INTERESTING EYE NEWS & CLINICAL PEARLS

STEM CELL TREATMENT FOR MACULAR DEGENERATION

2011-10-12T12:39:00.000-07:00

Stem-Cell Clinical Trials Move Debate Beyond Labs - WSJ.comThis is very exciting because to date, there has been no definitive treatment for dry macular degeneration. Studies on rats have demonstrated treatment success for AMD using stem cells, but studies have not yet been done on humans.

Daily aspirin tied to risk of vision loss:study | Reuters

2011-10-05T13:10:00.000-07:00

Daily aspirin tied to risk of vision loss:study | ReutersSeniors who take aspirin daily are twice as likely to have late stage macular degeneration, an age-related loss of vision, than people who never take the pain reliever, according to a European study.

Treatment for Pink Eye

2011-10-05T13:09:00.000-07:00

Pinkeye Treatment May Be on the HorizonIn the past, it has been thought that there is no treatment for pink eye. This article introduces a possible eye drop treatment to stop pink eye in it's tracks may be developed.

Xanthelasmata Identified as Independent CV Risk Factor - Forbes

2011-09-30T13:42:00.000-07:00

Xanthelasmata Identified as Independent CV Risk Factor - Forbes"The authors conclude that the presence of xanthelasmata could help clinicians when they diagnose heart disease and associated conditions. And they add that their findings “could be of particular value in societies where access to laboratory facilities and thus lipid profile measurement is difficult.”An accompanying editorial

VITAMIN D MAY NOT BE CRUCIAL IN MACULAR DEGENERATION TREATMENT

2011-09-13T13:25:00.000-07:00

Access : Reconsidering the connection between vitamin D levels and age-related macular degeneration : EyeAccording to this study there is no correlation between vitamin D levels and macular degeneration progression.

ANTIOXIDANTS MAY HELP IN DIABETIC RETINOPATHY

2011-09-13T13:24:00.000-07:00

European Journal of OphthalmologyOral antioxidant supplementation could be a useful adjunctive long-term therapy in the treatment of nonproliferative DR.

VIDEO GAMES MAY IMPROVE VISUAL ACUITY IN AMBLYOPIA

2011-09-09T14:13:00.000-07:00

Most eye doctors believe amblyopia can't be improved past 11 years old. This study suggests that 40 hours of video game play with the good eye patched will improve visual acuity 30% in patients with ambloypia who are older than 11 years old.

EATING FISH MAY HELP PREVENT MACULAR DEGNERATION

2011-03-30T08:59:00.000-07:00

Eating fish may help your eyes - The Washington Post

Omega-3 Fatty Acids Good for Vision.

2011-03-21T17:16:00.000-07:00

Ophthalmology Article |Grab some walnuts and a plate of fish, new research shows Omega–3 fatty acids found in these foods may keep you seeing straight. That means omega 3’s could help prevent eye diseases like retinopathy, which are caused by an overgrowth of leaky blood vessels in the eyes. The fatty acids also activated proteins that improve insulin sensitivity. Those proteins are the same ones

Correction of Astigmatism During Cataract Surgery: Toric Intraocular Lens Compared to Peripheral Corneal Relaxing Incisions

2011-03-11T17:01:00.000-07:00

Correction of Astigmatism During Cataract Surgery: Toric Intraocular Lens Compared to Peripheral Corneal Relaxing IncisionsToric IOL implantation and peripheral corneal relaxing incisions yielded similar results regarding surgical correction of astigmatism at the time of phacoemulsification cataract surgery. Both treatment modalities achieved comparable results with mild-to-moderate astigmatism.

Secondhand smoke linked to diabetes | Reuters

2011-03-11T12:16:00.000-07:00

Secondhand smoke linked to diabetes | Reuters

Anti-cataract agent discovered

2011-03-01T15:24:00.000-07:00

Anti-cataract agent discovered - Ophthalmology Times EuropeAn investigation, published in Inorganic Chemistry, has revealed that the reaction of pirenoxine (PRX) with selenite or calcium ions could be adapted as an anti-cataract agent. Seleneite and calcium ions have been associated with the formation of lens cataracts.

Fish Oil: Good For Vision

2011-03-01T15:23:00.000-07:00

Fish Oil: Good For Vision | Medical News and Health InformationResearchers fed mice a diet high in omega-3 fatty acids, and found it prevented abnormal blood vessel growth in the retina. That means omega 3’s could help prevent eye diseases like retinopathy, which are caused by an overgrowth of leaky blood vessels in the eyes

Possible Link between Diabetes and Macular Degeneration

2011-02-23T14:48:00.000-07:00

Arch Ophthalmol -- Abstract: Diabetes Mellitus and Early Age-related Macular Degeneration, February 2011, Choi et al. 129 (2): 196Subjects with diabetes mellitus were more likely to have early AMD than were those without diabetes mellitus.

Diabetics Affected More by Contact Lens Use

2011-02-23T13:12:00.000-07:00

:: YMJ :: Yonsei Medical JournalCentral corneal thickness and endothelial cell density is more affected by diabetes mellitus, and corneal endothelial cell morphology is more affected by contact lens use, when compared with normal subjects.

