Thickness of anterior sclera and corneal layers in systemic sclerosis.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the thickness of anterior sclera and corneal layers in patients with systemic sclerosis. METHODS: The present cross-sectional study included 41 patients with systemic sclerosis and 41 age- and gender-matched healthy controls. The study and control groups were compared in terms of the thickness of anterior sclera, corneal epithelium, Bowman's layer, corneal stroma, and Descemet's membrane-endothelium complex. The thickness measurements were obtained using the anterior segment module of spectral-domain optical coherence tomography. RESULTS: The thickness of anterior sclera, corneal epithelium, Bowman's layer, and Descemet's membrane-endothelium complex were similar in the patients with systemic sclerosis and healthy controls (P > 0.05). Total corneal thickness at the apex was 511.1 ± 33.5 µm in the systemic sclerosis group and 528.4 ± 29.5 µm in the control group (P = 0.015). The corneal stroma was thinner in the systemic sclerosis patients compared to the healthy controls (P = 0.02). CONCLUSIONS: The corneal stroma was thinner in the patients with systemic sclerosis compared to that of healthy controls, while the thickness of the anterior sclera was similar in both groups.

Ocular changes in nephrotic syndrome patients with preserved renal functions.

BACKGROUND: Optical coherence tomography (OCT) measurements of central choroidal thickness (CCT) and retinal thickness have been proposed as inflammatory indicators for a variety of systemic disorders, particularly those with a vascular component. The relationship between nephrotic syndrome (NS) and visual impairment is not clear. The aim of this study was to evaluate the ocular changes in primary NS patients with preserved renal functions. METHODS: A total of 60 participants (30 NS patients, 30 healthy control subjects) was recruited in this cross-sectional and comparative study. Retinal and choroidal examinations were performed via the spectral domain OCT. Enhanced depth imaging (EDI) mode of the OCT was used for choroidal analysis. RESULTS: Although not statistically significant, CCT was found to be higher in the NS group compared to the control group (p = 0.07). Central foveal thickness (CFT) and retinal arteriolar caliber (RAC) values were statistically significantly lower in the patients with nephrotic syndrome, whereas retinal venular caliber (RVC) and choroidal vascularity index (CVI) values were similar in both groups. RAC and RVC were not statistically significantly correlated with CCT or CFT in both groups (p > 0.05). CONCLUSION: The results of the current study showed a significant difference between the NS group and the control group in terms of some ocular changes (i.e., CFT and RAC). As a result, CCT, CFT and RAC measurements with OCT may be used as a marker of inflammation in NS patients.

Corneal and lenticular clarity in children with inflammatory disease as assessed by Scheimpflug imaging.

BACKGROUND: Corneal and lenticular optical properties are not well-documented in pediatric patients with inflammatory diseases. Here we aimed to evaluate corneal and lenticular optical density as well as corneal morphology in children with ocular and/or systemic inflammation by Scheimpflug imaging. METHODS: Fifty-five eyes of 29 children with non-infectious uveitis, 56 eyes of 28 children with systemic inflammation without uveitis and 60 eyes of 31 healthy children were included. Corneal/lenticular optical density, corneal volume, central corneal thickness, keratometry were analyzed by Pentacam HR. Corneal endothelial cell density, hexagonal cell ratio and coefficient of variation were measured by specular microscope. RESULTS: The mean age was 12.0 ± 3.1 years, 11.9 ± 4.0 years and 11.3 ± 3.4 years whereas the female/ratio was 15/14, 15/13 and 14/17 in uveitis, systemic inflammation and control groups respectively. Uveitis type was anterior uveitis in 16 (29.1%) eyes, intermediate uveitis in 32 (58.2%) eyes and panuveitis in 7 (12.7%) eyes. Twenty-two (40%) eyes had active uveitis whereas 33 (60%) eyes had inactive uveitis. Corneal optical density was greater in uveitis group compared with other groups (p = 0.001, Kruskal-Wallis test). Lenticular density and corneal parameters other than optical density were not different between the groups (p > 0.05). Corneal optical density was higher in active uveitis than inactive uveitis (22/33 eyes, p = 0.017). CONCLUSION: Children with uveitis had decreased corneal clarity compared with systemic inflammation group and healthy controls, while lenticular clarity was similar between the groups. Corneal endothelial parameters did not change significantly based on ocular/systemic inflammation. Scheimpflug imaging provides objective corneal and lenticular optical density measurements.

