Evaluation of the Optic Nerve Head Using Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography in Systemic Sclerosis Patients.

PURPOSE: To quantify microvascular vessel density in the optic disc using optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) in patients with systemic sclerosis (SS); to determine whether there is a difference in values between patients and controls; and to correlate the OCTA measurements with disease activity, damage risk, and drug usage. METHODS: Patients aged 20 - 76 years who were followed up after a diagnosis of SS and age- and gender-matched controls. The patients underwent RTVue-XR AngioVue OCTA imaging in this cross-sectional observational study. RESULTS: A total of 61 eyes of 61 consecutive SS patients and 60 eyes of 60 controls were investigated. There was no statistically significant difference between the patients and control groups regarding the average RNFL (retinal fiber layer) and radial peripapillary capillary (RPC) vessel density (VD) measurements (p = 0.35, p = 0.25, respectively). As the antinuclear antibody (ANA) titer increased, RNFLsuperior (p = 0.01, r = - 0.327), RPCwhole (p = 0.029, r = 0.279), RPCperipapillary (p = 0.037, r = - 0.267), RPCsuperior (p = 0.003, r = - 0.371), and RPCinferior (p = 0.02, r = 0.297) values decreased with statistical significance. The RPCinside values were lower in anti-Scl-70-positive patients compared to patients negative for anti-Scl-70 (topoisomerase I) (p = 0.021). The RNFLnasal (p = 0.03, r = - 0.278) value decreased as the years of disease increased. The RPCinside value was higher in patients using hydroxychloroquine and calcium channel blockers than those who did not use them (p = 0.021 and p = 0.027, respectively). The RPCwhole, RPCperipapillary, and RPCnasal values were higher, with statistical significance in corticosteroid users than in those patients who did not use corticosteroids (p = 0.043, 0.030, and 0.033, respectively). CONCLUSION: There was no significant difference between the patients and control groups regarding the average RPC VD measurements. However, since this is the first study to analyze optic disc vessel density in SS patients, optic nerve blood flow changes in scleroderma with OCTA could be studied.

Investigation of Retinal Alterations in Patients Recovered from COVID-19: A Comparative Study.

AIM: : To evaluate any abnormalities on retinal examination and retinal microvascularity in patients recovered from COVID-19. MATERIALS AND METHODS: : Cross-sectional, case- control study. Patients between 18 and 65 years old with PCR-confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection and age matched controls were included. Macular and retinal nerve fiber layer thickness, vessel density of the superficial (SCP) and the deep retinal capillary plexus (DCP) and the foveal avascular zone (FAZ) were measured and compared with controls. RESULTS: : This study included 200 eyes of 200 cases totally. Of them 105 cases were patients and 95 cases were controls. Retinal abnormalities were detected by indirect ophthalmoscopic examination in ten patients of 105 cases (10.5%). There was no statistically significant difference in the vessel density of the SCP and the DCP and the mean FAZ measurements. CONCLUSION: : There isn't any relevant difference between early post-COVID-19 patients and general population in terms of retinal microvascularity.

Evaluation of the impact of childhood obesity on retrobulbar hemodynamics and retinal microvasculature.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate changes in retrobulbar ocular blood flow parameters by using Colour Doppler Imaging (CDI) and changes in foveal microvasculature by using Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography (OCTA) in pediatric obese patients and to compare them with a group of healthy children. METHODS: Children diagnosed with obesity without hypertension and diabetes (39 subjects, obese group) and age-matched healthy controls (26 subjects, control group) underwent CDI and OCTA imaging. Peak systolic velocity, end-diastolic velocity and resistivity index from ophthalmic, central retinal and posterior ciliary arteries on CDI; superficial and deep capillary plexus vascular density and foveal avascular zone area on OCTA imaging were obtained in each group. Central foveal and subfoveal choroidal thicknesses were also measured. CDI and OCTA parameters were compared between two groups. RESULTS: Peak systolic and end-diastolic velocities were found to be significantly lower in obese children than in controls in all three examined arteries (p < 0.05). Resistivity index values were similar between the groups. OCTA imaging did not reveal significant changes in superficial and deep capillary plexus vascular densities and foveal avascular zone area across analysed retinal regions between the groups. Subfoveal choroid was thicker in obese group than in control group (325.89 ± 52.77 µm vs. 304.52 ± 21.76 µm, p = 0.04). CONCLUSION: An apparent decrease was present in retrobulbar hemodynamics in obese children. This arises the possibility of early ocular macrovascular compromise rather than retinal microvascular impairment in childhood obesity.

