Factors associated with serous retinal detachment in highly myopic eyes with inferior posterior staphyloma. / Factores asociados con el desprendimiento neurosensorial macular en pacientes miopes magnos con estafiloma inferior.

PURPOSE: To investigate the factors associated with persistent serous retinal detachment in highly myopic eyes with inferior posterior staphyloma. METHODS: A total of 27 highly myopic patients (44 eyes) with an inferior posterior staphyloma were recruited. Serous retinal detachment was investigated; 13 eyes had persistent sub-macular fluid (study group), and 31 eyes lacked sub-macular fluid (control group). All patients underwent complete ophthalmologic examinations, including axial length measurement and fluorescein angiography (FA). Triton Deep Range Imaging (DRI) optical coherence tomography (OCT) (Topcon Corp., Tokyo, Japan) scans through the fovea measured choroidal thicknesses, macular bend height, and vitreoretinal interface factors. RESULTS: Of the 44 eyes, 13 had neurosensory retinal detachment and 31 did not. No significant differences were found in any of the studied variables (age, gender, spherical equivalence, axial length, vitreomacular traction, epiretinal membrane, internal limiting membrane detachment), except a higher macular bend height (p = 0.01), and a reduced macular choroidal thickness (p = 0.02), which were associated with the risk of serous retinal detachment. No statistically significant differences in best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) were observed between the study and control groups. Serous retinal detachment always occurred at the bisected retinal pigment epithelium of the macula corresponding to the upper edge of the staphyloma, and was characterised by multiple hyperfluorescent granular patches on fluorescein angiography. CONCLUSIONS: A higher macular bend height and a reduced macular choroidal thickness may be important factors in the development of serous retinal detachment in patients with inferior posterior staphyloma.

Prospective analysis of macular and optic disc changes after non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy.

PURPOSE: To prospectively analyse macular and optic disc changes after the occurrence of non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION) and study possible predictors of final visual outcome. METHODS: Patients with NAION underwent a complete ophthalmic examination, including spectral-domain optical coherence tomography of the macula and optic nerve head. The examination was repeated 1, 3, 6, 9 and 12 months after onset. Final visual prognosis was evaluated by visual field (VF) and best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) at the final visit. Data within the NAION group were analysed over the course of the disease and compared to a disease-free control group at each visit. RESULTS: Twenty-two eyes with NAION and 43 eyes from a control group were included. The retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) was significantly thicker in NAION eyes than controls at presentation (P=0.00), and significantly decreased during the next 3 months after presentation (P=0.02). The ganglion cell+inner plexiform layer (GCIPL) was thinner in the NAION group throughout the course of the disease (all P<0.05). Although the acute NAION eyes had significantly lower cup/disc ratios and higher neuroretinal and disc sizes (all P=0.00), there were no significant differences between groups from the third month onwards (all P>0.05). The best predictors of BCVA and VF were GCIPL at 3 months of follow-up (r2=0.32; P=0.03) and RNFL at 6 months of follow-up (r2=0.41; P=0.01) respectively. CONCLUSIONS: RNFL and optic disc changes occur during the first 3 months after the onset of NAION, whereas GCIPL is affected soon after the onset of symptoms. GCIPL and RNFL are useful predictors of final visual outcome.

Longitudinal study of visual function in patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis with and without a history of optic neuritis. / Estudio longitudinal de la función visual en pacientes con esclerosis múltiple remitente-recurrente con y sin antecedentes de neuritis óptica.

INTRODUCTION: The contrast sensitivity test determines the quality of visual function in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS). The purpose of this study is to analyse changes in visual function in patients with relapsing-remitting MS with and without a history of optic neuritis (ON). METHODS: We conducted a longitudinal study including 61 patients classified into 3 groups as follows: a) disease-free patients (control group); b) patients with MS and no history of ON; and c) patients with MS and a history of unilateral ON. All patients underwent baseline and 6-year follow-up ophthalmologic examinations, which included visual acuity and monocular and binocular Pelli-Robson contrast sensitivity tests. RESULTS: Monocular contrast sensitivity was significantly lower in MS patients with and without a history of ON than in controls both at baseline (P=.00 and P=.01, respectively) and at 6 years (P=.01 and P=.02). Patients with MS and no history of ON remained stable throughout follow-up whereas those with a history of ON displayed a significant loss of contrast sensitivity (P=.01). Visual acuity and binocular contrast sensitivity at baseline and at 6 years was significantly lower in the group of patients with a history of ON than in the control group (P=.003 and P=.002 vs P=.006 and P=.005) and the group with no history of ON (P=.04 and P=.038 vs P=.008 and P=.01). However, no significant differences were found in follow-up results (P=.1 and P=.5). CONCLUSIONS: Monocular Pelli-Robson contrast sensitivity test may be used to detect changes in visual function in patients with ON.

