Posibilidad de terapia génica en pacientes con enfermedades retinianas hereditarias / Possibility of genetic therapy for inherited retinal conditions

Objetivo Evaluar la posibilidad de terapia génica en pacientes con enfermedades oculares hereditarias con diagnóstico genético establecido. Los objetivos secundarios son revisar la tasa de diagnóstico genético y hacer una actualización de los genes para los cuales hay estudios clínicos o preclínicos en curso que pudieran permitir la terapia génica. Métodos Estudio observacional, retrospectivo y multicéntrico de 177 pacientes con enfermedades oculares hereditarias a quienes se realizó estudio genético.Resultados De 177 pacientes con estudio genético, se incluyeron 146. Se identificaron variantes causantes de enfermedad en 117 pacientes con lo que se obtuvo una tasa de detección de variantes del 80,1%. Se encontraron variantes patogénicas en 47 genes, siendo ABCA4 el gen más común (17,9%), seguido por CRB1 (11,9%). De los pacientes con diagnóstico genético, el 64,1% tienen una variante en un gen para el cual se ha estudiado terapia génica y solo el 40,1% presentan una variante en genes con estudios para su terapia génica en fase clínica. Conclusiones El estudio genético ha abierto nuevos horizontes en el manejo de pacientes con enfermedades oculares hereditarias. Cerca de dos tercios de los pacientes presentó variantes patogénicas en genes para los cuales se ha evaluado la posibilidad de terapia génica. Sin embargo, muchos estudios se encuentran en fase preclínica. Se debe adecuar las expectativas de los pacientes sometidos a estudio genético y sus familias (AU)

Objective To evaluate the possibility of gene therapy in patients with inherited ocular conditions and established genetic diagnosis. The secondary objectives were to determine the genetic diagnostic rate and to update the list of genes for which there are ongoing clinical trials or preclinical studies that could allow for gene therapy. Methods Observational, retrospective, multicentric study of 177 patients with inherited ocular conditions that underwent genetic testing. Results Of 177 patients with genetic testing, 146 were enrolled for this study. Disease-causing variants were identified in 117 patients (variant detection rate of 80.1%). Pathogenic variants were found in 47 genes, with ABCA4 being the most common gene (17.9%), followed by CRB1 (11.9%). 64.1% of patients with a genetic diagnosis have a variant in genes for which gene therapy has been studied and only 40.1% have a variant in genes with studies for gene therapy in clinical phase. Conclusions Genetic testing has opened new horizons in the management of patients with hereditary ocular diseases. About two-thirds of the patients had pathogenic variants in genes for which gene therapy has been evaluated. However, many studies are in the pre-clinical phase. The expectations of patients undergoing genetic study and their families should be managed accordingly (AU)

Possibility of genetic therapy for inherited retinal conditions.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the possibility of gene therapy in patients with inherited ocular conditions and established genetic diagnosis. The secondary objectives were to determine the genetic diagnostic rate and to update the list of genes for which there are ongoing clinical trials or preclinical studies that could allow for gene therapy. METHODS: Observational, retrospective, multicentric study of 177 patients with inherited ocular conditions that underwent genetic testing. RESULTS: Of 177 patients with genetic testing, 146 were enrolled for this study. Disease-causing variants were identified in 117 patients (variant detection rate of 80.1%). Pathogenic variants were found in 47 genes, with ABCA4 being the most common gene (17.9%), followed by CRB1 (11.9%). 64.1% of patients with a genetic diagnosis have a variant in genes for which gene therapy has been studied and only 40.1% have a variant in genes with studies for gene therapy in clinical phase. CONCLUSIONS: Genetic testing has opened new horizons in the management of patients with hereditary ocular diseases. About two-thirds of the patients had pathogenic variants in genes for which gene therapy has been evaluated. However, many studies are in the pre-clinical phase. The expectations of patients undergoing genetic study and their families should be managed accordingly.

Intra-arterial chemotherapy for retinoblastoma treatment in Chile: Experience and results 2013-2020.

