Red Cell Distribution Width (RDW) and Complete Blood Cell Count-Derived Measures in Non-Arteritic Anterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy.

Purpose: To assess the role of complete blood cell count (CBC) dimensional indices and CBC-derived measures in non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NA-AION). Methods: In this retrospective case-control survey, 37 newly diagnosed NA-AION patients and 37 sex- and age-matched cataract controls were enrolled in 2017-2018. On the same day of NA-AION diagnosis, a blood sample was collected and CBC was determined using an automatic blood counter. CBC dimensional indices, such as mean platelet volume (MPV) and red cell distribution width (RDW), and CBC-combined indices, including neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio (NLR), derived NLR [dNLR = neutrophils/(white blood cells - neutrophils)], and platelet/lymphocyte ratio (PLR), were evaluated. Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) was also measured. Results: Mean platelet count, median MPV, RDW, NLR, and dNLR were 221±48 x 109/L, 8.2 fL (IQR=7.6-8.9), 13% (IQR=12-14.5), 2.50 (IQR=1.77-3.06), and 1.73 (IQR=1.31-2.07) in NA-AION patients and 248±56 x 109/L, 7.60 fL (IQR=7.05-8.25), 12% (IQR=11.6-13), 1.95 (IQR=1.43-2.49) and 1.36 (IQR=1.07-1.69) in controls. NA-AION patients showed significantly lower platelet count (p=0.03) and significantly higher median values of MPV (p=0.01), RDW (p=0.015), NLR (p=0.03), and dNLR (p=0.01). Multivariate logistic regression models disclosed a significant correlation only between higher levels of RDW and NA-AION (p≤0.05). The attributable risk of the association between NA-AION and RDW was 33%. Conclusions: Results suggest that RDW may be somehow involved in the pathogenesis of NA-AION. However, high-quality cohort studies are warranted to confirm whether, or not, an altered RDW may be considered a potential biomarker of this vascular disorder affecting the optic nerve.

Ocular Tics and Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Streptococcal Infections (PANDAS).

Little is known about ocular tics in Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders associated with Streptococcal infections (PANDAS). In this retrospective study, we examined the clinical records of children with motor tics referred to the Ophthalmology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Sassari, Italy, in 2010-2019. The presence of ocular tics was investigated. Data about antistreptolysin O (ASO) and anti-DNase B antibody titers, erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), plasma C-reactive protein (CRP), and antibiotic use were recorded. Forty children (thirty-four boys and six girls; mean age: 7.65 ± 2.5 years) with motor tics were identified; thirty-three (82.5%) showed ocular tics. Children with ocular tics had significantly higher titers of anti-DNase B antibodies (p = 0.04) and CRP (p = 0.016) than those with extraocular tics. A diagnosis of PANDAS was made in 24 (60%) children. PANDAS children with oculomotor tics had significantly higher titers of anti-DNase B antibodies (p = 0.05) than those with extraocular tics. Oral antibiotics were given to 25/33 (76%) children with ocular tics and 21/24 (87.5%) with PANDAS. All treated patients showed marked improvement/complete resolution of symptoms. Results suggest that higher titers of anti-DNase B antibodies may be implicated in the pathogenesis of ocular tics in PANDAS. Oral antibiotics may be beneficial in improving ocular tics. Further research is necessary to confirm our findings.

Real-World Outcomes of a Loading Phase with Intravitreal Faricimab in Neovascular Age-Related Macular Degeneration (n-AMD) and Diabetic Macular Edema (DME).

