The Versatile Teaching Eye: an affordable, 3D-printed model eye for simulating ophthalmic examination.

Purpose: To describe the Versatile Teaching Eye (VT Eye), a 3D-printed model eye designed to provide an affordable examination simulator, and to report the results of a pilot program introducing the VT Eye and an ophthalmic training curriculum at a teaching hospital in Ghana. Methods: TinkerCAD was used to design the VT Eye, which was printed with ABS plastic. The design features an adapter that permits use of a smartphone as a digital fundus. We developed a set of digital flashcards allowing for an interactive review of a range of retinal pathologies. An analog fundus was developed for practicing traditional slit lamp and indirect examinations as well as retinal laser practice. The model was used for a period of 2 weeks by ophthalmic trainees at Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Kumasi, Ghana, to practice indirect ophthalmoscopy, slit lamp biomicroscopy, smartphone funduscopy, and retinal image drawing. Results were assessed at by means of a pre-/post-training survey of 6 residents. Results: The VT Eye accommodates diverse fundus examination techniques. Its 3D-printed design ensures cost-effective, high-quality replication. When paired with a 20 D practice examination lens, the digital fundus provides a comprehensive, interactive training environment for <$30.00 (USD). This device allows for indirect examination practice without requiring an indirect headset, which may increase the amount of available practice for trainees early in their careers. In the Ghana pilot program, the model's use in indirect examination training sessions significantly boosted residents' confidence in various examination techniques. Comparing pre- and post-session ratings, average reported confidence levels rose by 30% for acquiring clear views of the posterior pole, 42% for visualizing the periphery, and 141% for capturing important pathology using personal smartphones combined with a 20 D lens (all P < 0.05). Conclusions: The VT Eye is readily reproducible and can be easily integrated into ophthalmic training curricula, even in regions with limited resources. It offers an effective and affordable training solution, underscoring its potential for global adoption and the benefits of incorporating innovative technologies in medical education.

Smartphone fundoscopy with 20 dioptres lens: our experience.

Objective: Assessment of the utility of smartphone fundoscopy in diagnosing posterior pole pathologies. Methods: An iPhone 12 and a 20D Volk lens were used for smartphone fundoscopy. Patients needing bedside consultation were examined with direct ophthalmoscopy and smartphone fundoscopy. Some patients were examined with this technique after slit lamp examination. Results: Over one year 23 bedside fundus examinations were performed and 2 papilledema were diagnosed. After initial slit lamp examination, photos of various pathologies were taken: age-related macular degeneration, branch retinal artery occlusion, arterial embolus, branch retinal vein occlusion, non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy, myelinated retinal nerve fiber layer, choroidal naevus. Discussion: With the 20D lens, the image is overturned, magnified 3,13X, and the field of view is 46°. The utility was demonstrated in literature by teaching students this technique and using it in screening for retinopathy of prematurity. The weighted retinal irradiance was measured in two studies. It was 4,6 mW/cm2 in one and from 0,58 to 2,30 mW/cm2 in the other, within safe limits. Conclusions: Smartphone fundoscopy is a fast, accessible, and safe technique for fundus examinations. Other departments could use it for the diagnosis of papilledema.

Eyesi direct ophthalmoscope simulator: an effective training tool for medical undergraduates.

INTRODUCTION: Non-ophthalmologists often lack sufficient operational training to use a direct ophthalmoscope proficiently, resulting in a global deficit of basic ophthalmological skills among general practitioners. This deficiency hampers the timely diagnosis, referral, and intervention of patients. Consequently, the optimization of teaching tools and methods to enhance teaching efficiency is imperative. This study explores the effectiveness of the Eyesi Direct Ophthalmoscope Simulator (Eyesi) as an innovative tool for fundus examination training. METHODS: Medical undergraduates were randomly assigned to Group A or B (n = 168). All participants completed a pre-training questionnaire. Group A received Eyesi training, while Group B underwent traditional direct ophthalmoscope (TDO) training. Subsequently, participants answered questionnaires relevant to their respective training methods. Both groups exchanged training tools and completed a summary questionnaire. RESULTS: After training, 54.17% of participants believed that images presented by the Eyesi were consistent with the real fundus. Group A scored significantly higher than Group B in fundus structure recognition and self-confidence in examination. The degree of mastery over fundus theory score increased from 6.10 ± 0.13 to 7.74 ± 0.16 (P < 0.001) in Group A, but Group B did not demonstrate a significant difference. We also compared undergraduates' tendencies for different learning purposes, 75.59% of participants preferred the Eyesi to TDO as a training tool, and 88.41% of participants were receptive to introducing the Eyesi in training. CONCLUSION: According to subjective participant feedback, Eyesi outperformed TDO in fundus observation, operational practice, and theoretical learning. It effectively equips undergraduates with fundus examination skills, potentially promoting the use of direct ophthalmoscopes in primary medical institutions.

