Abstract: BACKGROUND Transscleral diode laser cyclophotocoagulation (TSCPC) is an established method of treatment for refractory glaucoma, but is associated with significant complications. This study evaluates the efficacy and safety of a new form of TSCPC using micropulse diode laser and trans-pars plana treatment with a novel contact probe. METHODS Prospective interventional case series of 40 eyes of 38 consecutive patients with refractory glaucoma treated with micropulse TSCPC with a novel probe. Outcomes measured were success, hypotony and response rates. RESULTS The mean age of patients was 63.2 +/- 16.0 years. The mean follow-up period was 16.3 +/- 4.5 months. The mean intraocular pressure (IOP) before micropulse TSCPC was 39.3 +/- 12.6 mmHg. Mean IOP decreased to 31.1 +/- 13.4 mmHg at 1 day, 28.0 +/- 12.0 mmHg at 1 week, 27.4 +/- 12.7 mmHg at 1 month, 27.1 +/- 13.6 mmHg at 3 months, 25.8 +/- 14.5 mmHg at 6 months, 26.6 +/- 14.7 mmHg at 12 months and 26.2 +/- 14.3 mmHg at 18 months (P < 0.001 at all time points). No patient had hypotony or loss of best-corrected visual acuity. The overall success rate after a mean of 1.3 treatment sessions was 72.7%. CONCLUSION Micropulse TSCPC is a safe and effective method of lowering IOP in cases of refractory glaucoma and is comparable with conventional TSCPC.

Abstract: The purpose of this review is to collect and summarize all the scientific literature regarding the use of intracorneal ring segments (ICRS) in corneal ectatic disease. These implants, initially designed to correct myopia in normal eyes, are implanted in the deep corneal stroma with the aim of achieving modifications to the corneal curvature and subsequently refractive adjustments. Colin et al. in 2000 were the first to report the efficacy of these implants in reducing the refractive error and corneal steepening in keratoconus eyes. Two main types of ICRS have been developed and used for the treatment of ectatic corneal disease, different in profile and diameter of implantation: Intacs and Ferrara rings. Successful outcomes have been reported by several authors with these implants in keratoconic eyes using different nomograms. Besides keratoconus, ICRS have been also used successfully for the management of pellucid marginal degeneration and post-laser in situ keratomileusis corneal ectasia. The implantation procedure may be performed today by two surgical techniques to create the corneal channels where implants are inserted: mechanical dissection using a manual semicircular dissector (mechanical-assisted) and photodisruption of lamellar tissue using the femtosecond laser technology (femtosecond-assisted). With both techniques, visual, refractive and topographic improvements have been observed, although higher incidence of intraoperative and postoperative complications have been reported with the mechanical procedure according to the evidence found in the peer-reviewed literature. ICRS technology is a promising therapeutic option in corneal ectatic disease, avoiding corneal graft and allowing a visual and refractive rehabilitation.

Abstract: The current paper provides an overview of current knowledge on the structure and function of the eye. It describes in depth the different parts of the eye that are involved in the ocular manifestations seen in the mucopolysaccharidoses (MPS). The MPS are a group of rare inheritable lysosomal storage disorders characterized by the accumulation of glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) in cells and tissues all over the body, leading to widespread tissue and organ dysfunction. GAGs also tend to accumulate in several tissues of the eye, leading to various ocular manifestations affecting both the anterior (cornea, conjunctiva) and the posterior parts (retina, sclera, optic nerve) of the eye.

Abstract: From its inception over a century ago, penetrating keratoplasty grew to become the most common and most successful form of solid tissue transplantation. Yet clinicians have long recognized the limitations of full-thickness corneal transplants, including prolonged visual rehabilitation, unpredictable refractive changes, susceptibility to ocular surface complications and vulnerability to traumatic wound rupture. Selective replacement of diseased or damaged posterior corneal layers was conceptualized and implemented a half century ago. However, it has only been within the past decade that improved techniques and instrumentation have allowed endothelial keratoplasty (EK) to become the preferred treatment for patients with endothelial dysfunction. EK provides more rapid visual recovery, minimizes induced astigmatism and, most importantly, better maintains globe integrity than penetrating keratoplasty. Descemet stripping automated EK is currently the most widely used method. This article covers how EK techniques have evolved over time, considers who is or is not an appropriate candidate for EK, describes Descemet stripping automated EK methods and instrumentation, discusses EK postoperative complications and management and compares visual recovery, refractive outcomes and endothelial cell loss with that of standard penetrating keratoplasty.