[Analysis of the quantitative differences in the thickness of the retinal nerve fibre layer between time-domain and spectral-domain optical coherence tomography in patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis]. / Analisis de las diferencias cuantitativas en el grosor de la capa de fibras nerviosas retiniana entre la tomografia de coherencia optica de dominio-tiempo y de dominio-espectral en pacientes con esclerosis multiple remitente recurrente.

INTRODUCTION: Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is a tool that is increasingly more commonly used in the study of neuro-degenerative diseases. AIMS: To analyse and correlate the thickness of the retinal nerve fibre layer (RNFL) by means of time-domain and spectral-domain OCT in patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (MS), with and without a history of optic neuritis (ON). SUBJECTS AND METHODS: We conducted a cross-sectional study of the thickness (mean and by quadrants) of the RNFL of 15 disease-free subjects, 28 with MS with no prior history of ON and 18 with a history of ON. The full ophthalmologic examination included measurement of the RNFL by means of time-domain and spectral-domain tomography. RESULTS: Statistically significant differences are found between the two tomography scans on comparing the mean thickness of the RNFL of the control group (p = 0.000), the group with a history of ON (p = 0.000) and the group without ON (p = 0.000). We obtained a strong, statistically significant and directly proportional correlation between the mean thickness of the RNFL measured with the two types of tomography in the control group (rho = 0.842; p = 0.000), and the groups of eyes without ON (rho = 0.91; p = 0.000) and with ON (rho = 0.902; p = 0.000). CONCLUSIONS: There is a strong correlation between the two tomography scans in the measurement of the thickness of the RNFL in patients with MS, with and without a history of ON. Time-domain OCT quantifies greater thicknesses, and therefore both types of tomography have proven to be effective in the study of MS, although the results cannot be interchanged or extrapolated.

TITLE: Analisis de las diferencias cuantitativas en el grosor de la capa de fibras nerviosas retiniana entre la tomografia de coherencia optica de dominio-tiempo y de dominio-espectral en pacientes con esclerosis multiple remitente recurrente.Introduccion. La tomografia de coherencia optica (OCT) es una herramienta cada vez mas extendida en el estudio de las enfermedades neurodegenerativas. Objetivos. Analizar y correlacionar el grosor de la capa de fibras nerviosas retiniana (CFNR) mediante OCT de dominio-tiempo y dominio-espectral en pacientes con esclerosis multiple (EM) remitente recurrente, con y sin antecedente de neuritis optica (NO). Sujetos y metodos. Estudio transversal del grosor medio y por cuadrantes de la CFNR en 15 sujetos libres de enfermedad, 28 con EM sin historia previa de NO y 18 con antecedentes de NO. La exploracion oftalmologica completa incluia la medicion de la CFNR mediante tomografos de dominio-tiempo y dominio-espectral. Resultados. Existen diferencias estadisticamente significativas entre ambos tomografos al comparar el grosor medio de la CFNR en el grupo control (p = 0,000), el grupo con antecedentes de NO (p = 0,000) y el grupo sin NO (p = 0,000). Hemos obtenido una fuerte correlacion, estadisticamente significativa y directamente proporcional entre el grosor medio de la CFNR medido con ambos tomografos en el grupo control (rho = 0,842; p = 0,000), y los grupos de ojos sin NO (rho = 0,91; p = 0,000) y con NO (rho = 0,902; p = 0,000). Conclusiones. Existe una fuerte correlacion en la medicion del grosor de la CFNR entre ambos tomografos en pacientes con EM, con y sin antecedente de NO. La OCT de dominio-tiempo cuantifica grosores mayores, por lo que ambos tomografos se demuestran eficaces en el estudio de la EM, aunque los resultados no son intercambiables ni extrapolables.

Macular choroidal thickness in non-arteritic ischemic optic neuropathy. / Grosor coroideo macular en la neuropatía óptica isquémica anterior no arterítica.

