Assessment of Skin Carotenoid Measurement as a Means to Detect Vitamin A Deficiency in Children and Pregnant Women of Nepal.

BACKGROUND: Vitamin A deficiency (VAD) is an ongoing public health concern among children and pregnant women in Nepal despite robust national efforts to screen and treat this vision- and life-threatening condition. OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to evaluate skin carotenoid scores measured using the Veggie Meter as a rapid, noninvasive screening tool for VAD in Nepali children and pregnant women. METHODS: This comparative cross-sectional study enrolled 164 pregnant women and 168 children (aged 8 to 12 y) from public hospitals in three distinct outlying ecological regions of Nepal (Terai, Hill, and Mountain). The primary outcome assessed whether skin carotenoid status could be a biomarker for VAD. We determined skin carotenoid scores using the Veggie Meter and compared them with serum retinol and total carotenoid concentrations assessed by HPLC. Correlation analysis was used to determine bivariate associations between serum retinol and total carotenoid concentrations, and the Veggie Meter assessed skin carotenoid status. Receiver operating characteristics curves were determined, and a P value <0.05 was considered statistically significant. RESULTS: We found that 8.5% of pregnant women and 13.0% of children in this study had severe VAD (serum retinol < 200 ng/mL). There were significant correlations between skin carotenoid scores with serum retinol and total carotenoid concentrations among pregnant women and children (r = 0.253-0.530, P ≤ 0.001). The Veggie Meter detected severe VAD with 57.1% sensitivity and 82.7% specificity in pregnant women and 61.9% sensitivity and 75.9% specificity in children. CONCLUSIONS: Although sensitivity and specificity were moderate for detecting VAD with the Veggie Meter, skin carotenoid assessment using this rapid, noninvasive portable device could still be valuable for high-risk VAD screening in Nepal and similar developing countries with limited access to laboratory measurement of serum vitamin A concentrations.

Prevalence and associated factors of diabetic retinopathy among people with diabetes screened using fundus photography at a community diabetic retinopathy screening program in Nepal.

BACKGROUND: This study aimed to assess the prevalence and associated factors of diabetic retinopathy (DR) and vision threatening DR (VTDR) among people with diabetes screened using fundus photography in Nepal. METHODS: This is a retrospective study among people with diabetes presented for DR screening using fundus photography from 2013 to 2019. Detailed demographics, duration of diabetes, medical history, visual acuity, and grading of DR on fundus photography were analyzed. Fundus camera used in the study were;Topcon digital fundus camera 900 CXR and digital portable fundus cameras (Nidek-10 portable non-mydriatric fundus camera; Versacam & Trade & Alpha, France), and a Zeiss portable fundus camera (Zeiss Visucout 100). Macula centred and disc centred 45 degree two images were taken from each eye. Pupil were dilated in cases where there was media haze in un-dilated cases. DR was graded using early treatment diabetic retinopathy study criteria. The images were graded by fellowship trained retina specialist. DR prevalence included any DR changes in one or both eyes. RESULTS: Total of 25,196 patients with diabetes were enrolled. Mean age was 54.2 years with Standard Deviation (S.D):12.9 years, ranging from 6 years to 97 years. Type 1 and type 2 diabetes comprised of 451 people (1.79%) and 24,747 (98.21%) respectively. Overall, 1.8% of the images were un-gradable. DR prevalence was 19.3% (95% Confidence Interval (CI): 18.8 - 19.7%). DR prevalence in type 1 and type 2 diabetes was 15.5% (95% CI: 12.5 - 18.6%) and 19.3% (CI: 18.8 - 19.8%) respectively. Clinically significant macular edema (CSME) was found in 5.9% (95% CI: 5.6-6.2%) and VTDR in 7.9% (95% CI: 7.7-8.3%). In multivariate analysis, our study revealed strong evidence to suggest that there is meaningful association between DR and VTDR with duration of diabetes, diabetic foot, diabetic neuropathy, agriculture occupation, those under oral hypoglycaemic agents or insulin or both as compared to those under diet only, and presenting visual acuity > 0.3LogMAR. CONCLUSION: Prevalence and associated factors for DR and VTDR were similar to other DR screening programs in the region. Emphasis on wider coverage of DR screening could help for timely detection and treatment of STDR to avoid irreversible blindness.

Characterising transnational ophthalmic surgical partnerships by engagement and training.

