Rheumatic fever and long-term use of benzathine penicillin as possible risk factors for extensive macular atrophy with pseudodrusen in a Brazilian cohort.

BACKGROUND: Although there has been a large increase in the number of extensive macular atrophy with pseudodrusen (EMAP) cases, the basic aspects of this disease remain unknown. Brazilian patients have a common past history of rheumatic fever (RF) and/or benzathine penicillin (BP) treatment possibly related to the disease. We analyzed how RF and BP might be correlated with EMAP in Brazilian patients. DESIGN: Observational, retrospective, case-control study. METHODS: The databases of three private eye clinics in Brazil were searched for patients with an EMAP-like appearance. Each patient was asked about a previous history of RF and/or long-term use of BP. Patients underwent best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) measurement, color fundus imaging, fundus autofluorescence (FAF) imaging, optical coherence tomography (OCT) imaging, and electroretinography (ERG). The following characteristics were analyzed: subretinal drusenoid deposits (SDD), pigment mottling, retinal pigment epithelial/basement membrane (RPE/BM) separation, outer retinal or RPE atrophy, and identification of a paving stone-like appearance. The choroidal thickness was measured using enhanced depth imaging OCT. The central atrophic area was measured manually on ultra-wide-field FAF. RESULTS: A total of 154 eyes of 77 patients (women, 66.2%; mean age, 58.6 years) with EMAP were included; 90.9% of patients were diagnosed with RF; 94.8% had been treated with BP and treatment was started at an average age of 7.3 years (mean duration, 11.8 years). The treatment duration was significant for the area of atrophy (P = 0.027) in which each 1-year increase in treatment duration led to an average reduction of 6.91 mm2 in area. The age at diagnosis of RF was significant (P = 0.026) for SDD. The increase of 1 year in the diagnosis of RF (late disease) led to a reduction of 24% in the chance of central SDD being present. On OCT, 65.5% eyes had SDD and more than 70% had a split RPE/BM and outer retinal or RPE atrophy. The choroidal thickness in patients with EMAP was significantly (P < 0.001) thinner than the control group. The ERG was abnormal in all eyes. CONCLUSION: These findings may suggest a relation between RF and EMAP in Brazilian patients. Patients with EMAP should be questioned about a history of RF.

Complications of Silicone Oil as Vitreous Tamponade in Pars Plana Vitrectomy: A Mini Review.

PURPOSE: Silicone oil (SO) has been used as a vitreous tamponade for decades. Surgical complications such as glaucoma, cataract, or emulsification are well known. Despite that, increasing case reports of unexplained visual loss after SO removal is concerning because there is no treatment available. This article describes practical complications related to SO use and advantages/disadvantages for consideration regarding the choice of a vitreous substitute in practice. METHODS: A literature review was conducted for publications related to silicone oil, heavy silicone oil, and vitreous substitutes. RESULTS: This article summarizes the SO chemical and physical properties including both SO and heavy SO and postoperative complications such as corneal decompensation, glaucoma, hypotony, cataract, optic neuropathy. Surgical complications such as over/underfilling, SO migration/emulsification, sticky SO and proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR) simulating epiretinal membranes formation, recurrent retinal detachments, SO unexplained visual loss, and permanent SO, are described. A brief overview on potential vitreous substitutes is presented. CONCLUSION: The decision to use SO as vitreous substitute in daily practice is based on the severity of retinal diseases and surgeon experience. SO potential complications must not be underestimated. The pursuit of novel safer vitreous substitutes is imperative.

Atypical pattern of ocular toxoplasmosis: recurrent inner foveal toxoplasmic retinitis (rifter).

Failure to recognize the different possible clinical presentations of ocular toxoplasmosis may delay diagnosis and treatment, compromising visual prognosis. The aim of this paper is to describe an atypical pattern of ocular toxoplasmosis, not yet described. Five Brazilian patients, from 4 different referral centers, presented similar atypical pattern of ocular toxoplasmosis characterized by mild vitritis, foveal cavitation involving predominantly all retinal layers associated with adjacent inner retinal necrosis (a necrotizing retinitis with a persisting inner retinal tissue bridge and loss of subjacent retinal layers). The appearance of the OCT image resembling a "rift", led the authors to define this pattern as a Recurrent Inner Foveal Toxoplasmic Retinitis (RIFTER), which can be considered as a new description of an atypical pattern of toxoplasma retinochoroiditis, and clinicians should be aware of it and consider testing for toxoplasmosis in patients with similar findings.

