Utility of retinoscopy to examine peripheral refraction

Purpose: This study explored whether retinoscopy (RET) provides comparable results of relative peripheral refraction (RPR) to open–field autorefractometry (AR) in myopic subjects.Methods: Peripheral refraction was measured in 20 myopic and 20 control adult subjects. Both central and peripheral refraction (20° nasal and temporal eccentricity) were measured using RET and open-field AR. Differences in the median central spherical equivalent (SE), median RPR, and median J45/J180 power vectors between the RET and AR techniques were analyzed. Moreover, Bland – Altman plots were used to assess the agreement between RET and AR methods for RPR measurements in MG. Results: For MG, the median RPR values were positive (hyperopic shift), and no significant differences were observed between the RET and AR techniques with respect to RPR measurement. In addition, we did not observe any significant differences in the RPR values between the nasal and temporal eccentricities for either the RET or AR technique for myopic subjects. There was also a significant correlation and agreement between the RET and AR technique for RPR measurements. With respect to central refraction, the median SE was slightly more positive for the RET than for the AR technique. Inside the CG, we also found significant correlation between the RET and AR technique for RPR measurements, and we observed a myopic shift in peripheral eccentricities. Conclusion: Our results show that retinoscopy may be a useful tool for objective measurements of RPR in myopic subjects and may be used interchangeably with the open-field AR method in everyday clinical practice. (AU)

Epithelial and stromal thickness profile and lens decentration in myopic orthokeratology / Perfil de espesor epitelial y estromal y descentrado del cristalino en ortoqueratología miope

Purpose: To study topographic epithelial and total corneal thickness changes in myopic subjects undergoing successful orthokeratology treatment in connection with the objective assessment of contact lens decentration. Methods: A prospective-observational and non-randomized study in 32 Caucasian myopic eyes undergoing Ortho-k for 3 months. Total, epithelial, and stromal thicknesses were studied before and after Ortho-k treatment, using optical coherence tomography with anterior segment application software. Central, paracentral, and mid-peripheral values are taken along 8 semi-meridians. Results: The central average total corneal thickness was 4.72 ± 1.04 μm thinner after Ortho-K. The paracentral corneal thickness showed no significant changes (p = 0.137), while the mid-peripheral corneal thickness was increased by 3.25 ± 1.6 μm associating this increase exclusively to the epithelial plot (p<0.001). When lens centration was assessed, a lens fitting decentration less than 1.0 mm was found for the whole sample, predominantly horizontal-temporal (87.5%) and vertical-inferior (50%) decentring. Corneal topographical analysis revealed a horizontal and vertical epithelial thickness asymmetric change profile with paracentral temporal thinnest values, and mid-peripheral nasal thickest values. Conclusions: The present study found a central corneal thinning induced by Ortho-k lenses in subjects with moderate myopia, only associated with a change in epithelial thickness, as well as mid-peripheral thickening, that seems to be mainly epithelial in origin. The authors also found a tendency of contact lens decentration toward temporal and inferior areas conditioning an asymmetric epithelial redistribution pattern.(AU)

Strategies and attitudes on the management of myopia in clinical practice in Spain - 2022 update

Objective This study analyses strategies and attitudes on myopia management reported by eye care practitioners (ECP) from Spain in 2022. Methods A questionnaire was distributed to ECPs worldwide via the internet through professional associations. The questionnaire was distributed by email to all registered Spanish optician-optometrists. Questions examined awareness of increasing myopia prevalence; perceived efficacy; uptake of available approaches; and reasons preventing further uptake of specific approaches. Results Of 3,107 practitioners who participated in the study, 380 were Spanish ECPs. Using a 10-point scale, Spanish practitioners reported less concern about increasing pediatric myopia (8.3 ± 1.6) compared to ECP's worldwide (8.5 ± 1.9) (p < 0.001), but similar level of clinical activity in myopia control (7.8 ± 2.3 vs. 7.5 ± 2.5, respectively) (p > 0.05); however, around half of all prescribed treatments were single-vision distance spectacles/contact lenses both in Spain and in most regions, with Spanish practitioners prescribing less single-vision spectacles than African and Asian (p < 0.001), but more than Australasian practitioners (p = 0.04). No significant differences were found between Spain and the other regions in the perceived efficacy of combined therapy, orthokeratology, and outdoor time (p > 0.05), with the former being perceived as the most effective myopia control method followed by orthokeratology. No significant differences were found between Spain and the world's average in factors preventing the prescription of myopia control approaches (p > 0.05). Spanish practitioners reported that embracing myopia management has a positive, but lower impact on customer loyalty, practice revenue and job satisfaction compared with the other regions (all p < 0.001). Conclusions Myopia control is increasing, although around half of practitioners still prescribe single-vision distance spectacles/contact lenses to. ... . (AU)