Hemoglobin A1C and Fasting Blood Glucose Good Predictors for Retinopathy

2011-02-23T13:10:00.000-07:00

Arch Ophthalmol -- Abstract: Hemoglobin A1c and Fasting Plasma Glucose Levels as Predictors of Retinopathy at 10 Years: The French DESIR Study, February 2011, Massin et al. 129 (2): 188

Association of age-related macular degeneration with age-related hearing loss

2011-02-18T11:10:00.000-07:00

Cambridge Journals Online - Abstract - Association of age-related macular degeneration with age-related hearing lossAge-related hearing loss is more common in patients with age-related macular degeneration. Such patients should be questioned regarding hearing difficulty, and referred to an otolaryngologist if appropriate.

Quality of life of eye amputated patients - Rasmussen - 2011 - Acta Ophthalmologica - Wiley Online Library

2011-02-15T14:47:00.000-07:00

Quality of life of eye amputated patients - Rasmussen - 2011 - Acta Ophthalmologica - Wiley Online LibraryThe impact of an eye amputation is considerable. The quality of life, perceived stress and self-rated health of many eye-amputated patients are drastically changed. Eye amputation has a marked negative influence on job separation because of illness or disability and on socioeconomic position.

Omega-3 supplement decreases dry eye symptoms in clinical trial - - ModernMedicine

2011-02-09T10:41:00.000-07:00

Omega-3 supplement decreases dry eye symptoms in clinical trial - - ModernMedicinePatients taking an omega–3 supplement had a self–reported reduction in dry eye symptoms and an increase in tear volume and tear flow compared with a group of controls who received placebos.

Multifocal Contact Lenses Help Slow Myopic Progression in Children

2011-02-09T10:39:00.000-07:00

Effect of Dual-Focus Soft Contact Lens Wear on Axial Myopia Progression in ChildrenMyopia progression and eye elongation were reduced significantly in eyes wearing DF lenses. The data suggest that sustained myopic defocus, even when presented to the retina simultaneously with a clear image, can act to slow myopia progression without compromising visual function.

Progressive Addition Lenses versus Single Vision Lenses for Slowing Progression of Myopia in Children with High Accommodative Lag and Near Esophoria — Invest. Ophthalmol. Vis. Sci.

2011-02-09T10:36:00.000-07:00

Progressive Addition Lenses versus Single Vision Lenses for Slowing Progression of Myopia in Children with High Accommodative Lag and Near Esophoria — Invest. Ophthalmol. Vis. Sci.The PALs used in this study were found to have a statistically but not clinically significant effect on slowing myopia progression in children with high accommodative lag and near esophoria.

Antiplatelet, anticoagulant therapy may pose risk for patients with neovascular AMD

2011-02-03T16:09:00.000-07:00

Antiplatelet, anticoagulant therapy may pose risk for patients with neovascular AMD

A Randomized Trial of Brimonidine Versus Timolol in Preserving Visual Function: Results From the Low-pressure Glaucoma Treatment Study

2011-02-03T16:08:00.000-07:00

A Randomized Trial of Brimonidine Versus Timolol in Preserving Visual Function: Results From the Low-pressure Glaucoma Treatment StudyBrimonodine preserves visual function better than timolol .

The effects of 2 week senofilcon—A silicone hydrogel contact lens daily wear on tear functions and ocular surface health status

2011-02-03T16:07:00.000-07:00

The effects of 2 week senofilcon—A silicone hydrogel contact lens daily wear on tear functions and ocular surface health statusObjective tests for dry eye appear to worsen with the use of silicone hydrogel lenses.

Patient attitudes and behavior regarding hygiene and replacement of soft contact lenses and storage cases

2011-02-02T10:06:00.000-07:00

Patient attitudes and behavior regarding hygiene and replacement of soft contact lenses and storage casesMore than half of contact lens patients are not compliant with their 2-weekly or monthly schedule. Who cares about their eyes?

Physical Activity, Television Viewing Time, and Retinal Vasc... : Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise

2011-02-02T10:04:00.000-07:00

Physical Activity, Television Viewing Time, and Retinal Vasc... : Medicine & Science in Sports & ExerciseAccording to this study, TV watching longer than 2 hours per day causes increased vein diameter in males.

Dry eye treatment Phase III study - Ophthalmology Times Europe

2011-02-02T10:02:00.000-07:00

Dry eye treatment Phase III study - Ophthalmology Times EuropeA treatment for dry eye syndrome is to undergo a phase III randomized, placebo-controlled, multicentre study this year following a final licensing agreement with Celtic Therapeutics.Resolvyx Pharmacuticals' RX-10045 is a resolvin that will be administered as a topical eye drop. In a large Phase II placebo-controlled study it was found

Xanthelasmata Linked to Heart Disease

2011-01-31T16:32:00.000-07:00

A report in this month's Review of Optometry cites a 33 year study indicating that risk of a heart attack is increased 51%, the risk of ischemic heart disease is increased 40%, and the risk of death is increased 17% in patients with xanthelasmata. So these patients ought to be referred to a cardiologist.