OBJECTIVE: To analyse macular choroidal thickness (MCT) in non-arteritic ischaemic optic neuropathy (NAION). MATERIALS AND METHODS: An analysis was made on 22 patients diagnosed with NAION (22 eyes) and 42 healthy controls (42 eyes) using enhanced-depth imaging of spectral-domain optical coherence tomography. A horizontal raster scan centred on the fovea was obtained per eye 3 months after the onset of NAION. Three measurements of MCT were obtained from the posterior edge of the retinal pigment epithelium to the choroid-sclera junction at 500µm intervals. Statistical analysis was used to compare the mean MCT and to correlate MCT with other ocular and systemic parameters. RESULTS: Except for refractive error (P=.01), there were no statistically significant differences between both groups in axial length (P=.53), age (P=.88) and other epidemiological and ocular parameters. Mean MCT in NAION eyes and control group was 236.21±63.29µm and 269.13±52.28, respectively. Mean MCT was significantly thinner in NAION eyes than in healthy eyes (P=.03). Thinner MCT, adjusted for refractive error, was associated with the diagnosis of NAION (P=.04). CONCLUSIONS: Eyes affected by NAION showed significantly thinner MCT compared with healthy control eyes after adjusting for refractive error.

Dexamethasone intravitreal implant for treatment of persistent macular oedema in Birdshot retinochoroidopathy.

CLINICAL CASE: The case is reported of a 32 year-old man with a bilateral cystoid macular oedema and serous macular detachment due to birdshot retinochoroidopathy. An intravitreal implant of 0.7 mg dexamethasone (Ozurdex®, Allergan) was performed on both eyes, after a partial response of the macular oedema to oral and subtenon corticosteroids. Anatomical and visual improvements were observed and maintained after six months of follow up. DISCUSSION: Intravitreal dexamethasone implant may be a good therapeutic option in patients with macular oedema due to Birdshot retinochoroidopathy, and who were refractory or had intolerance to previous therapies.

Analysis of macular and nerve fiber layer thickness in multiple sclerosis patients according to severity level and optic neuritis episodes. / Análisis del grosor macular y de capa de fibras nerviosas en pacientes con esclerosis múltiple en relación con su nivel de gravedad y antecedentes previos de neuritis óptica.

INTRODUCTION: Quantitative assessment of macular and nerve fibre layer thickness in multiple sclerosis patients with regard to expanded disability status scale (EDSS) and presence or absence of previous optic neuritis episodes. METHODS: We recruited 62 patients with multiple sclerosis (53 relapsing-remitting and 9 secondary progressive) and 12 disease-free controls. All patients underwent an ophthalmological examination, including quantitative analysis of the nerve fibre layer and macular thickness using optical coherence tomography. Patients were classified according to EDSS as A (lower than 1.5), B (between 1.5 and 3.5), and C (above 3.5). RESULTS: Mean nerve fibre layer thickness in control, A, B, and C groups was 103.35±12.62, 99.04±14.35, 93.59±15.41, and 87.36±18.75µm respectively, with statistically significant differences (P<.05). In patients with no history of optic neuritis, history of episodes in the last 3 to 6 months, or history longer than 6 months, mean nerve fibre layer thickness was 99.25±13.71, 93.92±13.30 and 80.07±15.91µm respectively; differences were significant (P<.05). Mean macular thickness in control, A, B, and C groups was 220.01±12.07, 217.78±20.02, 217.68±20.77, and 219.04±24.26µm respectively. Differences were not statistically significant. CONCLUSIONS: The mean retinal nerve fibre layer thickness in multiple sclerosis patients is related to the EDSS level. Patients with previous optic neuritis episodes have a thinner retinal nerve fibre layer than patients with no history of these episodes. Mean macular thickness is not correlated to EDSS level.

Relationship between paravascular abnormalities and foveoschisis in highly myopic patients.