INTRODUCTION: The aims of this work were to evaluate the real-world efficacy and safety of a loading dose of intravitreal faricimab in eyes with active neovascular age-related macular degeneration (n-AMD) or diabetic macular edema (DME) and to analyze the treatment outcome in relation to specific biomarkers. METHODS: Patients with active n-AMD or DME, treated with four monthly intravitreal injections of faricimab, were enrolled in this retrospective, uncontrolled study. Best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), central subfield thickness (CST), presence of retinal fluid (RF) on optical coherence tomography (OCT), and adverse events were assessed at baseline and at weeks 4, 8, 12, and 16. Predefined biomarkers were evaluated at baseline (BL) and at last visit. RESULTS: Sixteen eyes of 15 patients with n-AMD (n-AMD group) and 15 eyes of 12 patients with DME (DME group) were included. Mean (± standard deviation) logarithm of minimum angle of resolution (logMAR) BL BCVA changed from 0.68 (± 0.43) to 0.53 (± 0.36; P = 0.13) and from 0.51 (± 0.34) to 0.32 (± 0.24; P: 0.048) at week 16 in n-AMD and DME group, respectively. A statistically significant mean CST reduction was reported in both groups at last visit (n-AMD: - 166.5 µm; P = 0.0009/DME: - 110.8 µm; P = 0.0086). Seventy-five and 33% of eyes with n-AMD and DME respectively achieved complete RF resolution at last visit. Subfoveal inner and outer retinal damage correlated with a lower final BCVA in n-AMD group. The presence of large (> 100 µm) juxtafoveal microaneurysms (MAs) was significantly correlated with a higher chance of residual fluid in eyes with DME. CONCLUSIONS: Both n-AMD and DME groups achieved satisfactory anatomical results after a loading-dose of intravitreal faricimab. BCVA improvement might be hampered by pre-existing retinal damage in eyes with n-AMD. Large, juxtafoveal MAs might represent a hallmark of a slower anatomical response to the treatment in eyes with DME.

Combined Branch Retinal Artery and Central Retinal Vein Occlusion: A Systematic Review.

We performed a systematic review and analyzed the current available data on branch retinal artery occlusion (BRAO) with simultaneous central retinal vein obstruction (CRVO), a rarely described occurrence. MEDLINE/PubMed and ISI Web of Sciences searches were performed according to MOOSE guidelines. Studies were considered eligible if they (1) described patients with simultaneous BRAO + CRVO and (2) had been published in peer-reviewed journals. We initially identified 239 records from databases. Ultimately, only 19 reports met the selection criteria. Twenty-nine patients (15 men, 14 women; mean age 43 ± 15 years) were analyzed. Seventeen (59%) patients presented vascular risk factors. Mean visual acuity at onset and final visual outcome were 20/83 and 20/45, respectively, an insignificant improvement. Vision improved in 48% of cases. A marked heterogeneity in treatment approach was found. Eight (28%) patients received no therapy, whereas for 21 (72%) a large variety of topical and/or systemic drugs was given. In the treated group, mean visual acuity at onset and final visual outcome were 20/90 and 20/44, respectively, a not statistically significant improvement. Results suggest that combined BRAO + CRVO occurs at a younger age than isolated BRAO or CRVO. At present, there is insufficient evidence to support any specific management to improve vision in simultaneous BRAO + CRVO.

Management of unresolved optic disc pit maculopathy with human amniotic membrane patch implant: A case report.

BACKGROUND/PURPOSE: Inverted Inner Limiting Membrane (ILM)-flap approach can fail in the treatment of Optic disc pit maculopathy (ODPM). We report a surgical technique involving human amniotic membrane (hAM) patch implant to treat unresolved ODPM after inverted (ILM)-flap technique. CASE REPORT: One patient with decreased visual acuity (1 LogMar) after unsuccessful inverted ILM-flap technique to treat ODPM, underwent hAM patch implant and was evaluated. A surgical approach including a 2 mm size graft patch of hAM implantation over the optic disc pit followed by fluid-air exchange was performed. A gas endotamponade was finally used. The patient was instructed to maintain face-down position for the first three days after surgery. The hAM patch remained detectable over the pit for the entire 6-months follow-up. The ODPM gradually resolved and visual acuity partially recovered to 0.17 LogMar during follow-up. No postoperative complications or recurrence were reported. CONCLUSION: hAM patch implant may be effective to manage ODPM after unsuccessful inverted ILM-flap.

Intraocular Inflammation and Palpable Purpura in a Patient with Interstitial Pasteurella multocida Pneumonia.