PROSTATE CANCER TREATMENT MAY CAUSE CATARACTS

2011-01-31T13:22:00.000-07:00

An investigation by Dr Jennifer Beebe-Dimmer et al, Karmanos Cancer Institute in Detroit, Michigan, USA, has shown that androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) used for prostate cancer treatment could contribute towards the development of cataracts.ADT has already been proven to increase the chances of developing diabetes and other heart problems.The study included 66000 prostate cancer patients aged

ACUPUNCTURE MAY BE A TREATMENT FOR ANISOMETROPIC AMBLYOPIA

2010-12-21T18:33:00.000-07:00

Arch Ophthalmol -- Abstract: Randomized Controlled Trial of Patching vs Acupuncture for Anisometropic Amblyopia in Children Aged 7 to 12 Years, December 2010, Zhao et al. 128 (12): 1510Usually we give a child the best spectacle correction and prescribe a patching regimen with therapy. This study shows acupuncture was as effective! Interesting.

Keraring implantation effective against keratoconus - Ophthalmology Times Europe

2010-12-20T12:55:00.000-07:00

Keraring implantation effective against keratoconus - Ophthalmology Times Europethe Keraring implantation is effective for the treatment of keratoconus, providing safety and good visual outcomes after both mechanical and femtosecond assisted tunnel creation.

CONSEQUENCES OF WAITING FOR CATARACT SURGERY

2010-12-17T16:39:00.000-07:00

Consequences of waiting for cataract surgery : Current Opinion in OphthalmologyPurpose or review: To conduct a concise review of primary research articles over the preceding year on the subject of the consequences of waiting for cataract surgery.Recent findings: Waiting for cataract surgery beyond 6 months may result in increasing vision loss, decrease in quality life, loss of driver's license,

ANOREXIA CAN DECREASE RETINAL NERVE FIBER LAYER THICKNESS

2010-10-25T21:04:00.000-07:00

Anatomical and functional impairment of the retina and optic nerve in patients with anorexia nervosa without vision loss -- Moschos et al. -- British Journal of Ophthalmology

REMURA MOVES TO PHASE 3 CLINICAL TRIALS FOR TREATMENT OF DRY EYE

2010-10-18T19:40:00.000-07:00

Highlights of dry eye Phase 2 clinical study revealed - Ophthalmology Times Europe

HIGH LEVELS OF SYSTEMIC CORTICOSTEROIDS AND STRESS ARE RISK FACTORS FOR CSR

2010-10-18T19:35:00.000-07:00

Access : Central serous chorioretinopathy: an update on pathogenesis and treatment : EyeCSR is central serous retinopathy which is leakage of fluid through the RPE that leads to serous retinal detachment. It lasts a few months and resolves spontaneously with limited lasting objective effects. It needs to be considered in the differential diagnosis of vision loss in patient undergoing

TIMOLOL IS EFFECTIVE THROUGHOUT THE DAY IN GLAUCOMA

2010-10-18T19:31:00.000-07:00

Intraocular Pressure on #MDlinxThis study shows that Timolol is effective throughout the 24 hour period and has minimal effect on ocular perfusion pressure. These are important facts when considering Timolol as an adjunct in glaucoma therapy.

NICE REVIEW OF ISCHEMIC OPTIC NEUROPATHY

2010-10-12T20:58:00.001-07:00

Review of OphthalmologyIschemia is tissue damage caused by elimination of oxygen supply to that tissue.The optic nerve is the wire that connects the the eye to the brain, transmitting electrical signals. Optic neuropathy is damage to the optic nerve.Ischemic optic neuropathy is divided into anterior (visible on an eye exam) and posterior (behind the eye). It is also divided into arteritic and

AOA STUDY SHOWS IT'S OKAY TO FIT 10 TO 12 YEAR OLDS IN CONTACT LENSES

2010-10-11T19:42:00.000-07:00

VisionMonday > New AOA Study Says Kids 10 to 12 Are OK Wearing Contact LensesPersonally, I believe it is safe to fit children in contact lenses if:1) they are properly fit2) they give their eyes a few hours of breathing time a day and a day or two a week3) they have an updated pair of glasses that they like4) they replace their contact lenses and cases as prescribed5) they are independent of

MACULAR EDEMA POSSIBLY ASSOCIATED WITH HYDROCHLOROTHIAZIDE

2010-10-11T19:30:00.000-07:00

Macular edema associated with hydrochlorothiazide therapy -- Iacono et al. -- British Journal of OphthalmologyThe macula is that part of the retina that serves the central vision. When you are looking directly at an object, you are projecting the image of that object on your macula.Macular edema is swelling of the macula.Hydrochlorothiazide is a drug used for treating high blood pressure.This

SUBMANDIBULAR GLAND TRANSPLANT PROVIDES LONG-TERM RELIEF FROM DRY EYE

2010-10-11T19:21:00.000-07:00

Long-Term Follow-up after Submandibular Gland Transplantation in Severe Dry Eyes Secondary to Cicatrizing ConjunctivitisCicatrizing conjunctivitis causes severe dry eye symptoms, making frequent use of artificial tears necessary. Submandibular transplantation is a procedure that enables increased secretion of salivary tear film. This study compared long-term results of salivary gland

.1% CYCLOSPORIN MORE EFFECTIVE THAN .05% (RESTASIS)

2010-10-07T19:52:00.000-07:00

A comparative clinical trial of the efficacy of two different aqueous solutions of cyclosporine for the treatment of moderate-to-severe dry eye syndrome -- Baiza-Durán et al. -- British Journal of OphthalmologyRestasis is a twice a day eye drop for dry eye. This study compares cyclosporin .1 to .05% and the conclusion was that the .1% significantly improved the symptoms of the dry eye more than