Hypertension Likely Drives Arteriolar Wall Thickening in Preclinical Diabetic Retinopathy While Diabetes Drives Wall Thickness in Clinical Retinopathy.

Purpose: Both hypertension and diabetes are known to increase the wall-to-lumen ratio (WLR) of retinal arterioles, but the differential effects are unknown. Here, we study the timing and relative impact of hypertension versus diabetes on the WLR in diabetic retinopathy (DR) to address this unresolved question. Methods: This prospective cross-sectional study compared the retinal arteriolar WLR in 17 healthy eyes, 15 with diabetes but no apparent DR (DM no DR), and 8 with diabetic macular edema (DME) and either nonproliferative or proliferative DR. We imaged each arteriole using adaptive optics scanning laser ophthalmoscopy and measured the WLR using ImageJ. Multiple linear regression (MLR) was performed to estimate the effects of hypertension, diabetes, and age on the WLR. Results: Both subjects with DM no DR and subjects with DME had significantly higher WLR than healthy subjects (0.36 ± 0.08 and 0.42 ± 0.08 vs. 0.29 ± 0.07, 1-way ANOVA P = 0.0009). MLR in healthy subjects and subjects with DM no DR showed hypertension had the strongest effect (regression coefficient = 0.08, P = 0.009), whereas age and diabetes were not significantly correlated with WLR. MLR in all three groups together (healthy, DM no DR, and DME) showed diabetes had the strongest effect (regression coefficient = 0.05, P = 0.02), whereas age and hypertension were not significantly correlated with WLR. Conclusions: Hypertension may be an early driver of retinal arteriolar wall thickening in preclinical DR, independent of age or diabetes, whereas changes specific to DR may drive wall thickening in DME and later DR stages. Translational Relevance: We offer a framework for understanding the relative contributions of hypertension and diabetes on the vascular wall, and emphasize the importance of hypertension control early in diabetes even before DR onset.

Retinal peri-arteriolar versus peri-venular amyloidosis, hippocampal atrophy, and cognitive impairment: exploratory trial.

The relationship between amyloidosis and vasculature in cognitive impairment and Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathogenesis is increasingly acknowledged. We conducted a quantitative and topographic assessment of retinal perivascular amyloid plaque (AP) distribution in individuals with both normal and impaired cognition. Using a retrospective dataset of scanning laser ophthalmoscopy fluorescence images from twenty-eight subjects with varying cognitive states, we developed a novel image processing method to examine retinal peri-arteriolar and peri-venular curcumin-positive AP burden. We further correlated retinal perivascular amyloidosis with neuroimaging measures and neurocognitive scores. Our study unveiled that peri-arteriolar AP counts surpassed peri-venular counts throughout the entire cohort (P < 0.0001), irrespective of the primary, secondary, or tertiary vascular branch location, with a notable increase among cognitively impaired individuals. Moreover, secondary branch peri-venular AP count was elevated in the cognitively impaired (P < 0.01). Significantly, peri-venular AP count, particularly in secondary and tertiary venules, exhibited a strong correlation with clinical dementia rating, Montreal cognitive assessment score, hippocampal volume, and white matter hyperintensity count. In conclusion, our exploratory analysis detected greater peri-arteriolar versus peri-venular amyloidosis and a marked elevation of amyloid deposition in secondary branch peri-venular regions among cognitively impaired subjects. These findings underscore the potential feasibility of retinal perivascular amyloid imaging in predicting cognitive decline and AD progression. Larger longitudinal studies encompassing diverse populations and AD-biomarker confirmation are warranted to delineate the temporal-spatial dynamics of retinal perivascular amyloid deposition in cognitive impairment and the AD continuum.

Chemically induced cone degeneration in the 13-lined ground squirrel.

Animal models of retinal degeneration are critical for understanding disease and testing potential therapies. Inducing degeneration commonly involves the administration of chemicals that kill photoreceptors by disrupting metabolic pathways, signaling pathways, or protein synthesis. While chemically induced degeneration has been demonstrated in a variety of animals (mice, rats, rabbits, felines, 13-lined ground squirrels (13-LGS), pigs, chicks), few studies have used noninvasive high-resolution retinal imaging to monitor the in vivo cellular effects. Here, we used longitudinal scanning light ophthalmoscopy (SLO), optical coherence tomography, and adaptive optics SLO imaging in the euthermic, cone-dominant 13-LGS (46 animals, 52 eyes) to examine retinal structure following intravitreal injections of chemicals, which were previously shown to induce photoreceptor degeneration, throughout the active season of 2019 and 2020. We found that iodoacetic acid induced severe pan-retinal damage in all but one eye, which received the lowest concentration. While sodium nitroprusside successfully induced degeneration of the outer retinal layers, the results were variable, and damage was also observed in 50% of contralateral control eyes. Adenosine triphosphate and tunicamycin induced outer retinal specific damage with varying results, while eyes injected with thapsigargin did not show signs of degeneration. Given the variability of damage we observed, follow-up studies examining the possible physiological origins of this variability are critical. These additional studies should further advance the utility of chemically induced photoreceptor degeneration models in the cone-dominant 13-LGS.

