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Presents an article abstract of 'Lacs of Influence of TT Virus Co-infection on Interferon-Alfa Therapy of Chronic Hepatitis C Patients; Susceptibility of TTV to Interferon Treatment,' by J.J. Stanczak, J. Opoka-Kegler and E. Czekalska-Lachowicz presented at the Asian Pacific Association for the Study of the Liver Commemorative International Congress in Singapore.

Purpose: To evaluate the validity of electrophysiological tests in the early diagnosis of a ganglion cells and/or optic nerve dysfunction in patients with pituitary microadenoma., Methods: 66 eyes, from 33 patients with microadenoma with no evidence of the optic chiasm compression in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and the visual impairment in the routine ophthalmological examination, standard static perimetry (24-2 white on white) and optical coherence tomography (HD-OCT), were analysed. The pattern electroretinogram (PERG), standard pattern visual evoked potentials (PVEPs) and multichannel visual evoked potentials (mVEPs) (ISCEV standards) were performed. The results obtained from the electrophysiological tests were compared to the same number of age-matched healthy controls., Results: Statistically significant differences between the patients with microadenoma and healthy controls were detected in all electrophysiological tests (p < 0.001). The most frequent abnormalities were observed in mVEPs (25/33 patients, 75.8%; 43/66 eyes, 65.2%). The most frequent features registered in this test were: (1°4')-an increase in the P100wave latency from uncrossed fibres (13/33 patients, 39.39%; 21/66 eyes, 31.8%) and (0°16')-an amplitude reduction of this wave from the crossed fibres (11/33 patients, 33.33%; 19/66 eyes, 28.8%). The changes in PVEPs (15/33 patients, 45.5%; 25/66 eyes, 37.9%) and PERG (10/33 patients, 30.3%; 15/66 eyes, 22.7%) were also registered. Of all the tests and parameters analysed in the study, the greatest diagnostic value in detecting the visual pathway dysfunction in this group of patients was the amplitude of P100 wave from the crossed fibres of the mVEPs (1°4') with a sensitivity of 60.6% and a specificity of 93.8%. These parameters suggest that this type of dysfunction is downstream to the chiasm and can also indicate the visual pathway dysfunction severity., Conclusions: In patients with microadenoma, the abnormalities in the electrophysiological tests are registered even without clinical evidence of visual impairment from the routine ophthalmological examination, SAP, OCT and chiasmal compression in MRI. The mVEPs have the most significant role in the diagnosis of the visual pathway dysfunction in patients with microadenoma., (© 2021. The Author(s).)

Background and Methods: Based on the available literature, it is suggested, in the clinical evaluation of the chiasmal tumors, that the following electrophysiological tests: visual evoked potentials to pattern-reversal stimulation, multifocal visual evoked potentials (mfVEPs), and pattern electroretinogram (PERG) play an important role in the diagnosis of the optic nerve and retinal dysfunction in the course of pituitary tumors., Results: Macroadenomas and also microadenomas may cause dysfunction of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) and their axons, even in the absence of changes in the routine ophthalmological examination, retinal sensitivity in standard automated perimetry, and retinal nerve fiber layer thickness in optical coherent tomography. The most frequently observed changes in electrophysiological tests were as follows: in PVEPs-the crossed/uncrossed asymmetry distribution, altered waveform, increase in P100-wave peak time, and/or reduction in amplitude; in mfVEPs-the peak time prolongation and/or amplitude reduction in C1-wave; in PERG-the reduction in N95-wave amplitude and decreased N95:P50 amplitude ratio. Hemifield PVEPs were more often abnormal than full-field PVEPs. Multi-channel recording is recommended for the assessment of the anterior visual pathway. The use of mfVEP offers the possibility to register localized disturbances of the optic nerve and ganglion cells. Additionally, an amplitude of N95-wave reduction in PERG correlated with a lack of postoperative visual acuity recovery. The postoperative improvement in the visual field was found to be associated with a normal N95:P50 amplitude ratio. The RGCs dysfunction manifested by decrease in PhNR/b-wave amplitude ratio was associated with the worse visual fields outcome. A review of the literature summarizing the electrophysiological testing in the pituitary adenoma is discussed., Conclusion: In patients with pituitary tumor, detection of the early dysfunction of the visual pathway may lead to modification of the medical treatment regimen and reduce the incidence of irreversible optic nerve damage.

