Situation of ophthalmology education in Brazil: supply versus demand / A situação da educação em Oftalmologia no Brasil: oferta versus demanda

ABSTRACT Purpose: The number of medical schools in Brazil has increased in recent years; however, vacancies for specialization in ophthalmology probably have not kept up with the growing demand. This study wants to estimate the increase in medical schools, the demand for ophthalmology specialization, and evaluate learning opportunities in ophthalmology. Methods: This was a retrospective study with research from the Ministry of Education and Brazilian Council of Ophthalmology database from 2002 to 2021. These data were checked through 120 notices published by the institutions in 2021. Results: The number of medical school vacancies increased by 370%, whereas the number of certified ophthalmology vacancies increased by 64%. There was an 11.4% misalignment between the Brazilian Council of Ophthalmology data in the Ministry of Education. Conclusion: The proportion of medical graduates has increased much more than opportunities for ophthalmology specialization. The effect on the search for unaccredited specialization positions is unknown, and policies for monitoring the specialization of ophthalmology vacancies should be established.

RESUMO Objetivo: Nos últimos 20 anos, o número de escolas médicas no Brasil aumentou, mas as vagas para especialização em Oftalmologia não acompanharam a demanda crescente. Este estudo quer estimar a demanda por especialização e avaliar a oferta de oportunidades de aprendizado em Oftalmologia. Métodos: Estudo epidemiológico com pesquisa em banco de dados provenientes do Ministério da Educação e Conselho Brasileiro de Oftalmologia. Estes dados foram checados através de 120 editais publicados pelos serviços de Residência em 2021. Resultados: De 2002 a 2021, o número de vagas em faculdades de Medicina aumentou 370%, enquanto o número de vagas certificadas de especialização em Oftalmologia aumentou 64%. Houve um desalinhamento de 11.4% entre os dados do Conselho Brasileiro de Oftalmologia e do Ministério da Educação. Conclusão: A proporção de graduados em Medicina aumentou muito mais do que a oferta de oportunidades de especialização em Oftalmologia, o impacto disto na busca por vagas de especialização não acreditadas é desconhecido, políticas de monitoramento das vagas de especialização em Oftalmologia devem ser estabelecidas.

Situation of ophthalmology education in Brazil: supply versus demand.

PURPOSE: The number of medical schools in Brazil has increased in recent years; however, vacancies for specialization in ophthalmology probably have not kept up with the growing demand. This study wants to estimate the increase in medical schools, the demand for ophthalmology specialization, and evaluate learning opportunities in ophthalmology. METHODS: This was a retrospective study with research from the Ministry of Education and Brazilian Council of Ophthalmology database from 2002 to 2021. These data were checked through 120 notices published by the institutions in 2021. RESULTS: The number of medical school vacancies increased by 370%, whereas the number of certified ophthalmology vacancies increased by 64%. There was an 11.4% misalignment between the Brazilian Council of Ophthalmology data in the Ministry of Education. CONCLUSION: The proportion of medical graduates has increased much more than opportunities for ophthalmology specialization. The effect on the search for unaccredited specialization positions is unknown, and policies for monitoring the specialization of ophthalmology vacancies should be established.

Measurement of the hypotenuse of the vertical optic nerve head cup with spectral-domain optical coherence tomography for the structural diagnosis of glaucoma.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the hypotenuse of the vertical optic nerve head cup (HVOC), measured using the length and depth of the cup obtained with enhanced depth imaging spectral-domain optic coherence tomography (SD-OCT), as a biomarker for glaucoma diagnosis. METHODS: This was a prospective cross-sectional study of patients with glaucoma and controls. SD-OCT was performed in all participants to assess average circumpapillary retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness. A vertical B-scan of the optic nerve head (ONH) was obtained for HVOC measurement. The length and depth of the optic nerve cup formed the sides of a right triangle that were used to calculate the HVOC. Participants also underwent standard automated perimetry. RESULTS: One hundred and fifty-six eyes were divided into three groups: mean deviation (MD) <-7 dB (60 eyes); MD ≥-7 dB (74 eyes); and healthy subjects (22 eyes). The mean (SD) HVOC in these groups was 1,419.8 (347.2) µm, 1,234.6 (258.8) µm, and 685.79 (315.4) µm (P<0.01), respectively. In the secondary structure-function analysis, only discs with a vertical diameter of 1.51-2.00 mm were included (120 eyes). The HVOCs were divided into four percentile groups, with the following means: 940, 1,128, 1,390, and 1,662 µm. There was a significant difference in MD between percentile groups 1 and 3 (P<0.03), 1 and 4 (P<0.001), 2 and 3 (P<0.02), and 2 and 4 (P<0.001). RNFL thickness differed among all percentile groups (P<0.001). CONCLUSION: HVOC may provide an additional morphometric biomarker for the structural evaluation of ONH remodeling in glaucoma.