Serum vascular endothelial growth factor, insulin-like growth factor-1 and aflibercept levels in retinopathy of prematurity.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the serum levels of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) after intravitreal injection of aflibercept (IVA) and the transition of aflibercept into systemic circulation in infants with severe retinopathy of prematurity (ROP). STUDY DESIGN: Prospective study. METHODS: This single-centered prospective cohort study included infants who received IVA for the treatment of type 1 ROP in zone I and posterior zone II. Blood samples were collected before IVA and at 1 day and 1, 2, 4, and 8 weeks after IVA. VEGF, IGF-1 and aflibercept levels were measured. RESULTS: Thirty eyes of 15 infants received IVA of 1 mg/0.025 mL. Serum VEGF levels decreased significantly at 1 day and 1, 2, 4, and 8 weeks after IVA compared with baseline (P < 0.05). Serum aflibercept levels decreased significantly 1, 2, 4, and 8 weeks after IVA compared with the level at 1 day after IVA (P < 0.05) and increased significantly at 1 day, 1, 2, and 4 weeks after IVA compared with the baseline level (P < 0.05). No significant difference was detected between serum IGF-1 levels any time in any infant (P > 0.05). CONCLUSION: Serum VEGF levels are suppressed for at least 8 weeks, and aflibercept could be detected in the systemic circulation at 4 weeks after injection. Clinicians should be cautious about changes in systemic VEGF levels and passage of the agent into systemic circulation after IVA in infants.

Evaulating peripapillary vessel density in regressed papilledema in idiopathic intracranial hypertension patients.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness, the ganglion cell complex (GCC) and vessel density of the radial peripapillary capillary (RPC) plexus of eyes with regressed papilledema in idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) patients using optical coherence tomography angiography (OCT-A) and comparing the results with healthy controls. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Fifty-one eyes of 31 patients diagnosed with IIH and 52 eyes of 52 healthy subjects were enrolled in this study. All patients underwent a complete ophthalmological examination and a 4.5 × 4.5 mm peripapillary OCT-A scanning. The quantitative results of the peripapillary RNFL and GCC thicknesses and vessel density of the RPC were analyzed. RESULTS: The vessel density in the inferior, superior nasal, and inferior nasal sectors of the patients with IIH significantly exceeded the vessel density of the healthy controls (P = 0.008, P = 0.008, and P = 0.000, respectively). The RNFL and GCC thickness measurements were comparable in both groups. CONCLUSIONS: Patients with IIH show vascular abnormalities in the inferior nasal region, which can be detected with OCT-A. As a noninvasive imaging modality, OCT-A could provide a new perspective for understanding the pathophysiology of IIH and could also be useful in the follow-up of these patients.

Vessel density in early-stage primary open angle glaucoma and pseudoexfoliation glaucoma: a comparative controlled optical coherence tomography angiography study / Densidade vascular no estágio inicial do glaucoma primário de ângulo aberto e do glaucoma pseudoesfoliativo: estudo comparativo controlado com angiografia por tomografia de coerência óptica