Fluorescence Lifetime Imaging of Human Retinal Pigment Epithelium in Pentosan Polysulfate Toxicity Using Adaptive Optics Scanning Light Ophthalmoscopy.

Purpose: Fluorescence lifetime ophthalmoscopy (FLIO) is an emerging clinical modality that could provide biomarkers of retinal health beyond fluorescence intensity. Adaptive optics (AO) ophthalmoscopy provides the confocality to measure fluorescence lifetime (FL) primarily from the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) whereas clinical FLIO has greater influence from fluorophores in the inner retina and lens. Adaptive optics fluorescence lifetime ophthalmoscopy (AOFLIO) measures of FL in vivo could provide insight into RPE health at different stages of disease. In this study, we assess changes in pentosan polysulfate sodium (PPS) toxicity, a recently described toxicity that has clinical findings similar to advanced age-related macular degeneration. Methods: AOFLIO was performed on three subjects with PPS toxicity (57-67 years old) and six age-matched controls (50-64 years old). FL was analyzed with a double exponential decay curve fit and with phasor analysis. Regions of interest (ROIs) were subcategorized based on retinal features on optical coherence tomography (OCT) and compared to age-matched controls. Results: Twelve ROIs from PPS toxicity subjects met the threshold for analysis by curve fitting and 15 ROIs met the threshold for phasor analysis. Subjects with PPS toxicity had prolonged FL compared to age-matched controls. ROIs of RPE degeneration had the longest FLs, with individual pixels extending longer than 900 ps. Conclusions: Our study shows evidence that AOFLIO can provide meaningful information in outer retinal disease beyond what is obtainable from fluorescence intensity alone. More studies are needed to determine the prognostic value of AOFLIO.

Surgical management of a case of giant retinal tear with closed funnel retinal detachment in a pediatric patient.

BACKGROUND: A 7-year-old male child was brought by his parents with a complaint of low vision in both eyes for 2 months. The child had low vision in both the eyes for 1.5 years, but the parents noticed when it worsened further 2 months back, leading to profound vision loss. On ophthalmic evaluation, the child did not perceive light in the right eye. Furthermore, anterior segment examination showed complicated cataract and open funnel retinal detachment with intra-retinal cysts in ultrasound (USG) B scan. In the left eye, he could appreciate light but with poor fixation. Fundus evaluation of the left eye showed total retinal detachment on indirect ophthalmoscopy, which was confirmed on USG B scan. Since the right eye had poor visual potential, no intervention was done. The left eye underwent pars plana vitrectomy with silicone oil tamponade, which led to successful anatomical outcomes. The immediate and late postoperative periods were uneventful, and the child was kept under follow-up and was observed closely. PURPOSE: To educate regarding the surgical management of giant retinal tears in a pediatric patient. SYNOPSIS: To inform regarding the surgical challenges faced and steps adopted to manage such cases. HIGHLIGHTS: Through this case, we want to highlight the challenges faced, such as delayed presentation, difficult preoperative evaluation, intraoperative difficulties such as mobile retina, absence of posterior vitreous detachment, and tenacious vitreous gel. We also want to emphasize on the steps taken to overcome the challenges. CONCLUSION: In such challenging situations, effective planning, careful manipulation, and persistence are essential for success. VIDEO LINK: https://youtu.be/T0Gy6Wj13zI.

Multimodal Imaging of Choroidal Nodules in Neurofibromatosis Type I.

AIM: To clarify the possibilities and role of posterior segment imaging in patients with neurofibromatosis type I (NF1), and to show the prevalence of this disease in the pediatric population in Slovakia. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Until recently, ophthalmologic consultations in patients with NF1 were limited mainly to the observation of Lisch nodules of the iris and the presence of optic nerve glioma. However, advances in imaging capabilities have made it possible to investigate and describe new f indings concerning the ocular manifestations of this disease. Between October 2020 and November 2021, we examined the anterior and posterior segment of 76 eyes (38 children ­ 12 boys and 26 girls) with genetically confirmed NF1 gene mutation at our clinic. The age of the patients ranged from 4 to 18 years. The anterior segment was checked for the presence of Lisch nodules biomicroscopically with a slit lamp. On the posterior segment, the presence of choroidal nodules was checked by various imaging methods ­ fundus camera, infrared confocal selective laser ophthalmoscopy, MultiColor imaging, OCT, and OCT angiography. All the patients had magnetic resonance imaging performed in order to detect potential optic nerve gliomas for the purpose of diagnosis. We observed the correlation between the patients' age, presence of Lisch nodules and the presence of choroidal nodules. Eight patients also had other manifestations of the disease ­ optic nerve gliomas or microvascular changes (so-called "corkscrew" vessels). RESULTS: Out of 38 patients, Lisch iris nodules were present in 20 patients (53%) and choroidal nodules in 24 patients (63%). There was no positive correlation between the presence of these two manifestations within the same patient or eye, but there is a clear correlation between the presence of choroidal nodules and patient age. CONCLUSION: The results suggest that a previously unknown ocular manifestation of neurofibromatosis type I, namely choroidal nodules, has a higher prevalence than Lisch nodules also in the pediatric population and can be easily visualized using various imaging modalities. It will be important to include follow-up observation of this finding among the standard controls for ocular findings in NF1, and it will be very interesting to correlate this f inding with the exact NF1 mutation

Correction Method for Optical Scaling of Fundoscopy Images: Development, Validation, and First Implementation.

