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Purpose: To describe the clinical features and treatment outcomes in spontaneous uveal effusion syndrome (UES). Methods: A 10-year retrospective chart review of UES patients from a tertiary eye center was carried out. Optical coherence tomography (OCT), fundus fluorescein angiography, and ultrasound biomicroscopy (UBM) scans were performed. UES was managed based on presenting best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), symptoms, and fundus findings. Patients with secondary causes of uveal effusion were excluded. Results: Twenty-five eyes of 16 patients were included. Of the 16 patients, 14 (88%) were male and 9 (56%) had bilateral disease. Fifteen of 25 affected eyes had nanophthalmos (axial length (AL) 20.5 mm. The presenting mean distance BCVA was 0.74 ± 0.64 logMAR (mean Snellen: 20/100). Eleven eyes had exudative retinal detachment, and 4 also had exudative choroidal detachment (CD). Choroidal thickness (CT) was increased in 11 eyes on B-scan ultrasonography, and the mean CT was 1.74 ± 0.38 mm. Sub-retinal fluid (SRF) and retinal folds were the most common OCT findings. UBM findings included shallow angles, peripheral CD, and supra-ciliary effusion. A combination of local and systemic corticosteroids was used to successfully treat 12 eyes, 6 needed surgery, and 7 were observed. Partial sclerectomy with anterior chamber maintainer-assisted SRF drainage was the favored surgery. The median period of follow-up was 6.5 months (0.1–76 months), and the mean distance BCVA at the last follow-up was 0.58 ± 0.42 logMAR (mean Snellen: 20/80). Conclusion: UES can be suitably managed both medically and surgically based on clinical presentation.

Abstract Gut bacterial microbiome dysbiosis in type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) has been reported, but such an association with Diabetic Retinopathy (DR) is not known. We explored possible link between gut bacterial microbiome dysbiosis and DR. Using fecal samples of healthy controls (HC) and people with T2DM with/without DR, gut bacterial communities were analysed using 16S rRNA gene sequencing and data analysed using QIIME and R software. Dysbiosis in the gut microbiomes, at phyla and genera level, was observed in people with T2DM and DR compared to HC. People with DR exhibited greater discrimination from HC. Microbiomes of people with T2DM and DR were also significantly different. Both DM and DR microbiomes showed a decrease in anti-inflammatory, probiotic and other bacteria that could be pathogenic, compared to HC, and the observed change was more pronounced in people with DR. This is the first report demonstrating dysbiosis in the gut microbiome (alteration in the diversity and abundance at the phyla and genera level) in people with DR compared to HC. Such studies would help in developing novel and targeted therapies to improve treatment of DR.

Optimal visualization is one of the most challenging aspects of performing vitreoretinal surgery. In situations where conventional microscopic techniques provide poor posterior visualization, the adjunctive skill set of endoscopic visualization may be needed. This allows for by-passing the opaque anterior segment media and getting access to the posterior segment pathology. Endoscopic vitrectomy is a useful and unique adjunct to microincision vitreoretinal surgery. The optical set-up of endoscopy allows for clinical approaches that are impossible with regular microscope viewing systems. These include the ability to observe across optically significant anterior segment opacities and directly visualize the posterior segment of the eye. It also allows for visualizing the difficult-to-access retroirideal, retrolental, and anterior retinal structures. Surgical access to anatomic spaces like the pars plana, pars plicata, ciliary sulcus, ciliary body, and peripheral lens is tedious. This is made simpler by endoscopy. In this review, we summarize and review the usage of the intraocular endoscope as a diagnostic and therapeutic armamentarium across a wide spectrum of ocular pathologies.

AIM: To summarize the experience of response to COVID-19 outbreak at a tertiary eye care institute and its network of health facilities in India. METHODS: Our responses are based on the principles of social distancing, hand hygiene, respiratory etiquettes, surface disinfection protocol, and rational use of appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE). We describe our response in terms of administrative controls, clinical protocols, staff protection, environmental controls, and social distancing measures. We also discuss our communication strategies and monitoring systems, to ensure compliance to protocols. RESULTS: Administrative control is mainly related to formation of task force and its functions. Clinical protocols are related to patient triaging methods and clinical examination guidelines in Outpatient, Inpatient and Operating Room. Staff protection is focused on training staff on the protocols to be followed in hospital as well as at home, and use of PPE. Environmental protocol is focused on cleaning and disinfectant methods to be used in the hospital. In addition, there are systems for communication as well as monitoring compliance to protocols. CONCLUSION: We hope that these protocols and our experience would help the ophthalmic community globally and serve as a guide to protect ophthalmologists and ophthalmic care personnel, and their patients across the world.

Purpose: To describe a series of sight-threatening ocular and adnexal involvement associated with dengue hemorrhagic fever and their treatment options. Methods: Retrospective, interventional, non-comparative case series. Medical records of patients who presented with ocular symptoms attributed to dengue hemorrhagic fever were reviewed. Demography, presenting features, and treatment outcomes were recorded. Outcome measures assessed included globe salvage, vision salvage, and visual improvement. The outcome was deemed as favorable if vision salvage was possible and unfavorable if the vision was lost. Results: Twenty-nine eyes of 23 patients were included. Bilateral ocular involvement was seen in 6 (26%) patients. The mean age was 37.62 ± 18.68 years (range: 14 to 81 years). Coexistent diabetes mellitus and enteric fever were present in three patients. History of blood transfusion was present in nine (40%) and thrombocytopenia in eight (35%) patients at the time of presentation with ocular complaints. Presenting features included endophthalmitis in 11 (38%), panophthalmitis in 10 (35%), orbital cellulitis with panophthalmitis in four (14%), isolated corneal or scleral melt in three (10%), and orbital hemorrhage with panophthalmitis in one (3%) patient. Globe salvage was achieved in 21/29 eyes (72.4%), vision salvage in 6/29 eyes (20.68%), and improvement in visual acuity was noted in 5/29 eyes (17.24%). Logistic regression analysis revealed no significant effect of any clinical-microbiological factors on globe salvage, vision salvage, and visual improvement. However, visual improvement and globe salvage were possible in eyes that underwent early endoscopic vitrectomy. Conclusion: Dengue fever can present with sight-threatening ocular and adnexal inflammation resulting in endophthalmitis and panophthalmitis, orbital cellulitis, corneal and scleral melt, and orbital hemorrhage. Early vitrectomy may improve vision and globe salvage in cases with significant vitritis.

