Long-term results of treatment of neovascular age-related macular degeneration using antiangiogenic drugs: A review of the literature

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is one of the main causes of visual acuity (VA) loss in people over 50 years of age worldwide, with neovascular AMD (nAMD) accounting for 80% of cases of severe vision loss due to this disease. Anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) drugs have been used for the treatment of this disease for more than a decade, changing drastically the visual prognosis of these patients. However, initial studies reporting data on outcomes were short term. Currently, there are different series published on the long-term results of AMD after treatment with anti-VEGF, and the aim of this review is to synthesize these results. The mean follow-up of the included studies was 8.2 years (range 5-12 years). The mean initial VA was 55.3 letters in the Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study (ETDRS) (range 45.6-65) and the mean final VA was 50.1 letters (range 33.0-64.3), with a mean loss of 5.2 letters. At the end of follow-up, 29.4% of the patients maintained a VA > 70 letters. The 67.9% of patients remained stable at the end of follow-up (< 15 letter loss), with a severe loss (≥ 15 letters) of 30.1%. Fibrosis and atrophy were the main causes of long-term VA loss, occurring at the end of follow-up in 52.5% and 60.5%, respectively.

Severe epithelial ingrowth after pars plana vitrectomy ten years after LASIK relifting

Epithelial ingrowth is one of the most significant complications of Laser in Situ Keratomileusis (LASIK) refractive surgery. We present the case of a 72-year-old male with a history of myopic LASIK (1999), who underwent cataract surgery and a second thin LASIK sub-Bowman flap to correct refractive error. Then, three months after pars plana vitrectomy for an epiretinal membrane, the patient complained of progressive vision loss. A diffuse haze of the corneal stroma that did not exist before surgery was observed. As the main suspicion was epithelial ingrowth, the flap was lifted and meticulous de-epithelialization of the stromal bed was performed. Mitomycin C 0.02% was applied, the flap was sutured with 10-0 Nylon, and a bandage contact lens was placed. The epithelialization of the interface after vitrectomy in a patient with LASIK could occur even when it is a rare complication and without obvious flap traumatism.

Assessment of the ciliary muscle and scleral anterior thickness in high myopia by optical coherence tomography

PURPOSE

To assess ciliary muscle (CM) and anterior scleral thickness (AST) dimensions in vivo in high myopia using swept-source optical coherence tomography (SS-OCT) and to compare with emmetropic and hyperopic subjects.

METHODS

Cross-sectional study that included 34 high myopic patients (≥ -6 diopters [D]), 90 emmetropes (-1 to +1 D) and 38 hyperopic patients (≥ +3.5 D). CM thickness (CMT) and AST were measured in the temporal and nasal quadrants at 1, 2, and 3 mm from the scleral spur using SS-OCT. In addition, the length of the CM (CML) was evaluated.

RESULTS

The dimensions of the CML and the CMT at any of their measurement points were greater in high myopes and emmetropes than in hyperopes, both in the nasal and temporal quadrants (P < .001). However, there were no differences between high myopes and emmetropes for any of the parameters (P ≥ .076) except for the CMT at 3 mm in the temporal quadrant (P < .001). There were no differences in the AST between high myopes, emmetropes and hyperopes, in any of the measurement points or quadrants studied (P > .05).

CONCLUSIONS

The SS-OCT allows to measure the CM in vivo, not observing differences in its dimensions between high myopes and emmetropes, but they were smaller in hyperopes. In the measurement of the anterior sclera, no differences were observed between the three groups analyzed according to refraction.

Diagnostic ability of vessel density of the optic nerve head and macula versus structural parameters with optical coherence tomography in pseudoexfoliative glaucoma

PURPOSE

To evaluate the diagnostic ability of the vessel density (VD) of the optic nerve head (ONH) and the macula on optical coherence tomography (OCT) angiography and the retinal nerve layer thickness (RNFL) thickness and the macular ganglion cell complex (GCC) thickness on OCT in patients with pseudoexfoliative glaucoma (PXG).

METHODS

Cross-sectional study including PXG patients and healthy controls. Demographic and clinical data were noted for all participants. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) and OCT angiography (OCTA) images of the ONH and macular area were obtained with the RS-3000 Advance OCT (Nidek Co., Gamagori, Japan). The RNFL and GCC thickness of different sectors was provided by the software. Macular VD of the superficial capillary plexus (SCP) and ONH VD of the radial peripapillary capillary plexus (RPCP) were registered. Groups were compared and area under the receiver operating characteristic (AUROC) curves were used to determine the power of discrimination of each parameter.

RESULTS

RNFL and GCC thickness and ONH and macular VD were significantly lower in PXG patients compared with healthy controls (all, p<0.05). The best discrimination parameter was the average RNFL thickness (AUROC: 0.928). ONH VD AUROC was better than that of macular VD (AUROC: 0.897 and 0.780, respectively). ONH VD AUROC was comparable to RNFL thickness (p<0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

The diagnostic ability of ONH vessel density in PXG appears comparable to that of the structural parameters, RNFL and GCC thickness, obtained with OCT, and may be a valuable tool in clinical practice.