PURPOSE: We describe a case of intraocular inflammation and palpable purpura in a patient with Pasteurella multocida pneumonia. METHODS: A 75-year-old pseudophakic woman with type-2 diabetes and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease complained of lower limb palpable purpura and right vision loss of five-day duration. On admission, right visual acuity was hand motion. Slit-lamp examination disclosed severe conjunctival and ciliary injection, corneal oedema, 3-mm hypopyon with heavy fibrin accumulation and blood clots, and synechiae to the IOL. RESULTS: Chest computed tomography revealed interstitial pneumonia. Sputum culture yielded P. multocida. Amoxicillin/clavulanic tablets (1 g × 3/daily) and topical and systemic steroids were given. Later on, fluorescein angiography showed multiple choroidal lesions bilaterally. With the above-mentioned therapy, there was full recovery of the skin, lung, and eye lesions. CONCLUSION: This report emphasizes that P. multocida infection should be considered in patients with intraocular inflammation, palpable purpura, and interstitial pneumonia. A multidisciplinary approach is necessary for a correct diagnosis and management.

Continuous Eplerenone Treatment in Chronic Central Serous Chorioretinopathy: Long-Term Results from a Pilot Study.

Purpose: To assess the long-term morpho-functional retinal and choroidal changes in chronic central serous chorioretinopathy (cCSC) pachychoroid eyes in response to continuous oral eplerenone (EPL) treatment. Methods: This pilot study was conducted on patients with unilateral exudative cCSC. We enrolled a total of 17 exudative cCSC and 17 non-exudative fellow eyes of 17 patients. Baseline best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and anatomical (structural optical coherence tomography [OCT] and OCT angiography) parameters in both eyes were collected at baseline. Follow-up data were collected at 6, 12, and 48 months after initiation of EPL treatment. Results: (i) Exudative cCSC eyes: Compared with baseline (0.34±0.13 LogMAR), BCVA significantly improved at follow-up examinations (6 months: 0.28±0.13 LogMAR, p=0.039; 12 months: 0.22±0.11 LogMAR, p=0.025; 48 months: 0.21±0.08 LogMAR, p=0.028). Furthermore, there was a significant reduction from baseline in all structural OCT parameters (subretinal fluid and subfoveal choroidal thickness [SFCT]; p<0.05). (ii) Non-exudative fellow eyes: There was no significant change in BCVA. There was a significant reduction from baseline in SFCT and choriocapillaris flow deficit percentage (p<0.05). Conclusion: In this pilot study, continuous oral EPL therapy in cCSC pachychoroid eyes resulted in long-term morpho-functional improvement. The beneficial effect of EPL occurred within the first year and was maintained after four years. Based on these preliminary observations, EPL may be effective in the exudative forms of CSC.

Microperimetric evaluation and predictive factors of visual recovery after successful inverted internal limiting membrane-flap technique for macular hole in high myopic eyes.

Introduction: Inverted Internal Limiting Membrane (ILM)-flap technique demonstrated its effectiveness, in terms of anatomical closure rate and visual acuity recovery for high myopic macular holes. We evaluated macular function after a successful inverted ILM-flap for macular holes in high myopic eyes (hMMH) using microperimetry to predict visual prognosis. Methods: A retrospective study on 23 eyes of 23 patients after surgical closure of hMMH, was performed. All patients underwent inverted ILM-flap and gas tamponade. Cataract surgery was performed in phakic eyes. Study outcomes including best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), retinal sensitivity (RS) at central 12°, central retinal sensitivity (CRS) at central 4° and mean deviation (MD), and fixation behavior as bivariate contour ellipse area (BCEA, degrees2) measured by microperimetry, were evaluated over 6 months. A mixed-effects model was used to evaluate and compare the repeated measurements of outcomes between phakic and pseudophakic eyes. A regression model was performed to assess the relationship between BCVA at 6 months and independent variables. Results: Overall mean BCVA improved from 0.98 ± 0.21 logMAR at baseline to 0.47 ± 0.31 logMAR at the last follow-up (p < 0.001). Over 6 months, overall sensitivity measurements improved (RS, p = 0.001; CRS, p < 0.0001; MD, p = 0.03), and the BCEA decreased in dimension, although not significantly (p ≥ 0.05). The mixed model revealed a significantly better effect of inverted ILM-flap combined with cataract surgery on BCVA and CRS in phakic eyes than inverted ILM-flap alone in pseudophakic ones. The regression model revealed a relationship of 6-month BCVA with pre-operative BCVA (ß = 0.60, p = 0.02) and RS (ß = -0.03, p = 0.01). Conclusion: The inverted ILM-flap technique significantly improved visual acuity and retinal sensitivity after the hMMH closure, particularly when combined with cataract extraction. Pre-operative visual acuity and retinal sensitivity at central 12° may predict post-surgical visual acuity.

