Cosmetic Contact Lenses in the United Kingdom: Assessment of Online Regulation and Quality of Consumer Health Information.

OBJECTIVES: To determine the compliance of online vendors to the UK Opticians Act 1989 Section 27 requirements and safety regulations for cosmetic contact lens (CCL) sales and the quality of online CCL health information. METHODS: The top 50 websites selling CCLs on each three search engines, namely Google, Yahoo, and Bing, were selected. Duplicates were removed, and the remaining websites were systematically analyzed in February 2023. UK legal authorization for CCL sales was assessed using the Opticians Act Section 27 and safety regulations determined by the presence of Conformité Européene (CE) marking. The quality and reliability of online information was graded using the DISCERN (16-80) and JAMA (0-4) scores by two independent reviewers. RESULTS: Forty-seven eligible websites were analyzed. Only six (12.7%) met the UK legal authorization for CCL sales. Forty-nine different brands of CCLs were sold on these websites, of which 13 (26.5%) had no CE marking. The mean DISCERN and JAMA benchmark scores were 26 ± 12.2 and 1.3 ± 0.6, respectively (intraclass correlation scores: 0.99 for both). CONCLUSIONS: A significant number of websites provide consumers with easy, unsafe, and unregulated access to CCLs. Most online stores do not meet the requirements set out in the Opticians Act for CCL sales in the United Kingdom. A significant number of CCLs lack CE marking, while the average quality of information on websites selling CCLs is poor. Together, these pose a risk to consumers purchasing CCLs from unregulated websites, and therefore, further stringent regulations on the online sales of these products are needed.

Alirocumab-associated unilateral posterior uveitis.

A man in his mid-40s who had been recently started on alirocumab (a human monoclonal antibody which inhibits proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9) due to his strong familial cardiovascular risk and refractory hypercholesterolaemia presented with a few-hour history of acute-onset left-sided blurred vision. The best-corrected visual acuities were 6/6 bilaterally and slit-lamp examination was normal. However, optical coherence tomography revealed serous subretinal fluid in the left macula. Optos ultra-widefield retinal imaging and fundus autofluorescence, along with a set of blood tests, did not reveal any alternative causes. A diagnosis of alirocumab-associated uveitis was diagnosed. Alirocumab was stopped and he was followed up in uveitis clinic. Within 4 months following alirocumab cessation, the subretinal fluid resolved completely. This case report emphasises the importance of early multidisciplinary team involvement, since novel therapeutic agents can have unexpected adverse events.

Real-World Experience in the Use of Immunosuppression for the Management of Inflammatory Eye Disease.

PURPOSE: Patients with sight-threatening inflammatory eye disease (IED) are maintained on systemic immunosuppression whilst in long-term clinical remission. There are no clear guidelines on the duration of remission before implementing treatment withdrawal. We present a real-world analysis on the use of immunosuppression in IED in long-term remission and consider strategies for withdrawal. METHODS: Adult IED patients on systemic immunosuppression were categorised into four disease groups: Corneal Transplant Survival Strategies (CTSS), Ocular Surface Disease (OSD), Non-infectious Uveitis (NIU) and Scleritis. Patients with Behçet's disease were excluded. Data on systemic immunosuppressants and biologics used; duration of treatment; reasons for drug discontinuation; disease activity/remission status; duration of clinical remission with an emphasis on patients who had been in remission for a minimum of 24 months were captured. RESULTS: Out of a total of 303 IED patients, 128 were on systemic immunosuppression with a clinical remission of their ocular disease for ≥24 months. The median duration of remission was 4-5 years with the longest duration of remission 22 years, and some patients on immunosuppression for up to 23 years. Sixty patients stopped at least one immunosuppressive agent without prior discussion with a health-care practitioner. CONCLUSION: Progressive conditions, such as cicatrising conjunctivitis may require lifelong immunosuppression, but patients with NIU and Scleritis and those on CTSS, immunosuppression withdrawal should be considered if they remain in remission for 2 years. Any patient stopping a medication should be contacted immediately for counselling. These data will better inform patients, encourage adherence and aide formal guideline development.

Real-World Data on Faricimab Switching in Treatment-Refractory Neovascular Age-Related Macular Degeneration.