National estimate and associated factors of myopia among schoolchildren in Ethiopia: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Introduction Myopia is a global public health concern that has a significant socioeconomic and psychological impact on schoolchildren. If Myopic patients are not detected early, they are exposed to retinal detachment, cataracts, and glaucoma. There have been previous studies conducted in Ethiopia, but there is significant inconsistency among studies. Hence, the aim of this study was to provide a single figure as well as associated factors for Myopia among Ethiopian schoolchildren. Method The national and international databases and gray literature were searched for important research articles. This review included school-based cross-sectional studies that were reported in English. The data were extracted using Microsoft word and exported to Stata™ Version 17.0 statistical software for further management and analysis .The presence of heterogeneity was checked using Cochrane Q test via fixed effects model and presented by forest plots with 95% CI. Due to the presence of substantial heterogeneity, I2 test using random effects model was computed to estimate the effect size. The existing heterogeneity among studies was explained by regional difference. To identify factors associated with myopia, meta regression was computed and significant factors was reported using OR with 95% CI. Results In this systematic review and meta-analysis, 12 studies with a total of 9688 schoolchildren were included. The national estimate of myopia among schoolchildren in Ethiopia was 6.49% (95%CI: 4.86, 8.12). Having family history of myopia (OR: 9.18, 95%CI: 3.5,24.02) and being female (OR: 0.94, 95% CI: 0.50, 0.98) were the identified factors associated with myopia. Conclusion Myopia is one of the most prevalent childhood health condition in Ethiopia, which affects about one in every fourteen schoolchildren. Schoolchildren who had family history of myopia and being female were the identified risk factors of myopia among schoolchildren. ... (AU)

Myopia progression in children during home confinement in the COVID-19 pandemic: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Purpose Myopia is a growing pandemic, especially in children, who risk low vision later in life. Home confinement during the COVID-19 pandemic may have increased myopia progression through increased screentime, decreased time outdoors and increased near work activities. The aim of this study is to compare progression of myopia in children during home confinement period in the COVID-19 pandemic with pre-COVID-19 progression. Methods On January 2023 PubMed, EMBASE and Cochrane were searched for relevant studies. Studies meeting the following criteria were eligible for inclusion: children (under 18 years), home confinement due to COVID-19, spherical equivalent refractive (SER) and axial length (AL) measurements and a follow-up period to measure progression. Quality appraisal was performed by two reviewers independently using the Joanna Briggs Institute tool for cohort studies. Outcomes for myopia were assessed through meta-analysis, analyzing SER (random effects) and AL (fixed effects). Results Hundred and two articles were identified in the search, of which five studies were included in the analysis. Risk of bias is moderate with a few critical flaws in the studies. Myopia progressed more rapidly during the COVID-19 pandemic compared to the pre-COVID-19 period, both in terms of SER (-0.83D [95 %CI, −1.22, −0.43] and AL (0.36 mm [95 %CI, 0.13, 0.39]). Conclusion Progression of myopia during the COVID-19 pandemic accelerated more rapidly compared to the pre-COVID-19 period. Impact of home confinement on myopia may be considered when future lockdown measures are being contemplated. (AU)

Evaluación del músculo ciliar y del grosor escleral anterior en miopes altos mediante tomografía de coherencia óptica / Assessment of the ciliary muscle and scleral anterior thickness in high myopia by optical coherence tomography

Propósito: Evaluar las dimensiones del músculo ciliar (MC) y del grosor escleral anterior (AST) in vivo en miopes altos mediante tomografía de coherencia óptica de fuente de barrido (SS-OCT) y comparar con sujetos emétropes e hipermétropes.MétodosEstudio transversal en el que se incluyeron 34 miopes altos (≥−6dioptrías [D]), 90 emétropes (−1 a +1D) y 38 hipermétropes (≥+3,5D). Se midieron el grosor del MC (CMT) y el AST en los cuadrantes temporal y nasal a 1, 2 y 3mm del espolón escleral utilizando la SS-OCT. Además, se evaluó la longitud del MC (CML).ResultadosLas dimensiones tanto del CML como del CMT en cualquiera de sus puntos de medida fueron mayores en miopes altos y en emétropes que en hipermétropes, tanto en el cuadrante nasal como en el temporal (p<0,001). Sin embargo, no existieron diferencias entre miopes magnos y emétropes para ninguno de los parámetros (p≥0,076), salvo para el CMT a 3mm en temporal (p<0,001). No existieron diferencias en el AST entre miopes altos, emétropes e hipermétropes, en ninguno de los puntos de medida ni cuadrantes estudiados (p>0,05).ConclusionesLa SS-OCT permite medir el MC in vivo, no observándose diferencias en sus dimensiones entre miopes altos y emétropes, pero sí que fueron menores en hipermétropes. En la medida de la esclera anterior no se observaron diferencias entre los tres grupos analizados según la refracción. (AU)