Purpose: Intraocular infection in patients with COVID-19 could be different in the presence of treatment with systemic corticosteroid and immunosuppressive agents. We describe the epidemiology and microbiological profile of intraocular infection in COVID-19 patients after their release from the hospital. Methods: We analyzed the clinical and microbiological data of laboratory-confirmed COVID-19 patients from April 2020 to January 2021 presenting with features of endogenous endophthalmitis within 12 weeks of their discharge from the hospital in two neighboring states in South India. The data included demography, systemic comorbidities, COVID-19 treatment details, time interval to visual symptoms, the microbiology of systemic and ocular findings, ophthalmic management, and outcomes. Results: The mean age of 24 patients (33 eyes) was 53.6 ± 13.5 (range: 5–72) years; 17 (70.83%) patients were male. Twenty-two (91.6%) patients had systemic comorbidities, and the median period of hospitalization for COVID-19 treatment was 14.5 ± 0.7 (range: 7–63) days. Infection was bilateral in nine patients. COVID-19 treatment included broad-spectrum systemic antibiotics (all), antiviral drugs (22, 91.66% of patients), systemic corticosteroid (21, 87.5% of patients), supplemental oxygen (18, 75% of patients), low molecular weight heparin (17, 70.8% of patients), admission in intensive care units (16, 66.6% of patients), and interleukin-6 inhibitor (tocilizumab) (14, 58.3% of patients). Five (20.8%) patients died of COVID-19-related complications during treatment for endophthalmitis; one eye progressed to pan ophthalmitis and orbital cellulitis; eight eyes regained vision >20/400. Fourteen of 19 (73.7%) vitreous biopsies were microbiologically positive (culture, PCR, and microscopy), and the majority (11 patients, 78.5%) were fungi. Conclusion: Intraocular infection in COVID-19 patients is predominantly caused by fungi. We suggest a routine eye examination be included as a standard of care of COVID-19.

Purpose: To describe the clinical presentation and management of Enterobacter endophthalmitis and compare with previous in-house published literature. Methods: This was a retrospective interventional comparative case series involving 44 cases with culture proven Enterobacter endophthalmitis from April 2006 to August 2018 who underwent vitrectomy/vitreous biopsy, intravitreal antibiotics with or without additional procedures as appropriate. The current outcomes were compared to the outcomes previously reported a decade back from our center. The mean age at presentation, predisposing factor, number of interventions, interval between inciting event and presentation, type of intravitreal antibiotic used, anatomic, and the functional outcomes were analyzed and compared to the previous series. Results: There were 30 males. Mean age was 22.73 ± 21.35 years (median 14 years). Inciting event was open globe injury in 34 (77.27%) eyes, 4 (9.09%) eyes following cataract surgery, 3 (6.81%) eyes with endogenous endophthalmitis, 2 (4.54%) eyes following keratoplasty, and 1 eye (2.27%) following trabeculectomy. Presenting visual acuity was favorable (≥20/400) in 2 eyes (4.54%), at the final visit it was in 11 eyes (25%). The organisms were most sensitive to ciprofloxacin (95.12%), amikacin (90.47%), and ceftazidime (85.36%). A comparison of the current study with previous in-house study showed that number of eyes with presenting vision ≥20/400 as well as final vision ≥20/400 were comparable. Susceptibility was highest to ciprofloxacin 39 (95.12%) (previous series) and 33 (92%) (current series). Conclusion: Enterobacter organisms show susceptibility to ciprofloxacin, amikacin, and ceftazidime. Susceptibility profile, clinical presentations, and management remain largely similar over many years. Final outcome is unfavorable.

Purpose: To report the clinical presentation, microbiology, and management outcome of endogenous endophthalmitis in Indian patients. Methods: Retrospective chart review of culture-positive (vitreous/urine/blood) endogenous endophthalmitis cases treated in tertiary eye care facility in India was done. Results: The study included 173 eyes of 117 patients. Mean patient age was 25.41 ± 20.46 years (median 24 years). Pre-disposing systemic illness could not be elicited in 79 (67.63%) patients. Commonest predisposing systemic condition in patients where it could be detected (n = 79) was pyrexia of unknown origin (25/79 = 32.0%). Following treatment, 45 out of 173 (26.0%) eyes regained vision of ≥20/400. Commonest isolated organism from vitreous was Streptococcus pneumoniae (36 eyes, 20.8%) and fungi were isolated in 24 (13.8%) eyes, the commonest being Candida spp. (8/24, 33.33%). Favorable functional outcome was seen in 26% eyes and favorable anatomic outcome in 43% eyes. Those with an underlying systemic illness were older (P = 0.02), had greater urine culture positivity (P = 0.003), lesser vitreous culture positivity (0.001), greater gram negative etiology (P = 0.0006), and greater fungal etiology (P = 0.01) as compared to those cases without underlying systemic illness. Conclusion: Endogenous endophthalmitis in India often presents in young immunocompetent individuals without any underlying systemic illness and with negative blood or urine microbiologic work up. Underlying systemic illness leads to greater gram-negative and fungal etiology. Overall visual outcome is poor inspite of prompt management.