Early term ocular changes after cold compress application / Alterações oculares precoces após aplicação de compressas frias

ABSTRACT Purpose: To examine changes in the eyes after cold compress application at the early stage. Method: A total of 62 eyes from 62 healthy adult participants were included in this cross-sectional and comparative study. The subfoveal choroidal thickness and retinal nerve fiber thickness were measured by spectral-domain ocular coherence tomography. The central corneal thickness, anterior segment volume and depth, iridocorneal angle, and pupil diameter were measured by means of the Scheimpflug anterior segment imaging method. The measurements were repeated after 10 min of cold compress application, which was applied using special packs. The procedures were then repeated with non-cold packages to exclude the effect of pressure. Results: The average age of the participants was 30.74 ± 5.82 years. There was no significant change in the central corneal thickness after cold compress application, and there was a significant decrease in the anterior segment volume (p<0.001), anterior segment depth (p<0.001), and pupil diameter. Moreover, the iridocorneal angle increased (p=0.002). The subfoveal choroidal thickness decreased after the application of cold compress (p<0.001). The overall disk thickness (p=0.034) and superior nasal scale (p=0.007) significantly decreased after the cold compress was administered during the evaluation of optic nerve fiber thickness. In contrast to that with the cold application, the subfoveal choroidal thickness and optic nerve fiber thickness did not change after the non-cold compress application (p>0.05). Conclusion: Cold compress application may thus cause some physiological changes in the eyes, which necessitates the examination of its usage and effects.

RESUMO Objetivos: Examinar as mudanças nos olhos após a aplicação com compressa fria. Método: Sessenta e dois olhos de 62 adultos saudáveis foram incluídos neste estudo transversal e comparativo. A espessura da coróide subfoveal e a espessura da fibra nervosa retiniana foram mensuradas por tomografia de coerência óptica de domínio espectral (OCT). A espessura central da córnea, o volume e a profundidade do segmento anterior, o ângulo iridocorneano e o diâmetro da pupila foram mensurados por meio do método de imagem do segmento anterior de Scheimpflug. As medições foram repetidas após 10 minutos de aplicação de compressas frias, aplicadas com embalagens especiais. Os procedimentos foram repetidos com embalagens não frias para excluir o efeito da pressão. Resultados: A média de idade dos participantes foi de 30,74 ± 5,82 anos. Embora não tenha havido alteração significativa na espessura central da córnea após a aplicação da compressa fria, houve diminuição significativa no volume do segmento anterior (p<0,001), na profundidade do segmento anterior (p<0,001) e no diâmetro da pupila. Além disso, o ângulo iridocorneano aumentou (p=0,002). A espessura da coróide subfoveal diminuiu após a aplicação da compressa fria (p<0,001). A espessura total do disco (p=0,034) e a escala nasal superior (p=0,007) diminuíram significativamente após a administração da compressa fria durante a avaliação da espessura da fibra do nervo óptico. Ao contrário da aplicação com compressa fria, a espessura da coróide subfoveal e a espessura da fibra do nervo óptico não mudaram após a aplicação da compressa não fria (p>0,05). Conclusão: A aplicação de compressa fria pode causar algumas alterações fisiológicas nos olhos e o seu uso e efeitos devem ser observados.

Choroidal vascularity index and thickness in sarcoidosis.

ABSTRACT: Sarcoidosis is a multisystem granulomatous disease which is observed worldwide. Sarcoidosis is one of the common causes of ocular inflammation. The choroidal vascularity index, defined as the ratio of the luminal area to the total choroidal area, is used as one of the biomarkers for assessing the choroid vascular state. We aimed to compare choroidal vascularity index and thickness measurements between sarcoidosis patients and healthy controls.Thirty-one patients with sarcoidosis and 31 age-gender matched healthy participants were recruited in this cross-sectional and comparative study. Choroidal vascularity index was defined as the ratio of luminal area to total choroidal area after binarization on optical coherence tomography images. Anterior segment examinations included central corneal thickness, corneal volume, anterior chamber depth, anterior chamber volume, and iridocorneal angle. Spectral-domain optical coherence tomography was used to measure peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer thickness, choroidal thickness, and retinal vessel caliber.The mean choroidal vascularity index value was 61.6% in sarcoidosis patients and 62.4% in healthy controls (P = .69). The choroidal vascularity index and thickness were significantly correlated in both sarcoidosis (r = 0.41, P = .026) and control groups (r = 0.51, P = .006). Both the sarcoidosis and control groups had similar measured values for central corneal thickness, corneal volume, anterior chamber depth, anterior chamber volume, and iridocorneal angle (P > .05). Mean retinal nerve fiber layer, retinal arteriole and venule caliber, and choroidal thickness measurements did not differ significantly between the groups (P > .05).Sarcoidosis patients in quiescent period have similar choroidal vascularity index and thickness with healthy controls.

Genotype and phenotype characteristics of X-linked retinoschisis: the first report of a Turkish population.