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

Prevalence of refractive error within a Portuguese sample of optometric records

Purpose: Considering the burden of refractive error, clinical-based research methods are often used as epidemiological tools. This study aimed to generate evidence on the prevalence and distribution of refractive error in Portugal. Methods A cross-sectional retrospective study was designed to review optometric records from Portuguese practices during July 2021. Results 348 optometric records were analysed. Subjects had a mean age of 44.2 ± 19.2 years (range 6–81) and 58.4% were female. The mean spherical equivalent was myopic, −0.65 ± 2.38 Diopters (D), varying from a minimum of −13.63 to a maximum of 6.25 D. According to sex, the mean spherical equivalent was −0.76 ± 2.29 D for female and −0.49 ± 2.49 D for male, with no significant difference between them (p = .307). The distribution of the spherical equivalent mean across the age groups, linearly varies from a myopic −1.62 ± 1.74 D in the age group of [6 – 29]; −1.58 ± 2.80 D in [30 – 44]; −0.09 ± 2.40 in [45 – 59] to a hyperopic 0.67 ± 1.61 D in the group of [60 – 81]. High myopia had a prevalence of 2.7% in the sample. Myopia was the most prevalent refractive error in the sample representing 41.3%. In the age group [6–29], myopia had a prevalence of 69.3%. Hyperopia had a prevalence in the sample of 29.7%. Conclusions Myopia represents the most prevalent refractive error within the sample and is the prevalence is higher in the younger age groups, demonstrating a shift towards an increase of myopia in the next years. (AU)

Miopexia supra-ecuatorial del recto lateral en el tratamiento del síndrome «sagging/heavy eye» miópico / Supraequatorial displacement with lateral rectus myopexy for treatment of myopic sagging/heavy eye

Objetivo Describir los resultados de sujetos con síndrome «sagging/heavy eye miópico» operados mediante la miopexia supraecuatorial del recto lateral. Método Estudio retrospectivo de 9 casos entre 2017-2023. Se analizaron desviación horizontal, vertical, ambliopía, diplopía, ducciones, torsión, pruebas sensoriales antes y después de la cirugía, patología macular y resonancia magnética orbitaria. El tratamiento se consideró exitoso cuando desaparecía o mejoraba la diplopía y una desviación vertical≤5 dioptrías prismáticas (Dp) al final del seguimiento. Resultados La edad media (DE) fue: 62,11 (4,6) años (100% mujeres). El 88,88% presentaba diplopía. La hipotropía media preoperatoria fue: 11,33Dp (DE 3,16), y la desviación vertical final 3,44Dp (DE 3,05). Tras la cirugía, la hipotropía se invirtió en un caso, quedó subcorregida en 5 y se alcanzó ortoforia en otros 3. La técnica se asoció a la cirugía de otro músculo recto en 4 sujetos. El tiempo medio de seguimiento posquirúrgico fue de 34 meses (DE 34,62). Seis de las 9 pacientes quedaron con una desviación vertical≤5Dp. En 3 pacientes se consiguió eliminar totalmente la diplopía, mientras que en 5 quedó intermitente (3 con patología macular) Conclusión En el tratamiento del «sagging/heavy eye miópico», el supradesplazamiento ecuatorial con miopexia del recto lateral constituye una opción terapéutica si la hipotropía es menor de 12Dp o la técnica de Yokoyama no está indicada. Se obtuvo un buen resultado en más de la mitad de los casos, suprimiéndose totalmente la diplopía en 3 y quedando en otros 5 de forma intermitente (AU)

Purpose To describe the outcome of the patients diagnosed of sagging/heavy eye associated to myopia, that were operated on with the supra-equatorial displacement with lateral rectus myopexy. Methods A retrospective study of 9 cases between 2017 and 2023. The following data were analyzed: horizontal and vertical deviation, diplopia, amblyopia, ductions, ocular torsion, sensorial test, macular pathology, and the orbital magnetic resonance. Treatment was considered successful if the diplopia was improved or eliminated and a final vertical deviation≤5prism diopters (PD). Results The mean age (SD) was: 62.11 (4.6) years (100% women). A total of 88.88% presented diplopia. The mean preoperative hypotropia was: 11.33PD (SD 3.16), and the mean final VD 3.44PD (SD 3.05). After surgery, the hypotropia was overcorrected in one case, under corrected in 5, and orthophoria was achieved in another 3. The technique was associated with surgery of another rectus muscle in 4 subjects. The mean follow-up time after surgery was 34 months (SD 34.62). Six of the 9 patients improved with a vertical deviation≤5PD. In 3 patients, the diplopia was eliminated, while in 5 it remained intermittent (3 with macular pathology). Conclusion Supra-equatorial displacement with lateral rectus myopexy for treatment of myopic sagging/heavy eye is a therapeutic option if hypotropia is less than 12PD or the Yokoyama technique is not indicated. A good result was obtained in most cases, although diplopia could only be totally suppressed in three, and another five remained intermittent (AU)