Clinical update in nanophthalmos: Features, diseases and complications associated

Nanophthalmos is a rare congenital condition of the eyeball that is characterised by a smaller size of the anterior and posterior segments without associated ocular malformations. Typical features that have traditionally been described in these eyes are short axial length, thickened sclera, cornea with a smaller diameter, narrow anterior chamber, and an increased lens to globe volume ratio. However, at present, there is still a lack of recognised diagnostic criteria for nanophthalmos and a classification of its severity. Its clinical relevance stems from the increased risk of multiple ocular conditions, such as high hyperopia, amblyopia, angle-closure glaucoma, retinal detachment, and cataracts. Likewise, in relation to surgery in these eyes, there are particularities in cataract and glaucoma surgery and with a greater risk of associated intra- and postoperative complications. In this way, the treatment of nanophthalmos focuses on controlling the associated eye conditions and reducing and controlling surgical complications. This review aims to update what has been published in recent years regarding nanophthalmos.

Primary hyperaldosteronism in Acute Central Serous Chorioretinopathy: a real need for screening?

PURPOSE

Central Serous Chorioretinopathy (CSCR) is a prevalent ocular disease classified in the pachychoroidal spectrum with an elevated morbidity. Although the pathogenesis is yet unclear, mineralocorticoid-mediated pathways seem to be implicated. Primary hyperaldosteronism (PA) is a relatively frequent, albeit underdiagnosed, cause of hypertension, and has a specific therapy. A previous study assessed the prevalence of CSCR-like signs in a cohort of patients diagnosed with PA and found signs in seven out of thirteen PA patients. The present study aims to study the contrary, screening for PA in a cohort of acute CSCR patients.

METHODS

Between March 2017 and September 2018 all patients with acute CSCR were systematically referred to Endocrinology Department after complete ophthalmic evaluation was performed with visual acuity, spectral domain optical coherence tomography, fundus autofluorescence, fluorescein and indocyanine green angiography. The method applied for detection of PA was the 2-h 25 mg captopril challenge test (CCT).

RESULTS

Of the nineteen patients screened, two of them had a CCT positive for PA (2-h plasma aldosterone/renin ratio > 50 and/or an aldosterone level of 130 pg/ml or higher), and were treated with mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists (MRA). No ophthalmic pattern was identified in them in terms of time to resolution, recurrences or features of the acute episode. The only differential feature in the fundus of PA patients was pathological arteriovenous crossings (AVC) as well as elevated BP levels.

CONCLUSION

a high incidence of PA was found among acute CSCR patients. This preliminary study suggests a need for screening for PA in hypertensive CSCR patients in real clinical practice.

Comparative analysis of the quality of life among different retinal diseases

PURPOSE

To assess the impact on the quality of life (QoL) among different retinal diseases such as diabetic macular edema (DME), retinal vein occlusion (RVO), pathologic myopia (PM), neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) and central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC).

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was carried out in 241 patients, affected by DME (n=44), RVO (n=41), PM (n=34) and nAMD (n=85) receiving intravitreal injections due to the presence of macular edema or choroidal neovascularization. The CSC patients included (n=37) were candidates for laser treatment. The patients included completed the National Eye Visual Functioning Questioning-25 (NEI VFQ-25). Best eye visual acuity (BEVA) was recorded using the Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study (ETDRS) scale.

RESULTS

There were significant differences between subgroups for all the domains, except for the general vision in which all scores among diseases ranged from 40.7 to 45.2 out of 100 (P=.436), despite the difference in BEVA (CSC: 86.3±11.9; RVO: 78.5±15.5, DME: 73.3±15.2, nAMD: 72.9±12.6 and PM: 68.5±18.1 letters respectively; P<.001). The lowest VFQ-25 total score was observed in the PM patients (52.1±20.9), followed by nAMD (55.3±20.8), RVO (65.0±22.3), DME (68.6±21.0) and CSC (70.9±16.2). The DME group reported the worst score for general health (38.9±21.4). Mental health and role difficulties were lowest for PM (48.2±28.8 and 48.2±31.9, P<.007).

CONCLUSIONS

This study reveals the differences in the QoL among DME, RVO, nAMD, PM and CSC, describing the different repercussions that they can suffer, observing a higher impact in PM and nAMD.

Glistening on intraocular lenses: A review

The glistening in intraocular lenses (IOLs) is a phenomenon in which tiny water-filled microvacuoles (MVs) form within the IOL material, causing light to scatter and create a sparkling or shimmering effect. The presence of glistening is common in many types of IOL materials and models and has been extensively studied in recent years to determine its incidence, risk factors, evolution, and possible clinical relevance. Classically, it has been studied in vitro in the laboratory or by means of photography obtained with a slit lamp, but these were techniques that required either specific technology or an expert explorer, complex image processing, and required a lot of time. In recent years, proposals based on the Scheimpflug camera and optical coherence tomography have emerged to try to simplify the analysis of glistening in IOLs. It has been described that the manufacturing process, the hydrophobic acrylic material, or the time since surgery are risk factors for the appearance of glistening. In addition, many issues related to this phenomenon are still unknown, such as not knowing from what number of points or their size they may have relevance to visual function since different optical phenomena related to glistening have been described on the IOLs.

Assessment of the biometric modifications of the eye in LASIK during suction

PURPOSE

To study the biometric modifications of the eyeball during suction in Laser assisted in Situ Keratomileusis (LASIK).

METHODS

Observational and cross-sectional study. We studied 43 patients who underwent surgery for myopia and myopic astigmatism. Mean age was 38.3 ± 11.5 years, and 19 were female (44.2%). Conventional LASIK surgery with a manual microkeratome was performed. Before and during the suction maneuvre the following parameters were measured using an 11 Mhz biometric probe: aqueous depth (AQD), lens thickness (LT), vitreous cavity length (VCL) and axial length (AXL). Paired t-test was used to compare the biometric measurements before and during suction.