Gross Domestic Product (GDP) per capita and geographical distribution of ophthalmologists in Brazil / Produto Interno Bruto (PIB) per capita e a distribuição geográfica dos oftalmologistas no Brasil

PURPOSE: To assess the number of ophthalmologists in Brazil, their regional distribution, ophthalmologist/habitant ratio, and the relation between ophthalmologist and State Gross Domestic Product (GDP) per capita to aid public health policies. METHODS: An ecologic study was conducted. Data were obtained from the "Census 2011 Brazilian Ophthalmology Council", from "Demographic Census of Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics (IBGE) 2010 and from "Brazilian Regional Accounts, 2005-2009"- Ministry of Planning, Budget and Management - IBGE. RESULTS: The number of ophthalmologists in Brazil is 15,719. Considering the performance in more than one municipality, the number of ophthalmologists in service is 17,992, that is, one ophthalmologist for 10,601; the ophthalmologist/site ratio vary among the States from a minimum of 1/51,437 (Amapá) to a maximum of 1/4,279 (Distrito Federal). There is a correlation among State GDP per capita and the number of ophthalmologists/habitant: the higher the GDP per capita, the larger is the number of ophthalmologists acting in the State (p<0.0001). CONCLUSION: According to this study, there is no lack of Ophthalmologists in the country, but a distribution imbalance which leads to professional shortage in particular places. A higher concentration of ophthalmologists/inhabitants was noticed in States which the economic growth is higher, expressed by the GDP per capita.

OBJETIVO: Analisar o número de médicos que exercem a Oftalmologia no Brasil, sua distribuição regional; relação oftalmologista por habitante e Produto Interno Bruto (PIB) Estadual per capita, para auxiliar as políticas de saúde pública. MÉTODOS: Foi realizado um estudo ecológico. Os dados foram obtidos do "Censo 2011 - Conselho Brasileiro de Oftalmologia", do "Censo Demográfico do Instituto Brasileiro de Geografia e Estatística (IBGE) 2010 e do "Contas Regionais do Brasil, 2005-2009"- Ministério do Planejamento, Orçamento e Gestão - Instituto Brasileiro de Geografia e Estatística - IBGE. RESULTADOS: O número de oftalmologistas no Brasil é de 15.719. Considerando a atuação em mais de um município, o número de oftalmologistas em atendimento é de 17.992, isto é um oftalmologista para 10.601; as relações oftalmologista/local de atendimento, variam entre os Estados desde um mínimo de 1/51.437 (Amapá) e a um máximo de 1/4.279 (Distrito Federal). Há uma correlação entre PIB Estadual per capita e número de oftalmologistas/habitante: quanto maior o PIB per capita, maior o número de oftalmologistas atuando no Estado (p<0,0001). CONCLUSÃO: Nas condições deste estudo, observou-se que não há falta de Oftalmologistas no território Nacional e sim, uma desigualdade de distribuição que conduz a focos de escassez de profissionais em determinadas localidades. Verificou-se uma concentração de oftalmologista/habitantes em Estados cujo crescimento econômico é maior, expresso pelo PIB per capita.

Gross Domestic Product (GDP) per capita and geographical distribution of ophthalmologists in Brazil.

PURPOSE: To assess the number of ophthalmologists in Brazil, their regional distribution, ophthalmologist/habitant ratio, and the relation between ophthalmologist and State Gross Domestic Product (GDP) per capita to aid public health policies. METHODS: An ecologic study was conducted. Data were obtained from the "Census 2011 Brazilian Ophthalmology Council", from "Demographic Census of Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics (IBGE) 2010 and from "Brazilian Regional Accounts, 2005-2009"- Ministry of Planning, Budget and Management - IBGE. RESULTS: The number of ophthalmologists in Brazil is 15,719. Considering the performance in more than one municipality, the number of ophthalmologists in service is 17,992, that is, one ophthalmologist for 10,601; the ophthalmologist/site ratio vary among the States from a minimum of 1/51,437 (Amapá) to a maximum of 1/4,279 (Distrito Federal). There is a correlation among State GDP per capita and the number of ophthalmologists/habitant: the higher the GDP per capita, the larger is the number of ophthalmologists acting in the State (p<0.0001). CONCLUSION: According to this study, there is no lack of Ophthalmologists in the country, but a distribution imbalance which leads to professional shortage in particular places. A higher concentration of ophthalmologists/inhabitants was noticed in States which the economic growth is higher, expressed by the GDP per capita.

