital dermo-conjunctival orbital cysts are rare and favor a medial location-this suggesting an origin from sequestered caruncular tissues, the only postseptal source of both dermal and conjunctival structures. Unlike pure cutaneous cysts that typically present as superficial masses in childhood, dermo-conjunctival cysts are often postseptal and present in adults.

Congenital Conjunctival Cysts of the Orbit

PURPOSE

To evaluate the clinical presentation, anatomical location, and histological features of congenital conjunctival cysts of the orbit. The location and the histological features of inflammation in these patients were compared with those for 293 orbital dermoid cysts.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Retrospective review of the clinical details, imaging, and histopathology for patients who had excision of conjunctival cysts from their orbit between 1992 and 2020; patients with a history of trauma or surgery were omitted.

RESULTS

Twelve patients (7 male; 58%) with congenital conjunctival cysts were identified, the patients presenting at an average age of 16 years (median 26; range 1-61) with a symptoms for a mean duration of 20 months (median 24; range 6-36). The commonest symptoms were peribulbar lump (6/12 patients; 50%), and eyelid swelling and blepharoptosis (6/12 patients; 50%). An orbitaxl mass was palpable in 10 patients (83%), 3 patients (25%) had mild proptosis (1-3 mm), and the cysts were most commonly located superiorly (6/12 patients; 50%) or superonasally (3/12; 25%) in the anterior half of the orbit. Imaging was performed in 7 cases, this showing an intimate relation to the common sheath of the superior rectus/levator complex in 3 patients (25%) and to the trochlea in 1 (8%). All cysts were excised completely, and no patient had postoperative complications or recurrence. Chronic mild and nonspecific inflammation was evident within the cyst wall in 7 cases (54%), but-unlike 55% of the 293 dermoid cysts-none showed granuloma formation.

CONCLUSION

Congenital conjunctival cysts are rare and usually present with a palpable mass in the upper eyelid sulcus. A significant proportion of these cysts have an intimate relationship with the trochlea, or the superior rectus, levator palpebrae or superior oblique muscles and, to minimize the risk of postoperative diplopia or ptosis, particular care must be exercised during surgery.

Extension of Masses Involving the Lacrimal Sac to Above the Medial Canthal Tendon

PURPOSE

Retention mucoceles of the lacrimal sac almost always expand below the medial canthal tendon (MCT), whereas the very much rarer malignancies involving the lacrimal sac may progress to form a mass above the tendon. In this study, the incidence of malignancy was determined for patients with a preoperative decision to undergo biopsy for a clinically suspect, hard lacrimal sac mass, together with the proportion having a tumor extending above the MCT.

METHODS

Patients thought-on the basis of having a firm, immobile mass centered on the lacrimal sac fossa-to possibly have lacrimal sac malignancy were identified from a database of biopsies between 1989 and 2020. A retrospective review of their clinical, radiologic, and pathologic records was undertaken.

RESULTS

Fifty-three patients (24 male; 45%) underwent biopsy of atypical masses of the lacrimal sac, of which 47 of 53 (89%) extended above the MCT. Seventy-seven percent (41/53) patients had malignancy-26 primary carcinomas and 15 secondary tumors (14 lymphomas or hematopoietic and 1 neuroendocrine)-and 12 had benign conditions (6 transitional cell papillomatosis, 5 chronic inflammation, and 1 solitary fibrous tumor); all the benign pathologies extended above the MCT. The age at presentation and duration of symptoms was similar in patients with benign or malignant pathology. One-fifth of malignant lesions had pain, whereas all the benign conditions were painless, and acute dacryocystitis was relatively uncommon-occurring in only 13% of patients.

CONCLUSIONS

If a firm and immobile lacrimal sac mass extends above the MCT, it has about a 74% chance of being malignant and, if pain is present, the lesion is more likely to be so. Clinically suspicious masses in the lacrimal sac fossa, whether benign or malignant, appear to present at the same age and with a similar duration of symptoms.

Carcinoma Expleomorphic Adenoma of the Lacrimal Gland

AIMS

To report the characteristics and long-term outcomes of patients presenting with carcinoma ex-pleomorphic adenoma (CXPA) or malignant mixed tumor of the lacrimal gland.

METHODS

A retrospective case-note review for patients with CXPA, seen at Moorfields Eye Hospital between 1985 and 2018, was performed for demographics, presentation, imaging, histopathology, management, and outcome.