Faricimab is a newly approved bispecific antibody for neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD). Our study aims to evaluate clinical outcomes of faricimab switching in patients with treatment-refractory nAMD; determine parameters that predict these outcomes; and obtain patient subjective experience on this new injection. This is a retrospective case review with clinical and imaging data from a tertiary referral unit (Birmingham and Midland Eye Centre, UK), involving patients who were switched to faricimab between 1 January and 1 December 2023. In all, 63 eyes (54 patients) with a mean age of 79.2 ± 7.8 and mean of 41.5 ± 22.4 previous anti-VEGF injections were analysed. With a mean of 4.81 ± 1.16 faricimab injections over 6.98 ± 1.75 months, post-treatment visual acuity was logMAR 0.49 ± 0.36 and central macular thickness (CMT) was 320.3 ± 97.9 µm. After first dose, 39.1% achieved complete dryness and 89.1% had anatomical improvement. Presence of subretinal fluid was a predictor of better functional outcomes (p = 0.001, ß = -0.182), while initial CMT predicted better anatomical outcomes (p = 0.001, ß = 0.688). Compared to their experiences of previous anti-VEGF injections, 89% of patients reported no more discomfort and 87.0% experienced no more floaters, photopsia, or bubbles post-injection. Faricimab switching has anatomical efficacy but limited functional improvement in treatment-refractory AMD. Patient experiences of faricimab compared to previous injections were overall positive.

Clinical Applications of Anterior Segment Optical Coherence Tomography: An Updated Review.

Since its introduction, optical coherence tomography (OCT) has revolutionized the field of ophthalmology and has now become an indispensable, noninvasive tool in daily practice. Most ophthalmologists are familiar with its use in the assessment and monitoring of retinal and optic nerve diseases. However, it also has important applications in the assessment of anterior segment structures, including the cornea, conjunctiva, sclera, anterior chamber, and iris, and has the potential to transform the clinical examination of these structures. In this review, we aim to provide a comprehensive overview of the potential clinical utility of anterior segment OCT (AS-OCT) for a wide range of anterior segment pathologies, such as conjunctival neoplasia, pterygium, scleritis, keratoconus, corneal dystrophies, and infectious/noninfectious keratitis. In addition, the clinical applications of AS-OCT (including epithelial mapping) in preoperative planning and postoperative monitoring for corneal and refractive surgeries are discussed.

Ocular Metastasis as First Presentation of Large-Cell Neuroendocrine Carcinoma.

Introduction: We report a rare case of an aggressive large-cell neuroendocrine lung tumour, which presented with ocular metastasis. Case Presentation: A 70-year-old lady presented with a 4-week history of left eye pain and photophobia. Ocular examination revealed left-sided episcleritis and she was treated with topical lubricants and steroids. However, she re-presented 6 months later with recurrent left eye symptoms and was found to have an iris stroma amelanotic lesion, posterior synechiae, 360-degrees rubeosis iridis, raised intraocular pressure, and trace vitreous inflammation. Ultrasound biomicroscopy revealed a left thickened iris with an associated ciliary body lesion. Sarcoid-related ocular inflammation was suspected, but a computed tomography (CT) scan of the lung revealed an incidental right upper lobe lesion. Histology from a transcorneal iris biopsy showed a high-grade neuroendocrine carcinoma, and the diagnosis of metastatic lung large-cell neuroendocrine carcinoma was confirmed via high-resolution CT scan, positron emission tomography scan, and CT-guided lung biopsy. She was given multiple courses of different chemotherapy regimens along with palliative radiotherapy. However, the tumour and its metastases continued to progress and she passed away 4 years after her initial presentation. Conclusion: Ocular metastatic large-cell neuroendocrine carcinoma is rare, and the first presentation with ocular metastasis is even rarer. This case highlights the importance of early detection of ocular metastases in order to hasten oncological treatment. A low threshold for systemic investigations and ophthalmology referral in cases of unexplained, refractory ocular symptomatology is essential, given the heterogeneous presentation, rarity, and poor prognosis of these tumours, even with maximal treatment.

The current use of glaucoma virtual clinics in Europe.

