Long-term visual acuity results from cataract surgery and its association with self-reported visual function: Catquest applicability / Resultados acuidade visual a longo prazo da cirurgia de catarata e sua associação com função visual autorreferida: aplicabilidade do Catquest

ABSTRACT Purposes: This study aimed to determine the association of the long-term refractive outcomes of cataract surgery with self-reported visual function obtained using Catquest-9SF. Methods: Patients recruited from the cataract outpatient clinic of VER MAIS Oftalmologia underwent a complete ophthalmologic examination. Patients who were diagnosed with cataract with indications for phacoemulsification and intraocular lens implantation received the Catquest-9SF questionnaire before and after surgery at 30 days and 1 year. Results: A total of 133 patients were recruited, but 32 patients were lost to follow-up; finally, data from 101 patients (48 men, 53 women) were analyzed. The crude variance explained by the data was 69.9%, and the unexplained variance in the first contrast was 2.39 eigenvalues (>2); thus, these results are different from those expected from random data. The people separation index was 2.95 (>2), and the people trust value was 0.9 (>0.8). These indices were evaluated in the assessment of skill levels. Visual acuity was the main variable that correlated with the Catquest score. Conclusions: The Catquest-9SF translated into Portuguese proved to be a one-dimensional and psychometrically valid tool to assess visual dysfunction in patients with cataract, and it is successful in objectively quantifying improvements after surgery. The results of this tool could be predictive and concordant of visual acuity improvement.

RESUMO Objetivo: Associar os resultados refrativos a longo prazo da cirurgia de catarata e a função visual autorreferida pelo questionário Catquest-9SF. Métodos: Paciente recrutados no ambulatório de catarata da VER MAIS Oftalmologia, foram submetidos a exame oftalmológico completo. Após diagnóstico de catarata com indicação de tratamento cirúrgico com facoemulsificação e implante de lente intraocular, o questionário foi aplicado antes da intervenção, 30 dias após cirurgia e 1 ano após, novamente. Resultados: Foram recrutados 133 pacientes. No decorrer do seguimento, 32 pacientes foram perdidos e ao final foram analisados os dados de 101 pacientes, dos quais 48 foram homens e 53 foram mulheres. A variância bruta explicada por dados foi de 69,9% e a inexplicada em primeiro contraste por 2,39 eigenvalores, sendo maior que 2, o que nos mostra que são resultados differentes dos esperados de dados aleatórios. O índice de separação de pessoas foi de 2.95 (>2) e o valor de confiança de pessoas foi de 0,9 (>0,8). Estes índices são os valores mínimos aceitáveis na diferenciação de níveis de habilidade. Acuidade visual foi a principal variável correlacionada com o score do Catquest. Conclusões: O Catquest-9SF traduzido para o português se demonstrou unidimensional e uma ferramenta psicometricamente válida para avaliar disfunção visual em pacientes com catarata, além de ter tido sucesso para quantificar objetivamente melhoras após a intervenção cirúrgica. Essa ferramenta pode ser utilizada como preditiva e concordante da melhora da acuidade visual.

SARS-CoV-2 and the ocular surface: test accuracy and viral load / SARS-CoV-2 e a superfície ocular: acurácia dos testes e carga viral

ABSTRACT Purpose: This study aimed to evaluate the pre-sence of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) RNA in the ocular surface of individuals clinically suspected of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and determine the accuracy of different approaches of molecular testing on the ocular surface based on the nasopharyngeal positivity status for COVID-19. Methods: A total of 152 individuals with suspected COVID-19 symptoms who simultaneously underwent nasopharyngeal and two different tear film collection techniques for quantitative reverse-transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) were included. Tears were collected and randomized: one eye had the filter strip for the Schirmer test and the contralateral eye had conjunctival swab/cytology in the inferior fornix. All patients underwent slit lamp biomicroscopy. The accuracy of various ocular surface collection techniques used for the detection of SARS-CoV-2 RNA was determined. Results: Of the 152 patients enrolled in the study, 86 (56.6%) had COVID-19 confirmed by nasopharyngeal PCR. Both tear film collection techniques detected viral particles: the Schirmer test was positive in 16.3% (14/86) and the conjunctival swab/cytology in 17.4% (15/86), with no statistically significant differences. No positive ocular tests were found among those with negative nasopharyngeal PCR tests. The overall agreement of the ocular tests was 92.7%, and in combination, the sensitivity would increase to 23.2%. The mean cycle threshold values in the nasopharyngeal, Schirmer, and conjunctival swab/cytology tests were 18.2 ± 5.3, 35.6 ± 1.4, and 36.4 ± 3.9, respectively. Compared with the nasopharyngeal test, the Schirmer (p=0.001) and conjunctival swab/cytology (p<0.001) tests had significantly different Ct values. Conclusion: The Schirmer (16.3%) and conjunctival swab (17.4%) tests were comparably capable of detecting SARS-CoV-2 RNA in the ocular surface by RT-PCR accurately based on nasopharyngeal status and demonstrated indistinct sensitivity and specificity. Simultaneous specimen sampling and processing from the nasopharyngeal, Schirmer, and conjunctival swab/cytology tests demonstrated significantly lower viral load in both ocular surface approaches than in the nasopharyngeal test. Ocular manifestations detected by slit lamp biomicroscopy were not associated with ocular RT-PCR positivity.