Evaluation of Radial Peripapillary Capillary Density in G6PD Deficiency: An OCT Angiography Pilot Study.

Glucose-6-phosphate-dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency is an inherited enzymatic disorder causing hemolytic anemia. The purpose of this pilot study was to compare vascular density (VD) values of the radial peripapillary capillary (RPC) plexus in G6PD-deficient and G6PD-normal men, using optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA). METHODS: 46 G6PD-deficient men and 23 age-matched male controls were included. A complete ophthalmological evaluation, consisting of slit-lamp biomicroscopy, best-corrected visual acuity, intra-ocular pressure measurement, structural optical coherence tomography, and OCTA scanning of the optic nerve head, was performed. The en-face angioflow images were carefully analyzed and the VD values of the RPC plexus were measured using the AngioAnalytics™ software embedded in the OCTA device. Medical conditions, including systemic hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, and diabetes mellitus, were also investigated. RESULTS: G6PD-deficient eyes showed higher values of VD in all peripapillary sectors, but a statistical significance (p = 0.03) was reached only in the infero-temporal sector. There were no significant differences in terms of hypercholesterolemia, systemic arterial hypertension, and diabetes mellitus between the two study groups. CONCLUSION: Results show that VD values of the RPC plexus are higher in G6PD-deficient men than in G6PD-normal subjects, but a statistically significant difference was found only in the inferior temporal sector. Overall, our preliminary findings support the hypothesis that the RPC layer of G6PD-deficient men consists of a denser vascular network, which may contribute to offering protection against ocular atherosclerotic vasculopathies.

Unusual retinal manifestations of cat scratch disease.

We report on 2 patients with unusual retinal manifestations of cat scratch disease (CSD), caused by Bartonella henselae. Case 1. A 42-year-old farmer presented with a 5-day history of blurred vision in his right eye. Right visual acuity was 20/25. Fundus examination of the right eye revealed mild vitreous hemorrhage and diffuse retinal hemorrhages in the mid-peripheral retina. Fluorescein angiography showed multiple vasculitic occlusions in the same area. A blood sample taken on the day of examination revealed the presence of immunoglobulin (Ig)M and IgG to B. henselae. Oral azithromycin was given for 8 days. One month later, right visual acuity was 20/20, the vitreous and retinal hemorrhages resolved, and arteriolar attenuation and sclerosis was observed in the peripheral temporal retina. Case 2. A 66-year-old craftsman with systemic hypertension and hypercholesterolemia complained of sudden visual loss (light perception) in his left eye. Fundus evaluation and fluorescein angiography revealed central retinal artery occlusion (CRAO) in the affected eye. About 2 weeks earlier, he had been bitten and scratched on his right hand by a stray cat. Serologic testing detected the presence of IgM to B. henselae. Oral azithromycin was given for 6 days. One month later, left visual acuity was hand motion. Ophthalmologists should be aware that unusual ocular complications associated with CSD include vitreous hemorrhage with retinal vasculitis and isolated CRAO. Vitreous hemorrhage and retinal vasculitis may be the only clinical manifestation of CSD.

In vitro larvicidal activity of ivermectin and povidone-iodine against Oestrus ovis.

PURPOSE: To assess the in vitro larvicidal activity of ivermectin and povidone-iodine (PVP-I) against Oestrus ovis, the most frequent cause of external ophthalmomyiasis. METHODS: L1 O. ovis larvae were collected from the nasal boots of sheep slaughtered in local abattoirs and transferred onto Petri dishes containing mucosal tissue (25 larvae/dish). The larvicidal activity of the following formulations was tested: 1% ivermectin suspension in balanced sterile saline solution (BSSS), 1% ivermectin solution in propylene glycol, propylene glycol, 0.6% PVP-I in hyaluronic acid vehicle (IODIM®), and combination of ivermectin 1% solution and 0.6% PVP-I. One mL of each formulation was added to different Petri dishes containing the larvae. The time needed to kill the larvae was recorded. RESULTS: 893 larvae were tested. The median time needed to kill the larvae was 46, 44, 11, 6, and 10 minutes for Iodim®, ivermectin 1% suspension, propylene glycol, ivermectin 1% solution, and a combination of ivermectin 1% solution with 0.6% PVP-I, respectively. Kaplan-Meyer analysis disclosed that the survival curves were significantly lower in samples treated with ivermectin 1% solution, ivermectin 1% solution + 0.6% PVP-I, and propylene glycol than in samples receiving other treatments or BSSS. CONCLUSION: In this in vitro study, ivermectin 1% solution in propylene glycol, ivermectin 1% solution + 0.6% PVP-I, and propylene glycol alone showed a good, relatively rapid larvicidal activity against O. ovis larvae. Further experimental and clinical studies are necessary to establish whether, or not, these formulations may be considered as potential candidates for the topical treatment for external ophthalmomyiasis caused by O. ovis.