OBJECTIVES: To assess and describe current utilisation, characteristics and perspectives on virtual glaucoma clinics (VGCs) amongst European glaucoma specialists. METHODS: Cross-sectional, anonymized, online questionnaire distributed to all European Glaucoma Society-registered specialists. Questions were stratified into five domains: Demographics, Questions about VGC use, Questions for non-VGC users, COVID-19 effects, and VGC advantages/disadvantages. RESULTS: 30% of 169 participants currently use VGCs, with 53% based in the United Kingdom. Of those using VGCs, 85% reported higher patient acceptance compared to traditional care. The commonest virtual model was asynchronous remote monitoring (54%). Nurses (49%) and ophthalmic technicians (46%) were mostly responsible for data collection, with two-thirds using a mixture of professionals. Consultant ophthalmologists were the main decision-makers in 51% of VGCs. Preferred cohorts were: ocular hypertension (85%), glaucoma suspects (80%), early/moderate glaucoma in worse eye (68%), stable glaucoma irrespective of treatment (59%) and stable glaucoma on monotherapy (51%). Commonest investigations were: IOP (90%), BCVA (88%), visual field testing (85%) and OCT (78%), with 33 different combinations. Reasons for face-to-face referral included: visual field progression (80%), 'above-target' IOP (63%), and OCT progression (51%). Reasons for not using VGCs included: lack of experience (47%), adequate systems in place (42%), no appropriate staff (34%) and insufficient time/money (34%). 55% of non-VGC users are interested in their use with 38% currently considering future implementation. 83% stated VGC consultations have increased during the COVID-19 pandemic; 86% of all participants felt that the pandemic has highlighted the importance of VGCs. CONCLUSIONS: A significant proportion of European glaucoma units are currently using VGCs, while others are considering implementation. Financial reimbursement and consensus guidelines are potentially crucial steps in VGC uptake.

Diagnosis of Acanthamoeba Keratitis: Past, Present and Future.

Acanthamoeba keratitis (AK) is a painful and sight-threatening parasitic corneal infection. In recent years, the incidence of AK has increased. Timely and accurate diagnosis is crucial during the management of AK, as delayed diagnosis often results in poor clinical outcomes. Currently, AK diagnosis is primarily achieved through a combination of clinical suspicion, microbiological investigations and corneal imaging. Historically, corneal scraping for microbiological culture has been considered to be the gold standard. Despite its technical ease, accessibility and cost-effectiveness, the long diagnostic turnaround time and variably low sensitivity of microbiological culture limit its use as a sole diagnostic test for AK in clinical practice. In this review, we aim to provide a comprehensive overview of the diagnostic modalities that are currently used to diagnose AK, including microscopy with staining, culture, corneal biopsy, in vivo confocal microscopy, polymerase chain reaction and anterior segment optical coherence tomography. We also highlight emerging techniques, such as next-generation sequencing and artificial intelligence-assisted models, which have the potential to transform the diagnostic landscape of AK.

Sterile endogenous panophthalmitis with uncontrolled diabetes.

A female patient with type 2 diabetes in her 50s presented to casualty with a 1-day history of red, painful right eye. Visual acuity (VA) bilaterally was 6/12, but a right anterior uveitis was noted, with hazy fundal view. She was discharged on topical steroid and mydriatic drops with a 2-day follow-up. VA remained unchanged, but she developed right proptosis, restricted eye movements, lid swelling, relative afferent pupillary defect and an intraocular pressure (IOP) of 39 mm Hg. She was admitted and treated with intravenous and intravitreal antibiotics, intravenous antifungals and IOP-lowering drugs. Blood tests showed raised inflammatory markers and an HbA1c of 127 mmol/mol. Over her admission, right eye vision deteriorated to no light perception. A B-scan ultrasound revealed panophthalmitis and a retinal abscess. All investigations looking for a source were negative. Inflammatory markers settled, but despite aggressive treatment, the panophthalmitis did not improve. She was discharged with a follow-up to consider enucleation.

Bilateral Panuveitis and Exudative Retinal Detachments Associated with Alpelisib.