Purpose: Although fundus photography is extensively used in ophthalmology, refraction prevents accurate distance measurement on fundus images, as the resulting scaling differs between subjects due to varying ocular anatomy. We propose a PARaxial Optical fundus Scaling (PAROS) method to correct for this variation using commonly available clinical data. Methods: The complete optics of the eye and fundus camera were modeled using ray transfer matrix formalism to obtain fundus image magnification. The subject's ocular geometry was personalized using biometry, spherical equivalent of refraction (RSE), keratometry, and/or corneal topography data. The PAROS method was validated using 41 different eye phantoms and subsequently evaluated in 44 healthy phakic subjects (of whom 11 had phakic intraocular lenses [pIOLs]), 29 pseudophakic subjects, and 21 patients with uveal melanoma. Results: Validation of the PAROS method showed small differences between model and actual image magnification (maximum 3.3%). Relative to the average eye, large differences in fundus magnification were observed, ranging from 0.79 to 1.48. Magnification was strongly inversely related to RSE (R2 = 0.67). In phakic subjects, magnification was directly proportional to axial length (R2 = 0.34). The inverse relation was seen in pIOL (R2 = 0.79) and pseudophakic (R2 = 0.12) subjects. RSE was a strong contributor to magnification differences (1%-83%). As this effect is not considered in the commonly used Bennett-Littmann method, statistically significant differences up to 40% (mean absolute 9%) were observed compared to the PAROS method (P < 0.001). Conclusions: The significant differences in fundus image scaling observed among subjects can be accurately accounted for with the PAROS method, enabling more accurate quantitative assessment of fundus photography.

Diagnóstico da retinopatia diabética por inteligência artificial por meio de smartphone / Diagnosis of diabetic retinopathy by artificial intelligence using smartphone

RESUMO Objetivo: Obter imagens de fundoscopia por meio de equipamento portátil e de baixo custo e, usando inteligência artificial, avaliar a presença de retinopatia diabética. Métodos: Por meio de um smartphone acoplado a um dispositivo com lente de 20D, foram obtidas imagens de fundo de olhos de pacientes diabéticos; usando a inteligência artificial, a presença de retinopatia diabética foi classificada por algoritmo binário. Resultados: Foram avaliadas 97 imagens da fundoscopia ocular (45 normais e 52 com retinopatia diabética). Com auxílio da inteligência artificial, houve acurácia diagnóstica em torno de 70 a 100% na classificação da presença de retinopatia diabética. Conclusão: A abordagem usando dispositivo portátil de baixo custo apresentou eficácia satisfatória na triagem de pacientes diabéticos com ou sem retinopatia diabética, sendo útil para locais sem condições de infraestrutura.

ABSTRACT Introduction: To obtain fundoscopy images through portable and low-cost equipment using artificial intelligence to assess the presence of DR. Methods: Fundus images of diabetic patients' eyes were obtained by using a smartphone coupled to a device with a 20D lens. By using artificial intelligence (AI), the presence of DR was classified by a binary algorithm. Results: 97 ocular fundoscopy images were evaluated (45 normal and 52 with DR). Through AI diagnostic accuracy around was 70% to 100% in the classification of the presence of DR. Conclusion: The approach using a low-cost portable device showed satisfactory efficacy in the screening of diabetic patients with or without diabetic retinopathy, being useful for places without infrastructure conditions.

The contribution of simulation in training for pterygium surgery.

INTRODUCTION: Pterygium surgery is a closed globe surface surgery. Although it is perfectly standard and followed by excellent results, it is not exempt from the general rule that there is no surgery without risk. It therefore seems important to integrate simulation as a pedagogical tool for training ophthalmology residents in pterygium surgery. AIM: To evaluate the effectiveness of procedural simulation as a training tool for pterygium surgery. RESULTS: During the study period, eight residents participated in the three workshops. The global assessment of residents' knowledge showed a mean score of 3/5 [1.5/5-4/5] and 4.1/5 [3.25/5-5/5] before and after the training respectively. There was a significant negative correlation between the initial score on the pre-test and the improvement of this score on the post-test, with an r'=-0.87 and a p=0.005. We noted a significant improvement in the global performance score (p<0.001) and even a significant improvement in the specific performance score (p=0.02) between the 3 workshops. The average training satisfaction score was 13.87/16 [10/16-16/16]. We noted a significant positive correlation with r=0.838 and p=0.009 between knowledge improvement and learner satisfaction. CONCLUSION: The training of fundus examination using an ophthalmoscopic simulator can improve the skills and knowledge of ophthalmic learners. This type of training can be an innovative addition to traditional learning methods.