BACKGROUND: X-linked retinoschisis is an inherited retinal disease caused by mutations in the RS1 gene; however, a genotype-phenotype correlation regarding the mutation type or location within the RS1 gene and clinical characteristics of the patients has not been established yet. This is the first report documenting the genotypes and ophthalmological findings in a Turkish population with confirmed RS1 mutations. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Fifty eyes of 25 male patients were included in the study. RS1 mutation analysis was performed by DNA sequencing. Retrospective analysis of ocular examinations and SD-OCT scans were applied. RESULTS: The major mutation was c.422 G > A (p.Arg141His, exon 5) affecting 14 patients (56%) and c.531 T > G was the only non-sense mutation out of 7 pathogenic variants. At presentation; the mean age was 24.6 ± 16.2 (4-72) years, mean visual acuity (VA) was 0.61 ± 0.32 (logMAR, 0.10-1.30). Forty-six (92%) eyes had macular, 16 eyes (32%) had peripheral retinoschisis. None of the eyes had macular scar, whereas 7 eyes (14%) had macular atrophy. The most frequent location of schisis was inner nuclear layer (37.5%). The eyes with disruption of ellipsoid zone (EZ) or external limiting membrane (ELM) had worse VA (for EZ, 0.65 ± 0.25 versus 0.45 ± 0.34, logMAR, 31 versus 17 eyes, p = .013; for ELM, 0.66 ± 0.27 versus 0.45 ± 0.31, logMAR, 30 versus 18 eyes, p = .008). CONCLUSIONS: Seven different pathogenic variants in the RS1 gene were identified; with c.422 G > A (p.Arg141His) as the most frequent variant and c.531 T > G as only non-sense mutation. Having EZ or ELM disruption were the significant factors affecting VA.

Enhanced Ectasia Screening in Patients with Uveitis and Isolated Systemic Inflammatory Disease.

PURPOSE: To investigate corneal topographic alterations in patients with uveitis and isolated systemic inflammatory disease (SID). METHODS: This retrospective cross-sectional study included 44 patients with uveitis with anterior chamber inflammation (uveitis group), 39 subjects with isolated SID, and 91 healthy controls (control group). Topographic images were classified as "normal," "keratoconus (KC) suspect" and "KC" based on maps of axial curvature, corneal thickness, front and back elevation in combination with Belin/Ambrósio Enhanced Ectasia Display (BAD). RESULTS: The uveitis and SID groups had higher incidence of KC (6.8% and 10.2%, respectively) and KC suspect (45.5% and 33.3%, respectively), whereas 2.2% of the control subjects had KC and 26.4% represented KC suspect (p < .05). CONCLUSIONS: Patients with uveitis with or without SID, and isolated SID without intraocular inflammation seem to be more likely to have KC and KC suspect, which might be due to systemic and/or local inflammatory background triggering pathophysiological mechanisms underlying KC.

Iris thickness measurements in patients with diabetic retinopathy.

PURPOSE: The aim of the study was to investigate iris alterations in diabetic retinopathy (DR). METHODS: Sixty-nine eyes of 69 patients were recruited and three groups of patients were examined: proliferative DR (n = 25), non-proliferative DR (n = 21) and healthy controls (n = 23). Macular optical coherence tomography (OCT), anterior segment iris OCT, and slit lamp digital camera photographs were taken. The thicknesses of the iris at a distance of 1 mm, 2 mm, and 3 mm from pupil margin were measured via iris OCT. Iris crypt count, furrow extent, color tone and collarette/diameter ratio were measured by means of anterior segment photography. Visual acuity, refractive error, intraocular pressure, and numbers of intravitreal injections were also recorded. RESULTS: The iris thickness measurements at 1 mm from pupil margin were significantly correlated with the macular thickness measurements (r = 0.32, p = 0.016). In the proliferative DR group, total number of injections were significantly correlated with the iris thickness measurements at 1 mm (r = 0.25, p = 0.04). The iris thickness measurements at distances 1 mm, 2 mm, and 3 mm from the pupil margin were similar in all of the groups (p > 0.05). Iris thickness did not correlate with age, intra-ocular pressure and collarette iris ratio in all the participants (p > 0.05). CONCLUSION: Iris thickness is similar in diabetic patients and healthy controls. Meanwhile, iris thickness near the pupillary margin is positively correlated with macular thickness.

Association of inner retinal reflectivity with qualitative and quantitative changes in retinal layers over time in diabetic eyes without retinopathy.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the course of neurodegeneration based on retinal layer thickness and integrity analysis in diabetic patients without retinopathy and to evaluate its association with inner retinal reflectivity. METHODS: This retrospective case-control study included 80 eyes of 80 patients with DM without retinopathy and 40 eyes of 40 healthy subjects with a follow-up of ≥1 year. SD-OCT was used for assessment of retinal reflectivity and macular layer thicknesses. Optical intensity ratios (OIRs) were defined as the mean OCT reflectivity of ganglion cell and inner nuclear layer to the mean reflectivity of RPE. RESULTS: After Bonferroni correction, thinning in pericentral, superior and nasal sectors in total retina, superior ganglion cell, pericentral and nasal inner plexiform, and superior inner retinal layers, as well as thickening in inferior and pericentral outer plexiform layer remained significant in the study group (p < 0.0125). Ganglion cell layer OIR significantly correlated with the changes in superior retina (r = 0.278, p = 0.013), central inner retina (r = 0.247, p = 0.027), and pericentral retinal thickness (r = 0.240, p = 0.032), and no eyes had disruption of retinal layers in the study group initially or finally. CONCLUSION: Ganglion cell layer reflectivity significantly correlated with the amount of pericentral retinal thinning during the time course in the diabetic group, which was more prominent in the inner retinal layers.