Purpose: To present a patient with a diagnosis of pituitary adenoma and progressive visual pathway dysfunction detected in the electrophysiological tests in one-year follow-up. Patient is a 59-year-old male with a non-secreting pituitary macroadenoma., Methods: Routine ophthalmological evaluation, standard automatic perimetry (SAP), retinal nerve fibers layer and the ganglion cell complex thickness in optical coherent tomography (OCT), as well as electrophysiological examinations (pattern electroretinogram-PERG, multi-channel pattern visual evoked potentials-multi-channel PVEPs record according to ISCEV standards) were performed. The examination and additional tests were conducted 3 times (in 0, 6 and 12 months) and 6 months after neurosurgery., Results: Visual acuity, funduscopic examinations, SAP, OCT and electrophysiological test results at the first visit were all normal. In both eyes, the abnormalities were observed only in the multi-channel PVEP and PERG despite the absence of the changes in the routine ophthalmological examination and additional tests after 6- and 12-month follow-up. The tumor growth but without chiasmal compression was confirmed by magnetic resonance imaging. The progression of the optic pathway dysfunction in the electrophysiological tests was a cause of surgical removal of the pituitary tumor., Conclusion: This case highlights novel observations that in patients with pituitary tumor, detection of the early dysfunction of the visual pathway may lead to modification of the medical treatment regimen and reduce the incidence of irreversible optic nerve damage.

Purpose: To determine the effect of prism correction with physicotherapeutic procedures on symptomatic improvement in posttraumatic oculomotor, trochlear and abducent nerves palsy., Patients and Methods: Twenty eight patients (five women and twenty three men) at the age range from 23 to 50 years (mean age of 36.5 y.o.) with the posttraumatic ophthalmic complications underwent routine ophthalmic and strabologic examination. Prism correction and vitaminum B1 in iontophoresis were used due to unilateral oculomotor, trochlear and abducent nerve palsy, at 3-11 (mean interval between the trauma and treatment commencement of 7 months) months after traffic accident. Additionally, oculomotor muscles motility training and orthoptic exercises were applied. The duration of therapy ranged from 11 to 18 months (mean treatment duration of 14.5 months)., Results: All patients were considered cured at the end of treatment. We achieved the increased ocular range of motion (100%), the reduced horizontal and vertical deviation angle (75%), the extension of palpebral fissure (100%) and regression of diplopia (100%). The binocular vision in the free- and instrument-space environment evaluation improved after treatment (100% simultaneous perception, 100% fusion, 96,43% stereopsis) in 75% and 25% of patients without and with prism correction, respectively., Conclusions: The use of prism correction led to regression of diplopia, ortophoria without compensatory head position and improved binocular vision function. Prism correction and physicotherapeutic procedures resulted in early improvement of ocular range of motion and accommodation.

Tersone syndrome was first described in 1900 as haemorrhages in the eye that occur as a consequence of intracranial hemorrhage. The main cause of the syndrome in adults is a subarachnoid hemorrhage following the rupture of intracranial aneurysm. The pathogenesis has not been fully understood. It is believed that the increase of intracranial pressure results in the hemodynamic changes in ocular vessels. Reported symptoms include decrease of visual acuity following generalized symptoms such as headache, loss of consciousness and meningealsigns. Physical examination usually reveals vitreous hemorrhage (classic Terson's syndrome) and other forms of intraocular hemorrhage. The authors reviewed the available literature on the Terson's Syndrome. Clinical presentation, pathogenesis, diagnosis, and available treatment options are presented and discussed, considering the rare occurrence of this disease.

Neurofibromatosis type 1 is an autosomal dominant genetic disease, which belongs to the neuro-oculo-cutaneous syndromes (phakomatoses). The authors present a case of a girl with familial neurofibromatosis. In addition to typical skin lesions and Lisch nodules on the iris, the plexiform neurofibroma of the upper eyelid and orbit as well as hamartoma of the central nervous system were observed. Due to the massive infiltration of the left upper eyelid causing its complete ptosis and, in turn, the amblyopia of the left eye, the tumour was partially rexcised. This lesion is not totally removable in most cases due to the early development of neurofibroma during the fetal period and its strong adhesion to the healthy tissues. A massive eyelid infiltration causing amblyopia and dissociation of binocular vision is an indication for early surgery.