Abstract Purpose To test the antimicrobial properties of silicon oil (Aurosil 1000 cSt, Aurosil Plus 5000 cSt) on in vitro growth of common microorganisms causing endophthalmitis. Materials and methods Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, multi-drug resistant (MDR) strain of Klebsiella pneumoniae, Escherichia coli, Candida albicans, and Aspergillus flavus were prepared to 0.5 McFarland turbidity. The bacteria and fungi were inoculated into the silicone oils, brain heart infusion (BHI) broth for bacteria and Sabouraud dextrose agar (SDA) broth for fungi, respectively, and cultured aerobically for 30 days. From each sample, 10 μl was plated onto nutrient agar and potato dextrose agar (PDA) for testing growth of bacteria and fungi respectively. Cultures from specimens, overnight incubation, and CFU counting were repeated on days 1, 3, 5, 7, 14, 21, 24, and 30. Negative controls were brain heart infusion and physiologic saline as well as silicone oils without any inoculations. Results All bacteria showed a decrease in CFUs by the fifth day and eliminated between 21 and 30 days in silicone oil. The silicon oil, irrespective of its viscosity, had only fungistatic effect up to 30 days. Colony-forming units of microorganisms remained stable in physiologic saline during the study. In BHI and Sabouraud broth, both bacteria and fungi showed a growth pattern that was compatible with the growth curve of microorganisms. Conclusion Medical-grade silicone oil used in ophthalmology exhibited in vitro bactericidal and fungistatic activity over 30 days. Insertion of silicone oil in vitrectomy for endophthalmitis, when required, could supplement the antimicrobial activities of intravitreal antibiotics in management of endophthalmitis.

Purpose: The sub-retinal injections are not very commonly performed procedures in vitreoretina, but form a crucial step in any cell replacement therapy for retinal diseases. The purpose of this study is to describe the learning curve of a trained vitreo-retinal surgeon in sub-retinal injections in a rat model and its implications in future clinical trials. Methods: This is an in-vivo retrospective animal study using Wistar rats. All ARVO guidelines regarding animal handling were followed. After anesthetization, aspectic preparation and dilating the pupils with 1% tropicamide eye drops, subretinal injection of 10 μl saline was done via a limbal entry. Data recorded included time taken for the procedure, success of injection, associated complications, post-operative infections and complications. The rats were followed up for 1 month post procedure. A trend analysis was done for the above factors to look for improvement in ease of procedure, reduction in procedure time and reduction in complications for the clinician using a novel objective scale. Results: About 20 eyes were studied. Mean weight of the rats was 188 ± 12.82 gram. Mean time taken for the procedure was 14.1 ± 5.07 minutes. There was a significant inverse co-relation between the serial number of the eye and time taken for the procedure (r = −0.89, P < 0.0001). Comparative complications noted between the first ten and the last ten eyes were: conjunctival tear 30% versus 10% (P = 0.27), lens touch 50% versus 10% (P = 0.05), subretinal hemorrhage 40% versus 0% (P = 0.13), vitreous loss 30% versus 0% (P = 0.06). The successful subretinal injection without intraocular complications was achieved in 40% versus 90% (P = 0.02). There was a significant co-relation between the serial number of the eye and ease of the procedure (r = 0.87, P < 0.0001). Post operatively none of the eyes had any infection. Six eyes (12%) developed cataract and 3 eyes (6%) had non-resolving retinal detachment at the last examination visit. Conclusion: Subretinal injections in rats have a definite learning curve even for a trained vitreoretinal surgeon. This should be accounted for and resources allocated accordingly to achieve good technical comfort and negate confounding by the surgeon factor in the results of future clinical trials

Studies have documented dysbiosis in the gut mycobiome in people with Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). However, it is not known whether dysbiosis in the gut mycobiome of T2DM patients would be reflected in people with diabetic retinopathy (DR) and if so, is the observed mycobiome dysbiosis similar in people with T2DM and DR. Gut mycobiomes were generated from healthy controls (HC), people with T2DM and people with DR through Illumina sequencing of ITS2 region. Data were analysed using QIIME and R software. Dysbiotic changes were observed in people with T2DM and DR compared to HC at the phyla and genera level. Mycobiomes of HC, T2DM and DR could be discriminated by heat map analysis, Beta diversity analysis and LEfSE analysis. Spearman correlation of fungal genera indicated more negative correlation in HC compared to T2DM and DR mycobiomes. This study demonstrates dysbiosis in the gut mycobiomes in people with T2DM and DR compared to HC. These differences were significant both at the phyla and genera level between people with T2DM and DR as well. Such studies on mycobiomes may provide new insights and directions to identification of specific fungi associated with T2DM and DR and help developing novel therapies for Diabetes Mellitus and DR.

Purpose: To determine the predictive values of baseline optical coherence tomography (OCT) abnormalities on 12-month visual acuity changes in eyes with macular edema (ME) caused by branch retinal vein occlusions (BRVO). Methods: We performed a post hoc analysis of data from 75 participants in the 12-month MARVEL trial. OCT abnormalities at baseline, including ganglion cell layer cystoid spaces (GCL), intraretinal hyper-reflective dots, and central subfield thickness (CST), were correlated with improvements in visual acuity and the number of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor injections required using a multivariate regression model. Results: Eyes with baseline CST > 500 μm had greater visual gains compared to those with CST

Fibrocellular membrane or epiretinal membrane (ERM) forms on the surface of the inner limiting membrane (ILM) in the inner retina and alters the structure and function of the retina. ERM formation is frequently observed in ocular inflammatory conditions, such as proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR) and retinal detachment (RD). Although peeling of the ERM is used as a surgical intervention, it can inadvertently distort the retina. Our goal is to design alternative strategies to tackle ERMs. As a first step, we sought to determine the composition of the ERMs by identifying the constituent cell-types and gene expression signature in patient samples. Using ultrastructural microscopy and immunofluorescence analyses, we found activated microglia, astrocytes, and Müller glia in the ERMs from PDR and RD patients. Moreover, oxidative stress and inflammation associated gene expression was significantly higher in the RD and PDR membranes as compared to the macular hole samples, which are not associated with inflammation. We specifically detected differential expression of hypoxia inducible factor 1-α (HIF1-α), proinflammatory cytokines, and Notch, Wnt, and ERK signaling pathway-associated genes in the RD and PDR samples. Taken together, our results provide new information to potentially develop methods to tackle ERM formation.