OBJECTIVE: To establish the success rate of salvage intra-arterial chemotherapy (IAC), defined as the percentage of eyes that achieved tumoral remission and avoided enucleation. The second objective was the clinical characterization, catheterization results, and associated local and systemic complications. METHODS: Retrospective, interventional case series of 29 patients (35 eyes) with persistent or recurrent retinoblastoma. RESULTS: A total of 73 salvage IAC procedures with topotecan and melphalan were carried out. Success rate was 77% at a mean follow-up of 41.4 months. All patients with only one remaining eye avoided enucleation (10 cases). Catheterization was successful in 98.6% of cases. The types of catheterizations were as follows: 71.2% supraselective ophthalmic artery, 12.3% occlusion pump assisted supraselective ophthalmic artery, 16.4% selective external carotid with retrograde flow. 14% of patients suffered local adverse effects: 1 (2.8%) transitory ptosis, 1 (2.8%) transitory oculomotor nerve palsy, 2 (5.7%) aseptic cellulitis and 1 (2.8%) periorbitary pigmentation. 4.1% (3 cases) suffered neutropenia due to medullar chemosuppression. There were no cases of severe anemia or thrombocytopenia. There were no cerebral ischemic events or mortality associated to the procedure. CONCLUSION: IAC with melphalan and topotecan is a safe and effective treatment option for persistent or recurrent retinoblastoma, able to reduce enucleation rates.

Quimioterapia intraarterial para el tratamiento del retinoblastoma en Chile: experiencia y resultados, período 2013-2020 / Intra-arterial chemotherapy for retinoblastoma treatment in Chile: experience and results 2013-2020

Objetivo Establecer la tasa de éxito de la quimioterapia intraarterial (QIA) en modalidad de rescate expresada en el porcentaje de ojos que lograron remisión tumoral y evitaron la enucleación. El segundo objetivo fue analizar la caracterización clínica, resultados del cateterismo, complicaciones locales y sistémicas asociadas. Métodos Estudio retrospectivo de serie de casos intervencional de 29 pacientes (35 ojos) con retinoblastoma intraocular persistente o recidivado. Resultados Se realizaron un total de 73 procedimientos de QIA con topotecán y melfalán en modalidad de rescate. La tasa de éxito de la QIA fue del 77% en un seguimiento promedio de 41,4 meses. Todos los casos con ojo único evitaron la enucleación de su ojo residual (10 casos). El cateterismo fue exitoso en un 98,6%. Los tipos de cateterización logrados fueron los siguientes: supraselectiva por arteria oftálmica (71,2%), supraselectiva por arteria oftálmica asistida con balón de oclusión en carótida externa (12,3%), selectiva por rama de carótida externa con flujo retrógrado (16,4%). Se reportaron efectos adversos locales en el 14% de los pacientes: una (2,8%) ptosis palpebral transitoria, una (2,8%) parálisis del sexto par transitoria, 2 (5,7%) celulitis aséptica y una (2,8%) pigmentación de región periorbitaria. La frecuencia de neutropenia por quimiosupresión medular fue del 4,1% (3 casos). No hubo casos de anemia ni trombocitopenia severas. No hubo eventos isquémicos cerebrales ni mortalidad asociada al procedimiento. Conclusión La QIA con melfalán y topotecán es una alternativa segura y efectiva para el tratamiento del retinoblastoma persistente o recidivado, permitiendo reducir las tasas de enucleación (AU)

Objective To establish the success rate of salvage intra-arterial chemotherapy (IAC), defined as the percentage of eyes that achieved tumoral remission and avoided enucleation. The second objective was the clinical characterization, catheterization results, and associated local and systemic complications. Methods Retrospective, interventional case series of 29 patients (35 eyes) with persistent or recurrent retinoblastoma. Results A total of 73 salvage IAC procedures with topotecan and melphalan were carried out. Success rate was 77% at a mean follow-up of 41.4 months. All patients with only one remaining eye avoided enucleation (10 cases). Catheterization was successful in 98.6% of cases. The types of catheterizations were as follows: 71.2% supraselective ophthalmic artery, 12.3% occlusion pump assisted supraselective ophthalmic artery, 16.4% selective external carotid with retrograde flow. 14% of patients suffered local adverse effects: 1 (2.8%) transitory ptosis, 1 (2.8%) transitory oculomotor nerve palsy, 2 (5.7%) aseptic cellulitis and 1 (2.8%) periorbitary pigmentation. 4.1% (3 cases) suffered neutropenia due to medullar chemosuppression. There were no cases of severe anemia or thrombocytopenia. There were no cerebral ischemic events or mortality associated to the procedure. Conclusion IAC with melphalan and topotecan is a safe and effective treatment option for persistent or recurrent retinoblastoma, able to reduce enucleation rates (AU)

Resultados anatómicos y refractivos en pacientes tratados por retinopatía del prematuro / Anatomical and refractive outcomes in patients with treated retinopathy of prematurity