PROLONGED NEAR WORK IMMEDIATELY ELONGATES THE EYE

2010-10-06T19:52:00.003-07:00

Axial elongation following prolonged near work in myopes and emmetropes -- Woodman et al. -- British Journal of OphthalmologyThe purpose of this study was to investigate the influence of sustained 30 minutes of near work upon the length of the eye in patients that don't need vision correction and those that are near sighted. Forty young adult subjects (20 near-sighted and 20 normals) were

SPECTACLES FILTER TO HELP MIGRAINE SUFFERERS

2010-10-06T19:38:00.000-07:00

Spectacles filter to help migraine sufferers - Ophthalmology Times EuropeA new product, MigraLens, designed to filter red and blue light and help migraine sufferers is now available in the UK in a range of branded plano eyewear including fit-overs for presciption glasses.The flicker and glare absorbing filter has been trialled by its developer, Mediview, with members of the Macular Disease

Intraocular lens dislocation after whole-body vibration

2010-10-05T20:51:00.000-07:00

Intraocular lens dislocation after whole-body vibrationWhole body vibration platforms are becoming increasingly used by athletes and elderly individuals for muscle strength and toning, cellulite reduction, improved bone density, heightened secretion of hormones associated with exercise, and depressed response of hormones associated with stress.This paper describes cases of patients whose

PDT GIVES EARLIER RESOLUTION BUT EQUAL LONG-TERM OUTCOME COMPARED TO LASER THERAPY IN CENTRAL SEROUS RETINOPATHY

2010-10-05T20:40:00.000-07:00

Comparative study of patients with central serous chorioretinopathy undergoing focal laser photocoagulation or photodynamic therapy -- Lim et al. -- British Journal of OphthalmologyThis study concludes:Compared with focal laser, half-dose PDT may facilitate earlier resolution of macular detachment and earlier recovery of central retinal function. However, at 3 months after treatment and

PLUGS HELP IN DRY EYE

2010-10-04T20:25:00.000-07:00

Dry Eye Syndromes on #MDlinxThis study shows that plugs, inserted in the lower puncta, are effective at decreasing dry eye symptoms in patients.

ACUTE ANGLE CLOSURE ATTACK THINS RNFL BUT DOES NOT INCREASE OPTIC NERVE CUPPING

2010-10-01T16:33:00.000-07:00

Acute Primary Angle Closure Attack Does Not Cause an Increased Cup-to-Disc RatioEye doctors use optic disc cupping and retinal nerve fiber layer changes to analyze progression of glaucoma. Usually increased optic disc cupping and decreased RNFL thickness are changes that occur slowly over time in uncontrolled glaucoma patients. However, some patients have acute attacks of glaucoma where the

STOPPING SMOKING AND AREDS ONLY PREVENTION FOR MACULAR DEGENERATION

2010-09-28T10:29:00.000-07:00

SpringerLink - International Ophthalmology, Online First™According to this study, the only effective preventive measures to prevent macular degeneration are stopping smoking and the multivitamin regimen recommended by the AREDS study.

DORZOLAMIDE DROPS MAY HELP VISION IN PATIENTS WITH RETINITIS PIGMENTOSA AND USHER SYNDROME

2010-09-17T09:57:00.002-07:00

Arch Ophthalmol -- Abstract: Efficacy of Sustained Topical Dorzolamide Therapy for Cystic Macular Lesions in Patients With Retinitis Pigmentosa and Usher Syndrome, September 2010, Genead and Fishman 128 (9): 1146Retinitis Pigmentosa and Usher Syndrome are genetic eye conditions that significantly decrease vision. One of the clinical characteristics is swelling on the macula, that part of the

ANECORTAVE ACETATE INJECTION DECREASES EYE PRESSURE ABOUT 30%

2010-09-17T09:45:00.002-07:00

Hypotensive Effect of Juxtascleral Administration of Anecort... : Journal of GlaucomaThis study demonstrated that a single eye injection (juxtascleral) of anecortave acetate (a type of steroid) results in a significant intra-ocular pressure reduction of about 30% in eyes with different types of glaucoma.Additional information can be found here.

RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN RETINOSHISIS AND MACULAR HOLE IN HIGHLY NEAR-SIGHTED EYES

2010-09-14T11:26:00.001-07:00

Access : Natural evolution from macular retinoschisis to full-thickness macular hole in highly myopic eyes : EyeRetinoschisis is a partial detachment of the retina from itself, occurring in the peripheral retina. The attached layers of the retina prevent a full retina detachment. Retinoschisis is usually non-threatening and not treated. It is merely observed from year to year. A macular hole is

NEONATAL LACRIMAL DRAINAGE STENOSIS ASSOCIATED WITH LAZY EYE

2010-09-14T11:01:00.001-07:00

Arch Ophthalmol -- Abstract: Neonatal Dacryostenosis as a Risk Factor for Anisometropia, September 2010, Piotrowski et al. 128 (9): 1166Neonatal dacryostenosis occurs when the passageway the drains the tears into the nose is blocked or not opened in a newborn baby. The child tends to have bouts of yellow mucous discharge. Until the child is 1 year old, treatment consists of aggressive massage

MENICON-Z HYPER-DK LENSES SAFE FOR EXTENDED CONTINUOUS WEAR

2010-09-10T15:17:00.001-07:00

Postmarket Surveillance of Menicon Z Rigid Gas-Permeable Con... : Eye & Contact LensIn this study, none of the patients wearing the Menicon-Z rigid gas permeable Hyper Dk lenses developed microbial keratitis. This lens appears to be an alternative to soft contact lenses, which cause a higher incidence of microbial keratitis, for those patients who want to wear their contact lenses extended wear.