ABSTRACT Purpose: This study aimed to compare the vessel density of the optic nerve head and radial peripapillary capillary in the eyes with early-stage primary open angle glaucoma and pseudoexfoliation glaucoma and control eyes. Methods: With visual field mean deviation scores >-6.0 dB, 54 eyes from 37 patients diagnosed with primary open angle glaucoma (n=18) and pseudoexfoliation glaucoma (n=18) and healthy controls (n=18) were enrolled in this cross-sectional observational study. Retrieved from optical coherence tomography angiography, vessel density for the optic nerve head and radial peripapillary capillary were analyzed according to the distribution of the data and appropriate tests. The diagnostic accuracy of vessel density parameters was also assessed. Results: The whole-image vessel density of the radial peripapillary capillary and inside-disc vessel density of the optic nerve head were significantly lower in eyes with primary open angle glaucoma and pseudoexfoliation glaucoma compared to those in the control eyes (p<0.05). Compared to that in pseudoexfoliation glaucoma, the inside-disc vessel density of the optic nerve head was significantly lower in primary open angle glaucoma (p<0.05). Inferotemporal sector vessel density of the optic nerve head for both primary open angle glaucoma and pseudoexfoliation glaucoma was significantly lower than that of the controls (p=0.009). In discrimination of primary open angle glaucoma vs. control and pseudoexfoliation glaucoma vs. control, area under the receiver operating characteristic curve values for inside-disc vessel density of the optic nerve head were 0.855 and 0.731, respectively (p<0.001, p=0.018). However, in discrimination of primary open angle glaucoma vs. pseudoexfoliation glaucoma, area under the receiver operating characteristic curve values for whole-image and inside-disc vessel densities of the optic nerve head were 0.707 and 0.722 (p=0.034, p=0.023). Conclusions: Vessel densities of the optic nerve head and radial peripapillary capillary were significantly lower in eyes with primary open angle glaucoma and pseudoexfoliation glaucoma compared to healthy control eyes. In the early stage of glaucoma, the inside-disc vessel density of the optic nerve head slab may be lower in eyes with primary open angle glaucoma eyes compared to eyes with pseudoexfoliation glaucoma.

RESUMO Objetivo: Comparar a densidade vascular da cabeça do nervo óptico e a densidade capilar peripapilar radial em olhos em estágios iniciais de glaucoma primário de ângulo aberto e com glaucoma pseudoesfoliativo, bem como em olhos controle. Métodos: Este é um estudo observacional transversal, no qual foram incluídos 54 olhos com valores de desvio médio do campo visual superiores a -6,0 dB. Os olhos incluídos eram de 37 pacientes, diagnosticados com glaucoma primário de ângulo aberto (n=18), glaucoma pseudoesfoliativo (n=18) e controles saudáveis (n=18). Os valores de densidade vascular da cabeça do nervo óptico e a densidade capilar peripapilar radial foram obtidos a partir de angiografias por tomografia de coerência óptica, analisados de acordo com a distribuição dos dados e submetidos a testes estatísticos apropriados. Também foi avaliada a precisão diagnóstica dos parâmetros de densidade vascular. Resultados: Os valores para a densidade capilar peripapilar radial e no interior do disco óptico nas imagens inteiras foram significativamente menores no glaucoma primário de ângulo aberto e no glaucoma pseudoesfoliativo do que no grupo controle (p<0,05). A densidade vascular no interior do disco óptico na cabeça do nervo óptico foi significativamente menor no glaucoma primário de ângulo aberto do que no glaucoma pseudoesfoliativo (p<0,05). A densidade vascular no setor temporal inferior da cabeça do nervo óptico foi significativamente menor tanto no glaucoma primário de ângulo aberto quanto no glaucoma pseudoesfoliativo, em comparação com o grupo controle (p=0,009). A área abaixo da curva de ROC para a densidade vascular no interior do disco óptico na cabeça do nervo óptico, foi de 0,855 para a comparação do glaucoma primário de ângulo aberto com o controle (p<0,001) e de 0,731 para a comparação do glaucoma pseudoesfoliativo com o controle (p=0,018). Porém, na comparação do glaucoma primário de ângulo aberto com o glaucoma pseudoesfoliativo, os valores da área abaixo da curva de ROC para a densidade vascular na imagem inteira e no interior do disco óptico na cabeça do nervo óptico foram respectivamente de 0,707 e 0,722 (p=0,034, p=0,023). Conclusões: A densidade vascular na cabeça do nervo óptico e a densidade capilar peripapilar radial mostraram-se significativamente diminuídas no glaucoma primário de ângulo aberto e no glaucoma pseudoesfoliativo, em comparação com olhos controle saudáveis. Nos estágios iniciais do glaucoma, a densidade vascular no interior do disco óptico, na cabeça do nervo óptico, pode ser menor em olhos com glaucoma primário de ângulo aberto do que em olhos com glaucoma pseudoesfoliativo.

Evaluation of Retinal and Choroidal Microcirculation Alterations After a Single Dose of Oral 5-mg Tadalafil: A Prospective Pilot Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography Study.