Objetivos: Describir los resultados anatómicos y refractivos en un grupo de pacientes tratados por retinopatía del prematuro (ROP) con bevacizumab intravítreo o láser. Métodos: Estudio multicéntrico, prospectivo y observacional. Se incluyó a pacientes tratados por ROP en el Hospital Roberto del Río. Los pacientes con menos de 6 meses de seguimiento fueron excluidos. Los pacientes con zona II posterior, zona I o retinopatía agresiva posterior (AP-ROP) fueron tratados con bevacizumab intravítreo. El resto fueron tratados con láser. El seguimiento fue hecho cada 3 meses, e incluyó fondo de ojo, refracción y test de Teller. Resultados: Se incluyeron 144 ojos de 72 pacientes. Un total de 49 fueron tratados con láser y 23 con bevacizumab. Un caso (1,4%) tratado con láser progresó a un desprendimiento de retina etapa 4 b y requirió vitrectomía bilateral. Otros 45 casos tuvieron ROP de tipo 1; 16 enfermedad umbral y 11 AP-ROP. La mediana de edad gestacional fue de 26 semanas (rango 23-30) y la mediana de peso de nacimiento fue de 800 g (rango 405-1.350). La mediana de seguimiento fue de 10 meses (rango 6-28). La mediana del Teller fue de 3,2 ciclos/cm (rango 0,32-13). Del total, 16 casos (22%) presentaron miopía de -6 D o más. La mediana de la esfera fue de -1,75 D (rango -16,00 a +3,50 D) y la mediana del cilindro fue de 0,00 (rango -4,5 a +1,5 D). El éxito anatómico se logró en 71 pacientes (98,6%). Conclusión: El tratamiento con láser o bevacizumab intravítreo como tratamiento primario en ROP es altamente eficaz. El éxito anatómico se alcanzó en la mayoría de los pacientes. Los resultados visuales obtenidos por test de Teller muestran buenos resultados (AU)

Objective: To describe the anatomical and refractive outcomes after treatment with intravitreal bevacizumab or laser in a patient cohort with retinopathy of prematurity (ROP). Methods: A multicentre, prospective, and observational study was performed on patients with ROP treated at Hospital Roberto del Río. Those patients with less than 6 months of follow-up were excluded. Cases with posterior zone II, zone I ROP, and aggressive posterior ROP (AP-ROP) were treated with intravitreal bevacizumab. All other patients were treated with laser. Follow-up was performed every 3 months, and included fondo evaluation, refraction, and Teller tests. Results: The treated group included 144 eyes of 72 patients, of whom 49 were treated with laser and 23 with intravitreal bevacizumab. One (1.4%) patient from the laser group progressed to stage 4 b retinal detachment and required bilateral vitrectomy. Of the remainder, 45 cases had type 1 ROP, 16 had threshold disease, and 11 had AP-ROP. The median of gestational age was 26 weeks (range 23-30), and median of birth weight was 800 g (range 405-1350). Median follow-up was 10 months (range 6-8). The Teller test median was 3.2 cycles/cm (range 0.32-13). There were 16 (22%) cases with a myopic refraction of -6 D or more. The sphere median was -1.75 D (range -16.00 to +3.50 D) and the cylindrical median was 0.00 (range -4.5 to +1.5 D). Anatomical success was achieved in 71 (98.6%) of patients. Conclusion: Treatment with laser or intravitreal bevacizumab is a highly successful primary treatment for ROP. Anatomical success can be achieved in most cases. Treated patients develop frequent and severe refractive defects, which should be corrected. Vision outcome, measured using the Teller preferential test, shows good results (AU)

Anatomical and refractive outcomes in patients with treated retinopathy of prematurity. / Resultados anatómicos y refractivos en pacientes tratados por retinopatía del prematuro.

OBJECTIVE: To describe the anatomical and refractive outcomes after treatment with intravitreal bevacizumab or laser in a patient cohort with retinopathy of prematurity (ROP). METHODS: A multicentre, prospective, and observational study was performed on patients with ROP treated at Hospital Roberto del Río. Those patients with less than 6months of follow-up were excluded. Cases with posterior zone II, zone I ROP, and aggressive posterior ROP (AP-ROP) were treated with intravitreal bevacizumab. All other patients were treated with laser. Follow-up was performed every 3 months, and included fondo evaluation, refraction, and Teller tests. RESULTS: The treated group included 144 eyes of 72 patients, of whom 49 were treated with laser and 23 with intravitreal bevacizumab. One (1.4%) patient from the laser group progressed to stage 4b retinal detachment and required bilateral vitrectomy. Of the remainder, 45 cases had type 1 ROP, 16 had threshold disease, and 11 had AP-ROP. The median of gestational age was 26 weeks (range 23-30), and median of birth weight was 800g (range 405-1350). Median follow-up was 10 months (range 6-8). The Teller test median was 3.2 cycles/cm (range 0.32-13). There were 16 (22%) cases with a myopic refraction of -6 D or more. The sphere median was -1.75 D (range -16.00 to +3.50 D) and the cylindrical median was 0.00 (range -4.5 to +1.5 D). Anatomical success was achieved in 71 (98.6%) of patients. CONCLUSION: Treatment with laser or intravitreal bevacizumab is a highly successful primary treatment for ROP. Anatomical success can be achieved in most cases. Treated patients develop frequent and severe refractive defects, which should be corrected. Vision outcome, measured using the Teller preferential test, shows good results.