Abstract: The incidence of syphilis and syphilitic uveitis in our community is increasing. The prevalence of associated neurosyphilis is unknown, and it remains unclear whether syphilitic uveitis should be treated as secondary syphilis with intramuscular penicillin or neurosyphilis with intravenous penicillin. The (English language) literature was reviewed for all unique cases of syphilitic uveitis reported from 1984 to June 2008. For each case the following data were recorded: the clinical features of the syphilis, the uveitis and any associated neurosyphilis, the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) status, lumbar puncture findings, treatment and follow up. We identified 143 patients in 41 original reports of syphilitic uveitis (93 HIV-positive and 50 HIV-negative). Posterior uveitis was reported in 79 patients (55.2%); panuveitis was reported in 36 patients (25.2%); anterior/intermediate uveitis was reported in only 28 patients (19.6%). Lumbar puncture findings were abnormal in 82 patients (57%), and the majority of these patients (76%, 62 out of 82) were HIV-positive. One hundred and ten (77%) patients were treated with intravenous therapy, usually penicillin. Most recovered from the syphilis, however, a proportion did not recover full vision. There were 13 (9%) treatment failures, which tended to occur in patients who were HIV-positive (n = 11), had abnormal lumbar puncture findings (n = 8) and/or were treated (n = 11) intravenously. There is a high incidence of abnormal lumbar puncture findings in patients with syphilitic uveitis and a strong association with HIV infection. Most received appropriate therapy with a low relapse rate, which was not related to the type of therapy.

Abstract: PURPOSE To determine the prevalence of refractive errors in Shiraz schoolchildren by age and gender. METHODS For this cross-sectional study, random cluster sampling was carried out from students of the 2008-2009 academic year. After the initial interview, ophthalmic examinations including tests of visual acuity, non-cycloplegic and cycloplegic refraction and binocular vision were performed. Myopia was defined as a spherical equivalent or =+2.0 D, and astigmatism as a cylinder refraction > or =0.75 D. All values for school grade and gender were directly standardized based on the total student population in the 2008-2009 school year. RESULTS A total of 2130 students were sampled, of which 1872 participated in the study (response rate = 87.88%). The prevalence of uncorrected, best-corrected, presenting and spectacle corrected visual acuity of 6/12 or worse in the better eye was 6.46%, 0%, 1.49% and 0.9%, respectively. The prevalence rates of myopia, hyperopia and astigmatism were 4.35% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.89-5.82%), 5.04% (95% CI: 3.50-6.58%), and 11.27% (95% CI: 9.81-12.74%), respectively. Anisometropia was detected in 2.58% of schoolchildren. The prevalence of hyperopia significantly decreased with age (P = 0.021). CONCLUSIONS Compared with other reported rates, the prevalence of myopia in the schoolchildren of Shiraz is similar to that in most places excluding East Asian countries, and that of hyperopia is in the mid range.

Abstract: Laser in situ keratomileusis has become a widely accepted and commonly performed surgical refractive procedure. With the rapid advances in laser technology and surgical techniques, the visual outcomes and safety of this procedure has significantly improved. This review outlines the historical background, recent technological advances, indications, patient assessment and selection, the surgical technique, as well as complications of the procedure and their management.