Early term ocular changes after cold compress application.

PURPOSE: To examine changes in the eyes after cold compress application at the early stage. METHOD: A total of 62 eyes from 62 healthy adult participants were included in this cross-sectional and comparative study. The subfoveal choroidal thickness and retinal nerve fiber thickness were measured by spectral-domain ocular coherence tomography. The central corneal thickness, anterior segment volume and depth, iridocorneal angle, and pupil diameter were measured by means of the Scheimpflug anterior segment imaging method. The measurements were repeated after 10 min of cold compress application, which was applied using special packs. The procedures were then repeated with non-cold packages to exclude the effect of pressure. RESULTS: The average age of the participants was 30.74 ± 5.82 years. There was no significant change in the central corneal thickness after cold compress application, and there was a significant decrease in the anterior segment volume (p<0.001), anterior segment depth (p<0.001), and pupil diameter. Moreover, the iridocorneal angle increased (p=0.002). The subfoveal choroidal thickness decreased after the application of cold compress (p<0.001). The overall disk thickness (p=0.034) and superior nasal scale (p=0.007) significantly decreased after the cold compress was administered during the evaluation of optic nerve fiber thickness. In contrast to that with the cold application, the subfoveal choroidal thickness and optic nerve fiber thickness did not change after the non-cold compress application (p>0.05). CONCLUSION: Cold compress application may thus cause some physiological changes in the eyes, which necessitates the examination of its usage and effects.

Corneal and anterior chamber morphology in patients with noninfectious intraocular inflammation / Morfologia da córnea e da câmara anterior em pacientes com inflamação intraocular não infecciosa

ABSTRACT Purpose: To evaluate the corneal and anterior chamber morphology in phakic eyes with noninfectious intraocular inflammation. Methods: This study included 59 eyes with active uveitis, 62 with inactive uveitis, and 95 healthy eyes. Corneal endothelial cell density, hexagonal cell ratio, coefficient of variation (CV), corneal thickness and volume, maximum keratometry, and anterior chamber volume and depth (ACD) measurements were performed using a specular microscope and Pentacam HR. Results: The mean duration of uveitis was 24.6 ± 40.5 (0-180) months. The mean number of uveitis attacks was 2.8 ± 3.0 (1-20). Coefficient of variation was significantly higher in the active uveitis group compared with inactive uveitis group (p=0.017, Post Hoc Tukey). Anterior segment parameters other than coefficient of variation were not significantly different between active/inactive uveitis and control groups (p>0.05). Multiple linear regression analysis showed that coefficient of variation was greater in active uveitis compared with inactive uveitis after adjusting for the duration of uveitis, type of uveitis, having a rheumatologic disease, and having immunosuppressive treatment (p=0.003). The duration of uveitis and number of attacks were not significantly correlated with ocular parameters (p>0.05, Spearman's correlation). The difference in parameters was not significant based on uveitis type (p>0.05). Conclusions: Coefficient of variation was higher in eyes with active uveitis than that in eyes with inactive uveitis, whereas corneal endothelial cell density and anterior chamber morphology did not significantly differ between active/inactive uveitis and control groups.(AU)

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar a morfologia da córnea e da câmara anterior em olhos fácicos com inflamação intraocular não infecciosa. Métodos: Esse estudo incluiu 59 olhos com uveíte ativa, 62 olhos com uveíte inativa e 95 olhos saudáveis. A densidade de células endoteliais da córnea, a proporção de células hexagonais, o coeficiente de variação, o volume e a espessura da córnea, a ceratometria máxima e o volume e profundidade da câmara anterior foram medidos com um microscópio especular e uma Pentacam HR. Resultados: A duração média da uveíte foi de 24,6 ± 40,5 (0-180) meses. O número médio de crises de uveíte foi de 2,8 ± 3,0 (1-20). O coeficiente de variação foi significativamente maior no grupo com uveíte ativa do que no grupo com uveíte inativa (p=0,017, Tukey post-hoc). Não houve diferença significativa nos demais parâmetros do segmento anterior entre os grupos com uveíte ativa, com uveíte inativa e controle (p>0,05). A análise de regressão linear múltipla demonstrou que o coeficiente de variação foi maior na uveíte ativa do que na uveíte inativa, após ajustes para a duração e tipo de uveíte e a presença ou não de doença reumática e de tratamento imunossupressor (p=0,003). A duração da uveíte e o número de crises não demonstraram correlação significativa com os parâmetros oculares (p>0,05, correlação de Spearman). A diferença nos parâmetros não demonstrou correlação significativa com o tipo de uveíte (p>0,05). Conclusões: O coeficiente de variação foi maior nos olhos com uveíte ativa do que naqueles com uveíte inativa, ao passo que a densidade de células endoteliais e a morfologia da câmara anterior não mostraram diferenças significativas entre os grupos com uveíte ativa, com uveíte inativa e controle.(AU)