The aim of this article is to present a clinical picture of congenital optic nerve anomalies, which occur quite frequently in the general population, may cause low vision and visual field defects. These abnormalities can coexist with central nervous system defects or the other ocular abnormalities. Some of them may be misdiagnosed as papilloedema during the episode of intracranial fluid pressure elevation or glaucomatous neuropathy. Diagnosing the congenital nerve optic disc defects coexisting with multiorgans anomalies requires multidisciplinary medical care especially in babies. developmental optic disc anomalies, congenital eye abnormalities, differential diagnosis.

Purpose: To report a patient with peripapillary idiopathic choroidal neovascularization treated with an anti-VEGF (anti- vascular endothelial growth factor) agent (bevacizumab) observed during for 9 months., Patient and Methods: Twenty nine years old man was referred to the Department for diagnosis and treatment because of unilateral visual acuity decrease in the right eye (VA RE--0.1) and metamorphopsias. The routine ophthalmic examination revealed macular edema and peripapillaryedema with epiretinal and intraretinal hemorrhages. The optical coherence tomography, fluorescein angiography, as well as laboratory tests were performed in order to exclude uveitis. Due to the difficulties in the diagnosis indocyanine green angiography was also performed. Based on clinical symptoms and the findings of the additional diagnostic procedures, the patient was diagnosed with idiopathic choroidal neovascularization. The patient was qualified for anti-VEGF therapy and received three intravitreal injections of bevacizumab at the dose of 1.25 mg, at monthly intervals., Results: Significant improvement of visual acuity (VA RE - 1.0) and regression of the peripapillary edema with hemorrhages were achieved after the third injection of 1.25 mg bevacizumab. At 6 months, peripapillary scarring was observed in the area involved by the primary lesions., Conclusions: Anti-VEGF therapy is the effective treatment of idiopathic choroidal neovascularization in the described case. The visual acuity improvement and rapid regression of posterior segment lesions after bevacizumab administration were observed.

Unlabelled: The aim of this study was to analyze treatment and outcomes in children with glaucoma secondary to diode laser photocoagulation in retinopathy of prematurity., Methods: The group of 1507 newborns, examined as outpatients between 2008 and 2013, were retrospectively analyzed. Five patients (0.3%) (nine eyes) with glaucoma following laser treatment for retinopathy of prematurity were identified. Demographic and clinical data was obtained from medical records and compared with corresponding results in the group of glaucoma-free children subjected to diode laser photocoagulation for retinopathy of prematurity. The statistical analysis included Shapiro-Wilk test and U-Mann-Whitney test with statistical significance level p < 0.05., Results: The following data was collected - mean post-menstrual age at the moment of photocoagulationwas 42 Hbd (38-42) and it was 49.9 (43-54) weeks at the moment of diagnosis of angle-closure glaucoma. The intraocular pressure was significantly elevated in nine in ten eyes which was confirmed objectively and the mean intraocular pressure was 32.0 mmHg (21.6-42.4). The mean corneal diameter was 11.25 mm (10-13) and it was associated with the decreased corneal thickness in pachymetry (p < 0.05). Six eyes (66.6%) required surgical intervention and intraocular pressure normalization was achieved in all patients. Additionally, the affected eyes tended to be myopic (mean spherical equivalent -1.625 diopter) and have a greater axial length (p < 0.05)., Conclusions: Secondary glaucoma can develop following laser treatment for severe retinopathy of prematurity. Topical treatment and surgical intervention provide effective management.

Purpose: To assess the suitability of galantamine for the symptomatic treatment of post-traumatic oculomotor (III) and trochlear (IV) nerve palsy., Material and Methods: The routine ophthalmic and strabological examination was performed in five patients (4 females and 1 male) at the age of 31 to 57 years (mean 40.7) with the post-traumatic ophthalmic complications. Due to the unilateral oculomotor and trochlear nerve palsy, which had not resolved within 2-6 (mean duration of 4 months) months following traffic accident, galantamine was used. Nivalin and Reminyl were administered in iontophoresis and orally, respectively, for 10-18 months (mean duration of 14 months). The ocular muscle motion exercises and prism correction were also used., Results: The increased range of ocular motion (100%), reducing of the angle of strabismus horizontally (40%) and vertically (60%), statistically significant extension of palpebral fissure (60%), and regression of diplopia (80% total without correction) were observed. The binocular vision after treatment in the free- and instrument-space environment were also improved (100% simultaneous perception, fusion 80%, stereopsis 60%)., Conclusions: The early galantamine administration in patient with n. III and n. IV post-traumatic palsy accelerates the resolution of post-traumatic ophthalmic symptoms. It is an effective treatment which offers the elimination of strabismus, diplopia and ptosis, at the same time improvings ocular movements and binocular vision. galantamine, post-traumatic nerve palsy, oculomotor and trochlear nerves.