BACKGROUND: Transnational ophthalmic partnerships exist between high-income countries (HICs) and low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) in varying capacities. We analyzed partnership stakeholders to better understand and address disparities in ophthalmic surgical care. METHODS: An international Web search was conducted to identify surgeons, foundations or organisations participating in ophthalmic delivery and/or capacity building from 2010 to 2019. Partnerships were defined through clinical activities, education and training and/or research support. Descriptive data on current ophthalmic partnerships were collected from published reports, literature reviews and information on stakeholder webpages. Partnerships were classified by the extent of engagement and training: grade I 'engagement' represented documented partnerships of at least 1 year and grade I 'training' limited or poorly defined skills transfer programmes, while grade III 'engagement' represented partnerships with well-documented fiscal investment and/or research productivity and grade III 'training' established training programmes. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and geospatially depicted on Tableau (Mountain View, CA) and ArcMap software (Redlands, CA). RESULTS: In total, 209 unique HIC-LMIC partnerships encompassing 92 unique countries were described. The most common HIC partners were from North America (123; 59%), followed by Europe (75; 36%). The most common LMIC partners were from Africa (102; 49%), followed by Asia-Pacific (54; 26%) and Latin America (44; 21%). Additionally, partnerships most frequently provided services in cataract (48%), glaucoma (25%) and diabetic retinopathy (25%). The most common 'engagement' classifications were grade I (36%) or II (40%); the most common 'training' classifications were grade I (61%) or II (23%). CONCLUSION: Transnational ophthalmic partnerships exist with varying degrees of both engagement and training. Partnerships are stronger in research collaboration and direct services, and weaker in LMIC-directed training programmes.

Prevalence and Pattern of Geographic Atrophy in Asia: The Asian Eye Epidemiology Consortium.

PURPOSE: Although there have been many population-based studies of age-related macular degeneration (AMD), only limited information is available in Asia on the epidemiology of geographic atrophy (GA). We aimed to determine the prevalence and patterns of GA through an analysis of multiple studies conducted within the Asian Eye Epidemiology Consortium (AEEC). DESIGN: Cross-sectional meta-analyses. PARTICIPANTS: A total of 97 213 individuals aged 40 years and older. METHODS: Data from 22 population-based studies from countries belonging to the AEEC were included. In all studies, AMD was defined on the basis of standardized grading systems. Geographic atrophy was defined as an area of pallor in the fundus with visibility of the underlying choroidal blood vessels and sharply defined borders. Random-effects meta-analysis was performed to estimate overall and age-, gender-, and region-specific pooled prevalence of GA. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Prevalence of GA per 1000 persons. RESULTS: The mean age was 60.8 ± 10.0 years, and 42 673 (43.9%) were male. Overall, a total of 223 individuals (0.2%) had GA. The pooled overall prevalence of GA was 1.57 per 1000 persons (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.04-2.10), which was 3 times less than that of neovascular AMD of 5.20 per 1000 persons (95% CI, 3.97-6.43). Compared with those aged 50 to 59 years, the prevalence of GA increased from 0.34 per 1000 persons (95% CI, 0.07-0.62) to 2.90 per 1000 persons (95% CI, 1.55-4.25) in those aged ≥70 years. The GA prevalence per 1000 persons was similar between urban (2.22; 95% CI, 1.22-3.23) and rural residents (1.33; 95% CI, 0.70-1.96). Geographic atrophy was more prevalent in South Asia (based on studies from India and Nepal, 3.82 per 1000 persons; 95% CI, 1.72-5.93) compared with East Asia (based on studies from China, Korea, Hong Kong, Taiwan, and Japan, and the Singapore Chinese Eye Study, 0.76 per 1000 persons; 95% CI, 0.31-1.22, P = 0.005). CONCLUSIONS: Geographic atrophy is uncommon in Asian populations compared with those of European ancestry. Even within Asia, geographic differences in GA prevalence were seen. The findings of this meta-analysis suggest that better dissection of risk factors in the Asian population for GA may provide insights into the biological pathways that drive these late-stage manifestations, thus suggesting better targets for prevention.

Prevalence and causes of low vision and blindness in an elderly population in Nepal: the Bhaktapur retina study.