Abstract: Background: To evaluate the efficacy of wide-field digital retinal imaging for retinopathy of prematurity screening. Design: Retrospective study in a quaternary public neonatal intensive care unit. Participants: A total of 108 premature infants screened for retinopathy of prematurity. Methods: Retrospective chart and photo review were performed on participants screened by both serial wide-field digital retinal imaging and concurrent binocular indirect ophthalmoscopy. Review of captured digital photos was performed independently by a masked reader. Using the binocular indirect ophthalmoscopy findings as the gold standard, the efficacy of wide-field digital retinal imaging in detecting treatment-requiring retinopathy of prematurity, defined as type 1 prethreshold disease, was determined. Main Outcome Measures: Sensitivity and specificity of wide-field digital retinal imaging in detecting treatment-requiring retinopathy of prematurity. Results: Treatment-requiring retinopathy of prematurity was detected in 11 infants by both binocular indirect ophthalmoscopy examination and telemedicine images taken at the same visit. Wide-field digital retinal imaging has a sensitivity of 100% (95% CI: 76.2–100%) and a specificity of 97.9% (95% CI: 93.4–99.7%) in detecting infants with treatment-requiring retinopathy of prematurity. Positive and negative predictive values of wide-field digital retinal imaging were 84.6% (95% CI: 57.8–97.3%) and 100% (95% CI: 96.9–100%), respectively. Conclusions: Wide-field digital retinal imaging is accurate, reliable and efficient in detecting treatment-requiring retinopathy of prematurity. Incorporating wide-field digital retinal imaging with telemedicine in standard retinopathy of prematurity management can potentially improve delivery, accessibility, quality and cost of retinopathy of prematurity care.

Abstract: Background: To determine whether a significant correlation exists among the changes in the size of the abnormal parafoveal autofluorescence ring, the length of the photoreceptor inner and outer segment (IS/OS) junction, and the visual function in patients with retinitis pigmentosa. Methods: Retrospective observational case series. A total of 50 eyes of 26 patients with typical retinitis pigmentosa and an autofluorescence ring were examined by optical coherence tomography and microperimetry. During the follow-up period of >2 years, the changes in the diameter and area of the autofluorescence ring, the length of the IS/OS line, the best-corrected visual acuity and mean retinal sensitivity in the central 10° were determined. Results: The diameter and area of the autofluorescence ring, and the length of the IS/OS line decreased significantly during the follow-up period (all, P < 0.0001). The decrease in autofluorescence ring diameter was significantly correlated with the decrease in retinal sensitivity, visual acuity and IS/OS length (P = 0.0105, P = 0.0252 and P < 0.0001, respectively). The decrease in autofluorescence ring area was significantly correlated with the decrease in retinal sensitivity, visual acuity and IS/OS length (P < 0.0001, P = 0.0026 and P = 0.0011, respectively). Conclusion: During the progression of retinitis pigmentosa, the progressive constriction of the autofluorescence ring reflects the morphological changes of the photoreceptors, and is associated with a worsening of visual function.

Abstract: Background: The ophthalmic and facial veins are frequently stated to be devoid of valves, facilitating the spread of infection from the mid-face to the cavernous sinus. Methods: Twelve superior and eight inferior ophthalmic veins together with 13 angular and facial veins were harvested from adult cadavers. Each vein was opened longitudinally and examined by stereomicroscopy; the number, location and geometry of valve cusps were recorded. Results: Ten valves were identified in nine (75%) superior ophthalmic vein specimens: four valves were in the superior ophthalmic vein and the remainder were located near its origin from angular and supra-orbital tributaries. No valves were seen in the inferior ophthalmic vein. Seventeen bicuspid valves were identified in tributaries of the angular vein or in the facial vein, but none were in the angular vein itself. Four of seven facial vein segments extending to the lower border of the mandible had valves. The orientation of valve cusps predicted the following blood flow: in the facial vein, inferiorly; in the superior ophthalmic vein, towards the cavernous sinus; and in the angular vein, to the facial or superior ophthalmic vein. Conclusions: This study demonstrates, for the first time, the existence of valves in the superior ophthalmic vein and its two main tributaries. Valves were also seen in the facial vein. It is not the absence of venous valves but the existence of communications between the facial vein and cavernous sinus and the direction of blood flow that is important in the spread of infection from the face.

Abstract: This paper aims to compare the efficacy, mean operative time and adverse effects of primary external dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) versus primary endonasal DCR in treating acquired nasolacrimal duct obstruction. Searches were performed for studies comparing the two procedures. Two reviewers independently extracted data from 14 eligible studies. A random effects model was used to analyse the studies. Outcome measures were defined as patency of the nasolacrimal canal and mean operative time,and adverse effects as cutaneous scarring and bleeding.Both procedures were comparable in efficacy in terms of full success, partial success and anatomic patency. Subgroup analysis showed no significant difference between prospective and retrospective studies as well as between non-laser endonasal DCR versus external DCR and laser endonasal DCR versus external DCR. Endonasal DCR had a significantly shorter mean operative duration, be it laser endonasal DCR (mean difference: 37.65 min, 95% confidence intervals:3.54-71.75 min, P: 0.03) or non-laser endonasal DCR (mean difference: 19.22 min, 95% confidence intervals: 2.15-36.28 min, P: 0.03). The odds of post-operative bleeding was not significantly different between the two procedures, whereas post-operative cutaneous scarring was unique to external DCR and occurred in 50 out of 402 (12.44%) external DCRs recorded. Endonasal DCR has comparable success rates with external DCR and has a shorter operative time and no cutaneous scar. However, drawbacks include the steep learning curve and higher costs.