Alterations in retinal and choroidal thickness following nonarteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy.

PURPOSE: To show alterations of retinal arteriolar caliber (RAC), retinal venular caliber (RVC), retinal nerve fiber layer thickness (RNFLT), peripapillary choroidal thickness (ppCT), and central macular thickness (CMT) in acute and chronic phases of nonarteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION). METHODS: Forty-one eyes of 41 patients with NAION were included in this retrospective study. RAC, RVC, RNFLT, ppCT, and CMT measurements were performed via spectral-domain optical coherence tomography in the acute and chronic phases of NAION. RESULTS: RVC, RNFLT, ppCT, and CMT were significantly thinner in the chronic phase compared to the acute phase (p < 0.001), whereas RAC remained similar throughout the visits (p = 0.26). The visual acuity difference between the acute and chronic phases was not correlated with the changes of RAC, RVC, RNFLT, ppCT, or CMT. CONCLUSIONS: RVC, RNFLT, ppCT, and CMT decreases in the chronic phase when compared to the acute phase of NAION, whereas RAC does not change significantly.

The effects of pharmacological accommodation and cycloplegia on axial length and choroidal thickness / Efeitos da acomodação farmacológica e da cicloplegia no comprimento axial e na espessura da coroide

ABSTRACT Purpose: To investigate the effects of pharmacological accommodation and cycloplegia on ocular measurements. Methods: Thirty-three healthy subjects [mean (±SD) age, 32.97 (±5.21) years] volunteered to participate in the study. Measurement of the axial length, macular and choroidal thickness, refractive error, and corneal topography, as well as anterior segment imaging, were performed. After these procedures, pharmacological accommodation was induced by applying pilocarpine eye drops (pilocarpine hydrochloride 2%), and the measurements were repeated. The measurements were repeated again after full cycloplegia was induced using cyclopentolate eye drops (cyclopentolate hydrochloride 1%). The correlations between the measurements were evaluated. Results: A significant increase in subfoveal choroidal thickness after applying 2% pilocarpine was identified (without the drops, 319.36 ± 90.08 µm; with pilocarpine instillation, 341.60 ± 99.19 µm; with cyclopentolate instillation, 318.36 ± 103.0 µm; p<0.001). A significant increase in the axial length was also detected (without the drops, 23.26 ± 0.83 mm; with pilocarpine instillation, 23.29 ± 0.84 mm; with cyclopentolate instillation, 23.27 ± 0.84 mm; p=0.003). Comparing pharmacological accommodation and cycloplegia revealed a significant difference in central macular thickness (with pilocarpine instillation, 262.27 ± 19.34 µm; with cyclopentolate instillation, 265.93 ± 17.91 µm; p=0.016). Pilocarpine-related miosis (p<0.001) and myopic shift (p<0.001) were more severe in blue eyes vs. brown eyes. Conclusion: Pharmacological accommodation may change ocular measurements, such as choroidal thickness and axial length. This condition should be considered when performing ocular measurements, such as intraocular lens power calculations.(AU)

RESUMO Objetivo: Investigar os efeitos da acomodação farmacológica e da cicloplegia nas medições oculares. Métodos: participaram do estudo 33 voluntários saudáveis (média de idade [± DP], 32,97 anos [± 5,21 anos]). Foram medidos o comprimento axial, a espessura macular e coroidal e o erro refrativo, bem como realizados exames de imagem da topografia corneana e do segmento anterior. Em seguida, foi induzida a acomodação farmacológica aplicando-se colírio de pilocarpina (cloridrato de pilocarpina a 2%) e as medições foram repetidas nos participantes. As mesmas medições foram repetidas depois de induzir a cicloplegia completa com colírio de ciclopentolato (cloridrato de ciclopentolato a 1%) e foram avaliadas as correlações entre as medidas. Resultados: Identificou-se aumento significativo da espessura coroidal subfoveal com o uso da pilocarpina a 2% (sem colírio, 319,36 ± 90,08 µm; com a instilação de pilocarpina, 341,60 ± 99,19 µm; com a instilação de ciclopentolato, 318,36 ± 103,0 µm; p<0,001). Detectou-se também aumento significativo do comprimento axial (sem colírio, 23,26 ± 0,83 mm; com a instilação de pilocarpina, 23,29 ± 0,84 mm; com a instilação de ciclopentolato, 23,27 ± 0,84 mm; p=0,003). Ao se comparar a acomodação farmacológica e a cicloplegia, houve diferença significativa na espessura macular central (com a instilação de pilocarpina, 262,27 ± 19,34 µm; com a instilação de ciclopentolato, 265,93 ± 17,91 µm; p=0,016). Observou-se que a miose associada à pilocarpina (p<0,001) e o desvio miópico (p<0,001) foram mais severos nos olhos azuis que nos castanhos. Conclusão: A acomodação farmacológica pode alterar medidas oculares como a espessura da coroide e o comprimento axial. Essa possibilidade deve ser levada em consideração ao se efetuarem medições oculares, tais como cálculos de potência de lentes intraoculares.(AU)