RESULTS

The mean spherical equivalent refractive error was -4.5 ± 2.3 diopters. During suction, the AQD did not change significantly (p = 0.231). However, AXL and VCL increased by 0.12 mm and 0.22 mm respectively (p = 0.039 and <0.01) and LT decreased by 0.20 mm (p < 0.01). AXL increased in 42% of the eyes and decreased in 16%, VCL increased in 70% of the eyes and decreased in 9%, and the LT was reduced in 67% of the eyes.

CONCLUSIONS

Suction maneuvres during LASIK surgery produce changes of little magnitude in the eye globe, mainly a decrease in LT and an increase in VCL and AXL. Therefore, these modifications are expected to produce minimal anatomic alterations.

Detection of anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies in tears: Ocular surface immunity to COVID-19

PURPOSE

To evaluate the presence of SARS-CoV-2 specific IgA and IgG antibodies in tears of unvaccinated and anti-COVID-19 vaccinated subjects with previous history of SARS-CoV-2 infection. To compare results in tears with those in saliva and serum and correlate with clinical data and vaccination regimens.

METHODS

Cross-sectional study including subjects with a previous history of SARS-CoV-2 infection, both unvaccinated and vaccinated against COVID-19. Three samples were collected: tears, saliva and serum. IgA and IgG antibodies against S-1 protein of SARS-CoV-2 were analyzed with a semi-quantitative ELISA.

RESULTS

30 subjects, mean age 36.4 ± 10, males 13/30 (43.3%) with history of mild SARS-CoV-2 infection were included. 13/30 (43.3%) subjects had received a 2-dose regimen and 13/30 (43.3%) a 3-dose regimen of anti-COVID-19 vaccine, 4/30 (13.3%) subjects were unvaccinated. All the participants with full anti-COVID-19 vaccination (2-or 3-doses) presented detectable anti-S1 specific IgA in all three biofluids, tears, saliva and serum. Among unvaccinated subjects, specific IgA was detected in 3/4 subjects in tears and saliva, whereas IgG was not detected. Considering IgA and IgG antibodies titers, no differences were observed between the 2- and 3-dose vaccination regimen.

CONCLUSIONS

SARS-CoV-2-specific IgA and IgG antibodies were detected in tears after mild COVID-19, highlighting the role of the ocular surface as a first line of defense against infection. Most naturally infected unvaccinated individuals exhibit long-term specific IgA in tears and saliva. Hybrid immunization (natural infection plus vaccination) appears to enhance mucosal and systemic IgG responses. However, no differences were observed between the 2- and 3-dose vaccination schedule.

[Detection of anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies in tears: Ocular surface immunity to COVID-19]

Purpose

To evaluate the presence of SARS-CoV-2 specific IgA and IgG antibodies in tears of unvaccinated and anti-COVID-19 vaccinated subjects with previous history of SARS-CoV-2 infection. To compare results in tears with those in saliva and serum and correlate with clinical data and vaccination regimens.

Methods

Cross-sectional study including subjects with a previous history of SARS-CoV-2 infection, both unvaccinated and vaccinated against COVID-19. Three samples were collected: tears, saliva and serum. IgA and IgG antibodies against S-1 protein of SARS-CoV-2 were analyzed with a semi-quantitative ELISA.

Results

Thirty subjects, mean age 36.4 ± 10, males 13/30 (43.3%) with history of mild SARS-CoV-2 infection were included. 13/30 (43.3%) subjects had received a 2-dose regimen and 13/30 (43.3%) a 3-dose regimen of anti-COVID-19 vaccine, 4/30 (13.3%) subjects were unvaccinated. All the participants with full anti-COVID-19 vaccination (2-or 3-doses) presented detectable anti-S1 specific IgA in all 3 biofluids, tears, saliva and serum. Among unvaccinated subjects, specific IgA was detected in 3/4 subjects in tears and saliva, whereas IgG was not detected. Considering IgA and IgG antibodies titers, no differences were observed between the 2- and 3-dose vaccination regimen.

Conclusions

SARS-CoV-2-specific IgA and IgG antibodies were detected in tears after mild COVID-19, highlighting the role of the ocular surface as a first line of defense against infection. Most naturally infected unvaccinated individuals exhibit long-term specific IgA in tears and saliva. Hybrid immunization (natural infection plus vaccination) appears to enhance mucosal and systemic IgG responses. However, no differences were observed between the 2- and 3-dose vaccination schedule.

Update on the diagnosis and treatment of choroidal hemangioma

Choroidal hemangioma (CH) is a benign vascular tumor dependent on the choroid. Two types of lesions are distinguished: circumscribed (CCH), the most frequent variant, and diffuse (DCH), normally associated with Sturge-Weber syndrome. HCC appears as an orange mass that can present asymptomatically, however, when it produces symptoms, the most frequent is decreased visual acuity due to neurosensory retinal detachment. Due to its benign nature, only those that produce symptoms should be eligible for treatment. Knowledge of this pathology and its correct differential diagnosis is very relevant to establish the appropriate diagnosis and treatment, avoiding unnecessary treatments. There is currently a wide variety of multimodal diagnostic imaging tests that allow us to identify and adequately monitor this tumor. In addition, in recent years, there has been a change in the paradigm of the treatment of these tumors thanks to the use of photodinamic therapy, which has led to a significant improvement in the visual prognosis of these patients. This has been due to the use of photodynamic therapy as the treatment of choice for HCC.