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar a presença de RNA de coronavírus 2 causador de síndrome respiratória aguda grave (SARS-CoV-2) na superfície ocular de indivíduos clinicamente suspeitos com COVID-19 e determinar a precisão de diferentes abordagens de testes moleculares na superfície ocular com base no status de positividade do RT-qPCR de nasofaringe para COVID-19. Métodos: 152 indivíduos com sintomas suspeitos para a COVID-19 foram submetidos a coleta de reação em cadeia da polimerase de nasofaringe simultaneamente a duas técnicas diferentes de coleta de filme lacrimal para RT-qPCR: aleatoriamente, um olho com a tira filtro do teste de Schirmer e, o olho contralateral, com citologia (swab) conjuntival no fórnice inferior. Todos os indivíduos foram submetidos à biomicroscopia com lâmpada de fenda. Resultados: Dos 152 pacientes, 86 (56,6%) tiveram a COVID-19 confirmada por PCR de nasofaringe. Ambas as técnicas de coleta detectaram partículas virais: o teste de Schirmer foi positivo em 16,3% (14/86) e a citologia conjuntival em 17,4% (15/86), sem diferenças estatisticamente significativas. Não houve testes oculares positivos entre aqueles com reação em cadeia da polimerase de nasofaringe negativo. A concordância geral dos testes oculares foi de 92,7% e, em combinação, a sensibilidade aumentaria para 23,2%. Os valores médios do limiar de ciclo nos testes de nasofaringe, Schirmer e citologia conjuntival foram 18,2 ± 5,3, 35,6 ± 1,4 e 36,4 ± 3,9, respectivamente. Conclusão: Os testes de Schirmer (16,3%) e swab conjuntival (17,4%) foram igualmente capazes de detectar RNA de SARS-CoV-2 na superfície ocular por RT-PCR e demonstraram sensibilidade e especificidade indistintas. A coleta simultânea de amostras ao processamento dos testes de RT-PCR de nasofaringe, Schirmer e citologia (swab) conjuntival demonstraram carga viral significativamente menor em ambas as abordagens da superfície ocular em comparação com o teste de nasofaringe. As manifestações oculares detectadas pela biomicroscopia com lâmpada de fenda não foram claramente associadas à positividade do RT-PCR ocular.

SARS-CoV-2 and the ocular surface: test accuracy and viral load.

PURPOSE: This study aimed to evaluate the pre-sence of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) RNA in the ocular surface of individuals clinically suspected of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and determine the accuracy of different approaches of molecular testing on the ocular surface based on the nasopharyngeal positivity status for COVID-19. METHODS: A total of 152 individuals with suspected COVID-19 symptoms who simultaneously underwent nasopharyngeal and two different tear film collection techniques for quantitative reverse-transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) were included. Tears were collected and randomized: one eye had the filter strip for the Schirmer test and the contralateral eye had conjunctival swab/cytology in the inferior fornix. All patients underwent slit lamp biomicroscopy. The accuracy of various ocular surface collection techniques used for the detection of SARS-CoV-2 RNA was determined. RESULTS: Of the 152 patients enrolled in the study, 86 (56.6%) had COVID-19 confirmed by nasopharyngeal PCR. Both tear film collection techniques detected viral particles: the Schirmer test was positive in 16.3% (14/86) and the conjunctival swab/cytology in 17.4% (15/86), with no statistically significant differences. No positive ocular tests were found among those with negative nasopharyngeal PCR tests. The overall agreement of the ocular tests was 92.7%, and in combination, the sensitivity would increase to 23.2%. The mean cycle threshold values in the nasopharyngeal, Schirmer, and conjunctival swab/cytology tests were 18.2 ± 5.3, 35.6 ± 1.4, and 36.4 ± 3.9, respectively. Compared with the nasopharyngeal test, the Schirmer (p=0.001) and conjunctival swab/cytology (p<0.001) tests had significantly different Ct values. CONCLUSION: The Schirmer (16.3%) and conjunctival swab (17.4%) tests were comparably capable of detecting SARS-CoV-2 RNA in the ocular surface by RT-PCR accurately based on nasopharyngeal status and demonstrated indistinct sensitivity and specificity. Simultaneous specimen sampling and processing from the nasopharyngeal, Schirmer, and conjunctival swab/cytology tests demonstrated significantly lower viral load in both ocular surface approaches than in the nasopharyngeal test. Ocular manifestations detected by slit lamp biomicroscopy were not associated with ocular RT-PCR positivity.