PURPOSE: To describe the prevalence of paravascular abnormalities in highly myopic patients and its relationship with myopic foveoschisis (MF). METHODS: Cross-sectional study of 250 highly myopic eyes. All of the patients underwent a complete ophthalmologic examination that included optical coherence tomography . RESULTS: Optical coherence tomography images showed 170 eyes (68%) with paravascular microfolds (PM), 121 eyes (48.4%) presented paravascular retinal cysts (PC), and 35 eyes (14%) with paravascular lamellar holes . All the eyes with PCs had PMs. Out of the 250 eyes, 48 (19.2%) had paravascular retinoschisis (PR). All the eyes (100%) with PR had paravascular cysts and PMs. Sixteen eyes (6.4%) had foveoschis. The spherical equivalent (P<0.00), PR (P=0.01), and the presence of tractional structures (P<0.00) were associated with increased risk for foveoschsis in the multivariate study. CONCLUSIONS: PMs were the lesions most often observed in the paravascular area in highly myopic eyes. MF would be a result of the action of different forces (intra- and extra-ocular forces), specially tractional structures, on precursor lesions (paravascular cyst and paravascular restinoschisis). Further studies are needed to confirm these results.

Cambios morfológicos y morfométricos en los capilares del nervio óptico de rata en un modelo experimental de glaucoma / Morphological and morphometric changes in rat optic nerve microvessels in a glaucoma experimental model

OBJETIVO: Estudiar los cambios morfológicos y morfométricos producidos en los capilares de la cabeza del nervio óptico (NO) y de su porción inicial, después de la elevación experimental de la presión intraocular (PIO). MATERIAL Y MÉTODOS: Se utilizaron ratas Wistar que fueron sometidas a cauterización de 3 venas epiesclerales, con el resultado inmediato de elevación de la PIO, manteniéndose esta durante 3 meses. Se realizaron secciones sagitales del globo ocular y se aplicaron técnicas inmunohistoquímicas, mediante un anticuerpo para GLUT-1. Se procedió al recuento de los capilares GLUT-1 positivo y se midieron área, perímetro y diámetro medio. RESULTADOS: El examen microscópico de las secciones del NO de las ratas controles demostró una menor densidad de capilares y un mayor calibre de los mismos en la región prelaminar, respecto a las demás regiones del NO (p < 0,05). Cuando se compararon los grupos control y experimental se observó una disminución en la densidad de capilares (excepto en la región prelaminar) y un menor tamaño de los mismos en todas las zonas del NO analizadas, menos evidente en la porción inicial (p < 0,05). CONCLUSIONES: El aumento de la PIO se relaciona con cambios cualitativos y cuantitativos de los capilares de las regiones laminar y poslaminar de la cabeza del NO, y parecen recuperarse hacia parámetros compatibles con la normalidad en la porción inicial del NO, donde el colapso vascular es menos evidente. Estos hallazgos podrían explicar la reducción significativa del flujo sanguíneo ocular observada en pacientes con glaucoma primario de ángulo abierto

AIM: To study the morphological and morphometric changes produced in the capillaries of the optic nerve (ON) head and initial portion after the experimental increase in intraocular pressure (IOP). MATERIAL AND METHODS: Wistar rats underwent cauterization of three episcleral veins, which produced an immediate increase in the IOP, and was maintained for 3 months. Sagittal sections of the eyeball were studied with immunohistochemical techniques, using a primary antibody to GLUT-1. The GLUT-1 positive capillaries were counted, and measurements were made of the area, perimeter and mean diameter. RESULTS: Microscopic examination of sections of the ON of control rats revealed a lower density and larger caliber of capillaries in the prelaminar region as compared with the other regions of the ON (P<.05). Comparison between the control and the experimental groups showed a reduction in capillary density (except in the prelaminar region) and a smaller size in all the areas of the ON studied, but less evident in the initial portion (P<.05). CONCLUSIONS: The increase in IOP was associated with significant qualitative and quantitative changes in the capillaries of the laminar and poslaminar regions of the ON head. These changes appear to return towards parameters compatible with normality in the initial portion of the ON, an area where the vascular collapse was less evident. These findings might explain the significant reduction in ocular blood flow seen in patients with primary open-angle glaucoma

Relación entre el test de sensibilidad al contraste y el nivel de gravedad en pacientes con esclerosis múltiple / Relationship between contrast sensitivity test and disease severity in multiple sclerosis patients