Purpose: To evaluate the effects of a single dose of oral 5-mg tadalafil on macular microcirculation as measured using optical coherence tomography (OCT) and angiography (OCTA) in healthy volunteers. Methods: Twenty-two healthy, middle-aged, sexually active, and male health care worker volunteers were included in this prospective study. All volunteers have a history of occasionally using off-label 5 mg tadalafil to enhance sexual performance. Superficial and deep capillary plexus vascular densities, foveal avascular zone parameters, outer retina, and choriocapillaris flow areas were performed using the OCTA, and subfoveal-choroidal thickness (CT) was performed by using the OCT. Measurements were performed preintake, 30 min, 1, 4, 24 h, 2, 3, 4, and 7 days after the intake of tadalafil off-label. Results: Twenty-two eyes of 22 male volunteers were included in the study. The mean age was 37.16 ± 4.52 years. At 30 min, 1 h, and 4 h after intake, a statistically significant increase was observed in the choriocapillaris flow area and CT compared with preintake (Friedman test, P = 0.034 and P < 0.001, respectively). Conclusion: This study showed that a single dose of oral 5-mg tadalafil causes an increase in choriocapillaris flow and CT. To evaluate the effects of tadalafil on the retina and choroid, an OCTA assessment may be helpful.

Assessment of the retinal and choroidal microvascularization in polycystic ovary syndrome: an optical coherence tomography angiography study.

PURPOSE: To examine the retinal, peripapillary, choroidal microvascularization and the choroid thickness (CT) of the patients with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) using optical coherence tomography angiography (OCT-A) and compare the results to measurements obtained from healthy controls. METHODS: In total, 47 eyes of 47 patients recently diagnosed with PCOS and 47 eyes of 47 age-matched healthy women were included in this study. An RT XR Avanti instrument with AngioVue software was used for the OCT-A imaging using 6 × 6 mm macular and 4.5 × 4.5 mm optic nerve head scans. Quantitative vessel density results of superficial capillary plexus (SCP), deep capillary plexus (DCP) and radial peripapillary capillaries (RPC); flow area and flow density of choriocapillaris; and foveal avascular zone (FAZ) area were analyzed. CT was evaluated by using the measurements obtained from the subfoveolar area. RESULTS: No significant differences were detected between the groups for any of vessel density results for the SCP, DCP, and RPC as well as the FAZ area. The difference in the choriocapillaris flow area and flow density between the groups was not statistically significant. The choroid was significantly thicker in women with PCOS than in the healthy group (p = 0.002). CONCLUSION: Retinal and choroidal microvascularization was comparable between the women who were evaluated early after diagnosed with PCOS and age-matched healthy controls. Choroid was found thicker in patients with PCOS than in healthy women. OCT-A, as a new and noninvasive imaging method, may help in understanding the effect of PCOS on the posterior segment of the eye.

Vessel density in early-stage primary open angle glaucoma and pseudoexfoliation glaucoma: a comparative controlled optical coherence tomography angiography study.

PURPOSE: This study aimed to compare the vessel density of the optic nerve head and radial peripapillary capillary in the eyes with early-stage primary open angle glaucoma and pseudoexfoliation glaucoma and control eyes. METHODS: With visual field mean deviation scores >-6.0 dB, 54 eyes from 37 patients diagnosed with primary open angle glaucoma (n=18) and pseudoexfoliation glaucoma (n=18) and healthy controls (n=18) were enrolled in this cross-sectional observational study. Retrieved from optical coherence tomography angiography, vessel density for the optic nerve head and radial peripapillary capillary were analyzed according to the distribution of the data and appropriate tests. The diagnostic accuracy of vessel density parameters was also assessed. RESULTS: The whole-image vessel density of the radial peripapillary capillary and inside-disc vessel density of the optic nerve head were significantly lower in eyes with primary open angle glaucoma and pseudoexfoliation glaucoma compared to those in the control eyes (p<0.05). Compared to that in pseudoexfoliation glaucoma, the inside-disc vessel density of the optic nerve head was significantly lower in primary open angle glaucoma (p<0.05). Inferotemporal sector vessel density of the optic nerve head for both primary open angle glaucoma and pseudoexfoliation glaucoma was significantly lower than that of the controls (p=0.009). In discrimination of primary open angle glaucoma vs. control and pseudoexfoliation glaucoma vs. control, area under the receiver operating characteristic curve values for inside-disc vessel density of the optic nerve head were 0.855 and 0.731, respectively (p<0.001, p=0.018). However, in discrimination of primary open angle glaucoma vs. pseudoexfoliation glaucoma, area under the receiver operating characteristic curve values for whole-image and inside-disc vessel densities of the optic nerve head were 0.707 and 0.722 (p=0.034, p=0.023). CONCLUSIONS: Vessel densities of the optic nerve head and radial peripapillary capillary were significantly lower in eyes with primary open angle glaucoma and pseudoexfoliation glaucoma compared to healthy control eyes. In the early stage of glaucoma, the inside-disc vessel density of the optic nerve head slab may be lower in eyes with primary open angle glaucoma eyes compared to eyes with pseudoexfoliation glaucoma.