Structural and functional assessment in HIV-infected patients using optical coherence tomography and frequency-doubling technology perimetry.

PURPOSE: To assess retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) and macular thickness using optical coherence tomography (OCT) on HIV-infected patients without ocular manifestations and to correlate these findings with frequency-doubling technology perimetry (FDT). DESIGN: Cross-sectional study. METHODS: setting: Single center. study population: Seventy-three patients (146 eyes) with clinically normal examination classified in 3 groups: group A, HIV-infected patients with CD4 count <100 cells/mm(3) for at least 6 months; group B, HIV-infected patients with CD4 count >100 cells/mm(3) since diagnosis; and group C, HIV-negative control subjects. observation procedures: Fast RNFL and fast macula scan strategies on Stratus OCT and Humphrey Matrix 24-2 full-threshold program. main outcome measures: OCT RNFL and macular thicknesses and FDT indices (mean deviation [MD], pattern standard deviation [PSD], and glaucoma hemifield test [GHT]). RESULTS: Group A had a significantly thinner average RNFL, temporal outer macula, and inferior outer macula thicknesses when compared to groups B and C (P < .05). Statistically significant differences were observed in the FDT MD between groups A and C (P = .034) and in PSD in group A compared to groups B and C (P = .011). Eyes of HIV patients with GHT and PSD results outside normal confidence limits had thinner average RNFL thickness measures than eyes with results within normal limits in the same group of patients (P < .05). CONCLUSIONS: HIV-infected patients with low CD4 count have a significant RNFL and macular thinning. Functional loss detected by FDT is related to RNFL thinning in HIV-infected patients.

Evaluation of the Perkins handheld applanation tonometer in the measurement of intraocular pressure in dogs and cats.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate and to validate the accuracy of the Perkins handheld applanation tonometer in the measurement of IOP in dogs and cats. ANIMALS: Twenty eyes from 10 dogs and 10 cats immediately after sacrifice were used for the postmortem study and 20 eyes from 10 clinically normal and anesthetized dogs and cats were used for the in vivo study. Both eyes of 20 conscious dogs and cats were also evaluated. PROCEDURE: Readings of IOP postmortem and in vivo were taken using manometry (measured with a mercury column manometer) and tonometry (measured with a Perkins handheld applanation tonometer). The IOP measurement with Perkins tonometer in anesthetized and conscious dogs and cats was accomplished by instillation of proxymetacaine 0.5% and of 1% fluorescein eye drops. RESULTS: The correlation coefficient (r(2)) between the manometry and the Perkins tonometer were 0.982 (dogs) and 0.988 (cats), and the corresponding linear regression equation were y = 0.0893x + 0.1105 (dogs) and y = 0.0899x + 0.1145 (cats) in the postmortem study. The mean IOP readings with the Perkins tonometer after calibration curve correction were 14.9 +/- 1.6 mmHg (range 12.2-17.2 mmHg) in conscious dogs, and were 15.1 +/- 1.7 mmHg (range 12.1-18.7 mmHg) in conscious cats. CONCLUSION: There was an excellent correlation between the IOP values obtained from direct ocular manometry and the Perkinstonometer in dogs and cats. The Perkins handheld tonometer could be in the future a new alternative for the diagnosis of glaucoma in veterinary ophthalmology.

[Efficacy of topic ocular hipotensive agents after posterior capsulotomy]. / Eficácia de hipotensores oculares tópicos após capsulotomia posterior.