OBJETIVO: Evaluar la utilidad de la prueba de sensibilidad al contraste Pelli-Robson en pacientes con esclerosis múltiple, dependiendo de la escala expandida del estado de discapacidad (EDSS). MATERIAL Y MÉTODOS: Estudio retrospectivo de 62 pacientes diagnosticados de esclerosis múltiple y remitidos desde el Servicio de Neurología a la Unidad de Neurooftalmología del Hospital Virgen de la Victoria. Los pacientes fueron clasificados según la escala EDSS en 3 grupos: A) inferior a 1,5; B) entre 1,5 y 3,5 y C) superior a 3,5. Se determinó la agudeza visual y la sensibilidad al contraste monocular y binocular mediante las pruebas de Snellen y Pelli-Robson, respectivamente. Un total de 12 pacientes libres de enfermedad fueron reclutados como grupo control. Se analizaron estadísticamente los resultados obtenidos. RESULTADOS: El tiempo medio de evolución de la enfermedad fue de 81,54 ± 35,32 meses. Los valores medios del Pelli-Robson monocular y binocular en el grupo control fueron 1,82 ± 0,10 y 1,93 ± 0,43, mientras que en los pacientes con esclerosis múltiple fueron 1,61 ± 0,29 y 1,83 ± 0,19 respectivamente, siendo estas diferencias estadísticamente significativas en el análisis monocular para un nivel de significación de p < 0,05. Respecto al nivel de gravedad, los valores medios monoculares y binoculares de la prueba de Pelli-Robson fueron en el grupo A: 1,66 ± 0,24 y 1,90 ± 0,98; en el grupo B: 1,64 ± 0,21 y 1,82 ± 0,16 y en el grupo C: 1,47 ± 0,45 y 1,73 ± 0,32, respectivamente. Las diferencias entre grupos mostraron una significación estadística para ambas pruebas: p = 0,05 y p = 0,027. CONCLUSIONES: La sensibilidad al contraste, monocular y binocular, analizada mediante la prueba de Pelli-Robson disminuye significativamente según aumenta el nivel de gravedad medida con la escala EDSS en pacientes con esclerosis múltiple

OBJECTIVE: To assess the importance of the Pelli-Robson contrast sensitivity test in multiple sclerosis patients according to the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS). MATERIAL AND METHODS: A total of 62 patients with multiple sclerosis were included in a retrospective study. Patients were enrolled from the Neurology Department to Neuroophthalmology at Virgen de la Victoria Hospital. Patients were classified into 3 groups according to EDSS: group A) lower than 1.5, group B) between 1.5 and 3.5 and group C) greater than 3.5. Visual acuity and monocular and binocular contrast sensitivity were performed with Snellen and Pelli-Robson tests respectively. Twelve disease-free control participants were also recruited. Correlations between parameter changes were analyzed. RESULTS: The mean duration of the disease was 81.54 ± 35.32 months. Monocular and binocular Pelli-Robson mean values in the control group were 1.82 ± 0.10 and 1.93 ± 0.43 respectively, and 1.61 ± 0.29 and 1.83 ± 0.19 in multiple sclerosis patients. There were statistically significant differences in the monocular analysis for a level of significance P<0.05. Mean monocular and binocular Pelli-Robson values in relation to gravity level were, in group A: 1.66 ± 0.24 and 1.90 ± 0.98, group B: 1.64 ± 0.21 and 1.82 ± 0.16, and group C: 1.47 ± 0.45 and 1.73 ± 0.32 respectively. Group differences were statistically significant in both tests: P=0.05 and P=0.027. CONCLUSIONS: Monocular and binocular contrast discrimination analyzed using the Pelli-Robson test was found to be significantly lower when the severity level, according EDSS, increases in multiple sclerosis patients

Morphological and morphometric changes in rat optic nerve microvessels in a glaucoma experimental model.

AIM: To study the morphological and morphometric changes produced in the capillaries of the optic nerve (ON) head and initial portion after the experimental increase in intraocular pressure (IOP). MATERIAL AND METHODS: Wistar rats underwent cauterization of three episcleral veins, which produced an immediate increase in the IOP, and was maintained for 3 months. Sagittal sections of the eyeball were studied with immunohistochemical techniques, using a primary antibody to GLUT-1. The GLUT-1 positive capillaries were counted, and measurements were made of the area, perimeter and mean diameter. RESULTS: Microscopic examination of sections of the ON of control rats revealed a lower density and larger caliber of capillaries in the prelaminar region as compared with the other regions of the ON (P<.05). Comparison between the control and the experimental groups showed a reduction in capillary density (except in the prelaminar region) and a smaller size in all the areas of the ON studied, but less evident in the initial portion (P<.05). CONCLUSIONS: The increase in IOP was associated with significant qualitative and quantitative changes in the capillaries of the laminar and poslaminar regions of the ON head. These changes appear to return towards parameters compatible with normality in the initial portion of the ON, an area where the vascular collapse was less evident. These findings might explain the significant reduction in ocular blood flow seen in patients with primary open-angle glaucoma.