Refractive precision in uncomplicated eyes with pseudoexfoliation: three-piece versus one-piece intraocular lens implantation.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the refractive precision of three-piece versus one-piece intraocular lenses (IOLs) in eyes with pseudoexfoliation (PXF) and changes in anterior chamber depth (ACD) following cataract surgery. METHODS: This prospective, nonrandomized, interventional, comparative case series included PXF eyes, which were implanted with one-piece acrylic IOL or three-piece acrylic IOLs (Group A; n = 31, Group B; n = 30). Non-PXF control eyes were implanted with one-piece acrylic IOL (Group C; n = 30). Postoperative refractive error (RE) and absolute RE, as well as pre- to postoperative ACD changes, were statistically analysed. A p value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. RESULTS: Changes in ACD (mean ± standard deviation) in Groups A, B and C were 0.9 ± 0.4, 1.0 ± 0.3 and 0.7 ± 0.4 mm, respectively. Significant differences were found between Groups A and C (p = 0.043) and between Groups B and C (p = 0.008). In Groups A, B and C, the median and interquartile (Q1 to Q3) values were 0.3 (-0.8 to 1.0), -0.5 (-0.8 to -0.3) and 0.1 (-0.4 to 0.3) for RE and 1.0 (0.4 to 1.3), 0.5 (0.3 to 0.8) and 0.3 (0.3 to 0.5) for absolute RE, respectively. The RE differences between Group A and B (p = 0.009) and Group B and C (p < 0.001) were statistically significant. For absolute RE, the differences were significant for all comparisons (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: Refractive precision in PXF eyes may be better with three-piece than with one-piece IOL implantation, but worse than with one-piece IOL implantation in non-PXF eyes. Significant changes in ACD in PXF eyes may be related to RE.

Assessment of retinal vessel density in adult-onset foveomacular vitelliform dystrophy by optical coherence tomography angiography.

BACKGROUND: To evaluate retinal thickness, area of foveal avascular zone (FAZ), flow area and flow density of choriocapillaris, vessel density of both superficial capillary plexus (SCP) and deep capillary plexus (DCP) of eyes with adult-onset foveomacular vitelliform dystrophy (AOFVD) using optical coherence tomography angiography (OCT-A) and compare the results with healthy controls. METHODS: 17 eyes of 14 patients diagnosed with AOFVD and 17 eyes of 17 healthy subjects were enrolled in this study. All patients underwent a complete ophthalmological examination and a 6 x 6 mm macular OCT-A scanning. Quantiative results of retinal thickness, retinal vessel density of SCP and DCP, FAZ area, flow area and flow density of choriocapillaris were analyzed. RESULTS: No statistically significant differences were noted in the vessel density of the SCP, except for the parafoveal nasal sector (P = 0.048). Similarly, no statistically significant differences were observed in the vessel density of the DCP, except for the parafoveal (P = 0.037) and the parafoveal temporal (P = 0.048) sectors. The choriocapillaris flow area and the flow density were significantly lower in the patients with AOFVD than in the healthy controls (P = 0.001 for both). The mean FAZ area and the retinal thickness measurements were comparable in both groups. CONCLUSIONS: Patients with AOFVD show vascular abnormalities that can be detected with OCT-A. OCT-A, as a noninvasive imaging modality, could provide a new perspective for understanding the pathophysiology of AOFVD and could also be useful in the follow-up of these patients and in the management of the disease progression.