Abstract: Background: Toric intraocular lenses (IOLs) are advocated as an effective treatment for both regular corneal-based astigmatism and cataract in both non-penetrating keratoplasty and penetrating keratoplasty (PK) patients. The aim of this analysis is to compare postoperative outcomes for both PK and non-PK patients to determine whether or not the past PK is relevant when calculating the appropriate IOL and predicting the postoperative results.Methods:A retrospective analysis was performed on 14 non-PK and eight PK patients who underwent cataract surgery and astigmatism correction with a Rayner toric IOL. Preoperatively, best spectacle-corrected visual acuity, biometry and refractive data were recorded. Postoperative analysis at 1 month looked at best-uncorrected visual acuity (BUVA), refractive data and IOL axis. Statistical analysis was undertaken to test for differences in outcomes between the PK and non-PK groups.Results: Preoperatively, a significant difference was seen between cylinder and astigmatism and not between sphere, axial length or anterior chamber depth. Analysis of preoperative best spectacle-corrected visual acuity, IOL error predictability, IOL rotational stability and refractive outcomes revealed no difference between PK and non-PK groups, but a significant difference was seen postoperatively with PK patients having worse BUVA.Conclusion: Toric IOLs are an effective means for treating both regular corneal-based astigmatism and cataract in both PK and non-PK patient groups. Analysis of results revealed similar trends for both groups in all areas except postoperative BUVA. Further studies are planned to better understand why PK patient's BUVA did not fit the trend of the other results.

Abstract: Paediatric abusive head injury may have grave consequences, especially when characterized by repetitive acceleration-deceleration forces (shaken baby syndrome) Death occurs in approximately 30% and permanent neurologic damage in up to 80% of the victims Retinal haemorrhages are a cardinal sign seen in approximately 85% of cases In most cases haemorrhages are preretinal, intraretinal and subretinal, too numerous to count, and involving the entire retinal surface extending to the ora serrata Traumatic macular retinoschisis is a lesion with important diagnostic significance Vitreoretinal traction appears to be the mechanism of haemorrhage and schisis formation along with a possible role of orbital tissue trauma from repetitive acceleration-deceleration forces Ophthalmologists must carefully document ocular findings Appropriate autopsy examination should include ocular and orbital tissue removal Although there is a wide differential diagnosis for retinal haemorrhages, clinical appearance, when considered in the context of systemic and laboratory findings, usually leads to the correct diagnosis Language: en

Abstract: Purpose: The aim of the study was to evaluate long-term results of autologous serum treatment for recurrent corneal erosions. Methods: In this prospective single-centre study, 33 eyes of 33 patients (21 male and 12 female) were treated with autologous serum eye drops for recurrent corneal erosions. Mean age of the patients was 49.3 ± 9.8 standard deviation (range 24–73) years. All subjects had failed to respond to other treatments. Autologous serum drops were administered for a 6-month period: six times daily for the first 3 months and four times daily for the remaining 3 months. Detailed informed consent was obtained from the entire patient group before the study. Results: The mean follow-up period was 30 ± 6.3 standard deviation (range 12–48) months. None of the patients experienced a recurrence while under treatment. Twenty-eight patients (85%) had complete healing of erosions with no relapses of the disease over the whole follow-up period. Five patients (15%) presented a single recurrence 3–12 months after the end of the treatment. No sight-threatening complications were reported over the follow up. There was no statistically significant difference in the best spectacle-corrected visual acuity values (tstat = 2.1, F = 0.096, degree of freedom = 40 166, P < 0.41) or in the intraocular pressure measurements (P < 0.38) between the pre- and post-treatment patient groups. Conclusions: Autologous serum drops proved to be a safe and efficient treatment modality for patients with recurrent corneal erosion syndrome as observed through a long-term follow up.