Crecimiento neovascular en un modelo experimental de quemadura corneal por álcali / Neovascular growth in an experimental alkali corneal burn model

OBJETIVOS: Analizar la longitud y área corneal ocupada por neovasos, así como la localización de estos, en un modelo experimental de neovascularización corneal por quemadura con álcali. MÉTODOS: Se utilizaron 91 ratas Sprague-Dawley en las que se realizó una quemadura en el centro de la córnea del ojo derecho utilizando un lápiz de nitrato de plata. Los animales fueron divididos en 7 grupos que fueron sacrificados a los 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12 y 14 días posquemadura, siendo perfundidos mediante una mezcla de tinta china y PBS (tampón fosfato salino). Las córneas fueron procesadas «a plano» y divididas en 4 cuadrantes. Se analizaron diferentes parámetros del crecimiento neovascular corneal (longitud y área), así como la localización de dichos neovasos de forma enmascarada. Los resultados fueron analizados estadísticamente. RESULTADOS: A partir del 2.° día se observa un crecimiento neovascular que alcanza su pico máximo a los 12 días posquemadura, tanto en longitud como en área. A partir de esta fecha se produce un débil retroceso del crecimiento neovascular. Los neovasos se localizan inicialmente en el tercio medio del estroma, tendiendo a situarse, a medida que transcurre el experimento, en el tercio anterior. CONCLUSIÓN: La neovascularización se observó al 2° día posquemadura en todos los sectores de la superficie corneal. El crecimiento neovascular fue uniforme durante todo el experimento. Los neovasos se localizaron en el tercio medio y anterior de la córnea

OBJECTIVE: To review the scientific literature about the relationship between impairment on smooth pursuit eye movements and schizophrenia. METHODS: Narrative review that includes historical articles, reports about basic and clinical investigation, systematic reviews, and meta-analysis on the topic. RESULTS: Up to 80% of schizophrenic patients have impairment of smooth pursuit eye movements. Despite the diversity of test protocols, 65% of patients and controls are correctly classified by their overall performance during this pursuit. The smooth pursuit eye movements depend on the ability to anticipate the target's velocity and the visual feedback, as well as on learning and attention. The neuroanatomy implicated in smooth pursuit overlaps to some extent with certain frontal cortex zones associated with some clinical and neuropsychological characteristics of the schizophrenia, therefore some specific components of smooth pursuit anomalies could serve as biomarkers of the disease. Due to their sedative effect, antipsychotics have a deleterious effect on smooth pursuit eye movements, thus these movements cannot be used to evaluate the efficacy of the currently available treatments. CONCLUSION: Standardized evaluation of smooth pursuit eye movements on schizophrenia will allow to use specific aspects of that pursuit as biomarkers for the study of its genetics, psychopathology, or neuropsychology

Relationship between contrast sensitivity test and disease severity in multiple sclerosis patients.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the importance of the Pelli-Robson contrast sensitivity test in multiple sclerosis patients according to the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS). MATERIAL AND METHODS: A total of 62 patients with multiple sclerosis were included in a retrospective study. Patients were enrolled from the Neurology Department to Neuroophthalmology at Virgen de la Victoria Hospital. Patients were classified into 3 groups according to EDSS: group A) lower than 1.5, group B) between 1.5 and 3.5 and group C) greater than 3.5. Visual acuity and monocular and binocular contrast sensitivity were performed with Snellen and Pelli-Robson tests respectively. Twelve disease-free control participants were also recruited. Correlations between parameter changes were analyzed. RESULTS: The mean duration of the disease was 81.54±35.32 months. Monocular and binocular Pelli-Robson mean values in the control group were 1.82±0.10 and 1.93±0.43 respectively, and 1.61±0.29 and 1.83±0.19 in multiple sclerosis patients. There were statistically significant differences in the monocular analysis for a level of significance P<.05. Mean monocular and binocular Pelli-Robson values in relation to gravity level were, in group A: 1.66±0.24 and 1.90±0.98, group B: 1.64±0.21 and 1.82±0.16, and group C: 1.47±0.45 and 1.73±0.32 respectively. Group differences were statistically significant in both tests: P=.05 and P=.027. CONCLUSIONS: Monocular and binocular contrast discrimination analyzed using the Pelli-Robson test was found to be significantly lower when the severity level, according EDSS, increases in multiple sclerosis patients.