PURPOSE: To analyze and compare the effects on intraocular pressure (IOP) of several topic hypotensive agents after posterior capsulotomy with Nd:YAG laser in non glaucoma patients. METHODS: 145 pseudophakic eyes underwent to Nd:YAG laser posterior capsulotomy. Before capsulotomy. 21 were treated with apraclonidine, 20 with brimonidine, 23 with dorzolamide, 20 with latanoprost, 20 with pilocarpine, and 20 with timolol. Controls (21 eyes) received placebo. IOP measurements (Goldmann applanation tonometry) were taken under masked conditions 1 hour before procedure and after 1 and 2 hours. If postoperative PIO was above 20 mmHg its measurements were extended to 4 and 24 hours. Capsulotomy was performed with Abraham lens, under topic anesthetic, using Nd:YAG laser. Ocular hypertension would be considered if the IOP had suffered an increase of 4 mmHg above the initial. Mean total energy used was 2.1 +/- 1 mJ. RESULTS: The preoperative IOP did not differ statistically among groups. Mean IOPs of treated eyes 1h (11.9 +/- 3.8) and 2h (11.5 +/- 3.0) were statistically lower than IOP compared with control group (12,6 +/- 2,8) (p=0.001). There were no statistically significant differences for the other measurements. Control and pilocarpine had a percentual IOP increase after 2 hours of 8.7 +/- 19.1% (13.5 +/- 3.2 mmHg) and 1.2 +/- 26.3% (12.5 +/- 3.6 mmHg) respectively. Mean percentual postoperative IOP reduction was detected in the apraclonidine group -24.7 +/- 15.5% (9.8 +/- 2.6 mmHg), in the brimonidine group -8.9 +/- 15.5% (10.1 +/- 1.7 mmHg), in the dorzolamide group -6.9 +/- 20.3% (12.1 +/- 2.8 mmHg), in the latanoprost group -0.4 +/- 25.9% (12.1 +/- 2.9 mmHg) and in timolol group -16.2 +/- 14.1% (10.3 +/- 1.7 mmHg). These differences were statistically significant (p=0.001). There was no significant difference between frequencies of hypertension (p=0.148). CONCLUSION: Apraclonidine caused higher hypotensive effect after capsulotomy with YAG laser when compared with brimonidine, dorzolamide, latanoprost, pilocarpine, timolol and control group.

Eficácia de hipotensores oculares tópicos após capsulotomia posterior / Efficacy of topic ocular hipotensive agents after posterior capsulotomy

OBJETIVO: Analisar e comparar os efeitos dos agentes hipotensores tópicos, sobre a pressão intra-ocular (PIO), após capsulotomia posterior com laser Nd:YAG em olhos pseudofácicos de indivíduos não-portadores de glaucoma. MÉTODOS: Cento e quarenta e cinco olhos pseudofácicos foram submetidos à capsulotomia por laser Nd:YAG. Antes da capsulotomia, foram instilados hipotensores: apraclonidina 1 por cento (n=21), brimonidina 0,2 por cento (n=20), dorzolamida 2 por cento (n=23), latanoprosta 0,005 por cento (n=20), pilocarpina 2 por cento (n=20) e timolol 0,50 por cento (n=20). Grupo controle (n=21) recebeu placebo. A PIO foi medida de forma mascarada, 1 hora antes da capsulotomia, 1 e 2 horas após o procedimento. Caso a pressão estivesse maior que 20 mmHg, seria medida após 4 e 24 horas. A capsulotomia foi executada com lente de Abraham, anestesia tópica e com YAG laser. A PIO foi medida com tonômetro de aplanação de Goldmann. Seria considerado hipertensão ocular se o aumento da pressão intra-ocular estivesse acima de 4 mmHg quando comparada aos valores do período de pré-procedimento a laser. A energia média empregada foi de 2,1 ± 1 mJ. RESULTADOS: A PIO pré-procedimento não diferiu estatisticamente entre os grupos. A PIO média de 1h (11,9 ± 3,8) e 2 horas (11,5 ± 3,0) do grupo tratado foi estatisticamente significante inferior à do grupo controle (12,6 ± 2,8) (p=0,001). Para as demais medidas não foram observadas diferenças significantes. Após 2 horas, houve aumento porcentual médio ( por cento) de PIO de 8,7 ± 19,1 por cento (13,5 ± 3,2 mmHg) no grupo controle e de 1,2 ± 26,3 por cento (12,5 ± 3,6 mmHg) no grupo pilocarpina. Para os demais grupos, às 2 horas, observou-se redução porcentual de PIO, nos grupos tratados com apraclonidina de -24,7 ± 15,5 por cento (9,8 ± 2,6 mmHg), brimonidina de -8,9 ± 15,5 por cento (10,1 ± 1,7 mmHg), dorzolamida de -6,9 ± 20,3 por cento (12,1 ± 2,8 mmHg), latanoprosta de -0,4 ± 25,9 por cento (12,1 ± 2,9 mmHg)...