Complete blood cell count measures in retinal artey occlusions.

PURPOSE: To investigate the role of complete blood cell count (CBC) measures in retinal artery occlusion (RAO). METHODS: This was a case-control study, including 73 newly diagnosed RAO patients and 73 sex- and age-matched subjects without RAO. On the same day of RAO diagnosis, a blood sample was collected and CBC was determined using an automatic blood counter. Dimensional CBC indices, such as mean platelet volume (MPV) and red cell distribution width (RDW), and some CBC-combined indices, including neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio (NLR), derived NLR [dNLR = neutrophils/(white blood cells - neutrophils)] and platelet/lymphocyte ratio (PLR), were evaluated. Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) was also measured. RESULTS: Median neutrophils, red cell distribution width (RDW), NLR and dNLR were 4.5x109 /L (IQR = 3.8-5.8), 13.4% (IQR = 12.7-14.75), 2.47 (IQR = 1.85-3.13) and 1.70 (IQR = 1.26-2.18) in RAO patients and 4x109 /L (IQR = 3.18-4.93), 12.9% (IQR = 12-14), 1.86 (IQR = 1.42-2.44) and 1.32 (IQR = 1.02-1.64) in controls. RAO patients had significantly higher values of neutrophils (p = 0.003), RDW (p = 0.0011), NLR (p = 0.0001) and dNLR (p = 0.0001). There were no significant differences between the values of white blood cells, lymphocytes, platelet count, MPV and PLR. Multivariate logistic regression models revealed a statistically significant correlation between RAO and increased RDW (OR = 1.36, 95% CI = 1.06-1.73, p = 0.015), NLR (OR = 2.02, 95% CI = 1.34-3.06, p = 0.0009) and dNLR (OR = 3.4, 95% CI = 1.71-6.75, p = 0.0005). CONCLUSION: Results suggest that RDW, NLR and dNLR may be involved in the pathogenesis of RAO and predict its occurrence. However, high-quality epidemiologic studies, preferably of cohort design, are warranted to confirm whether, or not, an RDW, NLR and dNLR may be considered potential biomarkers of RAO.

Clinical Outcome and Drug Expenses of Intravitreal Therapy for Diabetic Macular Edema: A Retrospective Study in Sardinia, Italy.

BACKGROUND: Diabetic macular edema (DME) is a leading cause of visual loss in working-age adults. The purpose of this retrospective study was to perform an epidemiological analysis on DME patients treated with intravitreal drugs in a tertiary hospital. The clinical outcome, adverse drug reactions (ADRs), and intravitreal drug expenses were assessed. METHODS: All DME patients treated with Ranibizumab, Aflibercept, Dexamethasone implant, and Fluocinolone Acetonide implant at the Sassari University Hospital, Italy, between January 2017 and June 2020 were included. Central macular thickness (CMT) and best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) were measured. ADRs and drug expenses were analyzed. RESULTS: Two-hundred thirty-one DME patients (mean age: 65 years) received intravitreal agents. Mean CMT and BCVA were 380 µm and 0.5 LogMAR at baseline, 298 µm and 0.44 logMAR after one year (p = 0.04), and 295 µm and 0.4 logMAR at the end of the follow-up period. A total of 1501 intravitreal injections were given; no major ADRs were reported. Treatment cost was €915,000 (€261,429/year). Twenty non-responders to Ranibizumab or Aflibercept were switched to a Dexamethasone implant. In these patients, mean CMT and BCVA were 468 µm and 0.5 LogMar at the time of switching and 362 µm and 0.3 LogMar at the end of the follow-up (p = 0.00014 and p = 0.08, respectively). CONCLUSION: Results confirm that Ranibizumab, Aflibercept, and Dexamethasone implant are effective and safe in DME treatment. A switch to Dexamethasone implant for patients receiving Aflibercept or Ranibizumab with minimal/no clinical benefit should be considered.