Ortoqueratología vs ortoqueratología combinada con atropina para el control de miopía en niños: revisión sistemática / Orthokeratology vs. orthokeratology combined with atropine for the control of myopia in children: Systematic review

El propósito de esta investigación es determinar la eficacia de la ortoqueratología (OK) en comparación con la ortoqueratología combinada con atropina (AOK) para el control de la miopía en niños. Se realizó una revisión sistemática que incluyó revisiones sistemáticas con metaanálisis, además de ensayos clínicos aleatorizados y controlados, en las bases de datos PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, Cochrane Library, ProQuest, Taylor & Francis, Science Direct, y de una búsqueda manual de las revistas Q1-Q4 del Scimago Journal & Country Rank, publicadas en últimos 5 años en idioma inglés y español. Se tomaron en cuenta 18 estudios que cumplieron con los criterios de elegibilidad. Los artículos seleccionados incluyeron 6.866 pacientes para el análisis, en donde se encontró mayor eficacia de la AOK al 0,01% debido a su capacidad de reducir la progresión de miopía y alargamiento axial. En nuestra investigación se determinó que podría existir un efecto aditivo en la combinación de atropina al 0,01% con OK en un periodo de 1 a 2 años de tratamiento en pacientes con miopía leve, sin embargo, se deben realizar más estudios multiétnicos, en donde se considere una correcta evaluación de la progresión de miopía, factores genéticos y ambientales que puedan influir en los resultados (AU)

The purpose of this investigation is to determine the efficacy of orthokeratology (OK) compared to orthokeratology combined with atropine (AOK) for the control of myopia in children. A systematic review that included systematic reviews with meta-analyses, as well as randomized and controlled clinical trials, was carried out in the PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, Cochrane Library, ProQuest, Taylor & Francis, Science Direct databases, as well as a manual search of the Q1-Q4 journals of the Scimago Journal & Country Rank, published in the last 5 years in English and Spanish. Eighteen studies that met the eligibility criteria were considered. The articles selected included 6866 patients for analysis, where orthokeratology combined with 0.01% atropine was found to be more effective due to its ability to reduce the progression of myopia and axial elongation. In our investigation, it was determined that there could be an additive effect in the combination of 0.01% atropine with orthokeratology in a period of 1–2 years of treatment in patients with mild myopia; however, more multiethnic studies should be carried out, in where a correct evaluation of the progression of myopia, genetic and environmental factors that may influence the results is considered (AU)

Prevalence of refractive error in Portugal – A systematic review and meta-analysis

Purpose The aim of this study was to systematically review and meta-analyse epidemiological data of refractive error prevalence in Portugal. Methods A structured search strategy and systematic literature review was applied to multiple databases, such as MEDLINE/PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, Google Scholar, official organizations and academic repositorium's, to identify all relevant epidemiological studies in Portugal until February 2021. The outcome measure was the prevalence of refractive error among the Portuguese population. The events and sample size were entered as raw data and the effect size parameters were computed by Comprehensive Meta-Analysis Software. Results A total of 9 studies were pooled for the meta-analysis. The fixed effects model points to an estimated effect size of 43% (95% CI: 41.9–44.1%). However, the statistics of heterogeneity (Q-value p < 0.001; I-squared =99.344) showed very high heterogeneity among studies and recommends using a random-effects model. The random effects model points to an estimated effect size of 31.9% (95% CI: 19.8–47.0%) prevalence of refractive error in the Portuguese population. Conclusions A prevalence of refractive error in Portugal of 31.9% (95% CI: 20.0–47.0%) can be considered as a conservative approach to the real burden of this condition. However, it translates into at least 2 to 4.5 million Portuguese individuals with a refractive error. The high heterogeneity between studies, the wide estimate and the random effects involved demonstrate the need for more studies and consistent sources to obtain narrower estimates. (AU)

Evaluación de las modificaciones biométricas del ojo durante la succión del LASIK / Assessment of the biometric modifications of the eye in LASIK during suction

Objetivo Estudiar las modificaciones biométricas del globo ocular durante la succión en la cirugía de queratomileusis in situ asistida por láser (LASIK). Métodos Estudio observacional transversal. Se estudiaron 43 pacientes intervenidos de miopía y astigmatismo miópico. La edad media fue de 38,3 ± 11,5 años, 19 eran mujeres (44,2%). Se realizó una cirugía LASIK convencional con microqueratomo manual. Antes y durante la maniobra de succión se midieron los siguientes parámetros mediante una sonda biométrica de 11 Mhz: profundidad acuosa (AQD), espesor del cristalino (EC), longitud de la cavidad vítrea (LCV) y longitud axial (LA). Se utilizó la prueba t pareada para comparar las medidas biométricas antes y durante la succión. Resultados El equivalente esférico medio fue de -4,5 ± 2,3 dioptrías. Durante la succión, la AQD no aumentó significativamente (p = 0,231). Sin embargo, la LA y LCV aumentaron en 0,12 mm y 0,2 mm, respectivamente (p = 0,039 y < 0,01) y EC disminuyó en 0,20 mm (p < 0,01). La LA aumentó en 42% de los ojos y disminuyó en 16%, mientras que la LCV aumentó en 70% de los ojos y disminuyó en 9%, y el EC se redujo en 67% de los ojos. Conclusiones Las maniobras de succión durante la cirugía LASIK producen cambios de poca magnitud en el globo ocular, principalmente disminución de EC y aumento de LCV y LA. Por lo tanto, es esperable que estas modificaciones produzcan alteraciones anatómicas mínimas (AU)