Reproducibility of peripapillary, optic nerve head and macular vessel density by OCT-A according to glaucoma severity staging

OBJECTIVE

To assess the reproducibility of peripapillary, optic nerve head (ONH-PP) and macular vessel density (VD) by Spectral Domain optical coherence tomography angiography (SD OCT-A) in glaucoma patients and healthy subjects.

METHODS

Cross-sectional study assessing 63 eyes of 63 subjects, including 33 glaucoma patients and 30 healthy subjects. Glaucoma was classified in mild, moderate, or advanced. Two consecutive scans were acquired by Spectralis Module OCT-A (Heidelberg, Germany), and provided images of the superficial vascular complex (SVC), nerve fiber layer vascular plexus (NFLVP), superficial vascular plexus (SVP); deep vascular complex (DVC), intermediate capillary plexus (ICP) and deep capillary plexus (DCP). VD (%) was calculated by AngioTool. Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) and coefficients of variation (CV) were calculated.

RESULTS

Among ONH-PP VD, better ICC presented advanced (0.83-0.97) and moderate glaucoma (0.86-0.96) compared with mild glaucoma (0.64-0.86). For the macular VD reproducibility, ICC results for superficial retinal layers were better for mild glaucoma (0.94-0.96) followed by moderated (0.88-0.93) and advanced glaucoma (0.85-0.91), and for deeper retinal layers ICC was better for moderate glaucoma (0.96-0.95) followed by advanced (0.80-0.86) and mild glaucoma (0.74-0.91). CVs ranged from 2.2%% to 10.94%. Among healthy subjects, ICCs for the ONH-PP VD measurements (0.91-0.99) and for the macular VD measurements (0.93-0.97) were excellent in all layers, with CVs from 1.65% to 10.33%.

CONCLUSIONS

SD OCT-A used to quantify macular and ONH-PP VD showed excellent and good reproducibility in most layers of the retina, both in healthy subjects and in glaucoma patients regardless of the severity of the disease.

Unifocal and unilateral pigmented paravenous retinochoroidal atrophy

Paravenous pigmented chorioretinal atrophy (PPRCA) is a generally multifocal, bilateral and symmetric rare entity associated with autoimmune diseases and other ocular complications. We present the clinical case of a patient with rheumatoid arthritis who attended for pain of several days. He presented decreased visual acuity of the left eye (LE), nodular scleritis and chorioretinal atrophy with pigment accumulation in bone spicules in the inferior temporal vascular arcade and lamellar macular hole (AML). The right eye shows no alterations. LE autofluorescence (AF) shows a hypoautofluorescence lesion with defined edges. Fluorescein angiography (FAG) shows hyperfluorescence consistent with retinal pigmentary epithelial degeneration and blockage in pigment areas. The visual field (VC) reveals a defect in the superior hemifield. This case describes an atypical unifocal and unilateral PPRCA. This variant must be known to make a correct differential diagnosis, as well as to provide adequate prognostic information.

Assessment of the perception of healthcare barriers and the impact of intravitreal injections on neovascular age-related macular degeneration

AIM

To evaluate the perception of barriers in healthcare and the impact of intravitreal injections in patients with neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD).

METHODS

Cross-sectional study including 108 patients with nAMD in treatment with intravitreal injections. The patients answered a questionnaire with 26 questions (score from 1 to 5) divided in three sections: 1) the disease and its treatment with injections, 2) healthcare barriers and 3) new technologies.

RESULTS

The mean age was 80.4 ± 7.0 years and visual acuity (VA) was 75.2 ± 12.4 letters. The main barriers in healthcare were long waiting times (72%), followed by other comorbidities (10%). Some 63% of patients have to wait between 3 and 5 h to attend their clinical visit. Significant anxiety due to the injections (2.8 ± 1.3) was observed, being present in 71% of the cases the day before. A great fear of blindness and losing independence was observed (4.4 ± 0.9 and 4.3 ± 1.1), with no differences in relation to VA, age or sex (p ≥ 0.135). Moreover, 28% of the patients reported that it was quite or very difficult for them to attend the clinical visit, with 69% of the total showing great interest in having a diagnostic device at home.

CONCLUSION

The nAMD and its treatment represent a significant burden on patients, among whom there is a great fear of blindness and of losing their independence, the main barrier being the long waiting time for the clinical visit.

Evaluation of the insertion distance of the medial rectus in consecutive exotropia by means of intraoperative measure and optical coherence tomography

PURPOSE

To assess the agreement between the measurements of the distance from the medial rectus muscles insertion to the limbus measured by intra-operative spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) in consecutive exotropia (cXT).

METHODS

An analysis was performed on total of 14 medial rectus (MR) muscles of 14 patients who underwent surgery for the treatment of cXT. The limbus-insertion distance of the MR muscles was measured using preoperative SD-OCT and intraoperatively using a calliper. The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and Bland Altman plots were calculated to determine the agreement between the two methods, as well as the correlation.

RESULTS

Mean age was 36.3 ± 16.0 years (range 13-60), with 60% being women. Mean preoperative deviation was 38.7 ± 16.9 prismatic dioptres (PD) (range 16-65), being +1.3 ± 6.3 PD (range -12 to +10 PD) after surgery. Intraoperatively the MR insertion was found at 8.7 ± 2.1 mm (range 5.5-12.0) and by OCT at 7.7 ± 1.2 mm (range 5.3-10.0). The ICC showed a moderate to good agreement (0.659; 95% confidence interval: 0.157-0.885; p < 0.001), with a correlation of R = 0.792 (p = 0.011). A better agreement was observed in those MR that were less retro-inserted.