The first gene therapy for RPE65 biallelic dystrophy with voretigene neparvovec-rzyl in Brazil.

PURPOSE: To report the first Brazilian patient with RPE65 deficiency-inherited retinal dystrophy (RPE65-IRD) treated with voretigene neparvovec-rzyl (VN). METHODS: An adult patient with Leber congenital amaurosis-2 with a homozygous mutation in the RPE65 gene (p.Phe83Leu) was treated bilaterally with VN. The clinical and surgical aspects are described. The baseline and 4-month postoperative ophthalmologic examinations included measurement of the best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), full-field stimulus threshold (FST) test, Octopus 900 semiautomated kinetic visual fields (VFs), and microperimetry. RESULTS: No complications developed in this patient. The BCVA remained stable. The full-field stimulus threshold test (FST) and VFs showed clinically significant improvements bilaterally. The patient reported significant improvements in the ability to perform daily activities, mainly for those requiring the VFs and vision in a low-luminescence environment. CONCLUSIONS: The treatments were beneficial for this patient who was homozygous for RPE65 p.Phe83Leu. The first VN treatments in an adult Brazilian patient in clinical practice showed measurable improvements in visual outcomes that were meaningful for the patient's daily activities. TRANSLATIONAL RELEVANCE: This case reinforces the clinical trial results and proves that the procedure is feasible in countries such as Brazil.

B-scan ultrasound, visual electrophysiology and perioperative videoendoscopy for predicting functional results in keratoprosthesis candidates.

BACKGROUND/AIMS: We analysed the ability of B-scan ultrasound, ocular electrophysiology testing and videoendoscopic examination for predicting visual prognosis in Boston Type 1 keratoprosthesis (KPro-1) candidates. Indirect anatomical and electrophysiological findings and results from direct endoscopic evaluations were correlated with postoperative functional data. METHODS: In this prospective and interventional study, we included 13 individuals who had previously been indicated for Kpro-1 surgery. All subjects underwent preoperative screening, including ophthalmic evaluation, B-scan ultrasound, electrophysiological testing, and perioperative intraocular videoendoscopic evaluation (VE). B-scan ultrasound, electrophysiological testing, and VE evaluation results were categorised as favourable or unfavourable predictors of postoperative functional results according to predefined criteria. The predictability values of B-scan ultrasound, electrophysiological testing, and VE prognostication were calculated based on the visual acuity level achieved. RESULTS: All surgeries and perioperative VEs were uneventful. Preoperative best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) ranged from light perception to counting fingers. The 1-year postoperative BCVA was better than 20/200 (satisfactory visual acuity result) in 10 eyes (76.9%) and 20/40 or better in 5 eyes (38.5%). B-scan ultrasound presented a positive predictive value (PPV) of 85.7% for satisfactory postoperative visual acuity, electroretinography showed a PPV of 66.7%, and visual evoked potential presented a PPV of 66.7%. The perioperative VE PPV of a negative finding for satisfactory visual acuity was 100%. CONCLUSIONS: Fundoscopic visualisation by intraocular VE is a minimally invasive procedure that can be used to predict functional outcomes in keratoprosthesis candidates. This technique demonstrated better prognostication in keratoprosthesis candidates than B-scan ultrasound and electrophysiological testing.

Human amniotic membrane for the treatment of large and refractory macular holes: a retrospective, multicentric, interventional study.

