Acute retinal necrosis--a case report.

Acute retinal necrosis (ARN) is a rare but very severe form of retinitis. In contrast to progressive outer retinal necrosis acute retinal necrosis typically affects immunocompetent individuals. Herpes Simplex and Varicella-zoster viruses play the main role in the development of the disease. We report a case study of a healthy, young male who presented to the ophthalmologist with unilateral visual acuity decrease and eye irritation. The acute retinal necrosis was diagnosed and a therapy was started including both systemic and local anti-viral agents, as well as an oral anticoagulant. Additional systemic steroid therapy was introduced a week later. The regression of retinal inflammatory changes and the improvement of visual acuity were observed. The polymerase chain reaction assay for the presence of viral DNA in serum was negative. The IgM antibody assay for potential causal pathogens was negative, but the level of Varicella-zoster virus IgG antibodies was markedly elevated. During the follow-up, the patient developed retinal detachment and pars plana vitrectomy with silicone oil endotamponade was performed. Although the surgery resulted in the successful retinal reattachment, the final visual acuity remained decreased. Six months after the surgery, the eye was free of the intraocular inflammation and the visual acuity slightly improved.

[The Use of Polymers for Intraocular Lenses in Cataract Surgery]. / Soczewki wewnatrzgalkowe w chirurgii zacmy - wykorzystanie polimerów.

According to the World Health Organization, cataract remains the leading cause of the curable visual impairment worldwide. Cataract can only be cured by surgery during which the cloudy lens is replaced with an artificial intraocular lens. It is one of the most common surgeries being performed worldwide. There are age-related, congenital, traumatic and metabolic types of cataract which have been distinguished. Age-related cataract is the most common one and it affects people over 60 with the greatest frequency. In reference to patients whose cornea does not fulfill the requirements for a standard refractive surgery, the number of refractive intraocular lens replacement is increasing. Manufacturers aim to enhance materials in order to minimize surgical complication while increasing the patient's eyesight. The increase in average lifespan along with patients' expectations stimulate competition among manufacturers who bring new products and solutions into to the market. There is an augmented demand for premium lenses such as toric, multifocal or accommodating. These lenses bring patients the promise of life without the need for wearing glasses. As far as the main materials used in the production of intraocular lens are concerned, there are hydrophobic, hydrophilic, acrylic and silicone lenses in use. In this paper the author discusses characteristics as well as advantages and disadvantages of the above-mentioned materials. The associated surgical complications and the new areas of development regarding the materials used in lenses manufacturing are also examined.