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 (AU)

Insuficiencia de convergencia con diplopía: tratamiento quirúrgico en adultos / Convergence insufficiency with diplopia: Surgical treatment in adults

Propósito Estudiar los resultados del mini plegamiento central del recto medial (RM) en las insuficiencias de convergencia de adultos con diplopía. Método Análisis retrospectivo de una muestra de 9 casos (7 mujeres). Se recogieron los datos de la dosis de plegamiento del RM, la hipercorrección inmediata posquirúrgica y al final del seguimiento, la desviación final de cerca y de lejos, la diplopía y el tiempo de seguimiento desde la cirugía. Se consideró buen resultado la desaparición de la diplopía, mejoría de los síntomas y una exotropía final de cerca ≤8dioptrías prismáticas (dp). Resultados Se realizó un mini-plegamiento central del RM en 9 pacientes (8 unilaterales). Edad media: 58,66 años (SD: 21,39). La media de la desviación preoperatoria de cerca fue de 16,22 (±2,99) dp y de lejos 6,88 (±4) dp. Se registró hipercorrección en visión lejana en 5 casos que se resolvió a los 3 meses después de la operación. No hubo hipercorrección en visión de cerca excepto en un caso. Ninguno de los casos operados presentó hipercorrección al final del seguimiento. La desviación horizontal final fue ≤8dp en visión cercana, excepto en 3 casos (media: 6,22). Los síntomas y la diplopía se resolvieron en 8 casos. El seguimiento medio fue de 10,33 meses. Conclusión El mini-plegamiento central de 1 o 2 músculos rectos mediales puede mejorar los síntomas y signos de exotropía asociados a la insuficiencia de convergencia cuando los ejercicios y los prismas son rechazados por los pacientes o cuando estos abordajes no han resuelto el problema (AU)

Objective To study the outcomes of treatment with central mini-plication of the medial rectus (MR) muscles in adult convergence insufficiency with diplopia. Methods The study sample comprised 9 cases (7 women). The length of MR plication was collected. Other variables reported were postsurgical deviation, overcorrections in the early postoperative period and at the end of follow-up, final horizontal deviation at near and at distance vision, diplopia, and mean follow-up from surgery. Surgical outcome was considered to be favorable when diplopia and symptoms were resolved and final exotropia at near was ≤8 pd at the end of follow-up. Results A central mini-plication of the MR was performed in 9 patients (8 unilateral). Mean (± SD) age was 58.66 (21.39) years. Mean near preoperative deviation: 16.22 (± 2.9) pd and distance preoperative deviation: 6.88 (± 4) pd Overcorrection at distance vision was recorded in 5 cases; this resolved by 3 months postoperatively. There was not overcorrection at near vision except one case. None of the cases operated on had overcorrection at the end of follow-up The final horizontal deviation was ≤8 pd at near vision, except for 3 cases (mean: 6.22). Symptoms and diplopia resolved in 8 cases. The mean follow-up was 10.33 months. Conclusion Central mini-plication of 1 or 2 medial rectus muscles can improve the symptoms and signs of exotropia associated with convergence insufficiency when exercises and the prisms are rejected by the patients and when these approaches have not solved the problem (AU)

Fixation disparity and refractive error among first-year optometry students / Disparidad de fijación y error de refracción entre estudiantes de primer año de optometría

Purpose: To determine the fixation disparity and refractive error of first-year optometry students to ascertain any relationship between them and also identify any association between fixation disparity and visual symptoms at near. Method: It was an analytical cross-sectional study involving 85 participants aged 17 to 27 years (18.60 ± 1.37), 41% of whom were males. Subjective refraction was done at 3 m and fixation disparity was measured with and without spectacle correction using the Wesson Fixation Disparity Card. All analysis was set within a 95% confidence interval with a p-value ≤ 0.05 considered statistically significant. Results: Refractive error ranged from 0.25 SEQ (spherical equivalent) to 5.50 SEQ. Mean fixation disparity ranged from 2.9 ± 2.6 to 3.9 ± 2.8 min arc. There was no statistically significant correlation between refractive error and fixation disparity without correction (r = −0.180, p = 0.098) and with correction (r = 0.155, p = 0.157). For fixation disparity in the ortho and exo direction, mean fixation disparity with correction of participants who experienced headaches during or after reading (5.1 ± 2.6 min arc) was significantly higher (p = 0.032) than participants who did not (2.0 ± 2.6 min arc). Conclusion: Myopia is common among first-year optometry students. Refractive error has no significant effect on fixation disparity. Headache is significantly associated with exo fixation disparity at near.(AU)