Diagnóstico molecular en pacientes con retinoblastoma: reporte de una serie de casos / Molecular diagnosis in patients with retinoblastoma: Report of a series of cases

OBJETIVOS: Reportar los beneficios del diagnóstico genético en una serie de pacientes con retinoblastoma. MÉTODOS: Estudio longitudinal observacional. Se incluyó a pacientes con retinoblastoma y sus familias. Se registraron datos demográficos y clínicos. Se obtuvieron muestras de sangre y del tumor, realizándose análisis mediante next generation sequencing. Con la sospecha de síndrome de deleción 13q, se realizó análisis citogenético con cariotipo molecular (Cytoscan® HD, Affymetrix, Santa Clara, CA, EE. UU.), utilizando un chip de alta densidad con 1,9 millones de sondas únicas no polimórficas y 750.000 sondas de SNP. RESULTADOS: Se analizan 7 casos. Cuatro eran hombres. La mediana de edad del diagnóstico fue de 21 meses (rango 5-36). Tres casos presentaron retinoblastoma bilateral y 4, unilateral. Ninguno tenía antecedentes familiares. En todos se estudió la sangre y en los 2 pacientes unilaterales enucleados se estudió el tejido tumoral. Se encontraron 6 mutaciones, todas fueron de novo.Solo una era nueva (c.164delC; caso 1). Un caso de tumor unilateral reveló un mosaicismo en sangre, por lo que su enfermedad es heredable, tiene riesgo de desarrollar retinoblastoma en el ojo contralateral sano y riesgo de presentar otros tumores primarios. Conclusión El diagnóstico molecular de RB1 en pacientes con retinoblastoma influye sobre la toma de decisiones, los costos, el tratamiento y el pronóstico de los pacientes y sus familias

OBJECTIVES: To report the benefits of genetic diagnosis in patients with retinoblastoma. METHOD: Observational study. Patients with retinoblastoma and their families were included. Demographic and clinical data were recorded. Blood and tumour samples were obtained. Next generation sequencing was performed on the samples. When deletion 13 q syndrome was suspected, cytogenetics microarray was performed (Cytoscan® HD, Affymetrix, Santa Clara, CA, USA), with a high density chip of 1.9 million of non-polymorphic probes and 750 thousand SNP probes. RESULTS: Of the 7 cases were analysed 4 were male. The mean age at diagnosis was 21 months (range 5-36). Three cases had bilateral retinoblastoma, and 4 unilateral. None had family history. In all patients, blood was analysed, and a study was performed on the tissue from 2 unilateral enucleated tumours, in which 6 mutations were identified, all de novo. Just one was novel (c.164delC; case 1). One case of unilateral tumour revealed blood mosaicism, showing that his condition was inheritable, and that there is a high risk of developing retinoblastoma in the unaffected eye. The patient also has an increased risk of presenting with other primary tumours. CONCLUSION: Molecular diagnosis of RB1 in patients with retinoblastoma impacts on the decision process, costs, treatment, and prognosis of patients, as well as their families

Molecular diagnosis in patients with retinoblastoma: Report of a series of cases. / Diagnóstico molecular en pacientes con retinoblastoma: reporte de una serie de casos.