We report a case of alpelisib-induced uveitis. A 68-year-old female who had recently been given alpelisib for metastatic breast cancer presented with a 2-week history of bilateral worsening vision with a corresponding acute hypermetropic shift. Her unaided visual acuity was 6/60 in both eyes, with bilateral anterior uveitis, non-granulomatous keratic precipitates, posterior synechiae, and limited fundal view. There was also a mild iris bombe configuration, although the intraocular pressures were normal. Ocular ultrasound revealed bilateral uveal effusion, ciliary body congestion, dense vitreous cells, and exudative retinal detachments. These findings were also confirmed on multimodal imaging with widefield fundus photography (Optos) and optical coherence tomography. Based on the clinical features above, a diagnosis of alpelisib-induced panuveitis was diagnosed. She was then admitted and treated with a 3-day course of intravenous methylprednisolone and intensive topical steroids. Her clinical signs and symptoms started to improve, and she was discharged 4 days later. At 1 week of follow-up, her best-corrected visual acuity was 6/12 in both eyes, with broken posterior synechiae and resolution of exudative retinal detachments. This case highlights the importance of early ophthalmology involvement by the oncology team as oncology therapy can have potential unexpected ocular manifestations.

Topical Anti-Inflammatory Agents for Non-Infectious Uveitis: Current Treatment and Perspectives.

Non-infectious uveitis represents a heterogenous group of immune-mediated ocular diseases, which can be associated with underlying systemic disease. While the initial choice of treatment of non-infectious uveitis depends on a number of factors such as anatomical location and degree of inflammation, topical therapies often remain the initial choice of non-invasive therapy. In this narrative review, we aim to describe the literature on non-infectious uveitis, with specific focus on the current perspective on topical anti-inflammatory therapy.

Prophylactic use of proton pump inhibitors post-cardiac surgery.

AIMS/BACKGROUND: Gastrointestinal bleeding significantly increases morbidity and mortality rates postoperatively in patients undergoing cardiac surgery. The prophylactic prescribing of proton pump inhibitors post-cardiac surgery is currently a class IIa recommendation of the European Association of Cardio-Thoracic Surgery. METHOD: A retrospective review of patients who underwent cardiac surgery between July and December 2019 in the authors' hospital was carried out, using discharge summaries. New treatment charts were introduced with a pre-printed proton pump inhibitor included in the 'regular medication' section of the treatment chart and two reaudits were performed using the same methodology. RESULTS: Before the intervention, 47% were prescribed omeprazole postoperatively, compared to 74% (P<0.001) and 66% (P=0.008) in the first and second reaudits respectively. Gastrointestinal bleeding was more common pre-intervention (4% vs 1% respectively; P=0.10). CONCLUSIONS: This intervention resulted in a statistically significant improvement in the prescription of postoperative omeprazole and a decrease in gastrointestinal bleeds. However, other risk factors such as diabetes mellitus, arteriosclerosis and procedure urgency may have contributed to the absence of statistical significance in the latter.

Translation into modern standard Arabic, cross-cultural adaptation and psychometric properties' evaluation of the Lower Extremity Functional Scale (LEFS) in Arabic-speaking athletes with Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) injury.

BACKGROUND: The Lower Extremity Functional Scale evaluates the functional status of patients that have lower extremity conditions of musculoskeletal origin. Regional Arabic dialects often create barriers to clear communication and comparative research. We aimed to cross-culturally adapt the Lower Extremity Functional Scale in modern standard Arabic that is widely used and understood in the Middle East and North Africa region, and assess its psychometric properties. METHODS: Cross-cultural adaptation followed a combination of recommended guidelines. For psychometric evaluation 150 patients with anterior cruciate ligament injury and 65 asymptomatic individuals were recruited. All measurement properties as indicated by the Consensus-based Standards for the selection of health status Measurement Instruments recommendations were evaluated, including content-relevance analysis, structural validity, longitudinal reproducibility, anchor- and distribution-based methods of responsiveness, as well as the longitudinal pattern of change of Lower Extremity Functional Scale in anterior cruciate ligament injured patients' functional status. RESULTS: The questionnaire presented excellent internal consistency (α = 0.96), reliability (0.80-0.98), and good convergent validity (ρ = 0.85). For reproducibility testing: minimal detectable change was 9.26 points; for responsiveness assessment: minimal clinically important difference was 9 points and presented moderate effect sizes (Glass'Δ = 0.71, Cohen's d = 0.81). Its unidimensionality was not confirmed and an exploratory factor analysis indicated a 2-factor solution explaining 78.1% of the variance. CONCLUSION: The Arabic Lower Extremity Functional Scale presented acceptable psychometric properties comparable to the original version. The Arabic version of Lower Extremity Functional Scale can be used in research and clinical practice to assess the functional status of Arabic-patients suffering an anterior cruciate ligament injury.