Purpose: The purpose was to study choroidal thickness and its profile based on location in healthy Indian children using enhanced depth spectral-domain-optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT). Methods: In this cross-sectional observational study 255 eyes of 136 children with no retinal or choroidal disease were consecutively scanned using enhanced depth SD-OCT. Eyes with any ocular disease or axial length (AXL) >25 mm or < 20 mm were excluded. A single observer measured choroidal thickness from the posterior edge of the retinal pigment epithelium to the choroid/sclera junction at 500-microns intervals up to 2500 microns temporal and nasal to the fovea. Generalized estimating equations were used to evaluate the correlation between choroidal thickness at various locations and age, AXL, gender and spherical equivalent (SEq). Results: Mean age of the subjects was 11.9 ± 3.4 years (range: 5-18 years). There were 62 Females and 74 males. The mean AXL was 23.55 ± 0.74 mm. Mean subfoveal choroidal thickness was 312.1 ± 45.40 μm. Choroid was found to be thickest subfoveally, then temporally. Age, AXL and SEq showed a significant correlation with choroidal thickness, whereas gender did not affect choroidal thickness. Conclusion: Our study provides a valid normative database of choroidal thickness in healthy Indian children. This database could be useful for further studies evaluating choroidal changes in various chorioretinal disorders. Age and AXL are critical factors, which negatively correlated with choroidal thickness.

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a growing concern in India. The first step in management of DR is timely screening. With 10% prevalence in rural India, 11 million people are likely to have DR by the year 2030. With limited resources and skilled manpower, it will not be possible to have routine eye examination to identify and treat these patients on a regular basis. Telemedicine is a possible answer in these situations where patients could be remotely screened and appropriately advised. With the advent of several technological advances such as low cost hand-held nonmydriatic camera, increased capabilities of the smartphones to take external eye and retinal photographs coupled with improving broadband connectivity; teleophthalmology in the management of DR could be a reality in the not too distant future.