BACKGROUND: This study aims to explore the prevalence and causes of low vision and blindness focused on retinal disease in a population above 60 years in Nepal. METHODS: Two thousand one hundred subjects were enrolled in a population-based cross-sectional study. History, presenting and best corrected visual acuity after subjective refraction, anterior and posterior segment examinations was obtained in detail. RESULTS: Among the total subjects, 1860 (88.57%) had complete information. Age varies from 60 to 95 (mean age: 69.64 ± 7.31) years. Low vision and blindness in both eyes at presentation was found in 984 (52.90%, 95% confidence interval (CI): 50.60-55.19) and 36 (1.94%, 95% CI: 1.35-2.66) subjects respectively. After best correction, bilateral low vision and blindness was found in 426 (22.92%, 95% CI: 21.01-24.88), and 30 (1.61%, 95% CI: 0.10-2.30) subjects respectively. As compared to 60-69 years old, risk of visual impairment was four times higher (95% CI:3.26-5.58) in the 70-79 year olds and 14 times higher (95% CI: 9.72-19.73) in the age group 80 years and above. Major causes of bilateral low vision were cataract (68.07%), followed by retinal disorders (28.64%), and for blindness; retinal disorders (46.66%), followed by cataract (43.33%). Illiteracy was significantly associated with visual impairment. CONCLUSION: Among the elderly population, prevalence of visual impairment was high. Refractive error, cataract and retinal disorders were the major cause of low vision. Screening the population at the age 60 years and above, focused on cataract and posterior segment diseases, providing glasses and timely referral can help reduce visual impairment.

Prevalence, pattern and risk factors of retinal vein occlusion in an elderly population in Nepal: the Bhaktapur retina study.

BACKGROUND: This study aims to explore the prevalence, pattern and risk factors of retinal vein occlusion (RVO) in an elderly population of Nepal. METHOD: One thousand eight hundred sixty subjects of age 60 years and above were enrolled in a population-based, cross-sectional study. Detailed history, visual acuity, anterior segment and posterior segment examinations were done. Blood pressure, non-fasting blood sugar, body mass index and abdominal girth were measured. Retinal vein occlusions were further divided into branch retinal (BRVO), hemi-retinal and central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO). RESULT: Age ranged from 60 to 95 years with a mean of 69.64 ± 7.31 years. Overall population prevalence for RVO was 2.95% (95% Confidence interval (CI): 2.23-3.83), BRVO 2.74% (95% CI: 2.05-3.58) and CRVO 0.21% (95% CI: 0.06-0.55). BRVO was seen in 51 subjects (92.73%) and CRVO in 4 (7.27%). Among the total RVO, unilateral and bilateral involvement was 85.45% and 14.55%, respectively. Among the subjects with BRVO and CRVO, 37.25% and 50% had low vision, respectively. The risk of RVO increased with ageing and was more among males. There was an increased risk of RVO among those with hypertension, and with diabetes and hypertension. There was also an increased risk of RVO among subjects with hypermetropia, those with pseudophakia and those who were smokers and consumed alcohol. CONCLUSION: Retinal vein occlusion is a common retinal vascular disorder in the elderly population of Nepal. The main risk factors for RVO were increasing age and hypertension.

Nd:YAG laser hyaloidotomy in the management of Premacular Subhyaloid Hemorrhage.

BACKGROUND: Premacular subhyaloid hemorrhage results in a sudden profound loss of vision. Among the modalities for its treatment, Nd:YAG laser hyaloidotomy is a non invasive method enabling rapid drainage of the obstructed macular area and improved vision within days. This study was aimed to evaluate the efficacy, visual outcome and complications following Nd:YAG laser hyaloidotomy for premacular subhyaloid hemorrhage. METHODS: Patients with premacular subhyaloid hemorrhage of more than 3 disc diameters (DD) of various etiologies, attending Tilganga Institute of Ophthalmology, Nepal from August, 2014 to February, 2015, were included. A comprehensive ocular evaluation was conducted and fundus photographs were taken to measure the size of the subhyaloid hemorrhage. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) were performed before and after treatment and on subsequent follow up visits. Fundus fluorescence angiography was done whenever necessary. Q switched Nd:YAG laser was applied to create an opening in the posterior hyaloids membrane for draining subhyaloid hemorrhage. The main outcome measures were success rate in performing hyaloidotomy, drainage of subhyaloid blood into vitreous cavity and its resorption, improvement in visual acuity, need for further intervention and postoperative complications. RESULTS: There were 21 eyes of 19 patients, 17(89.48%) male and 2(10.52%) female. In 3, premacular subhyaloid hemorrhage was bilateral. Mean age was 41.68 ± 17.08 years and a mean duration of symptoms 15.04 days. Mean pretreatment hemorrhage was 6.27DD. Nd:YAG laser hyaloidotomy was successful in 19 eyes(86.4%). In 2 patients, one each with Eales' disease and retinal vein occlusion the procedure was unsuccessful, necessitating pars plana vitrectomy, while in a case with proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR), vitrectomy was resorted for non clearing vitreous hemorrhage. Vision improved from a median of 3/60 pre-operatively to 6/6, at 6 months follow up. At 3 months, 2 patients with Eales' disease, one developed tractional detachment at macula while the other, an epiretinal membrane. No other complications were noted at 6 months. CONCLUSION: Nd:YAG laser hyaloidotomy is an inexpensive, effective and a safe outpatient procedure for premacular subhyaloid hemorrhage, producing rapid drainage with restoration of visual function avoiding more invasive procedures and enabling early assessment of the underlying retina. The final visual prognosis however, rests on the underlying cause of the subhyaloid hemorrhage and any accompanying retinal changes.