INDIVIDUALS WITH SIGHT LOSS MAY REPORT DECREASED EMOTIONAL WELL-BEING

2010-09-09T17:21:00.001-07:00

Emotional well-being in people with sight loss — British Journal of Visual ImpairmentThis review of studies concluded that people with sight loss can report low emotional well-being.

STOMACH ULCER BACTERIA ASSOCIATED WITH NORMAL TENSION GLAUCOMA

2010-09-09T17:15:00.002-07:00

Investigation of the Association between Helicobacter pylori infection and Normal Tension Glaucoma -- Kim et al., 10.1167/iovs.10-6096 -- Investigative Ophthalmology & Visual ScienceAlthough high pressure in the eyes is often a factor in glaucoma, there are often glaucoma patients that start out with "normal" or average intra-ocular pressures. We call this "Normal Tension Glaucoma". H. Pylori

ALPHAGAN DOES NOT APPEAR TO LOWER INTRAOCULAR PRESSURE DURING SLEEP

2010-09-08T16:37:00.001-07:00

Diurnal and Nocturnal Effects of Brimonidine Monotherapy on Intraocular PressureAccording to this study, Alphagan is effective at lowering pressure during waking hours, but does not appear to have effect during sleeping.

ASPIRIN HELPS IN CSR (CENTRAL SEROUS RETINOPATHY)

2010-09-08T16:21:00.001-07:00

Low-dose aspirin as treatment for central serous chorioretinopathyCentral Serous Retinopathy (CSR) causes blurriness of central vision for about a 3 month period of time. It often occurs spontaneously in individuals with type-A personalities. It is caused by leakage and subsequent swelling in the part of the retina that affects central vision. To date there have been no significant treatments

IT IS WORTH CORRECTING PERIPHERAL VISION IN INDIVIDUALS WITH CENTRAL VISION LOSS

2010-09-08T16:11:00.001-07:00

Influence of Optical Defocus on Peripheral Vision -- Rosén et al., 10.1167/iovs.10-5623 -- Investigative Ophthalmology & Visual ScienceIs it worth correcting a patient with glasses who has limited central vision, but retained peripheral vision? This study suggests the patient is benefited by vision correction of peripheral focusing errors.

RINSING YOUR CONTACT LENS CASE IS NOT ENOUGH

2010-08-30T09:56:00.002-07:00

Removal of biofilm from contact lens storage cases -- Wu et al., 10.1167/iovs.10-5796 -- Investigative Ophthalmology & Visual ScienceIt has been conventional wisdom amongst eye doctors that most infections related to contact lenses actually originate from the contact lens storage case. I usually recommend rinsing the case after use and filling with fresh solution. However, it appears that

NO LINK BETWEEN MACULAR DEGENERATION AND HEART ATTACKS

2010-08-30T09:49:00.001-07:00

SpringerLink -This study concludes:"Despite the shared risk factors associated with AMD and MIs, we found no increased risk of MI in AMD patients."

OCULAR MANIFESTATIONS OF SYPHILLIS

2010-08-30T09:42:00.004-07:00

This article discusses the ocular manifestations of syphillis. In it's conclusion it says:"syphilis should be"considered in all patients with uveitis, scleritis, episcleritis, or optic neuritis, especially in men with high-risk sexual behavior."

PERIPAPILLARY ATROPHY NOT A STRONG RISK FACTOR FOR GLAUCOMA

2010-08-27T09:39:00.001-07:00

The role of clinical parapapillary atrophy evaluation in the diagnosisTo assess the risk of glaucoma, we primarily use eye pressure, corneal thickness, and optic nerve appearance (cupping) as indicators. Some have advocated the use of peripapillary atrophy as an additional risk factor. Peripapillary atrophy appears as a ring around the optic nerve as viewed from inside the eye. I've always

Helping Blind People See With Their Tongues

2010-08-25T12:23:00.001-07:00

CAFFEINE INCREASES INTRA-OCULAR PRESSURE IN GLAUCOMA PATIENTS

2010-08-23T15:21:00.001-07:00

SpringerLink -This study shows that pressure in the eye does not change when normal patients drink caffeine, but it does rise in patients with ocular hypertension and glaucoma.

IMPLANTABLE COLLAMER LENS APPEARS BETTER THAN LASIK OR PRK FOR MODERATE TO HIGH MYOPIC PATIENTS

2010-05-24T12:18:00.001-07:00

http://www2.cochrane.org/reviews/en/ab007679.htmlThe results of this review suggest that the implantable lens (ICL) is are safer than excimer laser (the laser used in PRK and LASIK) surgical correction for moderate to high myopia in the range of -6.0 to -20.0 D and ICL is preferred by patients. ICL surgery resulted in better corrected visual acuity, better contrast sensitivity, and improved

LACRISERT IMPROVES SYMPTOMS IN MODERATE TO SEVERE DRY EYE PATIENTS

2010-05-24T11:23:00.001-07:00

Improved Signs, Symptoms, and Quality of Life Associated Wit... : Eye & Contact LensLacrisert is a small insert made of hydroxypropyl cellulose that is easily inserted in the lower cul-de-sac of the eye. Throughout the day the insert dissolves, adding moisture to the eye. According to this and other studies, it significantly improves the symptoms of dry eye in about 80% of patients who try it.