BACKGROUND: The purpose of the current study is to report the anatomical and functional results of off-label human amniotic membrane graft as primary intervention to repair large to giant macular holes and in reoperations when wide internal limiting membrane peeling was unsuccessful. METHODS: Retrospective chart review was carried out in five different centers to identify all cases that had undergone off-label human amniotic membrane graft for the treatment of large or failed macular holes (MH). Data collected included age, gender, other concomitant diagnosis, symptoms duration, lens status, number of previous surgeries, macular hole measurements (minimum and base linear diameters), mean post-operative follow-up (months), and pre- and post-operative best corrected visual acuity (BCVA). Main outcome measures were anatomical MH closure rates and final BCVA (in logMAR). Nonparametric Wilcoxon rank-sum test was used because the data was not normally distributed, a P values < 0.05 were considered statistically significant. RESULTS: Nineteen eyes of 19 patients were identified and included in the study. Mean age was 66.21 ± 14.96 years and predominantly females (84%). All eyes had successfully closed MH with a single intervention with no recurrences during a mean of 9 ± 3.87 months follow-up. The median BCVA in logMAR preoperative was 1.30 ± 0.44 (0.80-2.0), approximately 20/400 on Snellen chart and the median BCVA in logMAR postoperative was 1.0 ± 0.72 (0.4-3.0) approximately 20/200 (p < 0.0001) with median of three lines of visual improvement. CONCLUSION: The use of human amniotic membrane graft seems to be a viable and effective alternative for the treatment of large and persistent macular holes. However, further larger prospective controlled studies are necessary to confirm our preliminary results of this new surgical technique.

Acute exudative polymorphous paraneoplastic vitelliform maculopathy (AEPPVM) associated with choroidal melanoma.

BACKGROUND: To report a case of acute exudative polymorphous paraneoplastic vitelliform maculopathy in a patient with a history of choroidal melanoma, with metastases to the pancreas, liver, and central nervous system. CASE PRESENTATION: A 63-year-old patient, with a history of enucleation of the right eye due to choroidal melanoma, complained of progressive visual loss during a follow-up visit. Fundoscopic examination revealed multiple small areas of serous retinal detachment scattered throughout the posterior pole and ancillary tests confirmed the diagnosis of acute exudative polymorphous paraneoplastic vitelliform maculopathy (AEPPVM). Screening for systemic metastases showed pancreatic, hepatic, and central nervous system involvement. CONCLUSIONS: We describe a rare case of acute exudative polymorphous paraneoplastic vitelliform maculopathy, which should be considered in patients with or without a history of melanoma, who have vitelliform retinal detachments. Nevertheless, no previous reviews of literature have shown a correlation between AEPPVM and pancreatic metastasis.

OPTICAL COHERENCE TOMOGRAPHY ANGIOGRAPHY FINDINGS IN ACUTE RETINAL NECROSIS.

PURPOSE: To report clinical features of acute retinal necrosis (ARN) using optical coherence tomography angiography. METHODS: A 59-year-old female patient presented with blurred vision in the left eye for 1 day. The patient presented posterior uveitis with multiple peripheral areas of retinal pallor with presumed acute retinal necrosis. Herpes simplex virus Type 1 infection was confirmed after serologic tests, and the polymerase chain reaction analysis of the aqueous humor tested positive. RESULTS: The left eye examination revealed anterior chamber reaction, mild vitritis, optic disk swelling, and yellowish white retinal lesions with discrete borders along the superotemporal arcade and temporal periphery. Baseline optical coherence tomography angiography revealed decreased vascular density of superficial and deep plexuses of superotemporal macular region. One month after oral valacyclovir 2,000 mg twice daily, visual acuity and retinal lesions improved, and optical coherence tomography angiography images showed improvement of vascular density. CONCLUSION: Occlusive arterial vasculopathy is one of the main clinical characteristics of acute retinal necrosis. We herein describe for the first time the features of retinal vasculature in acute retinal necrosis revealed by optical coherence tomography angiography, showing decreased vascular density of superficial and deep plexuses.

Role of Vital Dyes in Chromovitrectomy.

ABSTRACT: Chromovitrectomy, the intraocular application of dyes to assist visualization of preretinal tissues during vitreoretinal surgery, was introduced to avoid ocular complications related to internal limiting membrane peeling, inadequate removal of the vitreous, and incomplete removal of epiretinal membranes. Since 2000, chromovitrectomy has become a popular approach among vitreoretinal specialists. The first vital dye used in chromovitrectomy, indocyanine green, facilitated identification of the fine and transparent internal limiting membrane. Following indocyanine green, trypan blue was introduced to identify epiretinal membranes, and triamcinolone acetonide stained the vitreous well. Recently, additional natural dyes such as lutein and anthocyanin from the açaí fruit have been proposed for intraocular application during vitrectomy. The main goal of this review was to study the role of vital stains in chromovitrectomy and report the latest findings in the literature.