Long-term visual acuity results from cataract surgery and its association with self-reported visual function: Catquest applicability.

PURPOSES: This study aimed to determine the association of the long-term refractive outcomes of cataract surgery with self-reported visual function obtained using Catquest-9SF. METHODS: Patients recruited from the cataract outpatient clinic of VER MAIS Oftalmologia underwent a complete ophthalmologic examination. Patients who were diagnosed with cataract with indications for phacoemulsification and intraocular lens implantation received the Catquest-9SF questionnaire before and after surgery at 30 days and 1 year. RESULTS: A total of 133 patients were recruited, but 32 patients were lost to follow-up; finally, data from 101 patients (48 men, 53 women) were analyzed. The crude variance explained by the data was 69.9%, and the unexplained variance in the first contrast was 2.39 eigenvalues (>2); thus, these results are different from those expected from random data. The people separation index was 2.95 (>2), and the people trust value was 0.9 (>0.8). These indices were evaluated in the assessment of skill levels. Visual acuity was the main variable that correlated with the Catquest score. CONCLUSIONS: The Catquest-9SF translated into Portuguese proved to be a one-dimensional and psychometrically valid tool to assess visual dysfunction in patients with cataract, and it is successful in objectively quantifying improvements after surgery. The results of this tool could be predictive and concordant of visual acuity improvement.

Association between keratoconus, ocular allergy, and sleeping behavior.

PURPOSE: To compare the severity and laterality of keratoconus according to allergic rhinitis, scratching and sleeping habits, and manual dexterity. METHODS: Objective assessments regarding allergic rhinitis, eye itching, and slee-ping position among patients with keratoconus (diagnosed based on corneal tomography) were conducted. Diagnostic criteria and classification were based on the Amsler-Krumeich classification. RESULTS: Ocular pruritus was reported by 29 of 34 participants (85.29%). Eighteen participants (62.07%) reported equal scratching of both eyes, six (20.69%) more on the right eye, and five (17.24%) more on the left eye. Comparison of the main sleeping position and the eye with more severe presentation of the disease using Fisher's exact test revealed some correlations (0.567 and 0.568 in the right and left eye, respectively). However, these correlations were not statistically significant. CONCLUSIONS: The association between higher keratometry values and sleeping position appears to be more significant than that reported between keratometry and itching, or manual dexterity.

Impact of a mobile unit on access to eye care in São Paulo, Brazil.

PURPOSE: The goal of this study was to determine the impact of a mobile eye health unit on access to eye care and to generate a profile of the population requiring ophthalmic care by age, nature of their ophthalmic diseases, and optimal management. METHODS: The study was conducted in 14 cities in the southwest region of São Paulo, Brazil. Subjects included individuals who participate in the Brazilian Unified Health System who were in need of eye care. There were no restrictions on age, gender or socioeconomic status. Data was transferred to an Excel table for statistical analyses. RESULTS: We evaluated 6,878 participants in this survey with mean age of 44 years (range 4 months to 96 years); 65.5% were female. Among the diagnoses, 78.6% presented with refractive errors, 9.6% presented with cataracts and 8.3% presented with pterygium. New corrective lenses were prescribed for 60.9% of the participants; 10% retained their existing lenses, ~28% required counseling only and18.1% of the participants were referred to a tertiary facility for specialized exams and/or surgical procedures. Of the participants who required outside referrals, 36.4% required oculoplastic/external eye surgery and 31.8% required cataract surgery. CONCLUSION: The vast majority of patients presenting to a mobile eye health unit required prescriptions for corrective lenses. The rate of detection of ocular disorders was relatively high and the mobile unit provided effective treatment of refractive errors and referrals for specialized ophthalmic examinations and procedures. A mobile eye health unit can be an effective alternative method for improving access to basic eye care, for promoting eye health education and preventing blindness.