CONCLUSIONS

SD-OCT is able to measure the insertion to the limbus distance of the medial rectus muscles that have been previously operated on, showing moderate to good agreement with intraoperative measurements. However, the agreement was poor in muscles with a large retro-insertion.

Assessment of vision-related quality of life and depression and anxiety rates in patients with neovascular age-related macular degeneration

PURPOSE

To assess the vision-related quality of life and the depression and anxiety rates in patients with neovascular Age-Related Macular Degeneration (nAMD).

METHODS

A cross-sectional study of patients with nAMD treated with intravitreal injections was performed. The patients completed two validated questionnaires: the Visual Functioning Questionnaire (VFQ-25, score from 0 to 100), and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) questionnaire. Age, gender and visual acuity (VA) in the Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study (ETDRS) scale was registered.

RESULTS

Fifty-five patients with nAMD participated with a mean age of 80.9 ± 6.6 years-old (range 67-93) and a mean VA in the best eye of 73.5 ± 12.7 letters (range 44-95). The global VFQ-25 mean score was 57.4 ± 21.9 being 38.9 ± 13.2 for the general vision and 42.0 ± 19.5 for the general health. VA in the best eye was associated with the global score of the VFQ-25 scale (R = 0.608; P < .001), but no correlation was observed with general health (P = .936). In the HADS scale, 26.9% and 25.5% of patients had symptoms of depression and anxiety respectively. A negative correlation was found between the HADS and VFQ-25 scales for the general vision score (R = -0.438).

CONCLUSION

This study elucidates the impact of vision impairment and the visual functioning in nAMD, describing an important rate of depression and anxiety symptoms.

Agreement between optical coherence and Scheimpflug tomography: Vault measurements and reproducibility after implantable collamer lens implantation

PURPOSE

To evaluate the agreement between Scheimpflug tomography (Pentacam, Oculus) and anterior segment optical coherence tomography (AS-OCT, RTVue 100, Optovue) as well as the reproducibility of each technique in assessing the lens-ICL distance (vault) after implantable collamer lens (ICL) implantation.

METHODS

The vault was measured manually with Scheimpflug tomography and AS-OCT. Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) and Bland-Altman plots were used to determine the reproducibility of measurements and the agreement between them. Multivariate regression analysis was performed to identify predictors of differences in vault measurements between devices.

RESULTS

80 eyes of 46 ICL patients were analyzed. Mean patient age was 33.8±7.4 years (range, 21 to 51), and 27 (59%) were women. The preoperative spherical equivalent refraction ranged from -26 to 8.5 diopters (D). The mean vault measured by AS-OCT was 558.8±240.2μm (range, 162 - 1220) vs. 430.1±215.3μm (range, 0 to 1070) by Pentacam. AS-OCT yielded vault values, on average, 128.1±64.6μm higher than the Pentacam (range, -22 to 293μm). The ICC values for consistency and absolute agreement were 0.960 and 0.928, respectively. Reproducibility of vault measurements was excellent for both devices (ICC≥0.946). Four parameters-vault, pupil diameter (PD), PD differences between devices, and preoperative spherical equivalent refraction-were significant predictors of differences in vault measurements (adjusted-R²=0.412; P<0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Agreement between AS-OCT and Pentacam for vault measurement was good. Vaults were higher when measured by AS-OCT. These differences are clinically relevant, and therefore these devices cannot be used interchangeably to measure vault.

Analytical model for managing hypotony after implantation surgery of a glaucoma drainage device

The main aim of glaucoma treatment is to reduce the intraocular pressure (IOP). One of the most common surgical treatments of glaucoma is the implantation of a glaucoma drainage device to drain the aqueous humor from the anterior chamber to a filtration bleb, where the aqueous humor is absorbed. In some cases, the excess of drainage causes ocular hypotony, which constitutes a sight-threatening complication. To prevent hypotony after this intervention, surgeons frequently introduce a suture into the device tube, which increases the hydraulic resistance of the tube and, therefore, the IOP. This study aims to provide an analytical model to correct hypotony following implantation surgery of a glaucoma drainage device, which may help glaucoma surgeons decide on hypotony treatment. The results indicate that the IOP after implanting a cylindrical tube around 300 μm in diameter is essentially the same as that built up in the filtering bleb and can hardly be controlled by introducing a straight suture unless the suture diameter is slightly lower than that of the tube. On the contrary, when the tube diameter is smaller than, for example, 100 μm, significant reductions of the IOP can be obtained by introducing a thin suture into the tube.

Evaluation of the insertion distance of the medial rectus in consecutive exotropia by means of intraoperative measure and optical coherence tomography

PURPOSE

To assess the agreement between the intraoperative measurements of the distance from the medial rectus muscles insertion to the limbus and preoperative spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) in consecutive exotropia (cXT).

METHODS

An analysis was performed on total of 14 medial rectus (MR) muscles of 14 patients who underwent surgery for the treatment of cXT. The limbus-insertion distance of the MR muscles was measured using preoperative SD-OCT and intraoperatively using a calliper. The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and Bland Altman plots were calculated to determine the agreement between the two methods, as well as the correlation.