PUNCTAL PLUGS AIDS GLAUCOMA TREATMENT

2010-04-14T11:15:00.003-07:00

Opitz D. Yung Tung SG, Park JJW. paper presented at: Academy 2009; November 2009; Orlando, FLThis study, presented at the Academy of Optometry by Dominick Optiz, OD, FAAO found that by occluding the tear drainage system of the eye (both upper and lower canal) of patients taking glaucoma medication, the intraocular pressure decreased an average of 6.82%. This may help in those patients whose

STATINS REDUCE CATARACT RISK

2010-04-07T12:04:00.000-07:00

Statins significantly reduce cataract risk in patients younger than 75 yearsThis study shows that risk of cataract is reduced for patients using statins. Statins are used to lower LDL cholesterol and include medications such as Mevacor, Zocor, and Lipitor. We may see statins used in the future, in patients who don't have heart disease, to prevent cataracts in high risk patients.

NEAR-SIGHTEDNESS MORE PREVALENT NOW

2010-03-25T16:41:00.001-07:00

The Best of Ophthalmology.....EyeWorld News MagazineThe American population is becoming significantly more myopic, with prevalence jumping from 25% in the early 1970s up to 41.6% in the recent period from 1999-2004. Investigators are unsure why this jump in myopia has occurred.being outdoors more did seem to be an important protective factor.

DOES GLAUCOMA DAMAGE START IN THE BRAIN?

2010-03-22T21:37:00.001-07:00

Research set to change how we think about glaucoma in the future - Ophthalmology Times EuropeAccording to this paper, damage to the optic nerve glaucoma may originate in the brain and work it's way to the eyeball. This is counter to traditional thinking that all of the damage occurs first at the entrance of the optic nerve to the eyeball.

CARE FOR YOUR CONTACT LENS CASE

2010-03-22T21:32:00.001-07:00

Contact Lens Cases: The Missing Link in Contact Lens Safety? : Eye & Contact LensMost eye infections appear to originate from contact lens cases. This paper reiterates the importance of contact lens case care with the following conclusion:"Contact lens case contamination is a significant public health concern and may contribute significantly to the development of bacterial eye disease in contact

BEST TREATMENT FOR CENTRAL RETINAL VEIN OCCLUSION

2010-03-22T21:25:00.001-07:00

Visual Outcomes in Five Different Approaches for Treatment of Central Retinal Vein OcclusionCentral Retinal Vein Occlusion is a disease with the main draining vein of the retina, in the eye, becomes blocked). This results in backup of blood, bleeding and swelling in the retina, and subsequent vision loss.This study examined which current treatment modality improves final outcome. The best

HIGHER PRESSURE WHEN LYING DOWN MAY INDICATE GREATER RISK FOR VISUAL FIELD LOSS

2010-03-18T16:24:00.001-07:00

Postural Response of Intraocular Pressure and Visual Field D... : Journal of GlaucomaPatients with an average change in pressure between sitting up and laying down of 3.2mm Hg had less visual field damage than those patients with an average change in pressure of 4.5 mm Hg. Conclusions: More advanced visual field damage was observed in eyes with greater increase in pressure with lying down.

NEW GLAUCOMA DRUG TAFLOTAN RELEASED TO INTERNATIONAL MARKETS

2010-03-18T16:15:00.002-07:00

Clinical appraisal of tafluprost in the reduction of elevated intraocuAn elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) is one of the most important risk factors for the development of glaucoma, which causes progressive blindess. Tafluprost was recently launched onto the market to lower eye pressure. Some studies suggest it has greater pressure-lowering effect with fewer side effects than Xalatan. It

ACUPUNCTURE MAY TREAT DRY EYE

2010-03-18T16:01:00.001-07:00

Acupuncture for treating dry eye: a systematic review. Myeong Soo Lee. 2010; Acta Ophthalmologica - Wiley InterSciencePurpose: The objective of this review was to assess the effectiveness of acupuncture as a treatment option for treating the condition of dry eye.6 comparison studies were done. Three compared the effects of acupuncture with artificial tears in patients with dry eye. An analysis

EARLY PREVENTATIVE TREATMENT FOR OCULAR HYPERTENSION REDUCES PROGRESSION TO GLAUCOMA

2010-03-10T13:36:00.002-07:00

From Archives of OphthalmologyThis study basically separated people at high risk for glaucoma that had high pressures in the eye. Some were treated with pressure lowering drops and some were not. A larger percentage of those that were not treated progressed to the actual diagnosis of glaucoma.Therefore, patients who are at high risk should be watched more closely than they are and treatment

INCREASED CARBOHYDRATES INCREASES CATARACT RISK

2010-02-25T10:39:00.002-07:00

Investigative Ophthalmology and Visual Science. doi:10.1167/iovs.08-2824Animal studies have demonstrated that increased intake of carbohydrates may increase cataract risk. This study, using humans, suggests a similar outcome. However, more studies need to be done to determine the exact correlation and to enable us to make reliable dietary recommendations to prevent cataract.