PURPOSE: To analyze and compare the effects on intraocular pressure (IOP) of several topic hypotensive agents after posterior capsulotomy with Nd:YAG laser in non glaucoma patients. METHODS: 145 pseudophakic eyes underwent to Nd:YAG laser posterior capsulotomy. Before capsulotomy. 21 were treated with apraclonidine, 20 with brimonidine, 23 with dorzolamide, 20 with latanoprost, 20 with pilocarpine, and 20 with timolol. Controls (21 eyes) received placebo. IOP measurements (Goldmann applanation tonometry) were taken under masked conditions 1 hour before procedure and after 1 and 2 hours. If postoperative PIO was above 20 mmHg its measurements were extended to 4 and 24 hours. Capsulotomy was performed with Abraham lens, under topic anesthetic, using Nd:YAG laser. Ocular hypertension would be considered if the IOP had suffered an increase of 4 mmHg above the initial. Mean total energy used was 2.1 ± 1 mJ. RESULTS: The preoperative IOP did not differ statistically among groups. Mean IOPs of treated eyes 1h (11.9 ± 3.8) and 2h (11.5 ± 3.0) were statistically lower than IOP compared with control group (12,6 ± 2,8) (p=0.001). There were no statistically significant differences for the other measurements. Control and pilocarpine had a percentual IOP increase after 2 hours of 8.7 ± 19.1 percent (13.5 ± 3.2 mmHg) and 1.2 ± 26.3 percent (12.5 ± 3.6 mmHg) respectively. Mean percentual postoperative IOP reduction was detected in the apraclonidine group -24.7 ± 15.5 percent (9.8 ± 2.6 mmHg), in the brimonidine group -8.9 ± 15.5 percent (10.1 ± 1.7 mmHg), in the dorzolamide group -6.9 ± 20.3 percent (12.1 ± 2.8 mmHg), in the latanoprost group -0.4 ± 25.9 percent (12.1 ± 2.9 mmHg) and in timolol group -16.2 ± 14.1 percent (10.3 ± 1.7 mmHg). These differences were statistically significant (p=0.001). There was no significant difference between frequencies of hypertension (p=0.148). CONCLUSION: Apraclonidine caused higher hypotensive effect after capsulotomy...

[Association between optic disc hemorrhages and the position of central retinal vessels]. / Hemorragia peripapilar em pacientes com glaucoma e sua relação com o tronco vascular retiniano.

PURPOSE: To investigate the correlation between optic disc hemorrhages (ODHs) and the position of the central retinal vessel trunk (RVT) in patients with glaucoma. METHODS: Fundus photographs of 1,830 participants were reviewed. The exit position of the central retinal vessel trunk was classified as being in the superior or inferior hemisphere of the optic disc and the relative vertical position was expressed as a fraction of the disc diameter (ratio between the position of the trunk and the diameter of the disk). A group of patients from the same population, but without ODHs, was randomly selected and compared with the patients with ODHs. RESULTS: Among the 1,830 patients, 53 hemorrhages were detected in 41 patients with glaucoma or suspected glaucoma. We found an inverse relationship between the inferior/superior position of the central RVT and the inferior/superior position of the hemorrhages (Kappa=-0.34). Using the trunk/disc ratio, we found that superior ODHs correlated with inferior RVTs (trunk/disc ratio, 0.450; SD=0.070) and inferior ODHs correlated with superior RVTs (trunk/disc ratio, 0.510; SD=0.054) (p=0.027). The number of patients with normal tension glaucoma was significantly higher among patients with ODHs than among those without ODHs (p=0.009). CONCLUSION: Our patients had a negative correlation between the position of central RVT and the location of the ODHs. Normal tension glaucoma was more prevalent among patients with ODHs than among those without it.

Hemorragia peripapilar em pacientes com glaucoma e sua relação com o tronco vascular retiniano / Association between optic disc hemorrhages and the position of central retinal vessels