Cataract surgery is the most commonly performed intraocular surgery in the world. Endophthalmitis is a sight-threatening complication subsequent to intraocular procedures, open-globe injuries, metastatic systemic infections, and systemic inflammatory diseases. The incidence of post-cataract surgery endophthalmitis is 0.012% to 1.3%. Patients' ocular surface flora, surgical instruments, and surgical complications like posterior capsule rupture with vitreous loss and anterior vitrectomy. The most common bacteria causing post-cataract endophthalmitis in the Western world are gram-positive coagulase-negative Staphylococci, followed by Streptococci and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Povidone-iodine (PI) is the only topical prophylactic antiseptic known to reduce endophthalmitis perioperatively with a three to five times reduction rate within 1 min of irrigation. The European Society of Cataract & Refractive Surgeons (ESCRS) study recommendations are also discussed. There are no randomized controlled trials of PI with endophthalmitis rate as the primary end point. Based on retrospective data, 5% PI applied to conjunctiva prior to surgery reduced endophthalmitis rates four-fold. Intracameral injection of either vancomycin, cefazolin, cefuroxime, or moxifloxacin has a prophylactic effect. We recommend using preoperative 5% povidone-iodine for 30 s in the cul-de-sac and intracameral moxifloxacin or cefuroxime as effective prophylaxis against post-operative endophthalmitis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To compare the retinal vascularity, peripapillary vascularity, nerve fiber layer thickness and ganglion cell layer thickness between active, inactive thyroid eye disease (TED) and healthy eyes. Retrospective comparative cross-sectional cohort study. Patients with TED, active and inactive on the VISA score, and healthy eyes were included. All patients underwent optical coherence tomography angiography with detailed demographic and clinical data capture. Using automated software, retinal and peripapillary vascularity index, nerve fiber layer thickness, and ganglion cell layer thickness were calculated and were compared between the groups. Twenty-four eyes with active TED, 102 eyes with inactive TED and 52 healthy eyes were included. Independent sample t test was used to compare parametric data and Mann-Whitney test to compare non-parametric data. The age and gender were comparable across groups. The peripapillary vascularity index (26.82 ± 4.13 versus 34.92 ± 5.08, p =.002) and the macular vascularity index (20.32 ± 2.5 versus 31.21 ± 3.89, p <.0001) were reduced in active TED eyes versus inactive eyes. Macular vascularity index was comparable in the inactive versus the healthy eyes. The RNFL thickness was increased in the active TED eyes versus the inactive eyes (45.11 ± 18.3 versus 35.55 ± 7, p =.03) and active versus healthy eyes (45.11 ± 18.3 versus 36.28 ± 7.89, p =.03). Ganglion cell layer thickness between all three groups was comparable. Decrease in peripapillary and macular vascular density and increase in RNFL thickness are seen in active TED compared to inactive TED and healthy eyes. In disease inactivity, these parameters are comparable to healthy eyes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim To report the foveal cone count in eyes with resolved endophthalmitis vis-à-vis normal fellow eyes using an indigenous adaptive optics scanning laser ophthalmoscopy (AO-SLO). Methods In a prospective cross-sectional comparative pilot study, we recruited patients with resolved endophthalmitis in one eye (study eye) and a normal fellow eye (control eye). Collected data included measurement of the best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (OCT) imaging and AO-SLO imaging and cone counting at the fovea in both eyes. Results The study included 12 eyes of 6 patients. The mean age was 51.66±11.97 years (median 56 years). BCVA in all control eyes was 20/20 (logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution (LogMAR) 0), and in the study, eyes was 0.21±0.13 (median 0.19, Snellen 20/30; p=0.001; 95% CI -0.39 to -0.09). The follow-up was 18.66±12.32 (median 20 months). The cone count at the fovea in the control eye was 4356.33±1993.93 (median 4498), and in the study eye, it was 2357.16±1541.17 (median 2187.5; p=0.03; 95% CI -3556 to -1082). Conclusions Eyes with resolved endophthalmitis with near-normal vision have reduced number of foveal cones even in absence of OCT-detected gross structural changes. Translational Relevance The current work describes the application of cellular-level imaging technique called adaptive optics scanning laser ophthalmoscopy (AO-SLO) to the clinical condition of resolved endophthalmitis. The study of retinal cell biology at the cellular level is possible using the emerging technology of AO-SLO. This new investigative modality that has the potential to image the retina at the cellular level until the photoreceptors is more likely to unravel the pathophysiology of a variety of retinal diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the presence of the ever-increasing incidence of diabetes mellitus (DM), the prevalence of diabetic eye disease (DED) is also growing. Despite many improvements in diabetic care, DM remains a leading cause of visual impairment in working-age patients. So far, prevention has been the best way to protect vision. The sooner we diagnose DED, the more effective the treatment is. Thus, diabetic retinopathy (DR) screening, especially with imaging techniques, is a method of choice for vision protection. To alleviate the burden of diabetic patients who need ophthalmic care, telemedicine and in-home testing are used, supported by artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms. This is why we decided to evaluate current image teleophthalmology methods used for DR screening. We searched the PubMed platform for papers published over the last 5 years (2015–2020) using the following key words: telemedicine in diabetic retinopathy screening, diabetic retinopathy screening, automated diabetic retinopathy screening, artificial intelligence in diabetic retinopathy screening, smartphone diabetic retinopathy testing. We have included 118 original articles meeting the above criteria, discussing imaging diabetic retinopathy screening methods. We have found that fundus cameras, stable or mobile, are most commonly used for retinal photography, with portable fundus cameras also relatively common. Other possibilities involve the use of ultra-wide-field (UWF) imaging and even optical coherence tomography (OCT) devices for DR screening. Also, the role of smartphones is increasingly recognized in the field. Retinal fundus images are assessed by humans instantly or remotely, while AI algorithms seem to be useful tools facilitating retinal image assessment. The common use of smartphones and availability of relatively cheap, easy-to-use adapters for retinal photographs augmented by AI algorithms make it possible for eye fundus photographs to be taken by non-specialists and in non-medical setting. This opens the way for in-home testing conducted on a much larger scale in the future. In conclusion, based on current DR screening techniques, we can suggest that the future practice of eye care specialists will be widely supported by AI algorithms, and this way will be more effective. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To compare the surgical outcomes of macular hole (MH) surgery performed by trainee surgeons using a three-dimensional heads-up display (3D HUD) versus a standard operating microscope (SOM). Materials and methods: A retrospective review of all consecutive medical records patients operated on for MHs by a trainee surgeon between 2017 and 2020 using either 3D HUD or SOM was performed. Minimum hole diameter, maximum hole diameter, total surgical time, and MH closure rates were compared between the two groups. MH retinal detachments, traumatic MHs, and MHs for which inverted internal limiting membrane flaps were used were excluded from the study. Results: Trainee surgeons operated on 51 patients using 3D HUD and 63 patients using SOM. Age at presentation, intraocular pressure (IOP) at diagnosis, maximum hole diameter, minimum hole diameter, surgical time, duration between diagnosis and surgery were comparable between both groups. MH closure rate was significantly (p < 0.004) higher in the 3D HUD group (n = 44, 86.3%) than that of the SOM group (n = 38, 60.3%). There were no postoperative adverse events such as glaucoma or retinal detachment in either group. Other than the viewing technique, there were no significant variables associated with MH closure in the two groups. Conclusion: Surgeries conducted by trainee surgeons using 3D HUD had higher MH closure rates than those using SOM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The aim of this study was to compare the management outcome of endophthalmitis with and without the use of topical antibiotics. Methods: A retrospective comparative chart review of 2 cohorts of endophthalmitis (other than those associated with open-globe injury, keratitis, or wound site infection), one managed with topical antibiotics (TA group) and one without (NTA group), was performed. Results: The study included a total of 270 eyes of 270 patients. Of these, 169 eyes were in the TA group and 101 were in the NTA group. Post-cataract surgery was the most common etiology, accounting for 81.06 and 78.2% of cases, respectively (p = 0.57). A favorable functional outcome at the last visit was seen in 37.5 and 39.6% of eyes (p = 0.73), and a favorable anatomic outcome was noted in 61.2 and 49.5% of eyes (p = 0.06), respectively. The median follow-up was 3.5 and 9 months, respectively (p < 0.0001). Susceptibilities to the common antibiotics used (vancomycin, ceftazidime, and amikacin) were comparable, with the exception of imipenem, for which the susceptibility noted was 95 and 66%, respectively (p = 0.01). Culture positivity in the TA group was seen in 72 out of 169 eyes (42.6%), while in the NTA group it was seen in 98 out of 101 eyes (97.02%; p < 0.0001). Conclusion: Topical antibiotics do not give any added advantage in the management of endophthalmitis otherwise being treated with intravitreal antibiotics and standard vitrectomy techniques. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gut bacterial microbiome dysbiosis in type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) has been reported, but such an association with Diabetic Retinopathy (DR) is not known. We explored possible link between gut bacterial microbiome dysbiosis and DR. Using fecal samples of healthy controls (HC) and people with T2DM with/without DR, gut bacterial communities were analysed using 16S rRNA gene sequencing and data analysed using QIIME and R software. Dysbiosis in the gut microbiomes, at phyla and genera level, was observed in people with T2DM and DR compared to HC. People with DR exhibited greater discrimination from HC. Microbiomes of people with T2DM and DR were also significantly different. Both DM and DR microbiomes showed a decrease in anti-inflammatory, probiotic and other bacteria that could be pathogenic, compared to HC, and the observed change was more pronounced in people with DR. This is the first report demonstrating dysbiosis in the gut microbiome (alteration in the diversity and abundance at the phyla and genera level) in people with DR compared to HC. Such studies would help in developing novel and targeted therapies to improve treatment of DR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To describe full thickness miliary retinal lesions in ocular syphilis.Methods: Retrospective chart review of patients with serologically confirmed ocular syphilis. Retinal miliary lesions in three cases of Syphilitic uveitis, in immunocompetent individuals are described. Case 1 and case 2 were positive for both VDRL (venereal disease research laboratory) and TPHA (Treponema pallidum hemagglutination), case 3 was VDRL negative but TPHA positive.Results: Miliary lesions were small round to oval, yellow retinal lesions, measuring less than ¼ disc diameter size, with distinct margins, involving complete thickness of retina on OCT, in a pillar like manner, associated with ground glass retinitis, outer retinal placoid lesion or with retinal vasculitis. In cases 1 and 3, these healed with pigmentation.Conclusion: In contrast to similar lesions described, retinal miliary lesions seem to involve full thickness of the retina on OCT and may heal with pigmentation. These lesions may be characteristic of ocular syphilis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Studies have documented dysbiosis in the gut mycobiome in people with Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). However, it is not known whether dysbiosis in the gut mycobiome of T2DM patients would be reflected in people with diabetic retinopathy (DR) and if so, is the observed mycobiome dysbiosis similar in people with T2DM and DR. Gut mycobiomes were generated from healthy controls (HC), people with T2DM and people with DR through Illumina sequencing of ITS2 region. Data were analysed using QIIME and R software. Dysbiotic changes were observed in people with T2DM and DR compared to HC at the phyla and genera level. Mycobiomes of HC, T2DM and DR could be discriminated by heat map analysis, Beta diversity analysis and LEfSE analysis. Spearman correlation of fungal genera indicated more negative correlation in HC compared to T2DM and DR mycobiomes. This study demonstrates dysbiosis in the gut mycobiomes in people with T2DM and DR compared to HC. These differences were significant both at the phyla and genera level between people with T2DM and DR as well. Such studies on mycobiomes may provide new insights and directions to identification of specific fungi associated with T2DM and DR and help developing novel therapies for Diabetes Mellitus and DR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose To analyse the pooled safety data of intravitreal ziv-aflibercept (IVZ) therapy for various retinal conditions. Methods This was a retrospective, observational study which included patients from 14 participating centres who received IVZ. The medical records of patients who received IVZ from March 2015 through October 2017 were evaluated. Patient demographics and ocular details were compiled. Ocular and systemic adverse events that occurred within 1 month of IVZ injections were recorded and defined as either procedure-related or drug-related. Results A total of 1704 eyes of 1562 patients received 5914 IVZ injections (mean±SD: 3.73±3.94) during a period of 2.5 years. The age of patients was 60.6±12.8 years (mean±SD) and included diverse chorioretinal pathologies. Both