Abstract: Background: The incidence of new infection with syphilis is increasing, particularly in men who have sex with men, with HIV co-infection common. There has been a corresponding increase in ophthalmic manifestations that can be varied in presentation. Methods: Thirteen consecutive patients with syphilitic uveitis presenting to two ophthalmic departments in Sydney are described. Results: Twelve patients were male, of whom 10 were homosexual and six HIV-positive. Peripheral retinitis with panuveitis was the commonest ophthalmic presentation (n = 7, 54%), and six cases were initially treated with vitreous tap and intravitreal foscarnet as a precaution in case of viral retinitis. Retinitis was present in six of six (100%) HIV-positive and only one of seven (14%) HIVnegative patients (c 2 10.6, P < 0.01). Other ophthalmic presentations included anterior uveitis, vitritis, multifocal choroiditis, scleritis and papillitis. All patients responded to 10‐14 days’ intravenous penicillin with good final visual outcomes (6/12 or better in all eyes). Conclusions: This case series reinforces the importance of considering syphilis in the differential diagnosis of many ocular presentations, but in particular retinitis. Retinitis appears to be the predominant presentation in HIV-infected individuals, suggesting that HIV infection may somehow modulate the disease.

Abstract: Background: To validate Randleman's model of ectasia risk factor scores using a large unbiased sample of unpublished cases. Methods: Data were collected retrospectively on 36 eyes with ectasia post laser in situ keratomileusis treated by two surgeons at Vision Eye Institute. The data were then entered into Randleman's risk factor score system. Data were also collected about posterior maximum elevation (PME) and posterior maximum elevation position (PMEP); and these were compared with a control group of 50 eyes. Results: Of the 36 eyes, 9 (25%) were classified as low risk, 7 (19%) as moderate risk and 20 (56%) as high risk. On average, the most points were scored in the topography and topography was abnormal in 69% of cases. Topography points also correlated the most strongly with the increasing risk scores (P < 0.0001). PME or PMEP was not significantly different between our ectasia group and the control group. Conclusion: Randleman's ectasia risk factor scale can miss a significant proportion of patients at risk of ectasia. Other factors must play a role in ectasia risk. Abnormal corneal topography appears to be the most important preoperative risk factor.

Abstract: Background: The characteristics of the corneal endothelium in patients with/without pseudoexfoliation syndrome (PEX) with senile cataract in Paraguay are unknown. Methods: Endothelial density, mean coefficient of variation (%) in cell size and mean cell hexagonality (%) were measured using automated specular microscopy. Multivariate general linear model analysis was used to determine the effect of age, gender and PEX on endothelial characteristics. Analysis of variance tests analysed the effect of age on endothelial variables without regard to PEX status. Categories of <2000 and ≥2000 cells/mm2 were compared in the presence/absence of PEX using age as covariate to calculate odds ratios for corneal decompensation. Results: Out of 468 eligible patients, 51 were excluded. Sixty-one patients had PEX. Unadjusted mean endothelial cell density was 2451 cells/mm2; cell size coefficient of variation was 34.3; and the mean percentage of hexagonal cells was 57.7. Adjusting for age, only the mean difference between the groups with and without PEX for endothelial cell density was significant (PEX = 2315, no PEX = 2482, P = 0.002). Of the total study population, at-risk endothelial cell densities were found in 46 eyes (11%); and 13 (28%) of those were found to have PEX. When PEX was present, the calculated odds ratio for corneal decompensation following surgery was 1.90 after adjustment for age. Conclusions: Endothelial cell density data were consistent with published literature. Because Paraguay has a high prevalent of PEX, it is suggested that specular microscopy screening be carried out for all patients scheduled for intraocular surgery where feasible.