Percepción del riesgo de infección por COVID 19 en procedimientos oftalmológicos / Perceived risk of COVID-19 infection in ophthalmic procedures

Objetivo: Determinar la percepción del nivel de riesgo de infección por COVID19 en la realización de procedimientos oftalmológicos. Métodos: Se encuestaron 70 profesionales de Oftalmología de la provincia Holguín, Cuba. Se aplicó un cuestionario con preguntas tipo Likert (escala 1 al 5) para evaluar 26 procedimientos oftalmológicos. Resultados: Los encuestados (edad media 40,5 ± 2,6 años; tiempo promedio en Oftalmología 13,0 ± 2,6 años; sexo femenino 75,7 por ciento) incluyeron 45 especialistas (64,3 por ciento), 18 residentes (25,7 por ciento) y 7 optometristas (10,0 por ciento). La evaluación promedio del riesgo de infección por COVID-19 atribuida a los procedimientos oftalmológicos fue de 3,63 ± 0,14, significativamente mayor que el valor central de la escala (p<0,0001). No se encontró relación significativa entre la evaluación y las variables edad (p=0,80), sexo (p=0,24), tiempo vinculado a la Oftalmología (p=0,98) y categoría asistencial (p=0,08). El procedimiento considerado de mayor riesgo fue la oftalmoscopía directa (p<0,001); y los de menor riesgo: test de Ishihara, y campo visual (octopus y pantalla tangente). Conclusiones: Los procedimientos oftalmológicos son considerados de alto riesgo de infección por COVID-19. Aquellos que requieren de mayor cercanía, contacto con la superficie ocular y lágrimas se consideraron de mayor riesgo, en primer lugar la oftalmoscopía directa. No existe adecuada percepción del riesgo que implica la tonometría de aire. Se consideraron menos riesgosos los que permiten evitar el contacto directo y mantener el distanciamiento(AU)

Objective: To determine the perception of the level of risk of infection by COVID-19 in the performance of ophthalmologic procedures. Methods: Seventy ophthalmology professionals from Holguin province, Cuba were surveyed. A questionnaire with Likert-type questions (scale 1 to 5) was applied to evaluate 26 ophthalmologic procedures. Results: Respondents (average age 40.5 ± 2.6 years; average time in Ophthalmology 13.0 ± 2.6 years; female gender 75.7 percent) included 45 specialists (64.3 percent), 18 residents (25.7 percent) and 7 optometrists (10.0 percent). The average assessment of the risk of COVID-19 infection attributed to ophthalmologic procedures was 3.63 ± 0.14, significantly higher than the central value of the scale (p<0.0001). No significant relationship was found between the evaluation and the variables age (p=0.80), sex (p=0.24), time linked to Ophthalmology (p=0.98) and care category (p=0.08). The procedure considered to be of higher risk was direct ophthalmoscopy (p<0.001); and those of lower risk: Ishihara test, and visual field (octopus and tangent screen). Conclusions: Ophthalmologic procedures are considered high risk for COVID-19 infection. Those that require greater proximity, contact with the ocular surface and tears were considered to be of higher risk, firstly direct ophthalmoscopy. There is no adequate perception of the risk involved in air tonometry. Those that avoid direct contact and maintain distance were considered less risky(AU)

Avaliação do conhecimento em Oftalmologia na Graduação Médica / Evaluation of Ophthalmology knowledge in Medical Graduation

Objetivo: avaliar o nível de conhecimento oftalmológico dos estudantes de medicina sobre achados do fundo de olho e alterações da retinopatia diabética, assim como o interesse destes alunos por um maior aprendizado sobre o assunto. Materiais e Métodos: A amostra foi constituída por alunos do curso de medicina do Centro Universitário Christus (Unichristus), na cidade de Fortaleza ­ Ceará ­ Brasil, durante os meses de novembro e dezembro de 2018. Eles responderam a um questionário composto por 20 questões de múltipla escolha, com quatro itens cada, contendo apenas um único item correto, com assuntos relacionados à fundoscopia e à retinopatia diabética. Foram escolhidos o quinto semestre (s5), por ter finalizado recentemente o módulo de oftalmologia, e o sétimo semestre (s7), para avaliação da retenção de conteúdo após um ano do término da disciplina. O questionário também abordou o interesse dos alunos em obter maior aprendizado sobre o assunto. Resultados: o questionário foi aplicado em 120 alunos (62 alunos do s5 e 58 alunos do s7). Houve um maior número de acertos no s5, com média de 57,2% de acertos, em relação ao s7, cuja média de acertos foi de 49,9%. Conclusão: Diante de uma média de acertos abaixo do desejável, e do interesse da maioria dos alunos em obter maior aprendizado, fica clara a demanda por uma maior inserção da disciplina de oftalmologia na graduação médica, por meio das instituições de ensino, dando a devida relevância ao tema, oferecendo aos seus alunos suporte para um aprendizado concreto e contínuo.