INTRAVITREAL DEXAMETHASONE IMPLANT MIGRATION INTO THE ANTERIOR CHAMBER: A Multicenter Study From the Pan-American Collaborative Retina Study Group.

PURPOSE: To establish the prevalence and risk factors for intravitreal dexamethasone implant migration into the anterior chamber in eyes with macular edema. METHODS: This was a multicenter, retrospective, observational chart review of data that included patients with macular edema who had been treated with at least one intravitreal dexamethasone injection. Patients with incomplete chart information during the follow-up period were excluded. RESULTS: The prevalence of implant migration in 468 patients, considering the number of injections, was 1.6%, with significant associations between implant migration and cataract surgery (P = 0.043) and intraocular lens status (P = 0.005) and a trend toward statistical significance (P = 0.057) with vitrectomy. A higher rate of implant migration into the anterior chamber was observed in vitrectomized eyes (4.8%) when compared with patients who did not undergo a vitrectomy (1.6%). The implants that migrated were removed with forceps with/without viscoelastic expression or with 20-gauge cannulas connected to the vitreous cutter machine. CONCLUSION: The risk of implant migration into the anterior chamber was 1.6%. Risk factors were a history of cataract surgery or vitrectomy and aphakia. When anterior migration occurs, rapid removal is advised, especially if corneal edema is present.

Vitreoretinal Surgery and Panretinal Photocoagulation in a Patient with Multiple Large Retinal Capillary Hemangiomas (von Hippel-Lindau Disease): A Novel Approach.

The authors present a novel surgical approach for the treatment of retinal capillary hemangiomas (RCHs) secondary to von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) disease. This is a case report of a 23-year-old male patient with VHL that presented with multiple large RCHs and a thick epiretinal membrane (ERM) in his left eye, with best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) of 20/80. This condition was surgically addressed with 23-gauge pars plana vitrectomy, ERM and internal limiting membrane peeling, and panretinal photocoagulation. Three monthly intravitreal injections of bevacizumab were administered after surgery. In a 14-month follow-up period, hemangiomas have regressed after laser therapy, macular anatomy has improved, retina remained completely attached, and there has been no development of new tumors or proliferative vitreoretinopathy. The patient achieved a BCVA of 20/40 in the treated eye. Panretinal photocoagulation combined with pars plana vitrectomy may be useful to reduce development of new capillary hemangiomas and reduce overall occurrence of complications in patients with VHL disease. Postoperative intravitreal injections of bevacizumab may have a role in this positive outcome.

Experimental composites containing quaternary ammonium methacrylates reduce demineralization at enamel-restoration margins after cariogenic challenge.

OBJECTIVE: This study evaluated the influence of experimental composites containing quaternary ammonium monomers (QAM) at different concentrations and alkyl chains on demineralization at enamel-composite margins after cariogenic challenge. METHODS: Standardized 4×4mm cavities were cut into 35 bovine enamel blocks, which were randomly divided into seven groups (n=5) and restored with the following experimental composites and commercial materials: (G12.5) - 5% dimethylaminododecyl methacrylate (DMADDM) with a 12-carbon alkyl chain (G12.10) - 10% DMADDM, (G16.5) - 5% dimethylaminohexadecyl methacrylate (DMAHDM) with a 16-carbon alkyl chain (G16.10) - 10% DMAHDM, (CG) - control group (without QAM), (GZ250) - commercial composite (Filtek Z250®), and (GIC) - glass ionomer cement (Maxxion R®). After restorative procedures, initial microhardness was measured and experimental composites were subjected to Streptococcus mutans biofilm formation for 48h. After cariogenic challenge, the samples were washed and microhardness was reassessed. A 3D non-contact profilometer was used to determine surface roughness and enamel demineralization was assessed by micro-CT. Microhardness results were analyzed by the Kruskal-Wallis and Mann-Whitney tests and micro-CT results were analyzed by Tukey's HSD test (95% confidence interval). RESULTS: None of the materials could prevent mineral loss at the enamel-restoration margins. The addition of 10% DMAHDM yielded the lowest, albeit statistically significant, mineral loss (p<0.05). 3D non-contact profilometry showed enamel surface roughness modification after biofilm exposure. The CG had the highest roughness values. Micro-CT analysis revealed mineral loss, except for GIC. SIGNIFICANCE: The addition of 10% QAM with a 16-carbon chain in experimental composites reduced mineral loss at the enamel-restoration margins after cariogenic challenge.