Abstract: Background: To compare the effects of different doses of bevacizumab with both saline and dexamethasone on inflammatory angiogenesis in the rat cornea induced by small chemical lesions. Methods: Corneal chemical cauterization was performed on 24 rats. Animals were divided randomly into six groups and received a daily subconjunctival injection for 7 days of: balanced salt solution 0.1 mL or dexamethasone phosphate 4 mg/day or bevacizumab 2.5 mg/day, 3.75 mg/day, 5.0 mg/day or bevacizumab 5.0 mg/day + dexamethasone phosphate 4 mg/day. Clinical examination under slit lamp was performed daily for 7 days to evaluate corneal opacity and vessel size evolution. Computer-assisted quantitative image analysis was used to measure the total corneal area covered by neovascularization. Results: At final examination, the dexamethasone, bevacizumab 5.0 mg/day and dexamethasone + bevacizumab groups showed a significant lowering in corneal opacity score as compared with control (P = 0.024, P = 0.006 and P = 0.013, respectively). Also, a significant reduction on new vessels size score was observed. Surface of corneal neovascularization was significantly reduced in dexamethasone, bevacizumab 5.0 mg/day and dexamethasone + bevacizumab groups compared with control (P = 0.045, P = 0.047 and P = 0.044, respectively). Conclusion: Our study demonstrates the ability of a 5.0 mg/day bevacizumab subconjunctival injection, in monotherapy or associated with dexamethasone, to cause a short-term involution of corneal neovascularization after corneal alkali burn. Combination of both of these treatments may have advantages to monotherapy approaches.

Abstract: Background: Infantile haemangiomas are the commonest tumours of the orbit in children. Treatment is usually expectant, unless they are visually threatening. Although steroids, other pharmacological and surgical treatment modalities have their place, there are risks involved. A previous case series reported the successful use of propranolol for infantile haemangioma. The safety and efficacy of propranolol in the treatment of periorbital haemangioma was reviewed in a serious of our patients. Methods: We performed a retrospective review of patients seen by two ophthalmologists (TJS and GAG), collecting data on colour, size of lesion, duration of treatment and side-effects of treatment. Our main outcome measures were colour and size of infantile haemangioma before and after treatment, the change in astigmatism of our patients and the incidence of complications from propranolol. Results: We reviewed 10 patients with infantile haemangioma. They were treated with propranolol oral syrup 2 mg/kg/day in divided doses for a mean duration of 32.8 (range 12–42) weeks. All our patients had a reduction in colour and size of the lesions. The mean lesion size decreased from 756.7 to 543.2 mm2 after treatment (P = 0.075). Five patients had significant astigmatism and 60% had successful reduction of astigmatism after treatment. None of our patients suffered significant side-effects of propranolol. Conclusion: Propranolol appears to be a safe and effective treatment in the management of infantile haemangioma.

Abstract: Background: To investigate the visual outcomes in acute central retinal artery occlusion (CRAO) with current standard therapy at two university teaching hospitals. Methods: Retrospective analysis of two cohorts of CRAO patients from John Hopkins Hospital (JHH; USA), and Flinders Medical Centre (FMC; Australia), treated with current standard therapy. The outcome measures were visual acuity, and subsequent ocular and systemic ischaemic events. Results: The mean follow-up period was 11.2 ± 13.1 months in the JHH cohort and 35.4 ± 34.9 months in the FMC cohort. The frequency distribution of vascular risk factors and the incidence of subsequent ischaemic events were similar for the patients from both institutions. All patients from JHH were treated as inpatients, whereas 79% of patients from FMC were treated as outpatients. More patients in the JHH cohort underwent paracentesis, ocular massage or were treated with intraocular hypotensive agents (76%) than in the FMC cohort (26%); however, there was no significant difference in visual outcome between the two cohorts (P = 0.114). Conclusion: Despite differences in management of CRAO between two institutions in different countries, visual outcomes were similar. This suggests a lack of efficacy of current standard treatment in acute CRAO.

Abstract: Background: Propranolol is a novel therapeutic agent in the treatment of cutaneous infantile haemangiomas. We assessed the effect of propranolol therapy in infantile haemangiomas of the orbit. Methods: A case series of four patients with orbital infantile haemangiomas were referred for management in our tertiary referral hospitals. Two of the patients had inadequate responses to prior corticosteroid therapy. One of the patients was commenced on propranolol at 2.5 years of age when the lesion was not in the proliferative phase. This represented the first case report of propranolol treatment for infantile haemangioma outside infancy. The other three children were in their infancy when propranolol was commenced. The patients were treated with oral propranolol. Results: All patients had significant improvement in their physical appearance, ocular examination findings and size of their lesions on radiological evaluation. No side-effects of propranolol treatment were observed. Conclusions: Propranolol is a promising treatment against infantile haemangiomas in the orbit, not only in infants but also in an older child with a stable lesion.