ocular (one case of endophthalmitis, three cases of intraocular inflammation, and one case each of conjunctival thinning/necrosis and scleral nodule) and systemic adverse events (two cases of myocardial infarction, one case of stroke and two deaths) were infrequent. Conclusion This constitutes the largest pooled safety report on IVZ use and includes patients from 14 centres distributed across the globe. It shows that IVZ has an acceptable ocular and systemic safety profile with incidences of adverse events similar to those of other vascular endothelial growth factor inhibitory drugs. The analysis supports the continued use of IVZ in various retinal disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim To assess the two-year outcome of intravitreal ziv-aflibercept (IVZ) in eyes with macular diseases. Methods Consecutive subjects with various macular diseases that received six or more of 0.05 mL IVZ (1.25 mg) injections with at least 1 year follow-up were included. Outcome measures were best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) (logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution) and central macular thickness (CMT) on spectral domain optical coherence tomography. Paired comparison was done using Wilcoxon signed-rank test calculator. Results 107 eyes of 91 subjects received IVZ and were followed with mean±SD follow-up interval of 1.48±0.44 months following treat and extend or pro-re-nata protocol. The distribution included neovascular macular degeneration (42 eyes), diabetic macular oedema (32 eyes) and macular oedema secondary to retinal vein occlusion (11 eyes). Fifty eyes were naive, while 57 eyes were previously treated. Combining all disease categories, CMT decreased significantly by 133.0±153.0 μm at the 24-month follow-up (P<0.001) with BCVA gain of 0.35±0.37 at the 24-month follow- up (P<0.001) with mean number of injections of 8.5 at month 12, 2.4 between 12 and 18 month and 1.7 between 18 and 24 month. Ocular and systemic adverse effects included one episode of transient uveitis and one instance of central retinal artery occlusion after 1121 injections. Conclusions IVZ appears safe and efficacious in the therapy of macular diseases through 2 years. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To study the anatomical and functional outcomes of recurrent retinal detachment (RD) surgery following pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) for rhegmatogenous retinal detachment.Methods: Retrospective analysis of 133 consecutive cases of recurrent RD.Inclusion Criteria: age ≥18 years, recurrent RD following PPV ± encircling band for rhegmatogenous RD.Exclusion Criteria: age <18 years, post-endophthalmitis/tractional/exudative/combined RD, post-scleral buckle, primary surgery done at another institute. The final anatomical and functional outcomes, and their association with clinico-surgical factors, were analyzed.Results: Proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR) ≥ Grade C in re-detached retina (OR, 2.49; 95% CI, 1.02-6.09; P = 0.045) and need for multiple resurgeries (OR, 6.48; 95% CI, 2.51-16.69; P < 0.0001) were significant risk factors for the final anatomical failure. Eyes with PVR ≥ Grade C (OR, 0.31, 95% CI, 0.12-0.80; P = 0.013) in primary RD, and with multiple breaks (OR, 0.24; 95% CI, 0.06-0.96; P = 0.044) at the time of recurrent RD, were less likely to have final BCVA ≥20/200. The visual acuity at the time of recurrent RD had a moderately positive correlation (r = 0.454, P < 0.001), and the delay in recurrence of RD had a weakly positive correlation (r = 0.214, P = 0.046) with the final BCVA.Conclusions: PVR ≥ Grade C and multiple resurgeries are associated with higher incidence of anatomical failure in recurrent RD surgery. Multiple breaks are associated with a poorer visual outcome, whereas a better baseline visual acuity and delayed recurrence of RD after primary repair are associated with a better visual outcome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To compare the surgical outcomes of glued intraocular lens (GIOL) and sutured scleral fixated intraocular lens (SFIOL) implantation.Methods: A retrospective, interventional case series of 60 patients (68 eyes) who underwent GIOL (28 eyes: 11 primary; 17 secondary) and SFIOL (40 eyes: 24 primary; 16 secondary) in a tertiary eye care institute was done. The main outcome measures were complications, time taken for surgery, postoperative refractive outcomes, and final best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA).Results: The mean final BCVA was 0.42 (20/40) (+/- SD 0.29) in the GIOL group and 0.57 (20/50) (+/- SD 0.48) in the SFIOL group (p=0.08). The time taken for primary GIOL (mean+/- SD: 66+/-19 minutes) was significantly lower than primary SFIOL (means+/-SD: 94+/-34 minutes) (p=0.006). The complications were comparable between the GIOL (25%) and SFIOL (15%) groups (p=0.30). The most common complication noted was transient vitreous hemorrhage (GIOL 17%, SFIOL 5%). The only sight-threatening complication seen was retinal detachment, with one eye in each group. The mean follow-up was 20 (GIOL) and 20.4 weeks (SFIOL).Conclusion: Both glued intraocular lens and sutured scleral fixated intraocular lens are safe and effective procedures in cases of insufficient capsular support. In view of the shorter surgical time with similar outcomes, primary GIOL can be considered as a preferred surgical option over primary SFIOL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim To report the short-term outcomes of eyes with choroidal neovascularisation (CNV) associated with causes other than age-related macular degeneration (AMD) after treatment with intravitreal ziv-aflibercept (IVZ) injections. Methods This retrospective study included eyes with non-AMD-related CNV that were treated with IVZ (1.25 mg/0.05 mL) on a pro re nata basis. The primary outcome measure is the mean change in best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and secondary outcome measures include the mean change in central macular thickness (CMT) and adverse events. Results 23 eyes of 19 patients with CNV due to high myopia (9), macular telangiectasia (4), central serous chorioretinopathy (3), choroidal osteoma (2), choroiditis (2), Best's disease (2) and idiopathic (1) were treated. The mean follow-up period was 4±1.9 months. The median number of IVZ injections was 1 (range, 1-3) and the median treatment-free interval at the time of the final visit was 3 months (range, 1-8). The mean BCVA improved from 0.67 LogMAR to 0.58 LogMAR (p=0.0507). Nine of 23 (39%) eyes had BCVA gains of at least 0.1 LogMAR, 11 (48%) eyes had stable BCVA (within 0.1 LogMAR of baseline) and 3 (13%) eyes had a BCVA decline of at least 0.1 LogMAR at the final visit. The mean CMT improved significantly from baseline until the final visit (22 vs 174.5 μm; p=0.037). No ocular or systemic adverse events were noted. Conclusions IVZ improves CMT in patients with CNV associated with causes other than AMD, but improvements in BCVA are modest. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report an unusual presentation of ocular tuberculosis with subretinal abscess with associated posterior scleritis. This is a first-of-its-kind report of such an association. A 26-year-old female presented to us with complaints of redness, pain, and decreased vision in her left eye since 1 week. On examination, the vision in her right eye was 6/6 and in the left eye was 1/60. Detailed ocular evaluation revealed exudative retinal detachment, subretinal abscess, and disk edema. Ocular and systemic investigations were consistent with presumed tubercular etiology and posterior scleritis. The patient was treated with a course of anti-tubercular therapy, under cover of oral steroids. The vision improved in subsequent visits and at the last follow-up 6 months later, the lesion had resolved completely with a best-corrected visual acuity of 20/40. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To report the clinical and microbiological characteristics of infectious endophthalmitis after Boston type I keratoprosthesis (B-K-Pro) implantation. Retrospective analysis of 136 eyes that received a B-K-Pro type 1 between 1999 and 2012 was performed. Five eyes with a diagnosis of exogenous endophthalmitis after B-K-pro type 1 were identified and information about demographic data, indication for K-Pro, post-operative bandage contact lens use, post-operative prophylactic antibiotic use, timing and clinical presentation of endophthalmitis, gram stain and culture results of intraocular fluid and preoperative and post-operative visual acuity were collected. The incidence of endophthalmitis was 3.67 % (5 of 136 eyes) and average time to develop endophthalmitis was 5.62 months (range 2 days to 8 months). Mean patient age was 31.4 years (5 to 65 years). The surgical indications included corneal injury due to chemical burns ( n = 2), multiple failed grafts secondary to microbial keratitis ( n = 2) and congenital glaucoma with congenital herpetic keratitis ( n = 1). Post-Boston K-Pro, the visual acuity ranged from light perception (LP) to 20/50. K-pro was explanted in 4 patients. There was bacterial and fungal growth in two patients each and one vitreous did not grow anything. All the eyes were phthisical at last visit. Infectious endophthalmitis after K-Pro implantation in our study had a higher incidence, early onset and extremely poor visual outcome compared with post-cataract surgery endophthalmitis, as reported in literature. Not only bacterial but also fungal infections are an important etiology for infectious endophthalmitis in these cases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To report the clinical and microbiological characteristics of infectious endophthalmitis after Boston type I keratoprosthesis (B-K-Pro) implantation. Retrospective analysis of 45 eyes that received a B-K-Pro type 1 between 2009 and 2012 was performed. Five eyes with a diagnosis of exogenous endophthalmitis after B-K-pro type 1 were identified and information about demographic data, indication for K-Pro, post-operative bandage contact lens use, post-operative prophylactic antibiotic use, timing and clinical presentation of endophthalmitis, gram stain and culture results of intraocular fluid and preoperative and post-operative visual acuity were collected. The incidence of endophthalmitis was 11.1 % (5 of 45 eyes) and average time to develop endophthalmitis was 5.62 months (range 2 days to 8 months). Mean patient age was 31.4 years (5 to 65 years). The surgical indications included corneal injury due to chemical burns ( n = 2), multiple failed grafts secondary to microbial keratitis ( n = 2) and congenital glaucoma with congenital herpetic keratitis ( n = 1). Post-Boston K-Pro, the visual acuity ranged from light perception (LP) to 20/50. K-pro was explanted in 4 patients. There was bacterial and fungal growth in two patients each and one vitreous did not grow anything. All the eyes were phthisical at last visit. Infectious endophthalmitis after K-Pro implantation in our study had a higher incidence, early onset and extremely poor visual outcome compared with post-cataract surgery endophthalmitis, as reported in literature. Not only bacterial but also fungal infections are an important etiology for infectious endophthalmitis in these cases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The aim was to study choroidal thickness (CT) and its profile based on location in healthy Indian subjects using Cirrus high definition (HD) optical coherence tomography. Materials and Methods: A total of 211 eyes of 115 healthy subjects with no retinal or choroidal disease were consecutively scanned using Cirrus HD 1 line raster scan mode without pupillary dilation. Eyes with any ocular disease or axial length (AXL) >24 mm or <20 mm were excluded. Experienced technician measured CT from the lower border of the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) to the lower border of choroid. CT was measured from the posterior edge of the RPE to the choroid/sclera junction at 500-μm intervals up to 3000 μm temporal and nasal to the fovea. Generalized estimating equations were used to evaluate the correlation between CT at various locations and age, AXL, spherical equivalent, and macular thickness. Results: Mean age was 42.8 ± 13.6 years. Mean AXL was 22.84 ± 0.78 mm. Median spherical equivalent was 0.16 ± 0.64 D. Mean central macular thickness was 216.4 ± 30.03 μm. Choroidal was thinnest nasally and thickest subfoveally. On multivariate regression, age was the most significant factor affecting subfoveal CT (P = 0.000). Regression analysis showed an approximate decrease in CT of 1.18 μm every year. Conclusions: Our study provides CT profile in Indian healthy subjects in various age groups. CT depends on its location, subfoveal being the thickest and nasal being the thinnest. Age is a critical factor, which is negatively correlated with CT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims To investigate the long-term safety of intravitreal ziv-aflibercept in eyes receiving six or more intravitreal injections of ziv-aflibercept, an off-label substitute to the approved aflibercept. Methods Consecutive patients with retinal disease receiving six or more of intravitreal 0.05 mL zivaflibercept (1.25 mg) injections were followed monthly in three centres. Outcome measures were best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) (logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution (logMar)) and central macular thickness (CMT) on spectral domain optical coherence tomography and monitoring for ocular inflammation, progression of lens opacities and intraocular pressure rise. Paired comparison was done using Wilcoxon signed-rank test calculator. Results Sixty-five eyes of 60 consecutive patients received a mean of 8.4 (6-17) intravitreal injections with a baseline mean logMAR BCVA of 0.98±0.56 and CMT 432.7±163.0 µm and followed for a mean of 9.2 months (range 6-18 months). After the sixth injection, mean BCVA improved to 0.57±0.36 (p=0.001) and CMT decreased to 274.8±117.8 µm (p=0.0001). At the 9-month follow-up, mean BCVA improved to 0.62±0.37 (p=0.0004) and mean CMT decreased to 292.0±160.9 µm ( p<0.01) in 19 eyes. At 1 year, mean BCVA was 0.73±0.52 and CMT 311.6 ±232.5 µm in seven eyes. Intraocular pressures did not increase after injections. One subject developed transient mild iritis at the fourth injection but not on subsequent injections. No lens opacity progression or endophthalmitis was noted. Systemic adverse effects were not registered. Conclusions Repeated intravitreal injections of zivaflibercept appear tolerable, safe and efficacious in the therapy of retinal disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]