Mean Platelet Volume, Red Cell Distribution Width, and Complete Blood Cell Count Indices in Retinal Vein Occlusions.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the role of some complete blood cell count (CBC)-derived measures in retinal vein occlusion (RVO). METHODS: This was a retrospective case-control study, including 127 newly diagnosed RVO patients and 127 sex- and age-matched subjects without RVO. A blood sample was obtained and a complete blood cell count was performed. Neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio (NLR), derived NLR [dNLR = neutrophils/(white blood cells‒neutrophils)], and platelet/lymphocyte ratio (PLR) were calculated. We also performed a meta-analysis of the available data, ours included, on the correlation between mean platelet volume (MPV) and RVO. Standardized mean differences (SMD) were used to build forest plots and assess differences in MPV values between RVO patients and controls. RESULTS: Median MPV and red cell distribution width (RDW) were 8.7 fL (IQR = 7.8-9.5) and 13.2% (IQR = 12.4-14.2) in RVO patients and 7.8 fL (IQR = 7.1-8.5) and 13% (IQR = 12-14) in controls. RVO patients had significantly higher values of MPV (P < .0001) and RDW (P = .005). There were no significant differences between the values of white blood cells, lymphocytes, neutrophils, platelets, NLR, dNLR, and PLR. Multivariable logistic regression analysis revealed a statistically significant correlation between increased MPV and RVO (OR = 1.74, 95% CI = 1.38-2.2, P < .0001). 519 RVO patients and 414 controls from 6 case-control studies were included in the meta-analysis. Pooled results disclosed that MPV values were significantly higher in RVO patients (SMD = 0.41 fL, 95% CI = 0.04-0.79, P = .032), but extreme heterogeneity was observed (I2 = 86.1%, P < .001). CONCLUSION: Results suggest lack of association between CBC-derived inflammatory indices and RVO. Conversely, MPV and, to a lesser extent, RDW may be disease biomarkers in RVO.

In Vitro Antimicrobial Activity of a New Ophthalmic Solution Containing Hexamidine Diisethionate 0.05% (Keratosept).

PURPOSE: To assess the in vitro antimicrobial activity of a new commercial ophthalmic solution containing hexamidine diisethionate 0.05% (Keratosept). METHODS: Staphylococcus aureus American Type Culture Collection (ATCC 43300), Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 27853, 3 ocular bacterial isolates (1 Staphylococcus epidermidis, 1 S. aureus, and 1 P. aeruginosa), and 5 Candida species were used. The bacterial and fungal isolates were cultured on Columbia blood agar base and Sabouraud-dextrose agar plates, respectively, and incubated overnight at 37°C. Suspensions were prepared in a sterile saline solution with optical density equal to 0.5 McFarland standard (∼10 CFU/mL). Isolate suspensions were made in Keratosept solution to obtain a concentration of 10 CFU/mL. The suspensions were then distributed in conical tubes with a final volume of 1 mL and incubated at 37°C. After 1, 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30 minutes, and 24 hours, 10 µL of each suspension was removed, seeded on Columbia blood agar base and Sabouraud-dextrose agar plates and then incubated for 24 hours at 37°C. RESULTS: After 1-minute incubation, there was no growth on the plates seeded with S. aureus ATCC 43300, S. aureus clinical isolate, S. epidermidis clinical isolate, and all 5 Candida species tested. Conversely, Keratosept solution failed to kill the Pseudomonas isolates after 30 minutes exposure and needed 24 hours to eradicate the organisms. CONCLUSIONS: Keratosept ophthalmic solution showed in vitro antimicrobial activity against S. epidermidis, S. aureus, and Candida species. Results suggest that it may be a potential candidate for the treatment of staphylococcal and Candida infections of the ocular surface and have some role in antimicrobial prophylaxis before intravitreal injections.

A pilot study to evaluate the levels of aqueous humor trace elements in open-angle glaucoma.

