Prognostic factors for mental wellbeing in prostate cancer: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the evidence base for patient, oncological, and treatment prognostic factors associated with multiple mental wellbeing outcomes in prostate cancer patients. METHODS: We performed a literature search of MEDLINE, EMBASE, and CINAHL databases including studies evaluating patient, oncological, or treatment factors against one of five mental wellbeing outcomes; depression, anxiety, fear of cancer recurrence, masculinity, and body image perception. Data synthesis included a random effects meta-analysis for the prognostic effect of individual factors if sufficient homogenous data was available, with a structured narrative synthesis where this was not possible. RESULTS: A final 62 articles were included. Older age was associated with a reducing odds of depression (OR 0.97, p = 0.04), with little evidence of effect for other outcomes. Additionally, baseline mental health status was related to depression and increasing time since diagnosis was associated with reducing fear of recurrence, albeith with low certainty of evidence. However, few other patient or oncological factors demonstrated any coherent relationship with any wellbeing outcome. Androgen deprivation therapy was associated with increased depression (HR 1.65, 95% CI 1.41-1.92, p < 0.01) and anxiety, however, little difference was seen between other treatment options. Overall, whilst numerous factors were identified, most were evaluated by single studies with few evaluating masculinity and body image outcomes. CONCLUSION: We highlight the existing evidence for prognostic factors in mental wellbeing outcomes in prostate cancer, allowing us to consider high-risk groups of patients for preventative and treatment measures. However, the current evidence is heterogenous with further work required exploring less conclusive factors and outcomes.

Pneumatic Retinopexy Versus Pars Plana Vitrectomy for Rhegmatogenous Retinal Detachment: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: This study aims to compare the outcomes of pneumatic retinopexy (PnR) versus pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) for rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD). MATERIALS AND METHODS: A systematic review and meta-analysis were performed following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) Guidelines. An electronic search was conducted identifying six comparative studies of PnR versus PPV for RRD enrolling 1,061 patients. The primary outcome was visual acuity (VA). Anatomical success and complications were the secondary outcomes. RESULTS: No statistically significant difference was observed in VA between the groups. There was a statistically significant difference in the odds of re-attachment favoring PPV over PnR (odds ratio [OR] = 0.29, P < 0.00001). No statistically significant difference was found in final anatomical success (OR = 1.00, P = 1.00) and the development of cataracts (OR = 0.34, P = 0.61). Other complications, including retinal tears and postoperative proliferative vitreoretinopathy, were more frequently reported in the PnR group. CONCLUSION: PPV has a higher rate of primary reattachment compared to PnR for treating RRD with comparable final anatomical success, complications, and VA outcomes. [Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina 2023;54:354-361.].

Retinal Vein Occlusion with COVID-19: A Case Report and Review of Literature.

OBJECTIVES: To provide a case report of Retinal Vein Occlusion (RVO) with COVID-19 infection. CASE: A 15-year-old healthy male presented with blurring of vision, 2+ vitreous cells, retinal haemorrhages and dilated and tortuous retinal vessels in the left eye within 28 days of a positive COVID-19 reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) assay. He was diagnosed with left non-ischaemic CRVO, with a suspected aetiology of COVID-19. DISCUSSION: A literature review found 12 reported cases of RVO associated with COVID-19. All but one patient was younger than 60, with a mean age of 42 years. Management varied, but in the majority (8/12), visual acuity (VA) improved with follow-up, and five (42%) had a final VA of 20/20. CONCLUSION: In the absence of other known aetiological factors, ophthalmologists should consider COVID-19 as a cause of RVO. The outcome can vary, but the majority can expect improvement in VA with time.

Undergoing radical treatment for prostate cancer and its impact on wellbeing: A qualitative study exploring men's experiences.

INTRODUCTION: Quality of life in prostate cancer survivorship is becoming increasingly important, with mental and social wellbeing recognised as key components. However, limited global evaluation of psychosocial challenges experienced after treatment exists. Therefore, we aimed to explore the lived experiences of men who underwent radical treatment, and its psychosocial impact. MATERIAL AND METHODS: This qualitative study was conducted using 19 men who had undergone radical treatment (prostatectomy or radiotherapy) for their cancer. Semi-structured interviews were conducted exploring lived experiences of men after treatment. A Structured thematic analysis of collected data was undertaken, with an inductive co-construction of themes through the lens of the biopsychosocial model. Themes generated were considered within a psychological, social, and physical wellbeing framework. RESULTS: An initial knowledge gap meant mental wellbeing was strongly impacted initially leading to a 'Diagnostic Blow and the Search for Clarity'. Doubt over individuals' future resulted in 'An Uncertain Future' in many men. Once treatment was completed a 'Reflective journey' began, with men considering their outcomes and decisions made. Social wellbeing was also impacted with many identifying the 'Emotional Repercussions' on their relationships and the impact their diagnosis had on their partner and family. Many subsequently sought to increase their support through 'The Social Network and Advocacy', while physical changes led to an increased need for 'Social Planning'. Finally, physical wellbeing was highlighted by a continual acknowledgement of the 'Natural process of ageing' leading to a reluctancy to seek help, whilst simultaneously attempting to improve existing health via 'The Health Kick'. CONCLUSIONS: Radical treatments have a considerable impact on mental and social wellbeing of individuals. Anxiety after diagnosis and significant uncertainty over individual futures exist, with physical complications of treatment leading to social repercussions. Future research should aim to identify forms of support to improve quality of life of these men.