Neovascular growth in an experimental alkali corneal burn model.

OBJECTIVE: To analyse the length and area of corneal surface occupied by vessels, and their location in an experimental model of alkali burn-induced corneal neovascularization. METHODS: An injury to the central cornea of the right eye in 91 Sprague-Dawley rats was induced using a silver nitrate pencil. The rats were divided in 7 groups that were sacrificed 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12 and 14 days post-injury, and then perfused with a mixture of Chinese ink in PBS -phosphate buffer saline-. Corneas were flat-mounted processed and divided in 4 quadrants. Corneal neovascular growth parameters (length and area) and the location of these vessels were performed blind. The results were statistically analysed. RESULTS: Neovascular growth was observed from day 2, reaching its maximum peak in length and area on the 12th day post-injury. A slight reduction in corneal neovascularization was observed after this day. The vessels were initially located in the middle third of the stroma and tended to be observed in the anterior third during the course of the experiment. CONCLUSIONS: Neovascularisation was observed on day 2 post-injury in all sectors of corneal surface. Neovascular growth was uniform during the experiment. Neovessels were located in the middle and anterior third of the cornea.

Desprendimiento viteliforme adquirido en paciente con drusas cuticulares tratado con bevacizumab / Bevacizumab treatment for acquired vitelliform detachment in patient with cuticular drusen

Caso clínico: Varón de 30 años, diagnosticado de desprendimiento viteliforme adquirido (DVA) secundario a drusas cuticulares que presentaba metamorfopsias en su OD. Se trató con inyecciones intravítreas de bevacizumab (Avastin), respondiendo favorablemente. Discusión: Enfermedad independiente, de fenotipo genético aún desconocido, debida a una disfunción generalizada del epitelio pigmentario retiniano (EPR). Evoluciona en un 50% a DVA; con la ayuda de nuevas pruebas complementarias llegamos a un diagnóstico certero. Sin tratamiento efectivo hasta el momento. Dada la frecuencia con la que se desarrolla neovascularización coroidea (NVC), creemos que el tratamiento con fármacos anti-VEGF podría ayudarnos en la estabilización o mejoría funcional y/o anatómica del cuadro (AU)

Case report: We report a case of a 30-year-old male with acquired vitelliform detachment (AVD) secondary to cuticular drusen and suffering from metamorphopsia in his right eye. Intravitreal bevacizumab (Avastin) was administered, achieving successful results. Discussion: An independent disease, of unknown genetic phenotype, caused by a generalized dysfunction of the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE). About 50% of patients develop AVD, and a correct diagnosis can be made with the help of new complementary tests. With no effective treatment currently available, and because of the incidence of developing choroidal neovascularization (NVC), treatment with anti-VEGF could help stabilize or improve the disease functionally and/or anatomically (AU)

[Multiple retinal pigment epithelial detachments: a case report]. / Múltiples desprendimientos de epitelio pigmentario idiopático: a propósito de un caso.

CASE REPORT: A 47 year-old female who presented with a bilateral idiopathic multiple pigment epithelial detachment (PED) in a routine visit. This pathology is shown as a rare clinical manifestation, where the outcome is resolution of localized atrophy of the pigment epithelium, with a good functional prognosis. DISCUSSION: PED is a common clinical manifestation in several chorioretinal diseases, particularly in macular degeneration associated with age. Idiopathic PED can be considered as a kind of central type II serous chorioretinopathy. Fundus fluorescein angiography (FFA) and optical coherence tomography (OCT) are complementary tests to study the number, extension, and nature of these PED.

[Bevacizumab treatment for acquired vitelliform detachment in patient with cuticular drusen]. / Desprendimiento viteliforme adquirido en paciente con drusas cuticulares tratado con bevacizumab.

CASE REPORT: We report a case of a 30-year-old male with acquired vitelliform detachment (AVD) secondary to cuticular drusen and suffering from metamorphopsia in his right eye. Intravitreal bevacizumab (Avastin) was administered, achieving successful results. DISCUSSION: An independent disease, of unknown genetic phenotype, caused by a generalized dysfunction of the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE). About 50% of patients develop AVD, and a correct diagnosis can be made with the help of new complementary tests. With no effective treatment currently available, and because of the incidence of developing choroidal neovascularization (NVC), treatment with anti-VEGF could help stabilize or improve the disease functionally and/or anatomically.