Learning curve of three-dimensional heads-up vitreoretinal surgery for treating macular holes: a prospective study.

PURPOSES: To compare surgeons' opinions regarding idiopathic full-thickness macular hole (MH) surgery by using traditional microscopy and three-dimensional (3-D) visualization system. To analyze the required time for pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) and for internal limiting membrane (ILM) rhexis by using both visualization methods. To evaluate anatomical surgical results. METHODS: Four surgeons (surgeon 1, fellows 1, 2, 3) performed the total of 40 surgeries for treating MHs. Each one performed 10 surgeries (5 with traditional microscopy and 5 with 3-D visualization). The completion time for PPV and ILM rhexis was determined by using both methods. Ergonomics, educational value, image sharpness, depth perception, field of view and technical skills were analyzed through answering a questionnaire. RESULTS: Forty patients were included in the study. The MH size for surgeon 1, fellows 1, 2 and 3 groups, individually, ranged from 237 to 602 µm; 228 to 590 µm, 271 to 611 µm and 289 to 600 µm, respectively. In the 3-D and in the traditional microscopy subgroups (which includes all 4 physicians on the use of one or the other method), the MH size ranged from 228 to 602 µm and 237 to 611 µm, respectively. Comparisons between the average time for full PPV and ILM rhexis by using the two methods were non-significant, neither in each individual case of 3-D surgery for each surgeon. Surgeon 1 had always been faster than his fellows. Depth perception was rated as similar for both methods. Field of view and educational values were rated as superior when using the 3-D system. Image resolution and ergonomics were rated as superior when using traditional microscopy. Technical skills strongly tended toward 'superiority' when using traditional microscopy. Thirty-six (90%) full-thickness MHs were successfully closed with one surgery. CONCLUSION: The 3-D system for MH surgery had a short learning curve and was a refined educational tool, when used with reduced illumination and precise focus. Concerning MH surgery, heads-up method was similar to traditional microscopy regarding length of time and anatomical surgical results. Heads-up surgery may become a new pattern for ophthalmic surgery as ongoing improvements are applied.

A new dye based on anthocyanins from the acai fruit (Euterpe oleracea) for chromovitrectomy in humans: clinical trial results.

PURPOSE: To test the applicability of the acai dye at a 25% concentration for identifying the posterior hyaloids and internal limiting membranes (ILMs) during pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) in human eyes with macular holes (MHs). METHODS: This study included 25 patients with chronic idiopathic MHs. The exclusion criteria included glaucoma, previous significant ocular conditions, and previous ocular surgeries except uncomplicated cataract. Ten surgeons performed 23-gauge four-port PPV, phacoemulsification, posterior hyaloid detachment, ILM peeling guided by dye staining, and perfluoropropane injection. The patients remained prone for 5 days postoperatively. The patients were evaluated postoperatively after 1, 30, and 180 days. The surgeons completed a questionnaire regarding the dye's staining abilities. RESULTS: The posterior hyaloids and ILMs stained purple in all eyes. The final best-corrected visual acuity improved significantly (p < 0.001) from preoperatively (1.37 ± 0.29) to 180 days postoperatively (1.05 ± 0.43). The MHs closed in 76% of eyes. CONCLUSION: The acai dye at a 25% concentration identified posterior hyaloids and ILMs during PPVs in humans. Dye toxicity was unlikely.