Abstract: Photorefractive keratectomy, laser epithelial keratomileusis (LASEK) and Epi-LASIK are all variants of a similar type refractive surgery involving laser on the surface of the cornea and differ mainly in management of the epithelium. Although laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) is currently the most popular form of refractive surgery, LASEK is the procedure of choice in some patients. We highlight potential complications of LASEK and how these may be managed. Following laser refractive surgery, corneal thickness is reduced, which has implications for intraocular pressure measurement and glaucoma screening and management. This is particularly important following surface laser procedures where no evidence of previous surgery may be visible. In the event that cataract surgery is required at a later date, correct calculation of the appropriate intraocular lens power can be difficult and it thus important that patients are given their preoperative keratometry readings and refraction. Compared with LASIK patients, those who undergo LASEK are considered to be at lower risk of corneal ectasia. Improved understanding of wound healing post LASEK and better postoperative pain management are ongoing challenges.

Abstract: Purpose: To examine the relationship between retinal sensitivity and morphologic changes in the macular area of eyes with confluent soft drusen. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of the 21 consecutive patients (22 eyes) who had confluent soft drusen in the macular area. Using spectral-domain optical coherence tomography, a 6 × 6-mm area of each macula was examined with 256 sequential horizontal scans. Microperimetry in the macular area was carried out using the Micro Perimeter 1. Results: Spectral-domain optical coherence tomography images showed that protrusion of the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) corresponded to the site of the confluent soft drusen. In addition, irregularities of the reflective line of the junction between inner and outer segments (IS/OS) of the photoreceptors were noted in 17 (77.3%) eyes. These irregularities were seen in the area with the protrusion of RPE. At 510 (68.1%) of 748 points with an intact retina, retinal sensitivity was 14 decibels or better. However, a retinal sensitivity of 14 decibels or better was obtained at 38.9% of points in irregular RPE with an intact IS/OS line, but at only 15.2% of points with an irregular IS/OS line. The mean retinal sensitivities within the area of irregular RPE with an intact IS/OS line, or in areas with an irregular IS/OS line, respectively, were significantly lower than that of intact retina (P < 0.0001). Conclusion: Eyes with confluent soft drusen often show focal areas with reduced retinal function, areas that are consistent with irregularity of the RPE or of the IS/OS line.

Abstract: Background: To report on 1-year follow up of a series of 126 eyes implanted with a spherical implantable collamer lens (ICL). Methods: Retrospective case note review of 126 eyes (68 patients) undergoing ICL placement by a single surgeon (TG) to correct preoperative mean spherical equivalents between +8.88 and −20.50 D. Main outcome measures included uncorrected visual acuity (UCVA), refraction, best spectacle-corrected VA, unaided binocular vision, adverse events, operative/postoperative complications and patient symptoms. Results: Complete data were available at 1 year on 121 of the 126 eyes (65 out of 68 patients). At 12 months 86% (104/121) had postoperative UCVA better than or equal to preoperative best spectacle-corrected VA, and 98% (118/121) had UCVA within one line of preoperative best spectacle-corrected VA. Ninety-six per cent (116/121) had postoperative UCVA of 6/9 or better, and 100% had postoperative best-corrected visual acuity of 6/12 or better. Ninety-eight per cent (64/65) patients had unaided binocular vision at 1 year of 6/7.5 or better. Average myopia treated was −8.83 D (116 patients), and average hyperopia +7.14 D (10 patients). Two ICLs were replaced because of high vaulting; one eye had increased intraocular pressure that resolved with smaller ICL placement. Four patients had visually insignificant pigment deposits on the ICL at 3/12, but no pigmentary glaucoma. Five patients noticed haloes around lights at night, none preventing driving. Conclusions: One-year results from this study, the largest reported clinical investigation of the use of ICLs in New Zealand, support the safety, efficacy and predictability of ICL to treat both hyperopic and myopic spherical refractive errors.

Abstract: Herpes simplex virus (HSV) keratitis is a common cause of ocular morbidity. Resistance to aciclovir is probably under recognized. We describe three cases of aciclovir-resistant herpes simplex virus keratitis treated with systemic foscarnet and present a review of the pharmacological options available to manage this condition.