Objective: to evaluate the level of ophthalmological knowledge of medical students about fundus findings and changes in diabetic retinopathy, as well as the interest of these students in greater learning on the subject. Materials and Methods: The sample consisted of medical students from the Centro Universitário Christus (Unichristus), in the city of Fortaleza - Ceará - Brazil, during the months of November 2018 and December 2018. They answered a questionnaire composed of 20 multiple-choice questions, with four items each, containing only one correct item, with subjects related to fundus findings and changes in diabetic retinopathy. The fifth semester (s5) was chosen, for having recently completed the ophthalmology module, and the seventh semester (s7), to assess content retention one year after the end of the course. The questionnaire also addressed the students' interest in obtaining greater learning on the subject. Results: the questionnaire was applied to 120 students (62 students from s5 and 58 students from s7). There was a greater number of correct answers in s5, with an average of 57.2% of correct answers, compared to s7, whose average of correct answers was 49.9%. Conclusion: Given an average of hits below the desirable, and the interest of most students to obtain greater learning, it is clear the demand for a greater insertion of the discipline of ophthalmology in medical graduation, through educational institutions, giving due importance to the theme, offering its students support for learning concrete and continuous.

An uncommon case of brucellosis with ocular presentation / Um caso incomum de brucelose com apresentação ocular

ABSTRACT We report an unusual case of brucellosis presented with headache, diminished vision, papillitis and multiple peripapillary hemorrhages accompanied by subretinal fluid extending up to macula. Diagnosis of brucellosis was made based on positive polymerase chain reaction of cerebrospinal fluid sample for Brucella species DNA, accompanied by a raised titer of anti-brucella antibodies. Patient showed remarkable improvement on triple drug therapy in form of doxycycline, rifampicin and ceftriaxone.

RESUMO Relatamos um caso incomum de brucelose apresentada com cefaleia, visão diminuída, papilite e múltiplas hemorragias peripapilares acompanhadas por fluido sub-retinal, estendendo-se até a mácula. O diagnóstico de brucelose foi feito com base na reação em cadeia da polimerase positiva de amostra de líquido cefalorraquidiano para DNA de espécies de Brucella, acompanhada por um título elevado de anticorpos antibrucela. O paciente apresentou melhora notável com a terapia tripla com drogas na forma de doxiciclina, rifampicina e ceftriaxona.

Retinopatia hipertensiva maligna secundária a lúpus eritematoso sistêmico em adolescente / Malignant hypertensive retinopathy secondary to systemic lupus erythematous in adolescent

RESUMO O lúpus eritematoso sistêmico é uma doença que pode apresentar comprometimento oftalmológico geralmente benigno, sendo as alterações mais encontradas a síndrome do olho seco e a catarata. Nos pacientes com a doença estável, o dano oftalmológico parece estar relacionado ao tratamento sistêmico a longo prazo, o que enfatiza a importância do exame oftalmológico completo de rotina. Porém, quando a doença está em franca atividade e, em especial, quando há o envolvimento renal, deve-se iniciar o tratamento precoce com corticoterapia sistêmica e com medidas de suporte, para se evitarem repercussões mais complexas, como as crises hipertensivas que podem levar ao óbito.

ABSTRACT Systemic lupus erythematosus may present ophthalmological involvement, usually benign, and the most common changes are dry eye syndrome and cataract. In patients with stable disease, ophthalmologic damage appears to be related to long-term systemic treatment, emphasizing the importance of routine complete ophthalmologic examination. However, in full-blown disease, especially when there is renal involvement, early treatment should start with systemic steroid therapy and supportive measures, to avoid major repercussions, such as hypertensive crises that may lead to death.

Iris cyst and atypical complications / Cisto de íris e complicações atípicas

ABSTRACT The authors report the case of a male adult presenting significant ocular complications and irreversible visual impairment, resulting from the long-term progression and late diagnosis of an iris cyst in the right eye, probably secondary to trauma. The patient was admitted to Hospital Universitário Antonio Pedro with a total corneal opacity that blocked direct visualization of the anterior chamber. Ultrasound biomicroscopy was crucial for the anatomic study, and the patient was submitted to enucleation for aesthetic improvement and clarifying diagnosis. We concluded athalamia and deformation of the anterior segment, due to expansion of the cyst, led to gradual elevation of the intraocular pressure and damage of the optic nerve, resulting in visual loss.