Intra- and inter-rater agreement between an ophthalmologist and mid-level ophthalmic personnel to diagnose retinal diseases based on fundus photographs at a primary eye center in Nepal: the Bhaktapur Retina Study.

BACKGROUND: Early detection can reduce irreversible blindness from retinal diseases. This study aims to assess the intra- and inter-rater agreement of retinal pathologies observed on fundus photographs between an ophthalmologist and two-mid level ophthalmic personnel (MLOPs). METHOD: A population-based, cross-sectional study was conducted among subjects 60 years and above in the Bhaktapur district of Nepal. Fundus photographs of 500 eyes of 500 subjects were assessed. The macula-centered 45-degree photographs were graded twice by one ophthalmologist and two MLOPs. Intra-rater and inter-rater agreements were assessed for the ophthalmologist and the MLOPs. RESULT: Mean age was 70.22 years ± 6.94 (SD). Retinal pathologies were observed in 55.6 % of photographs (age-related macular degeneration: 34.2 %; diabetic retinopathy: 4.2 %; retinal vein occlusion: 3.8 %). Twelve (2.4 %) fundus pictures were non-gradable. The intra-rater agreement for overall retinal pathologies, retinal hemorrhage, and maculopathy were substantial both for the ophthalmologist as well as for the MLOPs. There was moderate inter-rater agreement between the ophthalmologist and the first MLOP on second rating for overall retinal pathologies, [kappa (k); 95 % CI = 0.59 (0.51-0.66)], retinal hemorrhage [k; 95 % CI = 0.60 (0.41-0.78)], and maculopathy [k; 95 % CI = 0.52 (0.43-0.60)]. Inter-rater agreement between the ophthalmologist and the second MLOP for second rating was moderate for overall retinal pathologies [k; 95 % CI = 0.52 (0.44-0.60)], substantial agreement for retinal hemorrhage [k; 95 % CI = 0. 68 (0.52-0.84)], moderate agreement for maculopathy [k; 95 % CI = 0.59 (0.50-0.67)]. CONCLUSION: There is moderate agreement between the MLOPs and the ophthalmologist in grading fundus photographs for retinal hemorrhages and maculopathy.

Population awareness of diabetic eye disease and age related macular degeneration in Nepal: the Bhaktapur Retina Study.

BACKGROUND: Diabetic retinopathy (DR) and age-related macular degeneration (AMD) are among the leading causes of visual impairment and blindness in developing countries. This study aims to explore the awareness of these retinal diseases in Nepal. METHOD: A population based cross-sectional study conducted among individuals 60 years and older from the Bhaktapur district of Nepal. One thousand consecutive subjects were enrolled and subjected to a structured questionnaire. RESULT: Subject age ranged from 60 to 93 years with a meanof 69.5 years ± 7.1(S.D.). Males and females comprised 45.1 and 55.9 % of the population, respectively. The majority was illiterate (78.2 %), and agriculture was the predominant occupation (79.8 %). 12.1 % were aware of the effect of diabetes on the eye, and among them, 99 % were aware that diabetes was a blinding disease caused by DR.11.5 % of the subjects were aware of DR, and 10.1 % were aware that subjects with diabetes should undergo periodic eye examinations. Only 7.6 % of subjects were aware of AMD.7.5 and 7.4 % were aware about its aggravation with smoking and sunlight exposure, respectively. Younger age group, males, literates, service holders, best corrected visual acuity >0.3 LogMAR, were each significantly associated with an increase in awareness of diabetic retinopathy. Smokers and those with agricultural occupations were less aware regarding AMD. Those with diabetes,with or without DRwere significantly more aware than those not having the disease. CONCLUSION: Among the Bhaktapur population, awareness of DR and AMD was only 11.5 and7.6 % respectively. Older age groups, females, illiterates, farmers, and those with poor visual acuity were less aware of these blinding diseases. We recommend community-based eye health education programs targeted at raising awareness of these diseases and preventive measures.