Impact of a mobile unit on access to eye care in São Paulo, Brazil / Impacto do uso de unidade móvel no acesso à saúde ocular em São Paulo, Brasil

ABSTRACT Purpose: The goal of this study was to determine the impact of a mobile eye health unit on access to eye care and to generate a profile of the population requiring ophthalmic care by age, nature of their ophthalmic diseases, and optimal management. Methods: The study was conducted in 14 cities in the southwest region of São Paulo, Brazil. Subjects included individuals who participate in the Brazilian Unified Health System who were in need of eye care. There were no restrictions on age, gender or socioeconomic status. Data was transferred to an Excel table for statistical analyses. Results: We evaluated 6,878 participants in this survey with mean age of 44 years (range 4 months to 96 years); 65.5% were female. Among the diagnoses, 78.6% presented with refractive errors, 9.6% presented with cataracts and 8.3% presented with pterygium. New corrective lenses were prescribed for 60.9% of the participants; 10% retained their existing lenses, ~28% required counseling only and18.1% of the participants were referred to a tertiary facility for specialized exams and/or surgical procedures. Of the participants who required outside referrals, 36.4% required oculoplastic/external eye surgery and 31.8% required cataract surgery. Conclusion: The vast majority of patients presenting to a mobile eye health unit required prescriptions for corrective lenses. The rate of detection of ocular disorders was relatively high and the mobile unit provided effective treatment of refractive errors and referrals for specialized ophthalmic examinations and procedures. A mobile eye health unit can be an effective alternative method for improving access to basic eye care, for promoting eye health education and preventing blindness.

RESUMO Objetivo: Determinar o impacto do uso de unidade móvel no acesso à saúde ocular e avaliar o perfil da população que necessita de cuidados oftalmológicos, as doenças oculares mais frequentes e o tratamento. Métodos: Estudo transversal realizado em 14 municípios da região sudoeste do Estado de São Paulo utilizando uma unidade móvel oftalmológica. Os participantes eram usuários do Sistema Único de Saúde que procuraram atendimento oftalmológico, sem restrição quanto a idade, gênero ou condição socioeconômica. Os dados foram transferidos para a tabela Excel para análise estatística. Resultados: Participaram do estudo 6.878 pessoas, com média de idade de 44 anos (variação de 4 meses a 96 anos) e 65,5% eram mulheres. Erros refrativos estavam presentes em 78,6% dos participantes, catarata em 9,6% e pterígio em 8,3%. Para 60% foram prescritos óculos, para 10% foi mantida a correção óptica em uso e para 28% foram necessárias apenas orientações. Exames especializados ou procedimentos cirúrgicos foram indicados para 18,1% dos casos que foram encaminhados para tratamento em serviço terciário. Dentre os pacientes referenciados, 36,4% necessitavam de cirurgia oculoplástica ou para tratar afecções externas do olho e 31,8%, de cirurgia de catarata. Conclusão: A grande maioria dos pacientes que procurou atendimento na unidade móvel necessitava de prescrição de óculos. A unidade móvel oftalmológica possui alto grau de resolutividade para os problemas oculares, com oportunidade de tratar os erros refrativos e referenciar os pacientes que necessitam de atendimento espe­cializado, geralmente relacionado a condições cirúrgicas. Unidades móveis podem ser uma alternativa aos cuidados oftalmológicos básicos, melhorando o acesso, atuando na promoção da saúde ocular e prevenindo a cegueira.

Reliability of foveal avascular zone measurements in eyes with retinal vein occlusion using optical coherence tomography angiography.

BACKGROUND: To evaluate the reliability of foveal avascular zone (FAZ) area measurements using optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) in eyes with retinal vein occlusion (RVO). METHODS: Twenty-five OCTA exams of patients with RVO were evaluated retrospectively. Three examiners performed manual measurements of the FAZ, and interrater and intrarater reliability were obtained. RESULTS: The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) for interrater reliability for individual measurements was 0.62 (moderate) with a 95% confidence interval (CI) of 0.40 to 0.79 (p < 0.001). The ICC (95% CI) for intrarater reliability was 0.92 (0.82 to 0.96) for rater A, 0.96 (0.91 to 0.98) for B, and 0.88 (0.76 to 0.94) for C (p < 0.001). In all subanalyses including presence of edema and type of occlusion, interrater reliability was poor/moderate, and intrarater reliability was good/excellent. CONCLUSION: The FAZ varies significantly among eyes with RVO, so measurements obtained using OCTA should be analyzed with caution due to the moderate level of reliability among different examiners.