RESUMO Relatamos o caso de um paciente com evolução e diagnóstico tardios de cisto de íris no olho direito, provavelmente secundário a trauma, com complicações importantes e baixa irreversível da visão, tendo sido admitido no Hospital Universitário Antônio Pedro já com leucoma total da córnea e câmara anterior indevassável. A biomicroscopia ultrassônica se mostrou imprescindível para o estudo anatômico, sendo o paciente finalmente submetido à enucleação, para melhora estética e elucidação diagnóstica. Concluímos que a atalamia e a desestruturação do segmento anterior, consequentes ao crescimento cístico, levaram a um gradativo aumento da pressão intraocular e lesão do nervo óptico, com consequente perda da visão.

Bilateral retinal detachment - when the kidney meets the eye / Descolamento de retina bilateral - quando o rim afeta o olho

ABSTRACT Exudative retinal detachment occurs when fluid accumulates between the neurosensory retina and the retinal pigment epithelium. Ocular diseases or multisystem conditions such as nephrotic syndrome may lead to exudative retinal detachment. This report describes a case of nephrotic syndrome secondary to minimal change disease, anasarca and bilateral serous macular detachment in an adult patient. A 75-year-old male patient presented to the emergency department with generalized edema, asthenia, and visual impairment. Medical history included a recent diagnosis of nephrotic syndrome secondary to minimal change disease, which had been controlled with corticosteroid therapy. At presentation, best corrected visual acuity was 20/100. Slit-lamp examination revealed xanthelasmas and mild bilateral eyelid edema and chemosis. Dilated fundus examination confirmed bilateral macular detachment. The patient did not respond to diuretic therapy. Ttherefore, hemodialysis was started. Two months later, visual acuity improved to 20/25 and near normal restoration of retinal anatomy was achieved, with concurrent remission of proteinuria. Exudative retinal detachment is a multifactorial condition. However, in diseases associated with severe hypoalbuminemia, such as nephrotic syndrome, low oncotic pressure in choroidal vessels and high interstitial pressure in the choroid may explain retinal detachment. Patients with chronic kidney disease carry a high risk of ophthalmic disease development. Several mechanisms that affect ocular vessels, the retina and the choroid are thought to be involved. A multidisciplinary approach is crucial to resolve the ophthalmic condition and improve overall health.

RESUMO O descolamento de retina exsudativo ocorre quando o fluido se acumula entre a retina neurossensorial e o epitélio pigmentado da retina. Patologias oculares isoladas ou doenças multissistêmicas, como a síndrome nefrótica, podem levar ao descolamento de retina exsudativo. Apresenta-se aqui o caso de um adulto com síndrome nefrótica por doença de lesões mínimas, anasarca e descolamento de retina exsudativo macular bilateral. Trata-se de um homem de 75 anos de idade, que recorreu ao serviço de urgência com edema generalizado, astenia e diminuição da acuidade visual. Os antecedentes pessoais incluíam diagnóstico recente de síndrome nefrótica secundária à doença de lesões mínimas, em uso de corticoterapia. Na apresentação, a melhor acuidade visual corrigida era 20/100. A biomicroscopia revelou xantelasmas, edema palpebral leve e quemose nos dois olhos. Fundoscopia mostrou descolamento macular bilateral. O doente iniciou diuréticos com pouca resposta clínica, tendo sido adicionada hemodiálise. Verificou-se melhora da acuidade visual para 20/25 e restauração quase total da anatomia da retina 2 meses após o início do tratamento, coincidindo com a remissão da proteinúria. A fisiopatologia dos descolamentos de retina exsudativos é multifatorial, mas, em doenças com hipoalbuminemia grave, como a síndrome nefrótica, a baixa pressão oncótica e a alta pressão intersticial na coroide podem explicar o descolamento macular exsudativo. Doentes com doença renal crônica constituem um grupo de risco para o desenvolvimento de doença ocular, envolvendo vários mecanismos que afetam vasos, retina e coroide. Uma abordagem multidisciplinar é crucial para a melhoria da doença oftalmológica e do estado geral do doente.

O ensino do exame de fundo de olho: vivências e percepções de estudantes de medicina / The teaching of ocular fundus exam: experiences and perceptions of medicine students

Resumo: Introdução: O ensino médico vem passando por transformações nas últimas décadas. Objetivos educacionais tendem a se alterar com os avanços tecnológicos recentes, em especial na área de tecnologias de informação. Objetivo: Esta pesquisa aborda o exame do fundo de olho explorando e analisando as dificuldades dos estudantes de Medicina na execução desse componente do exame clínico e busca propor diretrizes para seu ensino na graduação médica. Métodos: Trata-se de uma pesquisa qualitativa com técnicas de observação direta e entrevistas com análise de conteúdo em uma população de estudantes do internato da Universidade do Estado do Pará (Uepa), na cidade de Marabá. Na avaliação de conteúdo utilizaram-se recursos do programa livre de análise de texto Iramuteq. Resultados: Dos 21 estudantes voluntários participantes da pesquisa, apenas dois relataram experiência anterior com oftalmoscópio direto (9,52%) e um aluno havia participado de campanha com uso de dispositivo portátil para registro da imagem do fundo de olho (4,8%). As atividades da pesquisa incluiram discussão de casos clínicos, realização de oftalmoscopias diretas em pacientes voluntários e análise de retinografias. Na análise dos textos correspondentes às entrevistas foram categorizadas quatro classes geradas pelo programa Iramuteq, realçando-se o valor da integração de teoria e prática no depoimento dos alunos. Conclusão: Programas de treinamento com integração de teoria e prática e valendo-se de princípios de aprendizagem significativa podem contribuir para prover competência ao estudante de Medicina para o exame de fundo de olho, adequando-se ao surgimento de novas tecnologias.