RESULTS

Mean age was 36.3±16.0 years (range 13-60), with 60% being women. Mean preoperative deviation was 38.7±16.9 prismatic dioptres (PD) (range 16 to 65), being +1.3±6.3 PD (range -12 to +10 PD) after surgery. Intraoperatively the MR insertion was found at 8.7±2.1mm (range 5.5 - 12.0) and by OCT at 7.7±1.2mm (range 5.3 - 10.0). The ICC showed a moderate to good agreement (0.659; 95% confidence interval: 0.157-0.885; P<.001), with a correlation of R=0.792 (P=.011). A better agreement was observed in those MR that were less retro-inserted.

CONCLUSIONS

SD-OCT is able to measure the insertion to the limbus distance of the medial rectus muscles that have been previously operated on, showing moderate to good agreement with intraoperative measurements. However, the agreement was poor in muscles with a large retro-insertion.

Biometry data and prevalence of corneal astigmatism in caucasian spanish candidates for cataract surgery

PURPOSE

To describe ocular biometric parameters and the prevalence of corneal astigmatism as well as age and gender correlations in a population of cataract surgery candidates and to estimate the number of eyes that would be candidates for a toric intraocular lens (IOL).

METHODS

In consecutive patients requiring cataract surgery over a one-year period (June 2016 to June 2017), the following optical biometry measurements were performed on an IOLMaster 700 or Lenstar 900: axial length (AL), anterior chamber depth (ACD), lens thickness (LT), mean keratometry (K), flat keratometry (K1), steep keratometry (K2), corneal astigmatism (Cyl) and white-to-white diameter (WTW). Descriptive statistics for the demographic and biometric data were analyzed.

RESULTS

The study sample included 6111 eyes of 3332 patients (59.3% women), with a mean age of 74.78±9.7years. The means of the compiled data are as follows: AL 23.58±1.55mm, ACD 3.08±0.41mm, LT 4.55±0.52mm,K 44.15±1.54 diopters (D), K1 43.64±1.57 D, K2 44.69±1.61 D, Cyl 1.0±0.81. D and WTW 11.88±0.46mm. The male patients had significantly larger eyes (higher AL, ACD and WTW) and flatter corneas (lower flat and steep K). Older patients had significantly lower AL, ACD and WTW, while their LT values were higher. Corneas became significantly steeper with age. 60.5% of eyes had less than 1 D of corneal astigmatism, while 3.1% had ≥3.0 D.

CONCLUSIONS

Less than 1 D of corneal astigmatism was present in the majority of cataract surgery candidates. 3.1% of eyes were candidates for a toric IOL. This study provides useful information on inventory requirements for planning hospital resources.

Update on the management of chronic central serous chorioretinopathy

Central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC) is one of the main causes of impaired visual acuity in patients younger than 60 years. Its pathophysiology remains partially unknown, although it has been postulated that choroidal hyper-permeability may be involved. This typically produces a neurosensory retinal detachment and/or a detachment of the retinal pigment epithelium in the posterior pole. Although acute CSC generally does not require treatment, when chronic it must be treated to avoid visual impairment. With the development of new imaging techniques, there has been an improvement in diagnosis, and different therapeutic strategies have been proposed. Various treatments for the management of chronic CSC have currently been shown to be useful to improve or stabilise visual acuity, the resolution of subretinal fluid, and to prevent recurrences. The most commonly used treatments today are photodynamic therapy, micropulse subthreshold laser, mineralocorticoid antagonists, or anti-vascular endothelial growth factor drugs. There are also other proposals and new treatments being developed, with promising results. This review aims to provide the reader with an overview of the current scientific evidence of the different treatment options available for CSC in order to help decision-making in clinical practice.

Comparing in-vivo confocal microscopy and ex-vivo light and scanning electron microscopy images of the hairs of the pine processionary caterpillar embedded in the cornea: Report of three cases

This report describes three cases of pine processionary caterpillar hairs (setae) embedded in the cornea: one in a 69-year-old man with acute keratouveitis, a second case in a 65-year-old man with an epithelial defect and a stromal infiltrate, and the third case affecting a 54-year-old woman with mild keratitis. The two first patients had one hair embedded in the anterior corneal layers while the last one had several hairs deeply embedded in the stroma. By comparing in-vivo confocal microscopy (IVCM) with ex-vivo light microscopy (LM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images, the morphology of the setae was identified and confirmed.

Assessment of changes in the macula and optic nerve head using optical coherence tomography in patients with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder

INTRODUCTION

To assess if there are any differences in macular and papillary thickness using optical coherence tomography (OCT) in patients with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) compared with a control group, including if there are differences between ADHD patients with and without treatment.

METHODS

Prospective observational study including 92 eyes of 46 patients divided into 2 groups: 46 eyes of 23 patients with ADHD, and a control group of 46 eyes of 23 healthy patients. The group of patients with ADHD was subdivided into those on treatment with methylphenidate (n=28) and those not on treatment (n=18). The macular thickness, the ganglion cell complex (GCC), and the retinal nerve fibre layer (RNFL) at the papillary level were measured in 12 sectors.

RESULTS

A lower central macular thickness was observed in the ADHD patients than in the controls (257.4±20μm versus 267.5±20μm, P=.013), with no differences observed in the GCC (P=.566), or in the RNFL (P=.095). There were no differences in the patients with ADHD with and without treatment, as regards macular thickness and the GCC (P=.160 and P=.375 respectively), but a lower foveal thickness (P=.018) and RNFL in 5/12 sectors at the papillary level (P=.033) were observed in those without treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

A lower macular thickness was observed in patients with ADHD than in controls. In addition, patients with ADHD without treatment had a lower thickness of the fovea and RNFL than those patients on treatment.