Cognitive workload affects ocular accommodation and pupillary response / La carga de trabajo cognitivo afecta la acomodación ocular y la respuesta pupilar

Significance: Cognitive involvement in reading causes variations in the tonus of autonomic nerve system. The aim of this study was to examine the effect of short-term cognitive load on accommodation and pupils’ absolute values and temporal variability in test persons performing three different types of tasks. Purpose: We aimed to show how cognitive tasks of different type and difficulty level affect accommodation and pupil behavior during a short time interval. Methods: Participants (n = 58; mean age 16.4 years, SD = 0.56) performed reading from a 10-inch LCD screen placed at 40 cm distance. Three different types of tasks (numerical, textual, and the Stroop task), each at three different levels of cognitive load were introduced. Participants had 90 s to complete each task. Accommodative and pupillary responses were measured with videoretinoscope Power Refractor 3 at 50 Hz. Results: Pupil size was largest in the Stroop task (M = 5.20 mm, SD = 0.75 mm), followed by the numerical tasks (M = 5.02 mm, SD = 0.72 mm) and textual tasks (M = 4.78 mm, SD = 0.71 mm). Accommodative fluctuations – measured as accommodation SD – were largest in the textual tasks (M = 0.67 D, SD = 0.34 D), followed by the numerical tasks (M = 0.61 D, SD = 0.40 D) and the Stroop task (M = 0.52 D, SD = 0.21 D). Conclusions: In our experiment, short-term cognitive load was associated with altered pupillary and accommodative response to near tasks. In conflicting tasks (Stroop) or in performing continuing calculations, the pupils were larger; in tasks requiring logical reasoning, the accommodative fluctuations were greater. These effects can potentially be associated with current near-point stress and myopia growth models.(AU)

Estado de la cirugía refractiva con lente intraocular fáquica de cámara posterior Visian ICL en España / State of refractive surgery with Visian ICL posterior chamber phakic lens in Spain

Objetivos Analizar la situación actual de la cirugía refractiva con implante de lente fáquica Visian ICL en España, señalando los rangos medios de potencias implantadas, los resultados visuales y refractivos obtenidos y los índices de seguridad y eficacia. Método Se trata de un estudio de población, transversal, descriptivo, analítico, retrospectivo, multicéntrico, en el que cada coautor recopiló los datos de, al menos, los 10 últimos pacientes (hasta un máximo de 30) con implante de lente fáquica Visian ICL. Se eligió aleatoriamente un ojo de cada sujeto para incluirlo en el estudio, y se analizaron las variables: edad, género, agudezas visuales sin corrección y con corrección pre y posquirúrgica, refracción preoperatoria y residual, queratometrías, recuento endotelial, profundidad de cámara anterior desde endotelio, paquimetría corneal central, presión intraocular, distancia blanco-blanco, lente implantada (potencia y talla) y equivalente esférico (SEQ) esperado y obtenido posquirúrgico al mes de la cirugía. Resultados Se obtuvo una muestra de 140 ojos de 140 pacientes con una edad media de 31,35±7,28 años. El SEQ preoperatorio medio fue de −6,33±3,69, la agudeza visual con corrección media de 0,96±0,16, la profundidad de cámara anterior desde endotelio de 3,30±0,29mm, distancia blanco-blanco 12,02±0,40mm, paquimetría corneal central 535,03±37,68μm, recuento endotelial 2.684,37±313,74céls/mm2 y presión intraocular 14,84±2,59mmHg. El 66,4% de las lentes implantadas fueron ICL esféricas y el 33,6% tóricas, con una potencia media de −7,81±4,09D y un cilindro medio de 2,27±1,23D. El 5,7% fueron hipermetrópicas. El 45,69% de las lentes implantadas eran de la talla 13,2mm, siendo el 37,93, 12,93 y 3,45% restante de las tallas 12,6, 12,1 y 13,7mm, respectivamente. Al mes de la cirugía se obtuvo un SEQ residual de −0,01±0,31D. Los índices de eficacia y seguridad fueron de 1,06±0,18 y 1,10±0,19, respectivamente... (AU)