RESULTS

Twenty-six patients (11 male; 42%) presented at a mean age of 46 years (median 46.4; range 24-81), with average symptom(s) duration of 67 months (median 24 months; range 6 weeks-53 years). The commonest symptoms were proptosis (13 patients; 50%), orbital ache or pain (11/26, 42%), having noted a lump in the upper eyelid (8/26, 31%), and diplopia (7/26, 27%). About 90% of patients had nonaxial globe displacement, over a half had a palpable mass and 3-quarters had reduced motility. Adenocarcinoma was the commonest malignant component of the tumor, occurring in 16 (62%) of the patients, followed by adenoid cystic carcinoma in 5 patients (19%); 10/26 (28%) tumors showed significant invasion on histological examination. A quarter of the patients had tumor-related death at an average of 2.8 years after diagnosis (median 2.5; range 1.5-4.4 years), and the overall probability of survival for the whole cohort was 63% at both 5 years and 10 years after treatment. The prognosis for CXPA was significantly worse with a history of prior incompletely excised pleomorphic adenoma (p < 0.001), a markedly invasive malignant component (p = 0.001), evidence of perineural invasion (p = 0.042), and an American Joint Committee on Cancer tumor size of T3 or greater (p = 0.024).

CONCLUSION

Intact excision of CXPAs that do not display histological evidence of extension beyond the tumor pseudocapsule have a good outcome, similar to that for intact excision of benign pleomorphic adenomas. In contrast, our patients with markedly invasive CXPA had a tendency to local recurrence or distant metastasis, and tumor-related death occurred in about two-thirds.

Atypical, Extremely Rapid Growth of Pediatric Orbital Neurilemmoma

Solitary orbital neurilemmoma-a benign tumor of Schwann cells in a peripheral nerve-sheath-are typically very slow growing and present in middle age; in the absence of neurofibromatosis, they are almost never seen in childhood. We describe the clinical presentation, imaging, pathology, and management of this tumor in a 12 years old-the tumor growing extremely rapidly over 5 months and without any evidence of cystic degeneration, hemorrhage, or sarcomatous features. The possibility of tumor growth having been accelerated by prior biopsy is discussed.

The Presentation and Surgical Treatment of Peribulbar Dermolipomas

PURPOSE

To evaluate the presentation, treatment, and outcome for patients with peribulbar dermolipomas and describe a reliable technique for excision of large lesions.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Retrospective chart review for patients seen at Moorfields Eye Hospital between 1976 and 2019. Patient demographics, clinical features, imaging (CT or MRI, where available), histopathology, and surgical outcomes were reviewed.

RESULTS

One hundred and ninety-six eyes of 187 patients (117 females; 63%) were identified as having dermolipoma, the patients presenting at an average age of 21.5 years and-where recorded in 163 patients-had first symptoms at an average age of 12.9 years. Although 8/187 (4%) patients were asymptomatic, the commonest symptom was increasing size of a longstanding peribulbar lump (136 patients; 73%); other symptoms included ocular irritation (24%), episodic localized conjunctival injection (12%), and mucoid discharge (12%). One-third of dermolipomas had visible hairs (some with localized giant papillary conjunctivitis), lateral canthal widening was present in 44 patients, aberrant lacrimal gland ductules opening onto skin in 8, and a complex lateral canthal anomaly-with both an external dermoid and an internal dermolipoma-was present in 9 patients. Complete management details were available for 120 patients (those treated after 1990) and 40 (33%) electing for observation, 71 (59%) had excision for long-term irritation and discharge and 9 (8%) for cosmesis: together with the integral subdermal fat lobule, in all cases the abnormal, nonwetting squamous epithelium was delineated and excised under microscopic control, and the conjunctival defect closed directly (59/80 eyes) or with a "V-to-Y" closure (21 eyes; 26%). The presenting symptoms were cured in all except 1 patient, who required excision of residual abnormal epithelium causing persistent symptoms. Two patients developed symblepharon to the lateral canthus after direct conjunctival closure, this having no functional effect, and 2 other patients had slight restriction of extreme horizontal gaze.

CONCLUSION

Dermolipomas may require surgery when they become more prominent with age, or start causing ocular irritation and discharge. Complications are few with meticulous removal of the nonwetting squamous epithelium and direct conjunctival closure, or when using a "V-to-Y" conjunctivoplasty for larger defects.

Bilateral inferior oblique enlargement in thyroid eye disease

Extraocular muscle enlargement is a hallmark of thyroid eye disease (TED), typically affecting the rectus muscles. We report a rare case of asymmetrical bilateral inferior oblique enlargement in a patient with probable TED. Although TED is the commonest cause of extraocular muscle enlargement, involvement of the inferior oblique muscle is extremely rare, and all such cases should be investigated for other non-TED etiologies, including inflammatory or neoplastic lesions.

Day-Case Admission for External Dacryocystorhinostomy in Preschool Children

PURPOSE

Epistaxis during or after dacryocystorhinostomy may present a risk of circulatory compromise, particularly in young children. In view of this concern, we reviewed the outcome and complications of external dacryocystorhinostomy in preschool children, aged less than 4½ years.