INTRAVITREAL ZIV-AFLIBERCEPT FOR NEOVASCULAR AGE-RELATED MACULAR DEGENERATION: 52-Week Results.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the 52-week safety and efficacy of intravitreal ziv-aflibercept in patients with neovascular age-related macular degeneration. METHODS: All patients received three monthly intravitreal injections of 0.05 mL of ziv-aflibercept (1.25 mg) followed by a pro re nata regimen. The best-corrected visual acuity and spectral domain optical coherence tomography were obtained at baseline and monthly. Full-field and multifocal electroretinograms were obtained at baseline and 4, 13, 26, and 52 weeks. For some full-field electroretinography parameters, we calculated the differences between baseline and 52 weeks and then compared those differences between treated and untreated fellow eyes. RESULTS: Fifteen patients were included and 14 completed the 52-week follow-up. The mean best-corrected visual acuity improved from 0.95 ± 0.41 (20/200) at baseline to 0.75 ± 0.51 (20/125) logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution at 52 weeks (P = 0.0066). The baseline central retinal thickness decreased from 478.21 ± 153.48 µm to 304.43 ± 98.59 µm (P = 0.0004) at 52 weeks. Full-field electroretinography parameters used to assess retinal toxicity after intravitreal injections (rod response and oscillatory potentials) remained unchanged during follow-up. The average multifocal electroretinography macular response in 5° showed increased N1-P1 amplitude and decreased P1 implicit time (P < 0.05). One patient presented with intraocular inflammation after the seventh intravitreal procedure. CONCLUSION: The results suggested that intravitreal ziv-aflibercept might be safe and effective for treating neovascular age-related macular degeneration. More patients and a longer follow-up are needed to confirm the long-term outcomes of intravitreal ziv-aflibercept.

Effectiveness and Safety of Intravitreal Dexamethasone Implant (Ozurdex) in Patients with Diabetic Macular Edema: A Real-World Experience.

INTRODUCTION: There are few real-life studies on the intravitreal 0.7-mg dexamethasone implant for the treatment of diabetic macular edema (DME) conducted in Latin America. We aimed to assess the effectiveness and safety of this implant in clinical practice. METHODS: Twenty-seven centers from Brazil and one from Argentina provided information on patients with DME treated with Ozurdex. The efficacy outcome variables were best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) in Snellen and central retinal thickness (CRT). Safety was assessed by the elevation in intraocular pressure (IOP), occurrence of cataracts, and adverse events. RESULTS: A total of 329 eyes (both treated cases and naïve eyes) from 282 patients underwent treatment. The time since diagnosis of DME ranged from 1 to 156 months. The median BCVA was 0.7 logMAR/50 letters at baseline and 0.3 logMAR/70 letters after treatment (both p < 0.001). Median CRT values decreased from 425 µm at baseline to 270 µm after treatment (p < 0.001). Increases in IOP of at least 10 mm Hg were observed in 7.4% of eyes, and 4% of eyes had cataract evolution. No cases of endophthalmitis were reported. CONCLUSION: These real-life results suggest that the intravitreal dexamethasone implant is effective and safe for eyes with DME.

INTRAVITREAL INJECTIONS OF ZIV-AFLIBERCEPT FOR THE TREATMENT OF A PATIENT WITH MACULAR EDEMA SECONDARY TO BRANCH RETINAL VEIN OCCLUSION.

PURPOSE: To describe the visual, tomographic, and electroretinographic findings in a patient with macular edema secondary to branch retinal vein occlusion who was submitted to three consecutive intravitreal injections of ziv-aflibercept. METHODS: The patient underwent a complete ophthalmic examination, as well as optical coherence tomography and full-field electroretinography at baseline and 90 days after the first injection. RESULTS: The best-corrected visual acuity improved from 20/400 to 20/40, and the central retinal thickness decreased from 791 µm to 198 µm after three consecutive intravitreal injections of ziv-aflibercept. Full-field electroretinography showed an increase in cone amplitude and decrease in rod amplitude. No adverse side effects were observed after injections. CONCLUSION: Intravitreal injections of ziv-aflibercept showed both effectiveness and safety in the treatment of a patient with macular edema secondary to branch retinal vein occlusion. The observed anatomic (by ophthalmic examination, optical coherence tomography) and functional (best-corrected visual acuity, full-field electroretinography) improvements and lack of serious adverse side effects demonstrates the potential of intravitreal injections of ziv-aflibercept for the treatment of macular edema secondary to branch retinal vein occlusion.

Intravitreal Angiostrongylus cantonensis: first case report in South America.