Update on the usefulness of optical coherence tomography in assessing the iridocorneal angle

The iridocorneal angle, due to its implications in the physiopathology of aqueous humour drainage, is a fundamental structure of the anterior chamber. Anterior segment optical coherence tomography is a rapid and non-invasive technique that obtains images in vivo. The high resolution allows it to analyse the normal anatomy of the angle, any alterations, and the changes that occur after different therapeutic interventions. Anterior segment optical coherence tomography technology has evolved to provide images that allow the identification and quantification of the angular structures in healthy subjects and in glaucoma patients, and especially the trabecular meshwork and the Schlemm's canal. It also enables the angle width to be quantified, with some objective parameters that have been standardised in recent years, such as the trabecular-iris angle, the angle opening distance, and the trabecular-iris area. This technique has multiple uses in the study of the different mechanisms of angle closure, the evaluation of changes after a laser peripheral iridotomy or iridoplasty after cataract surgery, as well as after the implantation of phakic lenses.

Retinal manifestations in patients with complement-mediated membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis

Complement-mediated membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis is a rare progressive glomerular disease. In some patients it can be associated with retinal lesions. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to assess a case series with this diagnosis in our hospital. A cross-sectional study was conducted on 8 patients diagnosed with complement-mediated membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis. Funduscopy, optical coherence tomography (OCT) and Swept Source domain OCT angiography were performed. Only 1 of the 8 patients showed drusen-like deposits that were located under the retinal pigment epithelium in the OCT, with the presence of associated choroidal neovascularization being ruled out in OCT angiography. Therefore, membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis may produce retinal alterations with drusen or retinal pigment epithelium detachment, and requires an appropriate differential diagnosis to be made with age-related macular degeneration. The follow-up of these patients is important in order to detect vision-threatening complications.

Response to tocilizumab treatment in Graves' ophthalmopathy by measuring rectus muscle thickness and chemosis using optical coherence tomography

PURPOSE

To assess the extraocular muscle thickness and chemosis after treatment with tocilizumab in patients with active Graves' ophthalmopathy by optical coherence tomography.

METHODS

Case series of five patients with active Graves' ophthalmopathy (clinical activity score ≥4/10) treated with 4 doses of tocilizumab. These patients had been previously treated with corticosteroids with no response. Spectral-domain optical coherence tomography was employed to determine lateral and medial rectus muscle thickness and chemosis before and after 4 doses of tocilizumab given monthly. Scanning was performed at 3 and 9 o'clock (nasal and temporal).

RESULTS

The study included four women and one man with a median age of 52 years (range: 38-73). Median Graves' ophthalmopathy activity duration was 17 months (12-18). Median medial rectus and determine lateral thicknesses pre-treatment were 249μm (174-366) and 337μm (142-443), respectively. Median chemosis was 409μm (290-610). After tocilizumab treatment, median muscle thicknesses reduced to 157μm (88-187) and 197μm (99-290), respectively (P=.043; Wilcoxon) and chemosis to 59μm (0-78). Median clinical activity score decreased from 5 (4-8) to 1 (0-3).

CONCLUSIONS

A reduction in extraocular muscle thickness and chemosis was observed after treatment with tocilizumab in Graves' ophthalmopathy patients using an optical coherence tomography, so this technique could be a useful complementary technique to assess the therapeutic responses.

Assessment of extraocular muscle thickness and correlation study using optical coherence tomography

OBJECTIVE

To report reference values for the horizontal rectus muscles thickness using Spectral Domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT), and to evaluate whether there are any correlations between the muscle thickness and gender, age, or axial length (AL).

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted on 131 right eyes of healthy subjects. The gender and age were recorded, and axial length was measured using an optical biometer. The medial rectus (MR) muscle thickness was measured at 7.2 and 9.2mm from the limbus, and the lateral rectus (LR) at 8.5 and 10.5mm from the limbus using OCT. A multivariate model was adjusted to determine whether gender, age, and axial length could have an impact on the muscle thickness.

RESULTS

Mean age was 43.3±20.9 years (range 6-86), and 59% were women. Mean AL was 24.9±2.7mm (range: 20.4-33.8). Mean thickness was 188.5±51.2μm (range 69-342) for the LR at 8.5 and 186.5±45.9μm (range 75-269) at 10.5mm, and for the MR, 158.1±39.1μm (range 69-273) at 7.2mm and 193.7±55.9μm (range 105-386) at 9.2mm. A correlation was observed between the AL and MR thickness (R=-.255; P=.023) while no correlation was observed for the LR (P≥0.203). No correlations were found between thickness and gender or thickness and age (P≥0.125).

CONCLUSIONS

The reference ranges of the horizontal rectus muscles thickness was described using SD-OCT, observing an association between the AL and the MR thickness.

Pseudoexfoliation signs in the anterior segment assessed by optical coherence tomography and Scheimpflug device

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate different anterior segment parameters in eyes with pseudoexfoliation (PSX), fellow eyes, and controls using optical coherence tomography and a Scheimpflug imaging system.

METHODS

Three groups were studied: 44 eyes of 44 patients with PSX, 30 clinically unaffected fellow eyes, and 148 eyes of 148 healthy controls. The anterior chamber depth and volume, corneal volume and thickness, pupil diameter and corneal densitometry were measured using a Scheimpflug imaging system (Pentacam, Oculus Inc.; Wetzlar, Germany). The angle width, the length and area of the trabecular meshwork, and the iris thickness were measured using an optical coherence tomography RTVue 100 device (Optovue, Fremont, CA, USA). The presence of PSX deposits was also assessed by OCT.