Analysis of Macular Vessel Density and Foveal Avascular Zone in Adults with Amblyopia.

Purpose: To quantify and compare the foveal avascular zone (FAZ) and the whole, parafoveal and foveal vessel density of superficial (SCP) and deep capillary plexus (DCP) in amblyopic eyes of adults and age-matched controls.Methods: This cross-sectional study involved 52 eyes from 34 subjects aged 18 to 45 years. Optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) was performed to all participants and SCP, DCP and FAZ were evaluated. SPSS (Statistical Package for the Social Sciences) 23 was used for data analysis.Results: Eighteen of 34 subjects (52,9%) were amblyopic and 16 (47,1%) of them controlled. Mean subject age was 31.2 years in the amblyopia group and 28.3 years in the control group. The mean FAZ measurements were 0.28 ± 0.08 in amblyopic eyes, 0.29 ± 0.08 in fellow eyes and 0.3 ± 0.11 in control eyes. The whole, foveal and parafoveal vessel density of SCP in both 3x3-mm and 6x6-mm scans were not statistically different in amblyopic eyes, fellow eyes and control eyes. In 6x6-mm scans, the whole, and parafoveal vessel density of DCP were significantly lower in amblyopic eyes than controls. There was no statistically significant difference in 3x3-mm scans about DCP.Conclusion: OCTA revealed lower vessel density in DCP of amblyopic eyes than fellow eyes and controls in adults.

Optical Coherence Tomography Findings in Pre-Eclampsia: A Preliminary Receiver Operating Characteristic Analysis on Choroidal Thickness for Disease Severity.

Purpose: To evaluate qualitative optical coherence tomography (OCT) findings and quantitative parameters, such as central macular thickness (CMT) and subfoveolar choroidal thickness (SFCT), in the eyes of preeclamptic women. Methods: The prospective, comparative, cross-sectional study included 52 eyes of 52 preeclamptic (PE) women and 54 eyes of 54 healthy pregnant women in their second or third trimester. Central macular thickness (CMT), subfoveolar choroidal thickness (SFCT), were evaluated in relation to presence of positive qualitative OCT findings such as any subretinal or intraretinal fluid, irregularity on the external photoreceptor and RPE layer, or presence of pigment epithelial detachment. Results: No significant difference was detected between the PE group and the healthy pregnant group with respect to CMT (P= 0.905), but the mean SFCT value was significantly higher in the PE group than in the healthy pregnant group (391.4 ± 71.1 vs 331.5 ± 53.8 µm, P < 0.001). Receiver operating characteristic analysis revealed that SFCT could predict qualitative OCT findings in preeclampsia, and the optimal cut-off value was 400 µm with a sensitivity of 91% and a specificity of 85%. Conclusion: The eyes of preeclamptic women, and particularly those with positive qualitative OCT findings, showed significantly increased SFCT values. A preliminary cut-off level of 400 µm for SFCT is proposed for the prediction of severe preeclampsia.

Comparison of fluorescein angiographic findings in type 1 and type 2 retinopathy of prematurity with intravitreal bevacizumab monotherapy and spontaneous regression.

PURPOSE: To investigate the extent of vascularization of the peripheral retina and vascular development patterns in patients with type 1 retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) treated with intravitreal injection of bevacizumab (IVB) and compare fluorescein angiography (FA) findings of them to those seen in patients with type 2 ROP who have recovered spontaneously. METHODS: Between May 2014 and September 2016, patients with type 1 ROP who had a single 0.025 ml (0.625 mg) IVB were evaluated as study group. On the other hand, type 2 ROP patients with stage 2 or stage 3 ROP in zone II without plus disease on indirect ophthalmoscopy were not treated and included as a control group. The progression of ROP and vascularization of retina were evaluated by FA under sedation analgesia in all patients. RESULTS: Sixty-two eyes of 31 premature infants were included in the study: 36 eyes/18 patients were treated for type 1 ROP and 26 eyes/13 patients were followed conservatively with the diagnoses of type 2 ROP. In the last FA examination among the study group, vascular terminal was in zone II in 8 eyes/4 patients (22.22%) and in zone III in 28 eyes/14 patients (77.78%). Vascular terminal was in zone III in all eyes of the control group (100%). We noted circumferential vessels in 12 eyes/8 patients (33.3%) and 7 eyes/5 patients (26.92%) in the study and control groups, respectively. Abnormal branching was noticed in 13 eyes/7 patients (46.42%) in the control group, whereas it was not detected in the study group. Arteriovenous shunts were noted in 1 eye of a patient in the study group and in 5 eyes/4 patients in the control group. In 6 eyes/3 patients among the study group, we performed laser photocoagulation to the avascular retina because of profound vascular leakage. CONCLUSION: Peripheral vascular abnormalities probably occur as a result of ROP itself because similar FA findings were detected both in type 1 and type 2 ROP patients with or without treatment, although significantly less in IVB-treated group. Retinal vascularization usually reaches the farthermost limits with time even though it slows down in eyes treated with IVB, indicating the importance of a longer follow-up.