BACKGROUND: Primary open angle glaucoma (POAG) is the most common form of chronic, progressive optic neuropathies characterized by slow degeneration of the retinal ganglion cells and their axons, resulting in visual field loss. Risk factors for this disease are elevated intraocular pressure (IOP), increased age, European and African ethnicity, family history, myopia and decreased corneal thickness. In addition, studies indicated that levels of trace elements are also significantly related to the POAG. METHOD: The association between toxic and essential elements and POAG was explored in a population-based case-control study in the Sardinia Island (Italy). The aqueous humor levels of Al, Cd, Cu, Fe, Hg, Mn, Ni, Pb and Zn were measured in 25 POAG patients compared to 20 age- and gender-matched healthy controls by sector field inductively coupled mass spectrometry. Risk factors as gender, age and increased IOP were also explored. RESULTS: The concentrations of Fe, Hg and Zn were significantly higher in POAG patients than in control subjects, showing these elements as possible determinants in POAG development or degeneration. Other findings were the increased Cu and Fe levels in glaucomatous patients with age less than 70 years. Levels of Ni were found elevated in POAG females. Mercury accumulated more in POAG females, in patients over 70 years and in those with higher levels of IOP in the left eye. Moreover, the positive associations CuFe and Mn-Zn may indicate synergistic effects of elements. CONCLUSIONS: Altogether, these findings suggested a multifactorial role in the risk for POAG disease. The present study documented the levels of trace elements in aqueous humor of Sardinian POAG patients for the first time.

In vitro antimicrobial activity of a new ophthalmic solution containing povidone-iodine 0.6% (IODIM® ).

PURPOSE: To assess the in vitro antimicrobial activity of a new commercial ophthalmic solution containing povidone-iodine 0.6% (IODIM® ). METHODS: Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 43300, Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 27853, three ocular bacterial isolates (1 S. epidermidis, 1 S. aureus, 1 P. aeruginosa) and five Candida species were used. The bacterial and fungal isolates were cultured on Columbia blood agar base plates and Sabouraud-dextrose agar plates, respectively and incubated overnight at 37°C. Bacterial and fungal suspensions in sterile saline solution were prepared to an optical density equal to 0.5 McFarland standard (approximately 108 CFU/ml). Suspensions of the isolates were made in IODIM® solution to obtain a final concentration of 106 CFU/ml. The suspensions were then distributed in conical tubes in a final volume of 1 ml and incubated at 37°C. At different time-points (1, 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30 min and 24 hr), 10 µl of each suspension was removed, seeded on Columbia blood agar base and Sabouraud-dextrose agar plates and then incubated for 24 hr at 37°C. Positive and negative controls were included in all experiments. RESULTS: After 5-min incubation, there was no bacterial growth on any plate. Conversely, IODIM® failed to kill the Candida isolates after 30 min' exposure and needed 24 hr to eradicate the organisms. CONCLUSION: IODIM® ophthalmic solution showed in vitro antimicrobial activity against S. epidermidis, S. aureus, P. aeruginosa and Candida species. Results suggest that it may be a potential candidate for the treatment of ocular surface infections and antimicrobial prophylaxis before intravitreal injections.

Complete Blood Cell Count-Derived Inflammation Biomarkers in Men with Age-Related Macular Degeneration.

Purpose: To investigate the role of some blood count-derived inflammation biomarkers in age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Methods: Seventy-nine men with late-stage AMD and 79 male age-matched cataract controls without AMD were recruited in March-December, 2016. A blood sample was taken. The following blood cell count-derived indexes were evaluated: neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio (NLR), derived NLR [dNLR = neutrophils/(white blood cells ‒ neutrophils)], platelet/lymphocyte ratio (PLR), monocyte/lymphocyte ratio (MLR), (neutrophils × monocytes)/lymphocyte ratio (SIRI), and (neutrophils × monocytes × platelets)/lymphocyte ratio (AISI). Results: AMD patients had significantly lower median values of white blood cells, monocytes, neutrophils, platelets, and mean platelet volume (MPV). Regarding the combined indexes, only AISI was significantly lower in AMD patients than in controls. Receiver operating characteristics curve analysis revealed that the ability of AISI and MPV to predict AMD is poor. Conclusion: Results suggests that NLR, dNLR, PLR, MLR, SIRI, and AISI are unreliable disease biomarkers in men with AMD. Larger scale studies are necessary to confirm these findings.