Database of the alumni performance of the Ophthalmology Stricto sensu Postgraduate Program at Escola Paulista de Medicina, UNIFESP.

PURPOSE: To develop a database with social, demographic and professional information of all graduates of the two post-graduate programs in Ophthalmology of EPM-UNIFESP, including their opinions on quality, application, and contribution of the courses received in their professional careers. METHODS: The survey was conducted in the digital and physical archives of the University and by telephone contact. When the graduates' e-mails were all collected, the electronic questionnaire was applied. The responses were compiled. Descriptive analysis of the results obtained in this cross-sectional study was performed, and analyzed by the authors and by statistical professionals, through Excel graphs. RESULTS: The database suggests that most graduates were born and work in the state of São Paulo. A significant fraction of 66.77% is dedicated to academic work, but only 36.2% hold management positions. Most of them receive amounts of one to 56 minimum wages monthly. The main motivation was to improve their professional careers. CONCLUSION: For post-graduate programs, a database with information of its graduates can elucidate whether the goals were achieved based on the proposed teaching, as well as can generate reflections to improve the quality, the courses expectations and the vision that students have of the University.

Cost-effectiveness of Anti-VEGF treatments for age-related macular degeneration: a Brazilian perspective.

PURPOSE: To study the cost-effectiveness of ranibizumab and bevacizumab for the treatment of age-related macular degeneration. METHODS: We used a decision tree model to analyze the cost-effectiveness of ranibizumab and bevacizumab for the treatment of age-related macular degeneration, from the Brazilian Public Health System (SUS) perspective. Ranibizumab and bevacizumab were administered to patients with the same treatment procedure, and the difference in treatment costs was calculated based on the cost of the drugs. Direct costs were estimated using the information provided by the Brazilian SUS. Effectiveness in terms of quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) was calculated based on the utility values for visual impairment. Incremental cost-effectiveness ratio was calculated by comparing both treatments. The analytical horizon was one year. RESULTS: The decision tree analysis showed that the difference in treatment effectiveness was 0.01 QALY. Incremental cost-effectiveness ratio showed that ranibizumab treatment required an incremental annual cost of more than R$ 2 million to generate 1 additional QALY, as compared to bevacizumab. CONCLUSIONS: From the Brazilian SUS perspective, bevacizumab is more cost-effective than ranibizumab for the treatment of neovascular age-related macular degeneration. Its use could allow potential annual savings in health budget.

Cost-effectiveness of Anti-VEGF treatments for age-related macular degeneration: a Brazilian perspective / Estudo de custo-efetividade de tratamentos para a degeneração macular relacionada à idade: uma perspectiva brasileira

ABSTRACT Purpose: To study the cost-effectiveness of ranibizumab and bevacizumab for the treatment of age-related macular degeneration. Methods: We used a decision tree model to analyze the cost-effectiveness of ranibizumab and bevacizumab for the treatment of age-related macular degeneration, from the Brazilian Public Health System (SUS) perspective. Ranibizumab and bevacizumab were administered to patients with the same treatment procedure, and the difference in treatment costs was calculated based on the cost of the drugs. Direct costs were estimated using the information provided by the Brazilian SUS. Effectiveness in terms of quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) was calculated based on the utility values for visual impairment. Incremental cost-effectiveness ratio was calculated by comparing both treatments. The analytical horizon was one year. Results: The decision tree analysis showed that the difference in treatment effectiveness was 0.01 QALY. Incremental cost-effectiveness ratio showed that ranibizumab treatment required an incremental annual cost of more than R$ 2 million to generate 1 additional QALY, as compared to bevacizumab. Conclusions: From the Brazilian SUS perspective, bevacizumab is more cost-effective than ranibizumab for the treatment of neovascular age-related macular degeneration. Its use could allow potential annual savings in health budget.