Clinical Characteristics of Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy and Outcome of Pars Plana Vitrectomy in Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy.

BACKGROUND: Proliferative diabetic retinopathy is a leading cause of blindness among people with diabetes. The study aimed to assess the clinical characteristics of proliferative diabetic retinopathy and outcome of pars plana vitrectomy in Proliferative diabetic retinopathy. METHODS: A prospective study was conducted from September 2019 to December 2021 among consecutive cases of proliferative diabetic retinopathy who underwent pars plana vitrectomy at a tertiary eye care center. Study was conducted after ethical approval from Institutional Review Committee. Detailed systemic and ocular history, visual acuity, ocular findings under mydriasis, surgical procedures, and outcome following pars plana vitrectomy were recorded. Cases were followed up regularly until one year after the pars plana vitrectomy. RESULTS: Total of 83 cases (89 eyes) of proliferative diabetic retinopathy were enrolled in the study. The mean age was 53 years ±9.7 SD, ranging from 26 years to 72 years. Males comprised of 62.7% cases. Type two diabetes comprised of 94% of cases. Indications for pars plana vitrectomy were; mixed vitreous hemorrhage and tractional retinal detachment (38.2%), non-clearing vitreous hemorrhage (38.1%), and tractional retinal detachment only (24.7%). Pre-operative intra-vitreal anti-vascular endothelial growth factor was given in 78.65% eyes and pan retinal photocoagulation in 58.42% eyes. The anatomical success was achieved in 95.5% eyes, visual improvement in 68.54%, static in 14.6% and worsened in 16.86% of eyes. About 15.7% of eyes had some form of post- operative complications. CONCLUSIONS: Vitreous hemorrhage with tractional retinal detachment, persistent vitreous hemorrhage and tractional retinal detachment involving macula were the common indication of pars plana vitrectomy among cases of Proliferative diabetic retinopathy. Anatomical success and visual acuity improvement can be achieved in majority of the eyes following PPV in Proliferative diabetic retinopathy.

Population Prevalence, Pattern and Associated Factors for Retinal Diseases at High Altitude in Nepal.

Background: Retinal diseases are common at high altitudes due to a cascade of changes caused by hypoxia. The aim of this study is to assess the population prevalence, pattern and associated factors of retinal disorders at high altitude in Nepal. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted at three selected high-altitude districts (over 2500 meters) of Nepal. Subjects were at least 40 years old, and the target sample size was 309. A detailed history was taken. Visual acuity, blood sugar, blood pressure, and oxygen saturation were measured. Anterior and posterior ocular evaluations were conducted by retina specialists using slit lamp and indirect ophthalmoscopy. Results: A total of 338 participants were recruited, with nearly equal numbers from the three districts with mean age of 57.0 (S.D 11.1) years. Two-thirds (63.9%) were females; 38.2% were illiterate, and 46.7% were farmers. Average blood oxygen saturation was 87.2% (S.D 4.1%). Systemic hypertension and diabetes mellitus were found in 58% and 11%, respectively. Retinal diseases were found in 176 (52.5%), with bilateral involvement in 157 (46.9%). The major retinal diseases were hypertensive retinopathy (32.2%), high-altitude retinopathy (10.4%), age-related macular degeneration (AMD) (8.1%), branch vein occlusion (BRVO) (2.1%), and diabetic retinopathy (DR) (1.8%). The multivariate analysis showed significant association of retinal diseases with age and hypertension. Best corrected visual acuity better than 6/18 was present in 96.7%. Conclusion: Over half of the study participants had retinal diseases, with hypertensive retinopathy, AMD, and high-altitude retinopathy as the most common retinal problems. A significant association of retinal diseases was found with ageing, and hypertension. Access to eye care services and control of systemic hypertension along with patient education should be emphasized among people living at high-altitude.

Health transition and eye care policy planning for people with diabetic retinopathy in south Asia.