OBJECTIVES: To report the benefits of genetic diagnosis in patients with retinoblastoma. METHOD: Observational study. Patients with retinoblastoma and their families were included. Demographic and clinical data were recorded. Blood and tumour samples were obtained. Next generation sequencing was performed on the samples. When deletion 13 q syndrome was suspected, cytogenetics microarray was performed (Cytoscan® HD, Affymetrix, Santa Clara, CA, USA), with a high density chip of 1.9 million of non-polymorphic probes and 750 thousand SNP probes. RESULTS: Of the 7 cases were analysed 4 were male. The mean age at diagnosis was 21 months (range 5-36). Three cases had bilateral retinoblastoma, and 4 unilateral. None had family history. In all patients, blood was analysed, and a study was performed on the tissue from 2 unilateral enucleated tumours, in which 6 mutations were identified, all de novo. Just one was novel (c.164delC; case 1). One case of unilateral tumour revealed blood mosaicism, showing that his condition was inheritable, and that there is a high risk of developing retinoblastoma in the unaffected eye. The patient also has an increased risk of presenting with other primary tumours. CONCLUSION: Molecular diagnosis of RB1 in patients with retinoblastoma impacts on the decision process, costs, treatment, and prognosis of patients, as well as their families.

Manejo multidisciplinario en retinoblastoma: experiencia en 37 ojos / Multidisciplinary management of retinoblastoma: Experience in 37 eyes

OBJETIVOS: Reportar los resultados del manejo multidisciplinario de pacientes con retinoblastoma, incluyendo supervivencia global, tasa de enucleación y éxito de la quimiorreducción sistémica. MÉTODOS: Estudio retrospectivo 27 pacientes (37 ojos) con diagnóstico de retinoblastoma, tratados por un equipo multidisciplinario en el Hospital San Juan de Dios. Se incluyeron información demográfica, características clínicas, supervivencia, tratamiento local y sistémico. Se realizó además un subanálisis de tratamiento con quimioterapia intraarterial (QIA). RESULTADOS: Catorce pacientes (52%) fueron de sexo masculino. La mediana de edad al ingreso fue de 8 meses (0,16-90). La mediana ± desviación estándar de seguimiento fue de 33 ± 21 meses. Diez casos (37%) se diagnosticaron después de los 15 meses de edad, con una mediana de 35 meses (24-90). En 17 (63%) pacientes fueron retinoblastomas unilaterales, mientras 10 (37%) tuvieron retinoblastoma bilateral. La leucocoria, aislada o asociada a otros signos, fue el motivo de consulta más frecuente (63%). La tasa global de enucleación fue del 57% (n = 21), siendo el tratamiento primario en 15 (55%) pacientes. La tasa de enucleación en retinoblastoma unilateral fue del 76,5% y en retinoblastoma bilateral del 60% de un ojo y el 10% de ambos. Diecisiete (63%) pacientes recibieron quimioterapia sistémica (media de ciclos: 5,3 ± 2,1). El éxito global de la quimiorreducción sistémica y la terapia focal fue del 68%. Tres pacientes fueron tratados con QIA como terapia de rescate, logrando controlar el tumor en 2 pacientes a 6 meses de seguimiento, siendo los primeros casos en Chile. La supervivencia fue del 100%. CONCLUSIÓN: El manejo multidisciplinario del retinoblastoma permite una supervivencia y una morbilidad comparable con la literatura internacional

OBJECTIVE: To report the results of the multidisciplinary management of patients with retinoblastoma, including survival, enucleation rate, and systemic chemoreduction success. METHODS: A retrospective study was conducted on 27 patients (37 eyes) diagnosed with retinoblastoma, and treated by a multidisciplinary team in San Juan de Dios Hospital. Demographic information, clinical characterization, survival, local and systemic treatments were included in the analysis. Patients treated with intra-arterial chemotherapy (IAC) were also reviewed. RESULTS: The study included14 male patients (52%). The median of age at presentation was 8 months (0.16-90). The median follow-up time was 33 ± 21 months. The diagnosis was made in 10 (37%) cases after 15 months old, with a median of 35 months (24-90). 17 (63%) patients had unilateral retinoblastoma, and 10 (37%) bilateral retinoblastoma. Leukocoria, isolated or associated with other signs, was the most frequent reason for referral (63%). Global enucleation rate was 57% (n = 21), being the primary treatment in 15 (55%) patients. Enucleation rate in unilateral retinoblastoma was 76.5%, and for bilateral retinoblastoma, it was 60% for one eye and 10% for both. Systemic chemotherapy was prescribed in 17 (63%) patients, with a mean number of cycles of 5.3 ± 2.1. The overall success of chemoreduction and focal therapy in order to avoid external radiotherapy and/or enucleation was 68%. Three patients were treated with IAC as a salvage therapy, controlling the tumor in 2 patients at 6 months of follow-up. These are the first cases reported in Chile. Survival rate was 100%. CONCLUSION: Multidisciplinary management of retinoblastoma led to a survival rate and morbidity comparable with international reports

[Multidisciplinary management of retinoblastoma: Experience in 37 eyes]. / Manejo multidisciplinario en retinoblastoma: experiencia en 37 ojos.