RESUMO Objetivo: Estudar o custo-efetividade do ranibizumabe e bevacizumabe no tratamento da degeneração macular relacionada à idade neovascular. Métodos: Utilizamos um modelo de árvore de decisão para analisar a relação custo-efetividade do ranibizumabe e bevacizumabe no tratamento da degeneração macular relacionada à idade, sob a perspectiva do Sistema Único de Saúde. O ranibizumabe e bevacizumabe foram administrados a pacientes com o mesmo procedimento de tratamento, e a diferença nos custos do tratamernto foi calculada com base no custo dos medicamentos. Os custos diretos foram estimados utilizando as informações fornecidas pelo SUS. A efetividade foi determinada em anos de vida ajustados pela qualidade (QALY) baseados em valores de utilidade em deficiênciavisual. A razãoincremental custo-efetividadefoicalculada comparando os dois tratamentos. O horizonte analítico foi de um ano. Resultados: A análise da árvore de decisão mostrou que a diferença na efetividade do tratamento foi de 0,01 QALY. A razão incremental de custo-efetividade mostrou que o tratamento com ranibizumabe exigiu um custo anual incremental de R$ 2 milhões para gerar um QALY adicional, em comparação ao bevacizumabe. Conclusões: Do ponto de vista do SUS, o bevacizumabe é mais custo-efetivo que o ranibizumabe no tratamento da degeneração macular relacionada à idade neovascular. O seu uso poderia gerar uma grande economia anual para o orçamento em saúde.

The Use of Topiramate for Weight Loss Causing Acute Glaucoma: A Case Report and Literature Review.

Topiramate is a sulfa-containing drug which is able to disrupt the ocular blood barrier. Recently it has gained more popularity, being used in many clinical conditions. Nowadays, the cases of glaucoma induced by topiramate have increased due to the use of this drug to induce weight loss. We here described a 29-year-old female presented with a one-day history of blurred vision in both eyes and headache. She was using a weight loss formula containing topiramate 100 milligrams. Ophthalmologic exam revealed an important myopic shift of -7.00 spherical diopters at presentation with intraocular pressure (IOP) of 32 mmHg and a shallow anterior chamber in both eyes. After discontinuous of topiramate and use of cycloplegic eyedrops, myopic shift improved and IOP controlled after two days. The anterior chamber was significantly deeper in both eyes after two weeks. It is theorized that topiramate can provoke a ciliochoroidal effusion and, therefore, can cause an anterior displacement of lens-iris diaphragm with a secondary angular closure. The treatment must include cycloplegic and discontinuation of the drug. Sulfa-containing drugs lead to an indirect mechanism of angle closure, frequently bilateral and, as mentioned above, with a different treatment approach. If unrecognized and untreated, it can provoke high morbidity with possibility of bilateral permanent visual loss.

Effectiveness of monthly and fortnightly anti-VEGF treatments for age-related macular degeneration / Efetividade de tratamentos anti-VEGF mensais e quinzenais para a degeneração macular relacionada à idade

ABSTRACT Purpose: To study the efficacy and safety of treatments with ranibizumab and bevacizumab for exudative age-related macular degeneration. Methods: A parallel randomized clinical trial was conducted to compare the efficacy and safety of three regimens (bevacizumab every month, bevacizumab every 2 weeks, and ranibizumab every month), followed by as-needed retreatments, for 1 year, in previously untreated individuals with age-related macular degeneration. The primary outcome was change in visual acuity and in central macular thickness after 1 year of follow-up. Subjects were assigned randomly to one of the three groups in a 1:1:1 ratio, and investigators and examiners were blinded to the randomization results. Results: We included 15 patients in each group. After 1 year of follow-up, we found statistically significant improvements in visual acuity and central macular thickness reduction in all groups. However, we found no statistically significant differences between the three groups. Conclusions: The bi-weekly follow-up was effective and we found no significant differences in efficacy or safety between the treatments with ranibizumab and bevacizumab.

RESUMO Objetivo: Estudar a eficácia e segurança dos tratamentos com ranibizumabe e bevacizumabe para a degeneração macular relacionada à idade exsudativa. Métodos: Ensaio clínico paralelo randomizado foi conduzido para comparar a eficácia e segurança de três regimes (bevacizumabe a cada mês, bevacizumabe a cada 2 semanas e ranibizumabe todos os meses), seguidos por retratamentos conforme necessidade, durante 1 ano, em indivíduos previamente não tratados com degeneração macular relacionada à idade. O desfecho primário foi alteração na acuidade visual e na espessura macular central após um ano de seguimento. Os indivíduos foram designados aleatoriamente para um dos 3 grupos em uma proporção de 1:1:1, e os investigadores e examinadores foram mascarados para os resultados da randomização. Resultados: Foram incluídos 15 pacientes em cada grupo. Após um ano de seguimento, encontramos melhorias estatisticamente significativas na acuidade visual e na redução da espessura macular central em todos os grupos. No entanto, não encontramos diferenças estatisticamente significativas entre os 3 grupos. Conclusões: O seguimento quinzenal foi eficaz e não encontramos diferenças significativas na eficácia ou segurança entre os tratamentos com bevacizumabe e ranibizumabe.