Abstract: BACKGROUND: To review visual acuity outcomes from paediatric traumatic cataract and examine the mechanisms by which they occur. METHODS: A retrospective review of paediatric patients (aged less than 18 years) who underwent lens surgery following ocular trauma, between 1992 and 2006 at the Royal Children's Hospital and Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital in Melbourne. Data collected included gender, mechanism of injury, wound type, age at injury, age at surgery, refractive rehabilitation, complications and visual acuity outcome. RESULTS: A total of 74 patients (75% male) were identified over the 15-year period, representing an incidence of 4.9 cases per year. The mean age at injury was 7.5 years. Sixty-five cataracts (88%) followed a penetrating eye injury, whereas only nine patients (12%) developed cataract after known blunt trauma. Fourteen patients (19%) underwent lensectomy at the time of primary wound repair and 45 patients (61%) underwent primary intraocular lens (IOL) implantation. Visual acuity outcomes ranged from 6/5 to no perception of light. Twenty-five patients (34%) achieved 6/12 or better in the injured eye, 23 patients (31%) achieved between 6/15 and 6/60, and 14 patients (19%) had visual acuity of less than 6/60. Twelve patients (16%) were lost to follow-up. CONCLUSION: In a paediatric population, cataract formation as a result of trauma requiring lensectomy is not uncommon. Males are more likely to suffer from such injury. A variety of sharp and blunt objects are the primary mechanism by which the injury is sustained with variable visual outcomes. Language: en

Abstract: Purpose: To investigate if antituberculosis medication including ethambutol could be a possible epigenetic factor in visual loss in Leber's hereditary optic neuropathy (LHON). Methods: The authors reviewed the medical records of 46 patients registered at Bundang Seoul National University Hospital from 2002 to 2006, who developed the typical clinical neuro-ophthalmologic features of LHON and possessed a mtDNA mutation at nucleotide 11778, 14484, 3460 or 4171. Results: Three of the 46 patients developed visual loss while taking antituberculosis medication. These three patients had the mtDNA 11778 mutation with a mean age of 32.7 years at the onset of visual loss, whereas the mean age of other 43 patients was 21.2 years. One of these three patients was female. Conclusion: Antituberculosis medication may be an epigenetic factor of LHON in patients with a primary LHON mutation. This risk should be recognized by physicians and LHON carriers.

Abstract: Ocular manifestations are very common in all types of mucopolysaccharidoses (MPS) and often lead to visual impairment They arise as a result of the accumulation of glycosaminoglycans deposits in ocular tissues or secondary to increased intracranial pressure Typical ocular features in MPS include corneal clouding, retinopathy, glaucoma, optic disc swelling, optic atrophy, and ocular motility and refractive error problems This paper reviews the ocular features in patients with MPS, discusses the diagnosis of these ocular features and the diagnostic problems that may arise in patients (children) with MPS, and highlights the central role ophthalmologists may play in the diagnosis and follow-up of these patients

Abstract: Background: Intravitreal injection of bevacizumab (Avastin) in eyes with neovascular glaucoma (NVG) has recently been shown to induce rapid regression of anterior segment neovascularization and has promise as adjunct treatment to diode laser cyclophotocoagulation (CPC) to control intraocular pressure (IOP). This study presents the outcome of concomitant treatment with CPC and intravitreal bevacizumab in painful poor visual potential eyes in a case series of consecutively diagnosed NVG. Methods: Twelve patients (14 eyes) were treated with CPC and concurrent intravitreal bevacizumab 0.05 mL (1.25 mg) and study end-points were IOP lowering, regression of anterior segment neovascularization and resolution of pain. Results: The mean preoperative IOP was 42.1 ± 11.4 and was lowered to 16.6 ± 7.1 mmHg at 1-month postoperatively. Anterior segment neovascularization regressed dramatically within 1 week of intravitreal bevacizumab in 12 eyes. Thirteen eyes reported persistent relief of ocular pain at 6 months following treatment. Conclusions: Combined intravitreal bevacizumab and CPC treatment for NVG provides rapid control of anterior segment neovascularization and may lead to improved symptomatic relief and IOP control.