OBJETIVOS: Avaliar a correlação entre as hemorragias peripapilares (HPPs) e a posição do tronco vascular na cabeça do nervo óptico. MÉTODOS: Retinografias de 1.830 pacientes foram revisadas. A posição do tronco vascular retiniano (TVR) foi classificada de acordo com sua localização no hemisfério superior ou inferior e sua posição relativa através da razão entre a distância entre o TVR e o ponto mais inferior do disco óptico e o diâmetro vertical do disco óptico (razão tronco/disco). Pacientes da mesma população, com glaucoma e sem HPPs foram aleatoriamente selecionados para comparação. RESULTADOS: Dos 1.830 pacientes, 46 apresentaram HPPs. Foram detectadas 53 hemorragias em 41 pacientes com glaucoma ou suspeitos de glaucoma, principalmente na região temporal inferior (47,2 por cento). Observou-se concordância negativa entre a localização superior ou inferior do TVR e das HPPs (Kappa= -0,34). Considerando a posição relativa do TVR em relação ao diâmetro vertical do disco óptico (razão tronco/disco), encontramos melhor correlação (valores médios da razão tronco/disco: 0,450-hemorragias superiores e 0,510-hemorragias inferiores; p=0,027). No grupo com HPPs, observamos porcentagem significativamente maior de pacientes com glaucoma de pressão normal (GPN) se comparado ao grupo sem hemorragia (p=0,009). CONCLUSÃO: HPPs foram mais comuns no hemisfério oposto ao da emergência do TVR. Observamos maior prevalência de GPN nos pacientes com hemorragias que nos sem hemorragia.

PURPOSE: To investigate the correlation between optic disc hemorrhages (ODHs) and the position of the central retinal vessel trunk (RVT) in patients with glaucoma. METHODS: Fundus photographs of 1,830 participants were reviewed. The exit position of the central retinal vessel trunk was classified as being in the superior or inferior hemisphere of the optic disc and the relative vertical position was expressed as a fraction of the disc diameter (ratio between the position of the trunk and the diameter of the disk). A group of patients from the same population, but without ODHs, was randomly selected and compared with the patients with ODHs. RESULTS: Among the 1,830 patients, 53 hemorrhages were detected in 41 patients with glaucoma or suspected glaucoma. We found an inverse relationship between the inferior/superior position of the central RVT and the inferior/superior position of the hemorrhages (Kappa= -0.34). Using the trunk/disc ratio, we found that superior ODHs correlated with inferior RVTs (trunk/disc ratio, 0.450; SD=0.070) and inferior ODHs correlated with superior RVTs (trunk/disc ratio, 0.510; SD=0.054) (p=0.027). The number of patients with normal tension glaucoma was significantly higher among patients with ODHs than among those without ODHs (p=0.009). CONCLUSION: Our patients had a negative correlation between the position of central RVT and the location of the ODHs. Normal tension glaucoma was more prevalent among patients with ODHs than among those without it.

Avaliação do uso de colírio no paciente portador de glaucoma / Evaluation of the use of eye drops in patients with glaucoma

OBJETIVO: Identificação das principais variáveis que interferem na qualidade de instilação correta de colírio antiglaucomatoso. MÉTODOS: Realizou-se estudo transversal em 40 pacientes glaucomatosos sob tratamento clínico com uso de colírio, aplicando-se um questionário e realizando-se observações quanto à instilação. Foram investigadas as seguintes variáveis: sexo; escolaridade; idade; condições sócioeconômicas; lavagem das mãos; número de gotas por aplicação; alteração motora; pessoa que aplica o colírio; local da aplicação; contato do frasco com as pálpebras, a conjuntiva e a córnea; instrução pregressa; posição de aplicação; ardor, dor ou irritação ocular após a aplicação e acuidade visual. A partir do questionário e das observações, as variáveis citadas foram correlacionadas com a qualidade de instilação. O modelo de análise foi a regressão logística binária. RESULTADOS: Dentre todas as variáveis em questão, apenas a pessoa que aplica o colírio e a sensação de ardor, dor ou irritação ocular mostraram-se estatisticamente significativas para uma adequada instilação de colírio. CONCLUSÃO: A presença de um acompanhante e o ardor à instilação do colírio influenciaram significativamente na qualidade de instilação do mesmo.

PURPOSE:To identify the most important variables interfering with the correct topical administration of antiglaucomatous drugs. METHODS: Forty glaucomatous patients under clinical treatment were interviewed and observed while applying antiglaucomatous drugs. The following variables were analyzed: sex; age; income; washing of the hands; number of drops; motor abnormalities; availability of another person to apply the drug; place of the globe reached; bottle-eye contact; previous instruction; positioning for application; development of a burning sensation, pain or irritation. Using the questionary, the variables were correlated with the quality of instillation. RESULTS: Among all variables, only the availability of another person to apply the drug and the existence of a burning sensation, pain or eye irritation showed statistically important correlation to proper instillation. CONCLUSION: The presence of a companion and the development of burning sensation affected the quality of instillation.

Lack of circadian change of concentration of C-type natriuretic peptide in rabbit aqueous humor.