[A protocol for the treatment of retinopathy of prematurity in Spain]. / Protocolo de tratamiento de la retinopatía del prematuro en España.

OBJECTIVE: To prepare a protocol for the treatment of retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) agreed by the majority of Spanish ophthalmologists dedicated to this topic. MATERIAL AND METHOD: A draft of the protocol was produced taking into account the experience of the participants and up to date publications. This draft was corrected by all the ophthalmologists participating in the project, and the final document was agreed by all of them. RESULTS: We present general guidelines as an aid for the treatment of ROP, including treatment criteria, treatment methods, a calendar of action, and follow-up. CONCLUSIONS: It is important to have a common working protocol for the treatment of ROP to improve care and to avoid mistakes. Although individual Hospitals may adapt the protocol to their daily activity, it is recommended that there is a minimal working protocol agreed by most of professionals dedicated to pediatric ophthalmology in Spain.

Protocolo de tratamiento de la retinopatía del prematuro en España / A protocol for the treatment of retinopathy of prematurity in Spain

Objetivo: Realizar un protocolo de tratamiento de la retinopatía del prematuro (ROP) consensuado por la mayor parte de oftalmólogos españoles dedicados al tema. Material y método: Se realizó un borrador del protocolo según la experiencia de los participantes y las publicaciones actualizadas. Este borrador fue corregido por los participantes en el protocolo y se llegó al documento final consensuado por todos los participantes. Resultados: Se presentan las directrices generales para realizar el tratamiento de la ROP, incluyendo criterios de tratamiento, metodología de actuación, calendario de actuación y seguimiento. Conclusiones: Es importante disponer de un protocolo de actuación común en el tratamiento de la ROP para mejorar la actuación y evitar errores. Aunque cada centro hospitalario deba adaptar el protocolo a su actividad clínica, es recomendable que existan un mínimo de procedimientos consensuados por todos los oftalmólogos dedicados a la ROP (AU)

Objective: To prepare a protocol for the treatment of retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) agreed by the majority of Spanish ophthalmologists dedicated to this topic. Material and method: A draft of the protocol was produced taking into account the experience of the participants and up to date publications. This draft was corrected by all the ophthalmologists participating in the project, and the final document was agreed by all of them. Results: We present general guidelines as an aid for the treatment of ROP, including treatment criteria, treatment methods, a calendar of action, and follow-up. Conclusions: It is important to have a common working protocol for the treatment of ROP to improve care and to avoid mistakes. Although individual Hospitals may adapt the protocol to their daily activity, it is recommended that there is a minimal working protocol agreed by most of professionals dedicated to pediatric ophthalmology in Spain (AU)

Programa de cribado para la retinopatía del prematuro en España / Screening program for retinopathy of prematurity in Spain

Objetivo: Realizar un protocolo de cribado de la retinopatía del prematuro (ROP), consensuado por la mayor parte de oftalmólogos españoles dedicados al tema. Material y método: Se realizó un borrador del protocolo según la experiencia de los participantes y las publicaciones actualizadas. Este borrador fue corregido por los participantes en el protocolo y se llegó al documento final consensuado por todos los participantes. Resultados: Se presentan las directrices generales para realizar el cribado de la ROP, incluyendo criterios de inclusión y exclusión, metodología de exploración y calendario de actuación. Conclusiones: Es importante disponer de un protocolo de actuación común en el cribado de la ROP para mejorar la actuación y evitar errores. Aunque cada centro hospitalario deba adaptar el protocolo a su actividad clínica es recomendable que existan un mínimo de procedimientos consensuados por todos los oftalmólogos dedicados a la ROP (AU)

Objective: To prepare a retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) screening program as agreed by most of Spanish ophthalmologists dedicated to this topic. Material and method: A draft of the protocol was produced taking into account the experience of the participants and current publications. This draft was corrected by all the ophthalmologists participating in the project and the final document produced was agreed by all of them. Results: We present general guidelines to help in the screening of ROP, including treatment criteria, treatment methods, and a calendar of action. Conclusions: It is important to have a common working protocol in the screening of ROP to improve the action and to avoid mistakes. Although individual Hospitals may adapt the protocol to their daily activity, it is recommended that there is a minimal working protocol agreed by most of professionals dedicated to pediatric ophthalmology in Spain (AU)