Objectives To analyse the state of refractive surgery with Visian ICL phakic lens implantation in Spain, indicating the mean ranges of implanted powers, visual and refractive outcomes obtained and safety and efficacy indices. Method This is a population-based, cross-sectional, descriptive, analytical, retrospective, multicentre study in which each co-author collected data from at least the last 10 patients (up to a maximum of 30) with Visian ICL phakic lens implantation. One eye from each subject was randomly selected for study inclusion, and the variables analysed were: age, gender, visual acuities with and without correction pre and post-surgery, preoperative and residual refraction, keratometry, endothelial cellular density, anterior chamber depth from endothelium, central corneal pachymetry, intraocular pressure, white-white, implanted lens (power and size), expected and achieved spherical equivalent (SEQ) post-surgery at one month after surgery. Results A sample of 140 eyes was obtained from 140 patients with a mean age of 31.35±7.28 years. Mean preoperative SEQ was −6.33±3.69D, mean visual acuities with correction was 0.96±0.16, anterior chamber depth was 3.30±0.29mm, white-white 12.02±0.40mm, central corneal pachymetry 535.03±37.68μm, endothelial cellular density 2684.37±313.74cels/mm2 and intraocular pressure 14.84±2.59mmHg. A percentage of 66.4 of the implanted lenses were spherical ICLs and 33.6% toric, with a mean power of −7.81±4.09D and a mean cylinder of 2.27±1.23D. A percentage of 5.7 of the implanted lenses were hypermetropic. The mean SEQ target selected was +0.04±0.27D. A percentage of 45.69 of the implanted lenses were of size 13.2mm, with the remaining 37.93, 12.93 and 3.45% being of sizes 12.6, 12.1 and 13.7mm, respectively. At one month after surgery a residual SEQ of −0.01±0.31D was obtained. The efficacy and safety indices were 1.06±0.18 and 1.10±0.19...(AU)

Debilidad muscular proximal progresiva de inicio subagudo en un paciente anciano: descripción de un caso / Progressive proximal muscle weakness with subacute onset in an elderly patient: a case report

Introducción: Las estatinas son de los medicamentos más recetados. Aunque las estatinas generalmente se toleran bien, pueden provocar efectos secundarios musculoesqueléticos. La miopatía autoinmune necrotizante inducida por estatinas (SINAM) es una afección rara y la prevalencia sólo es de 1 de cada 100.000 personas. Este trastorno se caracteriza por debilidad muscular simétrica progresiva y grave, elevación marcada de la creatincinasa y síntomas persistentes a pesar de la interrupción de la estatina. La electromiografía suele mostrar un patrón de miopatía irritable inespecífico, indistinguible de otras miopatías inflamatorias. La biopsia muscular muestra la presencia de fibras necróticas, fibras en regeneración sin células inflamatorias significativas y una regulación positiva difusa o focal de la expresión del complejo mayor de histocompatibilidad de clase I. Los anticuerpos anti-3-hidroxi-3-metilglutaril-coenzima A (anti-HMG-CoA) reductasa representan un rasgo serológico característico de la SINAM.Caso clínico: Presentamos a un paciente que desarrolló debilidad muscular progresiva después de tomar simvastatina durante los últimos siete años. En la presentación inicial, su nivel de creatincinasa fue de 2.954 U/L y los anticuerpos anti-HMG-CoA reductasa fueron positivos. La biopsia mostró rasgos miopáticos profundos con numerosas fibras necróticas, algunas fibras en regeneración e infiltrado de células inflamatorias perimisial, combinado con una sobreexpresión difusa del complejo mayor de histocompatibilidad de clase I. Se le diagnosticó SINAM, se suspendió la estatina y se inició una dosis alta de corticoides sistémicos, inmunoglobulina intravenosa y metotrexato. Después de tres meses de seguimiento, tuvo una mejora significativa en la fuerza muscular y el nivel de creatincinasa volvió a la normalidad.(AU)

Introduction: Statins are some of the most widely prescribed medications. Although statins are generally well tolerated, they can lead to musculoskeletal side effects. Statin-induced necrotizing autoimmune myositis (SINAM) is a rare condition and the prevalence is only 1 per 100,000 people. This disorder is characterized by progressive and severe symmetric muscle weakness, marked elevation of creatine kinase and persistent symptoms despite statin discontinuation. Electromyography commonly shows a nonspecific irritable myopathy pattern indistinguishable from other inflammatory myopathies. Muscle biopsy shows the presence of necrotic fibers, regenerating fibers without significant inflammatory cells and diffuse or focal upregulation of major histocompatibility complex class I expression. The anti-3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-coenzyme A reductase (anti-HMGCR) antibodies represent a characteristic serological feature of SINAM. Case report: We present a patient who developed progressive muscle weakness after taking simvastatin for the last seven years. At initial presentation, her creatine kinase level was 2,954 U/L and anti-HMGCR antibodies were positive. The biopsy showed a profound myopathic features with numerous necrotic fibers, some regenerating fibers and perimysial inflammatory cell infiltrate, combined with a diffuse overexpression of major histocompatibility complex class I products. She was diagnosed with SINAM, statin was suspended and a high dose of systemic corticosteroids, intravenous immunoglobulin therapy and methotrexate was started. At three-month follow-up, she had significant improvement in muscle strength and creatine kinase level returned to normal...(AU)