RESULTS

There were no differences in the anterior chamber volume or depth in the corneal volume or central thickness (P≥.228). The corneal densitometry was similar between PSX and fellow eyes; however it was greater than in the control group (P<.001). As regards the parameters measured by OCT, there were no differences in the angle width or in the trabecular meshwork size between the 3 groups; however, the iris was thinner in controls (P=.005). In all patients the PSX deposits were correctly visualised by OCT after the identification by biomicroscopy.

CONCLUSIONS

There were no differences in the anterior segment biometric measurements between patients with PSX and controls, although the corneal densitometry and iris thickness were greater in the PSX and fellow eyes groups.

Agreement between Pentacam and optical coherence tomography in the assessment of iridocorneal angle width in a large healthy population

PURPOSE

To analyze the agreement between Pentacam and optical coherence tomography (OCT) in the assessment of trabecular-iris angle (TIA) width in a large population of normal subjects.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was performed in 989 right eyes of 989 healthy subjects. The trabecular-iris angle (TIA) was measured in the temporal and nasal quadrants using the Pentacam (Oculus, Wetzlar, Germany), a device based on Scheimpflug technology and RTVue 100 OCT (Optovue, Fremont, CA, USA). Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) and Bland-Altman plots were used to evaluate agreement between these devices.

RESULTS

Mean age was 49.1±15.2 years (18-84); 61% were women and spherical error range was -14 to 8.25. TIA could be measured by OCT in 94.9% and 94.1% in the temporal and nasal quadrants, with a mean value of 35.8±13.2 degrees (2.5-78.7) and 35.7±12.9 degrees (2.2-76.8) respectively. TIA was able to be measured by Pentacam in 95.2% and 95% in the temporal and nasal quadrants and means were 35.7±7.3 degrees (11-74.2) and 36.4±8.2 degrees (14.5-64) respectively. An ICC of 0.378 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.322-0.431) and 0.589 (95% CI 0.546-0.629) for the temporal and nasal quadrants was obtained, showing moderate agreement between the devices. Bland-Altman plots revealed that, compared with OCT, Pentacam tends to overestimate measurements in narrow angles and underestimate these in open angles.

CONCLUSIONS

Agreement between OCT and Pentacam was mediocre, indicating the two devices are not interchangeable when used to measure angle width.

Agreement between intraoperative measurements and optical coherence tomography of the limbus-insertion distance of the extraocular muscles

OBJECTIVE

To assess the agreement between intraoperative measurements of the limbus-insertion distance of the extraocular muscles with those measured by spectral domain optical coherence tomography.

METHODS

An analysis was made of a total of 67 muscles of 21 patients with strabismus. The limbus-insertion distance of the horizontal rectus muscles were measured using pre-operative SD-OCT and intra-operatively in 2 ways: 1) direct, after a conjunctival dissection in patients who underwent surgery, or 2) transconjunctival in patients who were treated with botulinum toxin, or in those who were not going to be operated. The intraclass correlation coefficient and Bland-Altman plots were calculated to determine the concordance between the 2 methods.

RESULTS

The mean age was 45.9 ±20.9 years (range 16 to 85), with 52% being women. The percentage of identification by direct intraoperative measurement was 95.6% (22/23), by transconjunctival intraoperative measurement 90.9% (40/44), and by OCT 85% (57/67), with 22 muscles finally being analysed for the agreement study between direct intraoperative measurement and OCT measurements, and 35 muscles for the agreement between transconjuctival intraoperative measurement and OCT. The intraclass correlation coefficient showed good agreement with OCT and direct intraoperative measurements (0.931; 95% confidence interval (95% CI): 0.839-0.972; P<.001), and with transconjunctival intraoperative measurements (0.889; 95% CI: 0.790-0.942; P<.001).

CONCLUSIONS

The SD-OCT is an effective technique to measure the distance from the insertion of the horizontal rectus muscles to the limbus, with a high agreement with intraoperative measurements being demonstrated.

Identification of iridocorneal angle structures assessed by Fourier domain optical coherence tomography

OBJECTIVE

To study the structures of the iridocorneal angle using anterior segment optical coherence tomography (OCT) defining their tomographic characteristics and quantifying their identification frequency.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A cross-sectional study was performed on 267 right eyes of 267 consecutive healthy patients. Fourier domain OCT RTVue (Optovue Inc, CA, EE. UU.) was used to examine the iridocorneal angle in the nasal and temporal sectors. The structures evaluated were: Sclerocorneal limbus, sclerocorneal transition, Schwalbe's line, trabecular meshwork, Schlemm's canal, scleral spur, and angular recess. Within and between agreements to identify structures were calculated using Cohen's kappa coefficient.

RESULTS

The mean age was 41.3 ± 14.3 years (range 20-80), with 57% being women. The sclerocorneal limbus, sclerocorneal transition, and Schwalbe's line were identified by 98.7, 97 and 93.4% of the images, respectively, with the trabecular meshwork and Schlemm's canal being identified in 91% of cases. The scleral spur could be identified in 85.4%, and the angular recess in 74.5%. There was no difference in the identification between the temporal and nasal sectors. Within and between agreement was k=0.92 and k=0.88, respectively, in the identification of the structures of the total images studied.

CONCLUSIONS

Fourier domain OCT is a reliable technique for the identification of the structures of the iridocorneal angle, among which can be highlighted are, the trabecular meshwork, Schlemm's canal, scleral spur, and Schwalbe's line.