PURPOSE: To determine whether there is a circadian change of the concentration of C-type natriuretic peptide (CNP) in rabbit aqueous humor. METHODS: Forty-one male white New Zealand rabbits were submitted to a 12 h light and 12 dark lighting schedule; lights on was at 0 h, lights off at 12 h. C-type natriuretic peptide was assayed at 3 light (2 h, 6 h and 10 h) and 3 dark (14,18 and 22 h) times. All groups consisted of four animals but two had more animals to increase the power of tests (6 h, n = 12; 22 h, n = 13). Dependence between the two eyes was tested by Pearson's correlation. The mean of two eyes was considered for analysis. Differences in concentration in pg/200 ml were evaluated by one-way ANOVA, t test and COSINOR analysis. RESULTS: There were no significant differences between the 6 analyzed groups (one-way ANOVA p = 0.157). Pooled into two groups (light and dark), the C-type natriuretic peptide concentration of the light group was lower, 2.626 +/- 0.92 pg/200 ml compared with the dark group 3.02 +/- 1.16 pg/200 ml but did not reach a significant difference (t test; p = 0.23). COSINOR analysis was not statistically significant (R% = 7.72 p = 0.209). CONCLUSION: These data demonstrate that the concentration of CNP in aqueous humor did not show a statistically significant circadian change in rabbits entrained to a 12 h light: 12 h dark lighting schedule.

Lack of circadian change of concentration of C-type natriuretic peptide in rabbit aqueous humor / Ausência de mudança no ritmo circadiano da concentração de peptídeo natriurético tipo C no humor aquoso de coelhos

PURPOSE: To determine whether there is a circadian change of the concentration of C-type natriuretic peptide (CNP) in rabbit aqueous humor. METHODS: Forty-one male white New Zealand rabbits were submitted to a 12 h light and 12 dark lighting schedule; lights on was at 0 h, lights off at 12 h. C-type natriuretic peptide was assayed at 3 light (2 h, 6 h and 10 h) and 3 dark (14,18 and 22 h) times. All groups consisted of four animals but two had more animals to increase the power of tests (6 h, n=12; 22 h, n=13). Dependence between the two eyes was tested by Pearson's correlation. The mean of two eyes was considered for analysis. Differences in concentration in pg/200 ml were evaluated by one-way ANOVA, t test and COSINOR analysis. RESULTS: There were no significant differences between the 6 analyzed groups (one-way ANOVA p=0.157). Pooled into two groups (light and dark), the C-type natriuretic peptide concentration of the light group was lower, 2.626±0.92 pg/200 ml compared with the dark group 3.02±1.16 pg/200 ml but did not reach a significant difference (t test; p=0.23). COSINOR analysis was not statistically significant (R percent=7.72 p=0.209). CONCLUSION: These data demonstrate that the concentration of CNP in aqueous humor did not show a statistically significant circadian change in rabbits entrained to a 12 h light: 12 h dark lighting schedule.

OBJETIVO: Verificar se há mudança na concentração circadiana de peptídeo natriurético tipo C (CNP) no humor aquoso de coelhos. MÉTODOS: Quarenta e um coelhos machos da raça New Zealand foram admitidos numa rotina de 12 horas de luz e 12 de escuridão; luzes eram acesas na hora zero e apagadas na hora 12. O peptídeo natriurético tipo C era medido em três períodos com luz acesa (2, 6 e 10 h) e 3 com luz apagada (14, 18 e 22 h). Todos os grupos tinham 4 animais com exceção de dois períodos em que o n foi incrementado para aumentar o poder dos testes (6 h, n=12; 22 h, n=13). A dependência entre os olhos foi testada por meio da correlação de Pearson. A média dos dois olhos foi usada para a análise. Diferença quanto à concentração média de peptídeo natriurético tipo C em pg/200 ml foi avaliada por meio do teste de one-way ANOVA, teste t e análise de COSINOR. RESULTADOS: Não foi encontrada diferença estatisticamente significante entre os 6 grupos analisados (one-way ANOVA; p=0,157). Reunidos em dois grupos (luz e escuridão), a concentração de peptídeo natriurético tipo C com a luz acesa foi mais baixa (2,626±0,92 pg/200 ml) quando comparada ao grupo com luz apagada (3,02±1,16 pg/200 ml) porém sem alcançar significância estatística (teste de t p=0,23). Análise de COSINOR não foi estatisticamente significante (R por cento=7,72 p=0,209). CONCLUSÃO: Nossos dados demonstraram que a concentração do CNP no humor aquoso de coelhos não mostrou variação circadiana estatisticamente significante quando analisadas num ritmo de luz/escuro 12/12 h.