EXERCISE LOWERS RISK FOR GLAUCOMA

2010-02-24T14:23:00.003-07:00

Eyeworld. Glaucoma is a disease where high eye pressure causes eventual damage to the optic nerve, which in turn causes a slow, but devastating loss of vision.According to this study, vigorous physical activity may reduce the risk of glaucoma.

ANTERIOR SUBCAPSULAR CATARACT IN 15% OF EYES WITH ICL

2010-02-18T10:01:00.003-07:00

Ophthalmology, doi:10.1016/j.ophtha.2009.10.033The distance between the implant and the crystalline lens was significantly less in older patients and significantly greater in patients with a toric ICL. Thhere was a significantly lower incidence of contact between the lenses in eyes implanted with a toric ICL.Anterior subcapsular opacification developed in 13.0% of eyes. There was contact between

UNTREATED POOR VISION IN ELDERLY CONTRIBUTES TO DEMENTIA

2010-02-12T11:22:00.002-07:00

American Journal of Epidemiology, doi:10.1093/aje/kwp453Poor vision was associated with development of dementia; individuals with very good or excellent vision at baseline had a 63% reduced risk of dementia. Participants with poorer vision had a 9.5-fold increased risk of Alzheimer disease and a 5-fold increased risk of mental impairment but no dementia. Untreated poor vision is associated with

HIGHER INCIDENCE AND PROGRESSION OF DIABETIC RETINOPATHY HIGHER AMONGST LATINOS

2010-02-11T14:45:00.003-07:00

American Journal of Ophthalmologydoi:10.1016/j.ajo.2009.11.014The 4-year incidence and progression of DR and the incidence of ME and CSME among Latinos are high compared to non-Hispanic whites.

TRAUMATIC ACCIDENTS UNLIKELY TO CAUSE RETINAL HEMORRHAGES

2010-02-11T13:46:00.002-07:00

Pediatric Emergency Care:February 2010 - Volume 26 - Issue 2 - pp 118-120doi: 10.1097/PEC.0b013e3181cfdb6bAccording to this study,No child suffering from accidental head injury was found to have retinal hemorrhages nor was any found to have experienced child abuse. Therefore, we can be confident to an upper limit of 95% that the chance of retinal hemorrhages occurring as a result of accidental

GLAUCOMA MEDICATION USE REDUCES THE LIKELIHOOD OF DEATH

2010-02-09T09:30:00.000-07:00

Arch Ophthalmol. 2010;128(2):235-240.After adjustment for potential confounding variables, the use of glaucoma medications was associated with a reduced likelihood of death in this large sample of US adults with glaucoma. Future investigations should explore this association further because these findings may have important clinical implications.

WOMEN AT HIGHER RISK OF GLAUCOMA THAN MEN

2010-02-09T09:29:00.000-07:00

Current evidence suggests that older women are at risk for glaucoma and glaucoma blindness. Further interdisciplinary research involving investigators, specialized in glaucoma, women's health and health disparities, will lead to better understanding of gender health disparities in glaucoma and better targeting populations at risk.

TYPE 1 DIABETES AFFECTS RETINA, EVEN IN ABSENCE OF OPHTHALMOSCOPIC SIGNS.

2010-02-04T14:06:00.002-07:00

Investigative Ophthalmology and Visual Sciencedoi:10.1167/iovs.09-5041This study demonstrates loss of RNFL thickness in the peripheral macula in type 1 diabetic patients with no or minimal diabetic retinopathy compared to controls. These results support the concept that diabetes has an early neurodegenerative effect on the retina, which occurs even though the vascular component of diabetic

BETAXOLOL BETTER THAN TIMOLOL AT VF PROTECTION. IOP REDUCTION NOT THE ONLY CONSIDERATION

2010-02-04T12:13:00.002-07:00

Progress in Retinal and Eye ResearchVolume 29, Issue 1, January 2010, Pages 79-93 This study shows that betaxolol drops are actually better than timolol at preserving visual field, even though timolol lowers pressure better than betaxolol. This demonstrates that IOP reduction is secondary to visual field preservation in glaucoma therapy.

ORAL BETA-BLOCKERS MAY PROTECT AGAINST GLAUCOMA. STATINS DO NOT.

2010-02-04T12:05:00.003-07:00

Investigative Ophthalmology and Visual Science, doi 10.1167/iovs.09-4821.According to this study, oral beta-blockers used to treat hypertensive patients may protect against the development of glaucoma. There is no evidence to suggest that oral statins have a preventative role in glaucoma.