Twelve-month outcomes of a new refractive lenticular extraction procedure

Background: To evaluate the 12-month refractive and visual outcomes of Small Incision Guided Human-cornea Treatment (SmartSight®, SCHWIND eye-tech-solutions, Kleinostheim, Germany) in the treatment of myopia corrections with low to moderate astigmatism with the use of a new femtosecond laser system.Methods221 eyes of 114 patients consecutively treated with SmartSight lenticule extraction were assessed. The mean age of the patients was 28±6 years at the time of treatment with a mean spherical equivalent refraction of -6.26±2.17D and mean astigmatism of 0.92±0.68D. Monocular corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA), uncorrected distance visual acuity (UDVA) were assessed pre- and post-operatively. Refractive changes have been determined in terms of changes in refraction, as well as changes in keratometric readings. The changes in central epithelial thickness have been determined.ResultsAt twelve months post-operatively, mean UDVA was 20/21±2. Spherical equivalent showed a residual refraction of +0.48±0.31D with refractive astigmatism of 0.13±0.18D postoperatively. There was a slight decrease of -0.1 Snellen lines at 12-months follow-up. The same correction was determined using changes in refraction, as well as changes in keratometric readings. The central epithelial thickness increased by +3±2µm. Spherical equivalent correction within ±0.50D was achieved in 199 eyes (90%), and cylindrical correction in 221 (100%). Preoperative corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA) was 20/20 or better in 213 eyes (96%), and postoperative uncorrected (UDVA) was 20/20 or better in 205 eyes (93%). No eye had lost two or more Snellen lines of CDVA.ConclusionsMyopic astigmatism correction with SmartSight provided good results for efficacy, safety, predictability, and visual outcomes at the twelve months of follow up. The central epithelial thickness barely increased by 3±2µm. (AU)

The effect of intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cell (ipRGC) stimulation on axial length changes to imposed optical defocus in young adults

Purpose: The intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (ipRGCs) regulate pupil size and circadian rhythms. Stimulation of the ipRGCs using short-wavelength blue light causes a sustained pupil constriction known as the post-illumination pupil response (PIPR). Here we examined the effects of ipRGC stimulation on axial length changes to imposed optical defocus in young adults.Materials and methodsNearly emmetropic young participants were given either myopic (+3 D, n = 16) or hyperopic (-3 D, n = 17) defocus in their right eye for 2 h. Before and after defocus, a series of axial length measurements for up to 180 s were performed in the right eye using the IOL Master following exposure to 5 s red (625 nm, 3.74 × 1014 photons/cm2/s) and blue (470 nm, 3.29 × 1014 photons/cm2/s) stimuli. The pupil measurements were collected from the left eye to track the ipRGC activity. The 6 s and 30 s PIPR, early and late area under the curve (AUC), and time to return to baseline were calculated.ResultsThe PIPR with blue light was significantly stronger after 2 h of hyperopic defocus as indicated by a lower 6 and 30 s PIPR and a larger early and late AUC (all p<0.05). Short-wavelength ipRGC stimulation also significantly exaggerated the ocular response to hyperopic defocus, causing a significantly greater increase in axial length than that resulting from the hyperopic defocus alone (p = 0.017). Neither wavelength had any effect on axial length with myopic defocus.ConclusionsThese findings suggest an interaction between myopiagenic hyperopic defocus and ipRGC signaling. (AU)

Strategies and attitudes on the management of myopia in clinical practice in Spain

Objective: In 2019, an international survey was conducted to evaluate strategies and attitudes in the management of myopia in clinical practice worldwide. This study reports on the results found in Spain and how these results compare with those from other regions of the world.MethodsA self-administrated, internet-based questionnaire was distributed to eye care professionals around the world through professional associations. The questions examined were based on the available strategies and their use.ResultsA total of 173 Spanish optometrists, of the 1,336 practitioners from the five different continents who participated in the study, responded to the online survey. Spain, Asia and South America were found among the regions with the highest concern regarding the increased incidence of myopia (p ≤ 0.001). However, in these regions, the prescription of single-vision spectacles and single-vision contact lenses continues to be the main methods of visual correction prescribed to young myopic patients (p ≤ 0.001). Spanish practitioners, like those from other regions, considered orthokeratology to be the most effective treatment to control myopia progression (p ≤ 0.001). The major reasons why Spanish practitioners were not prescribing myopia control strategies were increased cost, inadequate information and unpredictable outcomes (p < 0.05).ConclusionsThe uptake of myopia control methods by Spanish practitioners is relatively low, despite the increase in the prevalence of paediatric myopia as well as increased concern and perceived clinical activity in the area in recent years. (AU)