The prevalence of type 2 diabetes (T2D), associated systemic disorders, diabetic retinopathy (DR) and current health policies in south Asian countries were analysed to assess country-specific preparedness to meet the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals. The south Asian countries were classified by human development index, socio-demographic index, multidimensional poverty indices, and eye health resources for epidemiological resource-level analysis. In south Asia, the prevalence of diagnosed and undiagnosed T2D in adults aged 40 years or above, was higher in Pakistan (26.3%) and Afghanistan (71.4%), respectively; India has the highest absolute number of people with DR, and Afghanistan has the highest prevalence of DR (50.6%). In this region, out-of-pocket spending is high (∼77%). This Health Policy is a situational analysis of data available on the prevalence of DR and common eye diseases in people with T2D in south Asia and available resources to suggest tailored health policies to local needs. The common issues in the region are insufficient human resources for eye health, unequal distribution of available workforce, and inadequate infrastructure. Addressing these challenges of individuals with T2D and DR, a 10-point strategy is suggested to improve infrastructure, augment human resources, reduce out-of-pocket spending, employ targeted screening, and encourage public-private partnerships.

Rationale and protocol paper for the Asia Pacific Network for inherited eye diseases.

PURPOSE: There are major gaps in our knowledge of hereditary ocular conditions in the Asia-Pacific population, which comprises approximately 60% of the world's population. Therefore, a concerted regional effort is urgently needed to close this critical knowledge gap and apply precision medicine technology to improve the quality of lives of these patients in the Asia-Pacific region. DESIGN: Multi-national, multi-center collaborative network. METHODS: The Research Standing Committee of the Asia-Pacific Academy of Ophthalmology and the Asia-Pacific Society of Eye Genetics fostered this research collaboration, which brings together renowned institutions and experts for inherited eye diseases in the Asia-Pacific region. The immediate priority of the network will be inherited retinal diseases (IRDs), where there is a lack of detailed characterization of these conditions and in the number of established registries. RESULTS: The network comprises 55 members from 35 centers, spanning 12 countries and regions, including Australia, China, India, Indonesia, Japan, South Korea, Malaysia, Nepal, Philippines, Singapore, Taiwan, and Thailand. The steering committee comprises ophthalmologists with experience in consortia for eye diseases in the Asia-Pacific region, leading ophthalmologists and vision scientists in the field of IRDs internationally, and ophthalmic geneticists. CONCLUSIONS: The Asia Pacific Inherited Eye Disease (APIED) network aims to (1) improve genotyping capabilities and expertise to increase early and accurate genetic diagnosis of IRDs, (2) harmonise deep phenotyping practices and utilization of ontological terms, and (3) establish high-quality, multi-user, federated disease registries that will facilitate patient care, genetic counseling, and research of IRDs regionally and internationally.

Practice Patterns and Challenges in Managing Inherited Retinal Diseases Across Asia-Pacific: A Survey from the APIED Network.

PURPOSE: The objective of this paper is to shed light on the current landscape of genotyping practices, phenotyping practices and availability of essential vision rehabilitation management for inherited retinal diseases (IRD) in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) Region. METHODS: The 62-item questionnaire was distributed electronically via email. The questions covered five domains: (1) structure of the IRD service and registry/database; (2) genotyping practices; (3) genetic counselling; (4) deep phenotyping practices; (5) low-vision rehabilitation services. RESULTS: The survey was completed by 36 of 45 centres in twelve countries and regions in APAC. Among these centres, 42 % reported managing more than 1000 patients. Notably, 39 % of centres lack an IRD database or registry, and 44 % of centres have tested less than one-quarter of their IRD patients. The majority of centres (67 %) do not have genetic counsellors. While there was consistency in the imaging-based investigations, there was marked heterogeneity for functional testing using electrophysiology and formal perimetry. Only 34 % of centres confirmed the availability of access to low-vision assistive devices. CONCLUSIONS: This study reveals several critical gaps in managing IRDs in the APAC region. These include the lack of IRD database/registry in one-third of centres, a substantial proportion of patients remaining genetically undiagnosed, and limited availability of genetic counsellors. The findings also underscore a need to harmonise investigations for evaluating retinal function and identify areas for improvement in the provision of low-vision rehabilitation services.

Prevalence and pattern of vitreo-retinal diseases in Nepal: the Bhaktapur glaucoma study.