Relationship of Sighting Ocular Dominance with Macular Photostress Test Time and Thickness of the Middle Macular Layers.

SIGNIFICANCE: The mechanisms of sighting ocular dominance, which is particularly important in monovision therapies and sports vision, are not fully understood yet. Whether the macula affects ocular dominance or ocular dominance affects the macula is also a subject of interest. PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship of sighting ocular dominance with macular photostress test time and middle macular layer thickness. METHODS: One-hundred eyes of 50 healthy adult volunteers were included in this cross-sectional study. Sighting eye dominance was decided by a hole-in-the-card test. The macular photostress test was performed by exposing the eye to the ophthalmoscope light for 10 seconds and measuring the time taken to return to visual acuity within one row of pre-light exposure acuity. The spectral-domain optical coherence tomography examinations were performed to measure thickness of middle macular layers (i.e., outer nuclear, outer plexiform, inner nuclear, and inner plexiform). Refractive error and intraocular pressure (IOP) measurements were also recorded. RESULTS: The comparison of dominant and nondominant eyes in the aspect of refractive error, IOP, and macular photostress test time did not show statistically significant differences (P > .05). The thicknesses of macular outer nuclear, outer plexiform, inner nuclear, and inner plexiform layers were similar in the dominant and nondominant eyes (P > .05). In addition, macular photostress time was not statistically significantly correlated with the thickness of middle macular layers (P > .05). CONCLUSIONS: The thickness of middle macular layers and macular photostress recovery time are similar in dominant and nondominant eyes.

The effects of pharmacological accommodation and cycloplegia on axial length and choroidal thickness.

PURPOSE: To investigate the effects of pharmacological accommodation and cycloplegia on ocular measurements. METHODS: Thirty-three healthy subjects [mean (±SD) age, 32.97 (±5.21) years] volunteered to participate in the study. Measurement of the axial length, macular and choroidal thickness, refractive error, and corneal topography, as well as anterior segment imaging, were performed. After these procedures, pharmacological accommodation was induced by applying pilocarpine eye drops (pilocarpine hydrochloride 2%), and the measurements were repeated. The measurements were repeated again after full cycloplegia was induced using cyclopentolate eye drops (cyclopentolate hydrochloride 1%). The correlations between the measurements were evaluated. RESULTS: A significant increase in subfoveal choroidal thickness after applying 2% pilocarpine was identified (without the drops, 319.36 ± 90.08 µm; with pilocarpine instillation, 341.60 ± 99.19 µm; with cyclopentolate instillation, 318.36 ± 103.0 µm; p<0.001). A significant increase in the axial length was also detected (without the drops, 23.26 ± 0.83 mm; with pilocarpine instillation, 23.29 ± 0.84 mm; with cyclopentolate instillation, 23.27 ± 0.84 mm; p=0.003). Comparing pharmacological accommodation and cycloplegia revealed a significant difference in central macular thickness (with pilocarpine instillation, 262.27 ± 19.34 µm; with cyclopentolate instillation, 265.93 ± 17.91 µm; p=0.016). Pilocarpine-related miosis (p<0.001) and myopic shift (p<0.001) were more severe in blue eyes vs. brown eyes. CONCLUSION: Pharmacological accommodation may change ocular measurements, such as choroidal thickness and axial length. This condition should be considered when performing ocular measurements, such as intraocular lens power calculations.