This study reports the first case of intravitreal angiostrongyliasis in South America treated with posterior worm removal via pars plana vitrectomy. This was a retrospective, observational case study. Data from medical charts, wide-field digital imaging, ocular ultrasound, and visual evoked potential studies were reviewed. A 20-month-old boy presented with eosinophilic meningitis and right eye exotropia. Polymerase chain reaction analysis of the cerebrospinal fluid showed a positive result for Angiostrongylus cantonensis. Fundus examination revealed a pale optic disc, subretinal tracks, vitreous opacities, peripheral tractional retinal detachment, and a dead worm in the vitreous cavity. The patient underwent pars plana vitrectomy with worm removal. This case report illustrates the first case of intravitreal angiostrongyliasis in South America, possibly related to the uncontrolled spread of an exotic invasive species of snail.

Intravitreal Angiostrongylus cantonensis: first case report in South America / Angiostrongylus cantonensis intravítreo: primeiro relato de caso na América do Sul

ABSTRACT This study reports the first case of intravitreal angiostrongyliasis in South America treated with posterior worm removal via pars plana vitrectomy. This was a retrospective, observational case study. Data from medical charts, wide-field digital imaging, ocular ultrasound, and visual evoked potential studies were reviewed. A 20-month-old boy presented with eosinophilic meningitis and right eye exotropia. Polymerase chain reaction analysis of the cerebrospinal fluid showed a positive result for Angiostrongylus cantonensis. Fundus examination revealed a pale optic disc, subretinal tracks, vitreous opacities, peripheral tractional retinal detachment, and a dead worm in the vitreous cavity. The patient underwent pars plana vitrectomy with worm removal. This case report illustrates the first case of intravitreal angiostrongyliasis in South America, possibly related to the uncontrolled spread of an exotic invasive species of snail.

RESUMO O objetivo deste estudo foi relatar o primeiro caso na América do Sul de angiostrongilíase intravítrea tratada com vitrectomia posterior via pars plana e remoção do verme. Este foi um relato de caso observacional. O prontuário médico, sistema de imagem digital de campo amplo, ultrassonografia ocular, e potenciais evocados visuais foram revistos. Um menino de 1 ano e 8 meses de idade manifestou meningite eosinofílica e exotropia olho direito. A análise de PCR do liquor foi positiva para Angiostrongylus cantonensis. O exame de fundo de olho revelou disco óptico pálido, faixas sub-retinianas, opacidades vítreas, descolamento de retina tracional periférico e um verme morto no vítreo. O paciente foi submetido a vitrectomia posterior via pars plana com a remoção do verme. Concluindo, este é o primeiro relato de caso de angiostrongilíase intravítrea na América do Sul, possivelmente relacionado com a disseminação de uma espécie de lesma exótica neste continente.

Outcomes of primary endoresection for choroidal melanoma.

PURPOSE: To review long time treatment results in patients with small or medium sized choroidal melanoma who underwent surgical tumor endoresection as a primary treatment when plaque radiotherapy was unable and patients declined enucleation. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Patients were evaluated for best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), and underwent biomicroscopy, indirect ophthalmoscopy, retinography and ultrasound as well as the usual systemic workup. Study inclusion required the absence of scleral invasion or metastasis and an anterior margin not exceeding the pars plana or the ciliary body. Surgery consisted of a clear lens phacoemulsification with a PC-IOL, and a 23-gauge pars plana vitrectomy with anterior vitreous shave, lesional choroidal endodiathermy, followed by 23-gauge probe tumor endoresection and continuous endolaser. Patients were followed at post-operative 1 day, 1 week, 1, 3, and 6 months and then every 6 months with a complete ophthalmological exam including ultrasound biomicroscopy and systemic follow-up at 3, 6 and every 6 months thereafter. RESULTS: Fourteen patients with choroidal melanoma were included the study. Pre-operative BCVA ranged from 20/20 to hand motion (HM): 20/20 (n = 2); 20/60 (n = 1); and HM (n = 10). Pathological analysis confirmed the diagnosis of uveal melanoma in all cases. Mean follow-up was 54.5 months (45-66 months) with a final BCVA ranging from 20/60 to HM: 20/60 (n = 1); 20/60 to 20/200 (n = 10); and HM (n = 2). The eye retention rate in our study was 100%. No intraocular recurrence was observed. One patient died 12 months after surgery from metastatic disease. CONCLUSION: Endoresection appears to be an acceptable alternative to enucleation for the treatment of posteriorly-localized uveal melanoma, with excellent local control and eye salvage rates.