DESIGN

Retrospective noncomparative series.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A case-note review for a series of preschool children undergoing external dacryocystorhinostomy as a day-case admission at Moorfields Eye Hospital between 1992 and 2018; all surgery was consultant-led. Details were taken of the type of surgery, any intraoperative or postoperative complications (surgical or anesthetic), any unplanned admissions after surgery, and the functional outcome. To assess the veracity of the medical records, the parents for a sample of 67 children were contacted to check whether there had been any unrecorded events or concerns.

OUTCOME MEASURES

Anesthetic or surgical complications, unplanned admissions, and postoperative events.

RESULTS

One-hundred and eighty-seven children (117 boys; 63%) underwent 228 external dacryocystorhinostomies during 201 admissions, the average admission age being 36.8 months (median, 37.5; range, 5.5-53.5 months). Forty-one children (20%) underwent bilateral dacryocystorhinostomy: the 27 having simultaneous bilateral surgery dacryocystorhinostomy were operated at a mean age of 38.2 months (median, 37.5; range, 15.5-53.5 months), this being significantly different from the average age at first operation in 14 children undergoing sequential admission for bilateral dacryocystorhinostomy (mean, 24.9 months; median, 27.0; range, 5.5-42.5) (p = 0.0023). No adverse anesthetic events were recorded, 2 children (2 dacryocystorhinostomies) required temporary nasal packing at the end of surgery for epistaxis, and one further child was admitted for overnight observation because of persistent mild epistaxis after bilateral dacryocystorhinostomy. Three children (3 dacryocystorhinostomies) had a mild, self-limiting secondary epistaxis, and there were no unplanned emergency admissions. The telephone survey did not reveal any disparity in the medical records.

CONCLUSION

With experienced surgeons and anesthetists in a suitable specialist hospital, external dacryocystorhinostomy in preschool children would appear to be a safe and effective procedure, with few and minor complications. Although facilities for overnight observation should be available, the surgery can typically be planned as a day-case admission, and simultaneous bilateral surgery is also possible in this age-group.

Ocular amyloid: adnexal and systemic involvement

Purpose: To investigate the natural history of ocular adnexal and orbital amyloidosis.Methods: In a retrospective, non-comparative case series, the clinical records of patients with biopsy-proven ocular, adnexal, and orbital amyloidosis managed at our institution between 1980 and 2016 were evaluated.Results: Forty-one patients (29 female; 71%) were identified. The mean interval from presentation to diagnosis was 24 months (median 12 months, range 1-84 months). Whilst most patients presented with a conjunctival mass (34/41; 83%) or ptosis (15/41; 37%), the diagnosis was not immediately evident in all - two patients had 3 ptosis operations prior to obtaining a tissue biopsy that revealed amyloid deposition. Three-quarters (31/41; 76%) of patients had localised primary ocular adnexal and orbital amyloidosis, 4 (10%) had associated systemic disease, and 6 (15%) were found to have underlying haematological malignancy on further investigation. During a mean follow-up of 8 years (median 7 years; range 6 months - 36 years), 2 (5%) patients lost vision, 21 (51%) had surgical intervention other than biopsy, and 2 (5%) had local radiotherapy for amyloid deposition secondary to lymphoproliferative disease.Conclusions: The varied presentations of ocular adnexal and orbital amyloidosis and the need for confirmatory biopsy often leads to a significant delay between first symptoms and diagnosis. While rarely sight-threatening, ocular adnexal and orbital amyloidosis carries significant morbidities and has a systemic association in a quarter of patients.

Macrophages promote a profibrotic phenotype in orbital fibroblasts through increased hyaluronic acid production and cell contractility

Graves’ orbitopathy (GO) is an autoimmune inflammatory disease affecting the orbit. Orbital fibroblasts are a key component in GO pathogenesis, which includes inflammation, adipogenesis, hyaluronic acid (HA) secretion, and fibrosis. Macrophages are thought to participate in the immunological stage of GO, but whether they can directly affect the fibroblasts phenotype and modulate disease progression is unknown. We previously showed that GO adipogenic and fibrotic phenotypes could be modelled in a pseudo-physiological 3D environment in vitro. Here, we introduced macrophages in this 3D culture model to investigate role for macrophages in modulating adipogenesis, HA production, and contractility in orbital fibroblasts. Macrophages had a minimal effect on lipid droplet formation in fibroblasts, but significantly increased HA production and cell contractility, suggesting that they may promote the fibrotic phenotype. This effect was found to be mediated at least in part through phosphatidylinositol-4,5-bisphosphate 3-kinase (PI3K) activation and linked to an increase in actin polymerization and protrusive activity in fibroblasts. Overall our work shows for the first time a direct role for macrophages in modulating the fibroblasts’ phenotype in GO, supporting a role for macrophages in the progression of the fibrotic phenotype through induction of HA production and stimulation of the contractile phenotype in orbital fibroblasts.