BACKGROUND: Vitreo-retinal diseases are among the leading causes of visual impairment and blindness worldwide. This study reports the prevalence and pattern of vitreo-retinal diseases in the Bhaktapur Glaucoma Study (BGS), a population based study conducted in Nepal. METHODS: BGS was a population based cross-sectional study involving 4800 subjects aged 40 years and over from Bhaktapur district. Subjects were selected using a cluster sampling methodology and a door-to-door enumeration. All subjects underwent a detailed ocular examination at the base hospital which included log MAR visual acuity, refraction, applanation tonometry and a dilated fundus examination. Fundus photography, optical coherence tomography and fundus fluorescein angiography were performed where indicated. RESULTS: Complete data was available for 3966 (82.62%) out of the total of 4800 enumerated subjects. The mean age was 55.08 years (SD 11.51). The overall prevalence of vitreo-retinal disorders was 5.35% (95% CI, 4.67 - 6.09). Increasing age was associated with a higher prevalence of vitreo-retinal disorders (P < 0.001). The prevalence of diabetes mellitus was 7.69% (95% CI, 6.88 - 8.56). Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) was the most common vitreo-retinal disorder with a prevalence of 1.50% (95% CI, 1.15 - 1.94), increasing significantly with age. The prevalence of diabetic retinopathy among the study population was 0.78% (95% CI, 0.53 - 1.11) and among the diabetic population 10.16% (95% CI, 7.01 - 14.12). The population prevalence of other retinal disorders were hypertensive retinopathy 0.88%, macular scar 0.37%, retinal vein occlusion 0.50%, macular hole 0.20%, retinitis pigmentosa 0.12%. and retinal detachment 0.10%.The prevalence of low vision and blindness due to vitreo-retinal disorders was 1.53% (95% CI, 1.18 - 1.97) and 0.65% (95% CI, 0.43 - 0.96), respectively. The prevalence of low vision and blindness was 28.77% (95% CI, 22.78-35.37) and 12.26% (95% CI, 8.17-17.45), respectively among cases with vitreo-retinal disorders. Blindness was observed to be unilateral in 19 cases (73%), and bilateral in 7 cases (27%). CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence of vitreo-retinal disorders in this Nepalese population was 5.35%, which increased significantly with age. AMD was the predominant retinal condition followed by diabetic retinopathy. One fourth of the subjects with vitreo-retinal disorder had low vision. Taking into consideration the aging population and emerging systemic diseases such as diabetes mellitus and hypertension, vitreo-retinal disorders could be of future public health importance.

Risk Stratification on Systemic Target Organ Involvement Associated with Hypertensive Retinopathy.

BACKGROUND: Hypertensive retinopathy is a common complication among people with hypertension. The current study assessed the risk stratification on systemic target organ involvement of people with hypertensive retinopathy. METHODS: In a hospital- based cross-sectional study conducted at a tertiary referral eye institute in Nepal, we included consecutive people ≥ 31 years with essential hypertension. Details of histories and systemic target organ involvements were documented. People with un-gradable retinal findings of hypertensive retinopathy and prior retinal surgery were excluded. All participants underwent comprehensive eye examination, including dilated fundus examination. Hypertensive retinopathy was classified by Modified Scheie classification. Multivariate analysis was performed to identify the risks for hypertensive retinopathy and target organ involvement. RESULTS: The study recruited 312 subjects. The mean age was 63.68 ± 12.63 years. The mean duration of hypertension was 7.0 ± 6.5 years. Hypertensive retinopathy was detected in 83.7% (n=261) people and 63.5% (n= 198) had grade 1 hypertensive retinopathy. Target organ involvement was detected in 20.5% (n =64) people. These included cardiac (12.5%; n=39), central nervous (5.1%; n= 16), and renal (4.5%; n=14) systems. In multivariate analysis, concurrent hyperlipidaemia was significantly associated with hypertensive retinopathy and target organ involvement. Target organ involvement increased with the severity of hypertensive retinopathy. CONCLUSIONS: Over four-fifths of people with hypertension had hypertensive retinopathy and one-fifth had other systemic target organ involvements. Severity of hypertensive retinopathy and concurrent hyperlipidaemia were associated with target organ involvement. Hypertensive retinopathy can be considered for risk stratification to other target organ involvement in a clinical setting.

Patterns of Macular Edema in Branch Retinal Vein Occlusion Diagnosed by Optical Coherence Tomography.