OBJECTIVE: To report the results of the multidisciplinary management of patients with retinoblastoma, including survival, enucleation rate, and systemic chemoreduction success. METHODS: A retrospective study was conducted on 27 patients (37 eyes) diagnosed with retinoblastoma, and treated by a multidisciplinary team in San Juan de Dios Hospital. Demographic information, clinical characterization, survival, local and systemic treatments were included in the analysis. Patients treated with intra-arterial chemotherapy (IAC) were also reviewed. RESULTS: The study included14 male patients (52%). The median of age at presentation was 8 months (0.16-90). The median follow-up time was 33 ± 21 months. The diagnosis was made in 10 (37%) cases after 15 months old, with a median of 35 months (24-90). 17 (63%) patients had unilateral retinoblastoma, and 10 (37%) bilateral retinoblastoma. Leukocoria, isolated or associated with other signs, was the most frequent reason for referral (63%). Global enucleation rate was 57% (n=21), being the primary treatment in 15 (55%) patients. Enucleation rate in unilateral retinoblastoma was 76.5%, and for bilateral retinoblastoma, it was 60% for one eye and 10% for both. Systemic chemotherapy was prescribed in 17 (63%) patients, with a mean number of cycles of 5.3 ± 2.1. The overall success of chemoreduction and focal therapy in order to avoid external radiotherapy and/or enucleation was 68%. Three patients were treated with IAC as a salvage therapy, controlling the tumor in 2 patients at 6 months of follow-up. These are the first cases reported in Chile. Survival rate was 100%. CONCLUSION: Multidisciplinary management of retinoblastoma led to a survival rate and morbidity comparable with international reports.

Correlación en telemedicina de retinopatía del prematuro entre observadores expertos y no expertos / Telemedicine correlation in retinopathy of prematurity between experts and non-expert observers

OBJETIVOS: Evaluar la eficacia de la queratoplastia lamelar anterior profunda (DALK) mediante técnica de Melles (técnica B) en pacientes con queratocono avanzado en comparación con la técnica clásica de queratoplastia penetrante (QPP) (técnica A). METODOLOGÍA: Estudio retrospectivo descriptivo comparativo entre la técnica A y la técnica B en grupos homogéneos. RESULTADOS: La agudeza visual con corrección (test de Snellen, escala decimal) ha sido de 0,77 ± 0,32 para el grupo A y de 0,62 ± 0,29 para el grupo B, no siendo diferencias estadísticamente significativas. El defecto refractivo esférico medio en el grupo A fue de −1,73 ± 5,1 dioptrías y el equivalente esférico medio de −3,92 ± 5,1 dioptrías. El grupo B presentó valores de −2,67 ± 4,02 dioptrías y −4,55 ± 4,08 dioptrías, respectivamente, no habiendo diferencias para estas variables en ambos grupos. El cilindro residual una vez retiradas las suturas fue de 4,47 ± 2,47 dioptrías para el grupo A y de 3,77 ± 1,63 dioptrías para el grupo B, sin ser estadísticamente significativas. CONCLUSIÓN: No se han encontrado diferencias estadísticamente significativas para ninguna de las variables estudiadas al comparar ambos grupos mediante la t de Student para muestras independientes. Más estudios acerca de la homogeneidad del lecho estromal residual y del espesor del mismo pueden aportar las claves para que esta técnica se acerque a las agudezas visuales de una QPP o una DALK mediante técnica descemética

OBJECTIVE: To study the correlation between expert and non-expert observers in the reporting images for the diagnosis of retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) in a telemedicine setting. METHODS: A cross-sectional, multicenter study, consisting of 25 sets of images of patients screened for ROP. They were evaluated by two experts in ROP and 1 non-expert and classified according to telemedicine classification, zone, stage, plus disease and Ells referral criteria. The telemedicine classification was: no ROP, mild ROP, type 2 ROP, or ROP that requires treatment. Ells referral criteria is defined as the presence at least one of the following: ROP in zone I, Stage 3 in zone I or II, or plus + For statistical analysis, SPSS 16.0 was used. For correlation, Kappa value was performed. RESULTS: There was a high correlation between observers for the assessment of ROP stage (0.75; 0.54-0.88) plus disease (0.85; 0.71-0.92), and Ells criteria (0.89; 0.83-1.0). However, inter-observer values were low for zone (0.41; 0.27-0.54) and telemedicine classification (0.43; 0.33-0.6). CONCLUSIONS: When evaluating telemedicine images by examiners with different levels of expertise in ROP, the Ells criteria gave the best correlation. In addition, stage of disease and plus disease have good correlation among observers. In contrast, the correlation between observers was low for zone and telemedicine classification

[Telemedicine correlation in retinopathy of prematurity between experts and non-expert observers]. / Correlación en telemedicina de retinopatía del prematuro entre observadores expertos y no expertos.