Analysis of Macular Vessel Density and Foveal Avascular Zone Using Spectral-Domain Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography in Children With Amblyopia.

PURPOSE: To quantify the foveal avascular zone and the whole, parafoveal, and foveal vessel density of superficial and deep capillary plexus in amblyopic eyes and age-matched controls and to compare the measurements. METHODS: This cross-sectional study involved 49 eyes from 17 patients with amblyopia and 21 healthy children (aged 6 to 16 years). Optical coherence tomography angiography was performed for all participants and superficial capillary plexus, deep capillary plexus, and foveal avascular zone were evaluated. Data from amblyopic eyes, fellow eyes with unilateral amblyopia, and control eyes were compared using the Mann-Whitney U test. RESULTS: The mean patient age was 8.6 ± 2.5 years in the amblyopia group and 9.6 ± 2.9 years in the control group. The mean foveal avascular zone measurements were 0.251 ± 0.1 mm2 in the amblyopia group and 0.291 ± 0.1 mm2 in the control group. The whole, foveal, and parafoveal vessel densities of superficial capillary plexus were 48.8% ± 3.7%, 23.8% ± 8.8%, and 50.9% ± 4.6% in the amblyopia group and 48.4% ± 2.5%, 19.3% ± 5.4%, and 51.3% ± 2.7% in the control group. The whole, foveal, and parafoveal vessel densities of deep capillary plexus were 51.8% ± 4.3%, 37.6% ± 5.8%, and 54.8% ± 4.2% in the amblyopia group and 54.4% ± 3.2%, 34.9% ± 7.4%, and 56.8% ± 3.2% in the control group. No statistically significant difference was detected in all measurements. CONCLUSIONS: Assessment of the foveal avascular zone and vessel density of superficial capillary plexus and deep capillary plexus with optical coherence tomography angiography revealed no difference between amblyopic eyes, controls, and fellow eyes of patients with unilateral amblyopia. [J Pediatr Ophthalmol Strabismus. 2019;56(1):55-59.].

Efficacy of intravitreal aflibercept monotherapy in retinopathy of prematurity evaluated by periodic fluorescence angiography and optical coherence tomography.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the efficacy of intravitreal aflibercept (IVA) in vascular and macular maturation in neonates with type 1 retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) and aggressive posterior retinopathy of prematurity (APROP). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Thirty-six eyes of 18 patients with type 1 ROP or APROP in zone I or posterior zone II were enrolled in our study. At baseline, only fluorescein angiography (FA) was performed. After IVA injection, both FA and optical coherence tomography (OCT) were performed after 6.8 ± 0.8 (range 6-8) and 19 ± 0.9 (range 18-20) weeks to follow vascular and macular changes. RESULTS: Both diffuse flat neovascularization with leakage and abnormal vascular branching at the small arteriolar level were detected in all eyes (100%) at baseline FA. Regression of the disease was observed in 34 eyes (94.4%) in the first week with binocular indirect ophthalmoscopy. Early unresponsiveness in remaining two eyes of an infant required an IVA re-treatment. Late reactivation was detected only in 19.4% of eyes, none of which required treatment during 12 months of follow-up. The most common feature after IVA injection was abnormal branching at capillary level, which was noted in 100% in the first post-injection FA and 50.0% of all eyes in the second FA. Meanwhile, the end limit of vascularization was observed in zone III in 83.3% of eyes. No vascular abnormality was also detected in 27.3% of eyes. The OCT examination at a mean postmenstrual age of 43.4 weeks revealed cystoid macular changes in four eyes of two infants (11.1%), normal foveal contour in 30 eyes of 15 infants (83.3%) and matured ellipsoid zone at the foveal center in 28 eyes of 14 infants (77.8%). Macular maturation was complete in all eyes in the last OCT analyses. CONCLUSION: Intravitreal aflibercept monotherapy has been an effective treatment in type I ROP and APROP with much lower early and late re-treatment rates because of early unresponsiveness and late reactivation, respectively. In most of the eyes, rapid vascular outgrowth beyond zone III together with normal macular maturation was observed more precisely by periodic FA and OCT.

Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty vs. Fixed Combinations with Timolol in Practice: A Replacement Study in Primary Open Angle Glaucoma.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the potential of selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) in two arms (360˚ vs. 180˚) as a replacement for fixed combinations (FCs) with timolol in primary open angle glaucoma over 6 months. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Of 40 patients in a prospective, comparative, interventional case series, 18 eyes and 22 eyes were randomized to SLT 180º and SLT 360º groups, respectively, along with 40 fellow-control eyes. FC with timolol was discontinued on the day of treatment for the eye to be operated on, while ongoing therapy was not interrupted for the contralateral eye. Eyes were examined for intraocular pressure (IOP) elevation 1 hour and 1 day after SLT. The follow-up visits were then scheduled for 1 week, 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months after, during the which the IOP of both eyes and any possible complications were evaluated. RESULTS: There were no statistically significant differences in mean IOPs through 6 months among the groups with exception of postlaser 1 hour and postlaser 1 day (p<0.001 and p=0.010, respectively). Multiple comparison analysis showed significantly higher IOP in both SLT 180º and SLT 360º subgroups compared to their controls at postlaser 1 hour (p=0.007, p<0.001) but significantly lower IOP only in SLT 360º subgroup compared to the controls at postlaser day 1 (p=0.013). CONCLUSION: SLT offers promising potential as a substitute equivalent to efficacy of FCs with timolol. However, SLT 360˚ may not achieve additional IOP reduction.

Comparison of two laser capsulotomy techniques: cruciate versus circular.

PURPOSE: To compare the safety and efficacy of two Nd: YAG laser capsulotomy techniques. METHODS: In this prospective comparative interventional case series, 60 eyes of 57 patients with posterior capsular opacification were enrolled. Thirty eyes were selected to undergo a cruciate capsulotomy (Cross group) and the other 30 eyes were selected to undergo a circular capsulotomy (Circular group). Main outcome measures were best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), intraocular pressure (IOP), amount of energy used, mean macular thickness (MMT), and floater symptoms. RESULTS: The amount of energy used was significantly higher in the Circular group than in the Cross group (p < 0.001). BCVA and IOP were not significantly different between the two groups at baseline or follow-up. MMT was significantly higher in the Circular group than in the Cross group at one day after the laser procedure (p = 0.032). MMT was not significantly different between groups at one week, one month, and three months (p > 0.05). The number of patients with floater symptoms was significantly higher in the Circular group than in the Cross group at one week and one month (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: Both the cross-like and circular Nd:YAG laser capsulotomy techniques induce similar visual and IOP changes. The circular technique is associated with a higher amount of energy used, more floater symptoms, and has a greater effect on macular thickness at one day after laser capsulotomy.

Nonarteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy as the presenting manifestation of primary antiphospholipid syndrome.

Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is an autoimmune disorder characterized by vascular thrombosis or pregnancy morbidity. Ocular involvement in APS includes a broad spectrum of manifestations involving anterior and posterior segment or the presence of neuroophthalmologic features. Nonarteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION) is a very rare finding, and in this report a case having NAION as the prevailing sign of APS is presented. A middle-aged women who presented with visual disturbances in her left eye (LE) and turned out to have the diagnosis of primary APS with the help of rheumatological investigations is discussed. She was treated with oral steroids for NAION in her LE. With systemic and rheumatological work-up, primary APS was diagnosed, and hydroxychloroquine, coumadin, and aspirin were started, after which she remained stable under control. Due to the important diagnostic and therapeutic implications of APS, it should be considered in the differential diagnosis of NAION, particularly when the etiology is uncertain.