Corneal and anterior chamber morphology in patients with noninfectious intraocular inflammation.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the corneal and anterior chamber morphology in phakic eyes with noninfectious intraocular inflammation. METHODS: This study included 59 eyes with active uveitis, 62 with inactive uveitis, and 95 healthy eyes. Corneal endothelial cell density, hexagonal cell ratio, coefficient of variation (CV), corneal thickness and volume, maximum keratometry, and anterior chamber volume and depth (ACD) measurements were performed using a specular microscope and Pentacam HR. RESULTS: The mean duration of uveitis was 24.6 ± 40.5 (0-180) months. The mean number of uveitis attacks was 2.8 ± 3.0 (1-20). Coefficient of variation was significantly higher in the active uveitis group compared with inactive uveitis group (p=0.017, Post Hoc Tukey). Anterior segment parameters other than coefficient of variation were not significantly different between active/inactive uveitis and control groups (p>0.05). Multiple linear regression analysis showed that coefficient of variation was greater in active uveitis compared with inactive uveitis after adjusting for the duration of uveitis, type of uveitis, having a rheumatologic disease, and having immunosuppressive treatment (p=0.003). The duration of uveitis and number of attacks were not significantly correlated with ocular parameters (p>0.05, Spearman's correlation). The difference in parameters was not significant based on uveitis type (p>0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Coefficient of variation was higher in eyes with active uveitis than that in eyes with inactive uveitis, whereas corneal endothelial cell density and anterior chamber morphology did not significantly differ between active/inactive uveitis and control groups.

Inner retinal thickness and optic disc measurements in obese children and adolescents.

PURPOSE: This study aimed to evaluate optic nerve head parameters and inner retinal layer thicknesses in obese children and adolescents. METHODS: Forty-one eyes of 41 pediatric obese participants and 41 eyes of 41 age- and sex-matched healthy controls were included in this study. Body mass index was calculated, based on sex and age, using body weight and height measurements. Blood lipid values (i.e., cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein, high-density lipoprotein, and triglyceride) were measured in obese participants. Optical coherence tomography was used to examine optic nerve head parameters, including rim area, disc area, cup-to-disc ratio, and cup volume, as well as the thicknesses of retinal nerve fiber layers and macular ganglion cell-inner plexiform layers. RESULTS: Optic disc parameters were similar in obese and healthy children (p>0.05). The percentage of binocular retinal nerve fiber layer thickness symmetry was significantly different between obese and control groups (p=0.003). Compared to the control group, participants in the obese group exhibited thinner retinal nerve fiber layers in the superior quadrants (p=0.04) and thinner ganglion cell-inner plexiform layers in the superior-temporal sectors (p=0.04). There were no statistically significant correlations between the ocular parameters and lipid blood test values assessed in this study (p>0.05). Body mass index was significantly negatively correlated with the mean retinal nerve fiber layer thickness (r=-0.33, p=0.03) in the obese group. There was no significant correlation between intraocular pressure and body mass index (r=0.05, p=0.74). CONCLUSION: Compared to healthy children, obese children had greater binocular retinal nerve fiber layer thickness asymmetry and thinner retinal nerve fiber and ganglion cell-inner plexiform layers in several sectors. Blood lipid levels were not associated with retinal thickness or optic disc parameters in obese children.

Inner retinal thickness and optic disc measurements in obese children and adolescents / Espessura retiniana interna e medidas do disco óptico na obesidade pediátrica

ABSTRACT Purpose: This study aimed to evaluate optic nerve head parameters and inner retinal layer thicknesses in obese children and adolescents. Methods: Forty-one eyes of 41 pediatric obese participants and 41 eyes of 41 age- and sex-matched healthy controls were included in this study. Body mass index was calculated, based on sex and age, using body weight and height measurements. Blood lipid values (i.e., cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein, high-density lipoprotein, and triglyceride) were measured in obese participants. Optical coherence tomography was used to examine optic nerve head parameters, including rim area, disc area, cup-to-disc ratio, and cup volume, as well as the thicknesses of retinal nerve fiber layers and macular ganglion cell-inner plexiform layers. Results: Optic disc parameters were similar in obese and healthy children (p>0.05). The percentage of binocular retinal nerve fiber layer thickness symmetry was significantly different between obese and control groups (p=0.003). Compared to the control group, participants in the obese group exhibited thinner retinal nerve fiber layers in the superior quadrants (p=0.04) and thinner ganglion cell-inner plexiform layers in the superior-temporal sectors (p=0.04). There were no statistically significant correlations between the ocular parameters and lipid blood test values assessed in this study (p>0.05). Body mass index was significantly negatively correlated with the mean retinal nerve fiber layer thickness (r=-0.33, p=0.03) in the obese group. There was no significant correlation between intraocular pressure and body mass index (r=0.05, p=0.74). Conclusion: Compared to healthy children, obese children had greater binocular retinal nerve fiber layer thickness asymmetry and thinner retinal nerve fiber and ganglion cell-inner plexiform layers in several sectors. Blood lipid levels were not associated with retinal thickness or optic disc parameters in obese children.