Effectiveness of monthly and fortnightly anti-VEGF treatments for age-related macular degeneration.

PURPOSE: To study the efficacy and safety of treatments with ranibizumab and bevacizumab for exudative age-related macular degeneration. METHODS: A parallel randomized clinical trial was conducted to compare the efficacy and safety of three regimens (bevacizumab every month, bevacizumab every 2 weeks, and ranibizumab every month), followed by as-needed retreatments, for 1 year, in previously untreated individuals with age-related macular degeneration. The primary outcome was change in visual acuity and in central macular thickness after 1 year of follow-up. Subjects were assigned randomly to one of the three groups in a 1:1:1 ratio, and investigators and examiners were blinded to the randomization results. RESULTS: We included 15 patients in each group. After 1 year of follow-up, we found statistically significant improvements in visual acuity and central macular thickness reduction in all groups. However, we found no statistically significant differences between the three groups. CONCLUSIONS: The bi-weekly follow-up was effective and we found no significant differences in efficacy or safety between the treatments with ranibizumab and bevacizumab.

Long-term outcomes with Boston type 1 keratoprosthesis in ocular burns.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the long-term outcomes of Boston type I keratoprosthesis (B-Kpro) in the management of patients with ocular burn injuries. METHODS: This prospective study included all patients with ocular burns who underwent B-Kpro implantation at a tertiary eye care center between February 2008 and November 2015. Twelve patients (12 eyes) were enrolled. The procedures performed for managing ocular injury were identified, and information on ocular history, surgical procedures performed, and postoperative outcomes was collected. The main outcome measures were visual acuity, prosthesis retention, postoperative complications, and required surgical procedures. RESULTS: Twelve eyes from 12 patients met the inclusion criteria for B-Kpro implantation, including nine eyes with alkali burns and three eyes with thermal burns. A total of 13 B-Kpro devices were implanted in the 12 eyes. The mean follow-up period was 60.8 months (range, 13-91 months). Preoperative best-corrected visual acuity ranged from counting fingers to light perception. Postoperative best-corrected visual acuity was better than 20/200 in 83.3%, 66.6%, and 57.1% of patients at 12, 48, and 60 months, respectively. The initial keratoprosthesis was retained in 10 (83.3%) eyes and was successfully replaced in one eye. The major cause of worsening of initial visual acuity was advanced glaucoma (four of 12 eyes). CONCLUSION: The anatomical and functional results support the use of B-Kpro for managing bilateral limbal stem cell deficiency secondary to ocular burns. However, glaucoma should be carefully evaluated, as it is a continuous threat that may result in irreversible visual loss in this population.

Long-term outcomes with Boston type 1 keratoprosthesis in ocular burns / Resultados a longo prazo com o implante da ceratoprótese de Boston tipo 1 em queimaduras oculares

ABSTRACT Purpose: To evaluate the long-term outcomes of Boston type I keratoprosthesis (B-Kpro) in the management of patients with ocular burn injuries. Methods: This prospective study included all patients with ocular burns who underwent B-Kpro implantation at a tertiary eye care center between February 2008 and November 2015. Twelve patients (12 eyes) were enrolled. The procedures performed for managing ocular injury were identified, and information on ocular history, surgical procedures performed, and postoperative outcomes was collected. The main outcome measures were visual acuity, prosthesis retention, postoperative complications, and required surgical procedures. Results: Twelve eyes from 12 patients met the inclusion criteria for B-Kpro implantation, including nine eyes with alkali burns and three eyes with thermal burns. A total of 13 B-Kpro devices were implanted in the 12 eyes. The mean follow-up period was 60.8 months (range, 13-91 months). Preoperative best-corrected visual acuity ranged from counting fingers to light perception. Postoperative best-corrected visual acuity was better than 20/200 in 83.3%, 66.6%, and 57.1% of patients at 12, 48, and 60 months, respectively. The initial keratoprosthesis was retained in 10 (83.3%) eyes and was successfully replaced in one eye. The major cause of worsening of initial visual acuity was advanced glaucoma (four of 12 eyes). Conclusion: The anatomical and functional results support the use of B-Kpro for managing bilateral limbal stem cell deficiency secondary to ocular burns. However, glaucoma should be carefully evaluated, as it is a continuous threat that may result in irreversible visual loss in this population.