INTRODUCTION: Branch Retinal vein occlusion is the most common retinal vascular disease after diabetic retinopathy in elderly populations. OBJECTIVES: To describe morphological patterns of macular edema in branch retinal vein occlusion using optical coherence tomography. MATERIALS AND METHODS: It is a hospital based; descriptive, cross-sectional study. All patients with macular edema secondary to branch retinal vein occlusion diagnosed by optical coherence tomography and fulfilling the inclusion criteria from 2017 July 1 to 2018 July 1 were studied. RESULTS: A total of 84 eyes of 84 patients were enrolled. The mean age of the patient was 68.0833 ± 11.22 years (range, 35-74 years). Forty-five (53.57%) were male. Forty-four eyes had right eye involvement. Major and macular branch retinal vein occlusion was found in 50 and 34 eyes respectively. Forty eight eyes had superior and 36 eyes had inferior branch retinal vein occlusion. Morphological patterns of macular edema were classified: cystoid macular edema, cystoid macular edema with serous retinal detachment, diffuse macular edema and diffuse macular edema with serous retinal detachment of which 68 (80.95%) had cystoid macular edema. Out of 84 eyes, 30 (35.71%) had inner and outer segment (IS/OS) junction disruption. CONCLUSION: Optical coherence tomography is a safe and noninvasive technique. Serous retinal detachment and photoreceptors disruption may go unnoticed unless OCT is performed. It can measure the changes in retinal thickness and thus predict the visual outcomes in patients with macular edema.

Outcomes Of Microincision Pars Plana Vitrectomy In Rhegmatogenous Retinal Detachment.

BACKGROUND: With the technological advances, microincision pars plana vitrectomy is commonly used method for primary treatment of eyes with rhegmatogenous retinal detachment. Objective of this study is to evaluate anatomical and visual outcomes of microincision pars plana vitrectomy in eyes with rhegmatogenous retinal detachment. METHODS: This was a hospital based prospective observational study done in Tilganga Institute of Ophthalmology, Kathmandu, Nepal. All consecutive cases of rhegmatogenous retinal detachment who underwent primary microincision pars plana vitrectomy from October 2020 to March 2021 were included in the study. Patients were evaluated at baseline, postoperative day 1, 1 week, 6 weeks and 3 months. Outcome measures evaluated were anatomical results, visual outcomes and complications of the surgery. RESULTS: Forty-nine eyes with rhegmatogenous retinal detachment treated with primary microincision pars plana vitrectomy with minimum follow up of at least 3 months were evaluated. Anatomical success was achieved in 91.8% of cases (45/49). Baseline mean best corrected visual acuity was logMAR 1.63±0.88 and median best corrected visual acuity was 2.00 (range 0.00 to 2.70) while at 3 months follow up mean best corrected visual acuity was logMAR 1.22±0.66 and median BCVA was 1.00 ( range 0.00 to 2.70). There was significant improvement in median BCVA ( p= 0.005). There were no cases of postoperative hypotony and endophthalmitis. Other complications were also minimal such as silicon oil in anterior chamber in 1 eye, epiretinal membrane in 3 eyes and macular hole in 2 eyes. CONCLUSIONS: Microincision pars plana vitrectomy is an effective surgical method of primary treatment for rhegmatogenous retinal detachment with good anatomical and visual outcomes with minimal complications.

Prevalence, Associated Factors and Awareness of Hypertensive Retinopathy among an Elderly Population with Hypertension in Nepal: The Bhaktapur Retina Study.

INTRODUCTION: Hypertensive retinopathy is a common complication in patients with hypertension. This study aims to assess the prevalence, associated factors and awareness of hypertensive retinopathy among an elderly population with hypertension in Bhaktapur, Nepal. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This is a population-based, cross-sectional study conducted from 2013 to 2015 in Bhaktapur district, Nepal. The sample size was 2100 subjects aged 60 years and above. From this sample, all diagnosed patients with hypertension were analyzed. A detailed history was obtained, and an ocular examination was performed. RESULTS: Information was complete for 1860 (88.57%) subjects. The age of the study population ranged from 60 to 95 years with the mean age of 69.64±7.31 years. Hypertension was found in 643 subjects (34.61%), of which 224 (12.04%) were newly diagnosed cases. Among the subjects with hypertension, hypertensive retinopathy was found in 81 cases (12.6%). Hypertensive retinopathy was more frequent in the age group 70-79 years (15.23%), males (13.25%), illiterates (13.56%), diabetics (16.49%), and body mass index (BMI) ≥25 kg/m2 (14%). None of the factors was found to be statistically significant. Among the study participants, awareness regarding the effect of hypertension on eye, retina and vision was found to be 13.84%, 8.4%, and 11.98% respectively. CONCLUSION: Prevalence of hypertension and hypertensive retinopathy among an elderly population of 60 years and above in Bhaktapur district, Nepal were similar to other countries. Hypertensive retinopathy was higher among males, illiterates, diabetes and BMI> 25kg/m2. Awareness of hypertensive retinopathy was 8.4% among hypertensive subjects. Emphasis should be directed toward improving awareness campaigns.