OBJECTIVE: To study the correlation between expert and non-expert observers in the reporting images for the diagnosis of retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) in a telemedicine setting. METHODS: A cross-sectional, multicenter study, consisting of 25 sets of images of patients screened for ROP. They were evaluated by two experts in ROP and 1 non-expert and classified according to telemedicine classification, zone, stage, plus disease and Ells referral criteria. The telemedicine classification was: no ROP, mild ROP, type 2 ROP, or ROP that requires treatment. Ells referral criteria is defined as the presence at least one of the following: ROP in zone I, Stage 3 in zone I or II, or plus+ For statistical analysis, SPSS 16.0 was used. For correlation, Kappa value was performed. RESULTS: There was a high correlation between observers for the assessment of ROP stage (0.75; 0.54-0.88) plus disease (0.85; 0.71-0.92), and Ells criteria (0.89; 0.83-1.0). However, inter-observer values were low for zone (0.41; 0.27-0.54) and telemedicine classification (0.43; 0.33-0.6). CONCLUSIONS: When evaluating telemedicine images by examiners with different levels of expertise in ROP, the Ells criteria gave the best correlation. In addition, stage of disease and plus disease have good correlation among observers. In contrast, the correlation between observers was low for zone and telemedicine classification.

Management of subluxated lens in young patients.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate visual outcomes in patients treated for lens subluxation. Secondary objectives are to report best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) in LogMAR and compare the outcomes of patients managed conservatively with those treated surgically. METHODS: Retrospective comparison of BCVA in patients under 50 years-old with lens subluxation, managed conservatively or surgically. RESULTS: A total of 49 eyes of 28 patients were included. Demographic characteristics were similar in both groups. Twenty eyes were treated surgically (40.8%) compared to 29 with medical treatment (59.2%). Marfan syndrome (79.6%) was diagnosed in 39 eyes. LogMAR BCVA post intervention was 0.35±0.31 for medical treatment and 0.39±0.32 for the surgical group, with no significant differences (P=.63). Improvements in LogMAR lines were 2.7±4.2 and 4.11±4.2 (P=.35), respectively. Two eyes in the surgery group developed ocular hypertension (0.04%), none with retinal detachment. CONCLUSIONS: The final BCVA showed no significant differences in this group of patients. BCVA depends on the visual potential of the rehabilitated eye rather than a specific type of intervention.

Manejo del cristalino subluxado en pacientes jóvenes / Management of subluxated lens in young patients

Objetivos: Evaluar los resultados visuales en pacientes tratados por subluxación del cristalino. Los objetivos secundarios son reportar la agudeza mejor corregida (AVMC) en LogMAR y comparar los resultados de los pacientes manejados de manera conservadora con aquellos manejados quirúrgicamente. Métodos: Estudio retrospectivo comparativo de AVMC en pacientes menores de 50 años con subluxación de cristalino, manejados de manera conservadora con lentes o tratados quirúrgicamente. Resultados: Se incluyeron 49 ojos de 28 pacientes. Las características demográficas fueron similares en ambos grupos; 20 ojos fueron tratados quirúrgicamente (40,8%) versus 29 con tratamiento médico (59,2%); 39 ojos con diagnóstico de síndrome de Marfán (79,6%). La AVMC LogMAR postintervención de 0,35±0,31 para el tratamiento médico y 0,39±0,32 para el grupo de manejo quirúrgico, sin encontrarse diferencias significativas (p=0,63). Las mejorías en líneas LogMAR fueron, respectivamente, 2,7±4,2 y 4,11±4,2 (p=0,35). Dos ojos del grupo cirugía evolucionaron con hipertensión ocular (0,04%), ninguno con DR. Conclusiones: La AVMC final no presentó diferencias significativas en este grupo de pacientes, dependiendo del potencial visual del ojo rehabilitado más que de un tipo específico de intervención(AU)