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar os resultados em longo prazo do implante da ceratoprótese de Boston tipo 1 (B-Kpro) no tratamento de pacientes vítima de queimadura ocular. Métodos: Trata-se de um estudo prospectivo envolvendo todos os casos de implante de B-Kpro 1 para queimadura ocular em um centro de oftalmologia terciário durante o período de fevereiro/2008 e novembro/2015. Doze pacientes (doze olhos) foram incluídos no estudo. Os procedimentos realizados para o manejo da queimadura ocular foram identificados, e os dados foram coletados com relação à história oftalmológica do paciente, procedimentos cirúrgicos realizados, e resultados pós-operatórios. Os principais parâmetros avaliados foram acuidade visual, retenção da prótese, complicações pós-ope ratórias e intervenções cirúrgicas necessárias. Resultados: Doze pacientes preencheram os critérios de inclusão para implante da B-Kpro, incluindo 09 olhos vítimas de queimadura por álcali e 03 olhos pós queimadura térmica. Um total de 13 B-Kpro tipo 1 foram implantadas em 12 olhos de 12 pacientes. O tempo de seguimento médio foi de 60,8 meses (variando, 13-91 meses). Melhor acuidade visual corrigida pré-operatória variou de conta dedos à percepção luminosa. Melhor acuidade visual corrigida pós-operatória foi melhor que 20/200 em 83,3%, 66,6% e 57,1% dos pacientes em 12 meses, 48 meses e 60 meses, respectivamente. A ceratoprótese inicialmente implantada permaneceu retida em 10 (83,3%) dos olhos e foi re-implantada com sucesso em um olho. A principal causa de piora da acuidade visual inicialmente atingida foi glaucoma avançado (4 de 12 olhos). Conclusão: Os resultados anatômicos e funcionais reportados neste estudo dão suporte ao uso da B-Kpro para o tratamento da deficiência límbica bilateral secundária a queimadura ocular. Glaucoma é o principal fator limitante e pode causar perda visual irreversível nesses pacientes.

Internal carotid artery aneurysm mimicking normal-tension glaucoma.

Differentiating glaucomatous from nonglaucomatous optic disc cupping remains challenging. We present a case of a 48-year-old woman with an internal carotid aneurysm of approximately 3.5 mm × 6.5 mm that mimicked normal-tension glaucoma. The patient had a 2-year history of low vision acuity in her left eye and frontal oppressive headache. Owing to the carotid aneurysm, she developed an asymmetric vertical cup-to-disc ratio above 0.2, and marked inferotemporal neuronal rim loss and pallor of the residual rim were noted in the left disc. She also developed a visual field defect with an arcuate scotoma in the left eye. The patient was referred to a neurosurgeon and underwent endovascular aneurysm occlusion. This case highlights the diagnostic importance of recognizing that many neurological defects remain underdiagnosed.

Internal carotid artery aneurysm mimicking normal-tension glaucoma / Aneurisma de carótida interna simulando glaucoma de pressão normal

ABSTRACT Differentiating glaucomatous from nonglaucomatous optic disc cupping remains challenging. We present a case of a 48-year-old woman with an internal carotid aneurysm of approximately 3.5 mm × 6.5 mm that mimicked normal-tension glaucoma. The patient had a 2-year history of low vision acuity in her left eye and frontal oppressive headache. Owing to the carotid aneurysm, she developed an asymmetric vertical cup-to-disc ratio above 0.2, and marked inferotemporal neuronal rim loss and pallor of the residual rim were noted in the left disc. She also developed a visual field defect with an arcuate scotoma in the left eye. The patient was referred to a neurosurgeon and underwent endovascular aneurysm occlusion. This case highlights the diagnostic importance of recognizing that many neurological defects remain underdiagnosed.

RESUMO diferenciação de escavações glaucomatosas e não glaucomatosas ainda permanece um desafio ainda nos dias de hoje. Nos descrevemos um caso de aneurisma de carótida interna medindo 3.5mm x 6.5mm que simulava um glaucoma de pressão normal. O caso é sobre uma paciente feminino de 48 anos com história de 2 anos de baixa acuidade visual no olho esquerdo e cefaléia frontal. Devido ao aneurisma de carótida a paciente desenvolveu uma assimetria de escavação vertical maior que 0.2 no olho esquerdo em relação ao direito com defeito localizado da camada de fibras nervosas temporal inferior. Ela também apresentava um defeito arqueado temporal superior a esquerda, cruzando a linha média vertical consistente. Após o diagnostico confirmado pela ressonância magnética funcional, a paciente foi enviada para o neurocirurgião para realização de uma oclusão endovascular do aneurisma. Esse caso nos alerta da importância de se lembrar que não apenas o glaucoma gera escavações suspeitas no disco óptico e que ainda muitos defeitos por causas neurológicas são subdiagnosticados.