SYNCHRONY ACCOMMODATIVE LENS

2010-02-02T09:30:00.003-07:00

From Eyeworld Magazine.This article summarizes the new Synchrony Accommodative Intraocular Implant. It is a double lens that is implanted in the capsular bag. Ciliary body contraction with accompanying zonular tension changes causes changes in the distance between the two lenses, enabling accommodation. 3 Year results on 19 patients show a best corrected visual acuity at distance to be 20/28 and

MAGNESIUM SUPPLEMENTS IMPROVE VISUAL FIELD IN GLAUCOMA PATIENTS

2010-02-01T11:37:00.002-07:00

European Journal of Ophthalmology, Eur J Ophthalmol 2010; 20: 131 - 135Fifteen patients with Normal Tension Glaucoma (NTG study group) received 300 mg oral magnesium citrate for 1 month, while 15 patients with NTG (control group) received no treatment. In the study group pattern standard deviation improved from 3.6 at baseline to 2.8 at 1 month (p<0.05).>People get magnesium from their diet, but

TEMPORAL ROSE BENGAL STAINING DIFFERENTIATES SJOGRENS FROM KCS

2010-02-01T11:21:00.003-07:00

Investigative Ophthalmology and Vision Science doi:10.1167/iovs.09-4188Using non-invasive techniques only, staining of the temporal conjunctiva and severity of dry mouth symptoms proved to be the major factors in distinguishing Sjogren's Syndrome from keratoconjunctivitis sicca when patients have dry eye.

HIGHER CALORIC AND SODIUM INTAKE INCREASES RISK OF DIABETIC RETINOPPATHY IN AFRICAN-AMERICANS

2010-01-18T11:59:00.002-07:00

Arch Ophthalmol. 2010;128(1):33-39.According to this study:In African American patients with type 1 diabetes, high caloric and sodium (salt) intakes are significant and independent risk factors for progression to severe forms of diabetic retinopathy. Dietary recommendations of low caloric and sodium intakes may be beneficial in relation to the development of diabetic retinopathy.

STATINS DECREASE RISK OF CATARACT IN PRE-75 YEAR OLDS

2010-01-12T15:49:00.003-07:00

Annals of Epidemiology Volume 20, Issue 2, Pages 136-142 (February 2010)Conclusion: Persistent statin use was significantly protective for the incidence of cataract in men and women under 75 years of age.

SLEEP APNEA ASSOCIATED WITH INCREASED RISK OF NAION

2010-01-12T15:41:00.002-07:00

Br J Ophthalmol doi:10.1136/bjo.2006.113803Conclusion: The results of this study suggest that patients with sleep apnea are at increased risk of non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy.

OCT BETTER THAN FA IN DETECTING CME

2010-01-12T15:37:00.001-07:00

Br J Ophthalmol doi:10.1136/bjo.2009.170589Conclusion: SD-OCT demonstrated greater sensitivity than FA in detecting CME, particularly those associated with RVO, DR and AMD. SD-OCT was also more sensitive than FA for detecting SRF and late complications of long standing CME.

DAY NAPPING AN DSHORT NIGHT SLEEPING ASSOCIATED WITH HIGHER RISK OF DIABETES IN OLDER ADULTS

2010-01-11T15:12:00.003-07:00

Diabetes Care, January 2010, pg. 78-83This study concludes that day napping an dshort night sleeping are associated with higher risk of diabetes. The association between sleep duration and diabetes may be modified by napping habit.

LOW CEREBROSPINAL FLUID PRESSURE MAY EXPLAIN NORMAL TENSION GLAUCOMA

2009-12-15T16:02:00.002-07:00

OphSource. doi:10.1016/j.ophtha.2009.06.058In open-angle glaucoma with normal intraocular pressure, cerebral spinal fluid pressure is abnormally low, leading to an abnormally high trans-lamina cribrosa pressure difference. A low cerebral spinal fluid pressure in normal-intraocular pressure glaucoma may have the same effect as high intraocular pressure in patients with normal cerebrospinal fluid

CAUSES OF HETEROCHROMIA

2009-11-30T09:49:00.002-07:00

Causes of hypochromia includeCongenitalHorner's syndromeFuch's heterochomic iridocyclitisCauses of hyperchromia include:Nevus of OtaSiderosisIris nevus or melanomaUnilateral prostaglandin useSturge Weber syndrome

MULTIPLE EVANESCENT WHITE DOT SYNDROME

2009-11-19T16:32:00.002-07:00

This is usually unilateral ocurring in people in their 20's or 30's, particularly females. The patient has a suddden onset of decreased vision associated with light flashes. There may be a mild APD and mild vitritis. There will be multiple white dots involving the posterior pole and mid-periophey, with teh macula spared and optic disc swelling. Sevceral weeks later the dots and disk swelling

MULTIFOCAL CHOROIDITIS

2009-11-18T14:42:00.002-07:00

This typically affects people in their 20's or 30's. The patient presents with blurred vision, floaters, or flashes of light.There may be anterior uveitis w/ vitreous cells. Fundus examination reveals multiple yellow lesions at the posterior pole and periphery, arranged in clumps or linear streaks (Schlagel lines). 40% of these patients have CME. The borders can become pigmented. There may be

TRAVAPOST/TIMOLOL BETTER THAN DORZOLAMIDE/TIMOLOL

2009-11-17T12:31:00.002-07:00

DovepressThe travoprost/timolol combination produced mean IOP reductions from baseline of 35.3% to 38.5%, while the dorzolamide/timolol combination produced mean IOP reductions from baseline of 32.5% to 34.5%. Conclusions: The fixed combination travoprost 0.004%/timolol 0.5% dosed once daily in the morning demonstrated superior mean diurnal IOP-lowering efficacy compared to dorzolamide 2%/timolol