RESUMO Objetivo: O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar os parâmetros da cabeça do nervo óptico e a espessura da camada interna da retina em crianças e adolescentes obesos. Métodos: Quarenta e um olhos de 41 participantes pediátricos obesos e 41 olhos de 41 controles saudáveis pareados por idade e sexo foram incluídos neste estudo. O índice de massa corporal foi calculado com base no sexo e na idade, utilizando medidas de peso e estatura corporal. Os valores de lipídios no sangue (colesterol, lipoproteína de baixa e alta densidade e triglicérides) foram medidos nos participantes obesos. A tomografia de coerência óptica foi usada para examinar os parâmetros da cabeça do nervo óptico, incluindo a área da borda, área do disco, razão escavação/disco, volume da escavação, espessura s camadas de fibra nervosa da retina e as camadas plexiformes internas das células ganglionares da mácula. Resultados: Os parâmetros do disco óptico foram semelhantes em crianças obesas e saudáveis (p>0,05). A porcentagem da simetria da espessura da camada de fibras nervosas da retina binocular foi significativamente diferente entre os grupos obesos e controle (p=0,003). Comparados ao grupo controle, os participantes do grupo obeso exibiram camadas mais finas de fibras nervosas da retina nos quadrantes superiores (p=0,04) e camadas plexiformes mais finas da célula ganglionar interna nos setores temporal superior (p=0,04). Não houve correlação significante entre os parâmetros oculares e os valores dos exames de sangue lipídico avaliados neste estudo (p>0,05). O índice de massa corporal foi significativamente correlacionado negativamente com a espessura média da camada de fibras nervosas da retina (r=-0,33, p=0,03) no grupo obeso. Não houve correlação significativa entre a pressão intraocular e o índice de massa corporal (r=0,05, p=0,74). Conclusão: Comparadas às crianças saudáveis, as crianças obe sas apresentaram maior assimetria binocular na espessura da ca mada de fibras nervosas da retina e fibras nervosas da retina mais finas e camadas plexiformes internas das células ganglionares em vários setores. Os níveis de lipídios no sangue não foram associados à espessura da retina ou aos parâmetros do disco óptico em crianças obesas.

Measurements of scleral thickness and corneal optic densitometry in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus.

BACKGROUND: This study aimed to evaluate the scleral thickness and corneal parameters of patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). METHODS: Forty-seven eyes of 47 SLE patients and 44 eyes of healthy controls were included in this cross-sectional study. Anterior segment optical coherence tomography (AS-OCT) was used to measure the corneal and scleral thickness. Scleral thickness (ST) was measured based upon the segmentation at 1000 to 5000 µm from the scleral spur. Pentacam HR was used to measure corneal parameters. RESULTS: There was no statistically significant difference between SLE group and control group according to age and sex (P > .05). The ST measurements at all distances from scleral spur were found to be thicker in patients with SLE (P < .05). Central corneal thickness (CCT), cornea volume (CV), corneal densitometry (CD), and peripheral corneal thickness (PCT) measurements were similar between the groups (P > .05). CONCLUSION: ST was thicker in SLE patients compared with healthy controls. AS-OCT seems helpful in selecting optimal sites for pharmaceutical or surgical intervention in SLE patients, since it shows thickness variations in anterior sclera.

Association of retinal biomarkers and choroidal vascularity index on optical coherence tomography using binarization method in retinitis pigmentosa.

PURPOSE: To investigate the association of retinal biomarkers with the choroidal parameters in retinitis pigmentosa (RP). METHODS: This prospective study included 69 eyes of 36 patients with RP. Choroidal vascularity index (CVI) was defined as the ratio of luminal area to stromal area after binarization on EDI-OCT images. Choroidal thickness (CT); peripapillary CT, the disruptions of the ellipsoid zone (EZ) and external limiting membrane (ELM); and the existence of disorganization of the retinal inner layers (DRIL) and epiretinal membrane (ERM) in central 1000 µm were noted. RESULTS: Having DRIL and the disruption of EZ and ELM was significantly associated with higher CVI (p < 0.001, p = 0.001, and p = 0.002 respectively) and lower peripapillary CT in temporal sector (p = 0.031, p = 0.012, and p = 0.043 respectively). Having ERM, the disruption of EZ and ELM was significantly associated with lower visual acuity (VA) (p = 0.044, p < 0.001, and p < 0.001 respectively). The eyes with ERM had significantly lower peripapillary retinal nerve fiber thickness (pRNFLT) (p = 0.040). The mean peripapillary CT significantly and positively correlated with the temporal, nasal, superonasal, and the mean pRNFLT (r = 0.258, p = 0.036, r = 0.252, p = 0.041, r = 0.260, p = 0.035, r = 0.280, p = 0.023 respectively). VA did not significantly correlate with CT, peripapillary CT, or CVI (p > 0.05). CONCLUSION: The disruption outer retinal segment integrity was significantly associated with higher CVI and lower peripapillary CT in temporal segment. ERM and disruption of ELM and EZ were associated with worse VA. VA did not significantly correlate with CT, peripapillary CT, or CVI.