Objectives: To evaluate visual outcomes in patients treated for lens subluxation. Secondary objectives are to report best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) in LogMAR and compare the outcomes of patients managed conservatively with those treated surgically. Methods: Retrospective comparison of BCVA in patients under 50 years-old with lens subluxation, managed conservatively or surgically. Results: A total of 49 eyes of 28 patients were included. Demographic characteristics were similar in both groups. Twenty eyes were treated surgically (40.8%) compared to 29 with medical treatment (59.2%). Marfan syndrome (79.6%) was diagnosed in 39 eyes. LogMAR BCVA post intervention was 0.35±0.31 for medical treatment and 0.39±0.32 for the surgical group, with no significant differences (P=.63). Improvements in LogMAR lines were 2.7±4.2 and 4.11±4.2 (P=0.35), respectively. Two eyes in the surgery group developed ocular hypertension (0.04%), none with retinal detachment. Conclusions: The final BCVA showed no significant differences in this group of patients. BCVA depends on the visual potential of the rehabilitated eye rather than a specific type of intervention(AU)

Immunogenicity and safety of combined intradermal recombinant Hepatitis B with BCG vaccines at birth.

This randomized, prospective, non-inferiority study aimed to quantify anti-HBs titers induced by recombinant Hepatitis B vaccine from healthy infants vaccinated with combined Hepatitis B and Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccines (HbsAg 10 microg plus BCG suspension 0.1mg) and compare them to titers obtained with separated vaccines. Infants were immunized at birth either with combined intradermal (ID) BCG and Hepatitis B or ID BCG alone and intramuscular (IM) Hepatitis B. Both groups received IM Hepatitis B at 1 and 6 months of age. After the third dose anti-HBs titers > or =10 IU/mL were observed in 99% of vaccinees and > or =1000 IU/mL in 71%. There were no adverse events in both groups. Combination of HbsAg with BCG as first dose did not modify the profile of the humoral immune response for Hepatitis B indicating safety and immunogenicity of this vaccine in newborn.

Robust gammadelta+ T cell expansion in infants immunized at birth with BCG vaccine.

Cell-mediated immune responses to BCG vaccine were evaluated in 7-month-old infants vaccinated with intradermal combined BCG and Hepatitis B or intradermal BCG and intramuscular Hepatitis B at birth. Peripheral blood mononuclear cell cultures from both groups showed CD4(+), CD8(+) and remarkable gammadelta(+) T cell BCG-specific proliferation, without significant differences. Also, IL-10, IL-12, IFN-gamma and TNF-alpha concentrations in culture supernatants, measured by ELISA, were similar. The results suggested that the combined BCG and Hepatitis B vaccine was as immunogenic as BCG separated from Hepatitis B vaccine.

Consensus conference: acitretin in combination with UVB or PUVA in the treatment of psoriasis.

Although adjunctive treatment with retinoids in concert with either psoralen-ultraviolet A (PUVA) or ultraviolet B (UVB) phototherapy has been a treatment option for chronic, moderate to severe plaque psoriasis for nearly two decades, acitretin-UV therapy is an underutilized therapeutic modality. According to a recent member survey by the National Psoriasis Foundation, many psoriasis patients are frustrated with available treatment options, which they perceive as ineffective, inconvenient, and/or excessively conservative. Treatment of psoriasis with acitretin in concert with UVB or PUVA is emerging as a viable clinical strategy. Compared with either acitretin or UV light monotherapy alone, the combination regimen enhances efficacy and limits treatment frequency, duration, and cumulative doses. These effects translate into care that is more effective, better tolerated, more convenient, less costly, and, perhaps, safer during long-term treatment than phototherapy alone. Drawing from an extensive literature search and the expertise of its participants, this consensus conference advances clinical recommendations as well as "clinical pearls" for health providers who treat patients with chronic, moderate to severe plaque psoriasis and suggests avenues for future research.

[Social pediatrics and its reformist proposals]. / A pediatria social e as suas apostas reformistas.

This article reflects on the constitution of Social Pediatrics in Brazil, viewing it as a movement for reform in children's health care involving teaching, services, and pediatric practice. The article includes a historical and bibliographical review of the Social Pediatrics' field and the provision of children's health care, analyzing its relations with movements for the reform of medical education and health care and its conceptual framework, including several authors' definitions and formulations on the theme.

Experience in treating recalcitrant scalp psoriasis with automated shampooing and debridement.

We report the cumulative clinical experience and financial implications of treating severe scalp psoriasis in an outpatient phototherapy center by means of an automated scalp debridement unit. Benefits of this approach included increased patient and staff satisfaction, enhanced response of recalcitrant scalp psoriasis, and detection of scalp dermatoses mimicking psoriasis.