A comparative debate on the various anti-vascular endothelial growth factor drugs: pegaptanib sodium (Macugen), ranibizumab (Lucentis) and bevacizumab (Avastin).

Wet age-related macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy are pathological consequences of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) release as a reaction to deficiency of oxygen and nutrients in the macular cells. Conventional treatment modalities have been constrained by limited success. Convincing evidence exists that targeting VEGF signaling is a significant approach for the therapy of these ocular angiogenesis-dependent disorders. We have come a long way since the approval of the first angiogenesis inhibitors in medicine. The clinical use of these drugs has provided enormous tempo to clinical and pharmacological research. It has also significantly altered patient outcome and expectations. In the following brief, we will discuss the development and emergence of these drugs as well as the anticipated future course based on evidence.

Postcataract cystoid macular edema.

Ocular tissues, like those of other organs, exhibit well-defined morphologic reactions to local trauma and insult in the form of hyperemia, vasodilation, increased permeability of blood vessels, and edema. Cystoid macular edema (CME) following cataract surgery is one such manifestation, and it can result in either temporary, or rarely, a permanent reduction of visual acuity. Although its cause remains obscure, the relationship of CME to the details of the surgical procedures and their complications are becoming clearer. Likewise more insight into the phenomenon is being imparted by the agents being used in the preventative or curative line of management in CME.

Endophthalmitis following cataract surgery.

This article is an attempt to review the latest advances in recognition, treatment, and prevention of postcataract extraction endophthalmitis.

Ophthalmology on the information superhighway: an introduction to the Internet.

Internet, e-mail, world wide web and the information superhighway have fast become part of the modern human vocabulary. How are we as ophthalmologists affected by this revolution and how can we utilise the enormous potential of this revolution? This article provides an overview of the practicalities and possibilities of this new medium.

The impact of information technology on the practice of ophthalmology.

Information technology has had a tremendous impact on the outlook of our professional lives. The Internet has revolutionised the speed of access to information with touch of a button. This article discusses the various aspects of information technology which are changing and enhancing our professional lives. It provides tips to enable the busy practising clinician to use the available resources effectively. Problems such as reliability of information on the web and how to assess the quality of such matter are also discussed.