Abstract: Introduction: Medical education has undergone changes in recent decades. Educational objectives tend to change with recent technological advances, especially in the area of information technologies. Objective: This research addresses the examination of ocular fundus by exploring and analyzing the difficulties medical students encounter in relation to this component of the clinical examination and seeks to propose guidelines for its teaching in undergraduate medical training. Method: Qualitative research with direct observation techniques and interviews with content analysis with a population of students at the University of the State of Pará (UEPA), in the city of Marabá. Content analysis used resources from the free text analysis program Iramuteq. Results: Of the 21 volunteer students participating in the research, only two reported previous experience with direct ophthalmoscope (9.52%) and one student had participated in a campaign using a portable device to record the fundus image (4.8%). Research activities included discussion of clinical cases, performing direct ophthalmoscopies in volunteer patients and retinography analysis. In the analysis of the texts corresponding to the interviews, four classes generated by the Iramuteq program were categorized, highlighting the value of theoretical and practical integration in the students' testimony. Conclusion: Training programs with theoretical and practical integration using meaningful learning concepts can help qualify medical students in the ocular fundus exam, adapting to the emergence of new technologies.

Nailfold capillaroscopy and microvascular involvement in Diabetes Mellitus / Capilaroscopia de leito ungueal e envolvimento microvascular em Diabetes Mellitus

Objective: to study the relationship between microvascular lesions of Diabetes Mellitus and alterations in the nailfold capillaroscopy. Subjects and Methods: cross-sectional study including 140 individuals (70 with Diabetes Mellitus and 70 controls). Epidemiological and clinical variables were collected from patient's charts. Fundus ophthalmoscopy, nailfold capillaroscopy, analysis of microalbuminuria and renal clearance as well as fasting glycaemia and HbA1c values were studied simultaneously. Results: capillary density was reduced, and vascular dilatation was increased in Diabetes Mellitus patients when compared to controls (both with p<0.0001). In diabetic individuals the number of dermal papillary capillaries/mm3 correlated negatively with microalbuminuria (p=0.02), patient's age (p=0.03), values of HbA1c (p=0.03). Patients with diabetic retinopathy and using antiplatelet agents had lower capillary density (p<0.0001 and 0.04 respectively). Capillary dilatation was associated with disease duration (p=0.04). Conclusion: microvascular disease in Diabetes Mellitus is reflected in nailfold capillaroscopy. Decreased capillary density, increased number of ectasias and increased presence of avascular areas were observed in patients with diabetes when compared to controls. In the present study, capillary density correlated/associate with age, retinopathy, use of antiplatelet medication, HbA1c, microalbuminuria and diabetes duration. Ectasias or dilatations were related to retinopathy, glomerular filtration rate and longer disease duration.

Objetivo: estudar a relação entre lesões microvasculares do Diabetes Mellitus e alterações na capilaroscopia ungueal. Sujeitos e Métodos: estudo transversal incluindo 140 indivíduos (70 com Diabetes Mellitus e 70 controles). Variáveis epidemiológicas e clínicas foram coletadas dos prontuários dos pacientes. A oftalmoscopia de fundo, capilaroscopia ungueal, análise de microalbuminúria e depuração renal, bem como glicemia de jejum e valores de HbA1c foram estudados simultaneamente. Resultados: a densidade capilar foi reduzida e a dilatação vascular aumentada em pacientes com Diabetes Mellitus quando comparados aos controles (ambos com p <0,0001). Em indivíduos diabéticos, o número de capilares papilares dérmicos/ mm3 correlacionou-se negativamente com microalbuminúria (p = 0,02), idade do paciente (p = 0,03), valores de HbA1c (p = 0,03). Pacientes com retinopatia diabética e em uso de antiagregante plaquetário apresentaram menor densidade capilar (p <0,0001 e 0,04 respectivamente). A dilatação capilar foi associada ao tempo de doença (p = 0,04). Conclusão: a doença microvascular no Diabetes Mellitus reflete-se na capilaroscopia ungueal. Diminuição da densidade capilar, aumento do número de ectasias e aumento da presença de áreas avasculares foram observados em pacientes com diabetes quando comparados aos controles. No presente estudo, a densidade capilar se correlacionou/ se associou com idade, retinopatia, uso de antiagregante plaquetário, HbA1c, microalbuminúria e tempo de diabetes. Ectasias ou dilatações foram relacionadas à retinopatia, à taxa de filtração glomerular e a maior duração da doença.