[Normal tension glaucoma]. / Glaucoma de pressão normal.

Normal tension glaucoma is an optic neuropathy in which the retinal nerve fiber layer thickness is reduced, the optic nerve is pathologically excavated, and the visual field is disturbed, although intraocular pressure is classified as normal. Patients with normal tension glaucoma are a heterogeneous group in which many systemic pathologic conditions may be present, and presenting ocular clinical signs that are difficult to be identified in the early stages of the disease. Treatment is more challenging than in hypertensive glaucomas. The authors sought to review the pathophysiology and differential diagnosis of this condition assessing vascular, rheumatic, neurological and genetic aspects that should be studied, as well as its treatment. The sources of references are PubMed (MEDLINE), LILACS and Cochrane Library (CENTRAL) databases.

Glaucoma de pressão normal / Normal tension glaucoma

O glaucoma de pressão normal é neuropatia óptica caracterizada por diminuição da camada de fibras nervosas da retina, aumento da relação escavação/disco e defeito de campo visual, porém sem evidência de aumento da pressão intra-ocular. Os pacientes com glaucoma de pressão normal constituem um grupo heterogêneo em que várias condições sistêmicas podem ser encontradas e apresentam sinais clínicos oculares somente facilmente identificados nos estágios muito avançados da doença. E seu tratamento apresenta desafios maiores do que os existentes no tratamento dos glaucomas hipertensivos. O presente texto propõe uma revisão da patogênese e do diagnóstico diferencial, discutindo os aspectos vasculares, reumáticos, neurológicos e genéticos que devem ser investigados, assim como do tratamento dessa doença. Os autores pesquisaram os bancos de dados do PubMed (MEDLINE), LILACS e Cochrane Library (CENTRAL).

Results of the Susanna implant in patients with refractory primary congenital glaucoma.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the results of the Susanna implant in children with primary congenital glaucoma. PATIENTS AND METHODS: The authors report a retrospective noncomparative interventional case series of data from 24 eyes from 24 pediatric patients who underwent Susanna implant surgery for primary congenital glaucoma. All the patients were operated by the same surgeon. The postoperative follow-up time was 24 months for all patients. Success was defined by an IOP higher than 6 mm Hg and less than or equal to 15 mm Hg, with the concomitant use of a single medication if necessary. RESULTS: The age range of the patients was 1 to 15 years and the mean age was 5.04 +/- 4.12 years. At 12 months, 87.5% of the patients were considered as success, and at 24 months, the proportion dropped to 79.16%. Mean preoperative and postoperative intraocular pressure were 26.17 +/- 5.16 and 14.04 +/- 4.19 mm Hg ( p < 0.001), respectively. All 24 children had undergone previous glaucoma surgeries. Cataract was the only complication found during follow-up, occurring in three patients. Cox's regression model did not show influence of gender ( P = 0.740) and previous surgery ( P = 0.262) on the outcome through time. Age at the time of surgery was the only variable which was statistically associated with success through time, younger patients presenting higher probability of failure ( P = 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: The results of the present study reinforce the role of drainage implants as a safe alternative in difficult cases of primary congenital glaucoma, after failure of the initial approach.

Aspectos psicológicos das crianças com glaucoma do desenvolvimento / Psychological aspects of children with developmental glaucoma

OBJETIVO: Avaliar as seguintes características psicológicas de crianças portadoras de glaucoma de desenvolvimento: imaturidade, ansiedade, dependência e sociabilização. MÉTODO: Foram avaliadas 15 crianças com glaucoma do desenvolvimento pertencentes ao ambulatório do Glaucoma Congênito e 15 crianças sem nenhum problema visual pelo teste projetivo do desenho livre. RESULTADOS: No grupo de estudo, 66,6 por cento das crianças glaucomatosas se mostraram imaturas, 86,6 por cento eram ansiosas, 73,3 por cento eram dependentes e 80 por cento apresentaram dificuldades em sociabilização. No grupo controle 46,6 por cento das crianças sem problemas visuais eram imaturas, 40 por cento eram ansiosas, 40 por cento eram dependentes e 33,3 por cento apresentaram dificuldades em sociabilização. CONCLUSAO: Observou-se que as crianças com glaucoma do desenvolvimento são mais imaturas, mais ansiosas, mais dependentes e se sociabilizam menos em comparação às crianças que não apresentam problemas visuais.