The aim is to present a rare case of solitary malformation in the form of a congenital optic disc cyst concomitant with the persistent hyaloid artery. The intrabulbar congenital cyst of the optic disc partially covering the medial part of the disc was found in a 3-month old infant. B-San ultrasound confirmed the presence of the intrabulbar heterogeneous mass (7.0 x 2.5 x 5.4 mm) within the vitreous cavity and the concomitant persistent hyaloid artery was shown in Colour Doppler Imaging. The axial length of the involved eye was shorter than of the healthy one (16.68 mm vs. 18.42 mm). The magnetic resonance imaging of the head and orbits performed in the fast spin echo, spin echo and gradient echo sequences in T1 and T2-weighted scans revealed the intrabulbar cyst (7.0 x 2.5 x 6.4 mm), with sharp margins, whose lower part showed intense contrast enhancement. The pericerebral fluid spaces within the frontal and temporal lobes were dilated. Intrauterine toxoplasmosis, cytomegaly, protozoan and helminth infections as well as metabolic diseases were excluded. Patient leukocyte DNA RB1 gene sequencing and negative results of mutation searching excluded retinoblastoma. In a 2-year follow-up period, regression of the mass with the absence of ophthalmic complications was noted. An important reason for the authors to present the discussed case is possible permanent impairment of visual function in patients with similar presentation of congenital peripapillary lesions. congenital optic disc cyst, developmental anomalies of the optic disc, congenital ocular malformations.

Purpose: The aim of our study was to investigate if ambient lighting at night before the age of 2 years is associated with the occurrence of myopia in a large population of Polish children. To eliminate the influence of genetic factors, only children with a negative family history of myopia were included., Material and Methods: A total of 3905 students, all of whom had a negative family history of myopia were examined (1800 boys and 2105 girls, aged 6-18 years, mean age 12.2, S.D. 3.3 years). The examination included retinoscopy under cycloplegia with 1% tropicamide. Myopia in the subjects was defined as a spherical equivalent of at least -0.50 dioptres. The parents of all students examined completed a questionnaire on the child's family history of myopia as well as the child's exposure to light emitted by incandescent or fluorescent lamps before the age of two years. Data analysis was performed using chi-squared Pearson test; p-values of <0.05 were considered statistically significant., Results: Sleeping until the age of two with a room light is not associated with the presence of myopia during school years (p>0.05). No differences in the use of light emitted by incandescent or fluorescent lamps on the prevalence of myopia was found (p>0.05)., Conclusions: Myopia is not associated with night light use before age of 2 years in a population of Polish children with a negative family history of myopia. Because both, the restricted population and results differ from our previous positive associations, perhaps early light exposure and family history/genetics interact in influcencing the occurance of myopia.

Purpose: Description of a rare case of bilateral fungal endophthalmitis in a patient and the associated diagnostic and therapeutic difficulties., Material and Methods: Patient 28 years old was diagnosed because of bilateral deterioration in endophthalmitis. Therefore, the diagnostic possibilities were run down and material taken from the vitreous chamber were handed to determine the Candida spp. antigen using Elisa test, standardized for serum and cerebrospinal fluid. Combination therapy including drugs and surgery were performed., Results: Ophthalmoscopy OP/OL showed the presence of "clusters of cotton" in vitreous body characteristic for ocular candidosis. Targeted treatment for Candida spp. with voriconazole were based on a very high concentration of mannan antigen in the resulting of the test. The final diagnosis was established after microbiological examination of material taken during vitrectomy., Conclusions: High level of mannan antigen Candida spp 4259.83 in vitreous body may indicate a fungal endophthalmitis. fungal endophthalmitis, ocular candidosis, endogenic infection of the eye.

Purpose: To report a patient with polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy (PCV) with spontaneous regression of subfoveal changes during follow-up., Material and Methods: The seventy six years old men was referred to the treatment of exudative type of age related macular degeneration (AMD) in the RE. The routine ophthalmological examination, the optical coherence tomography (OCT), fluorescein angiography (FA), and indocyanine green angiography (ICGA) were performed., Results: Decreasing of visual acuity of the RE and abnormal result of the Amsler test, hemorrhagic and exudative changes near inferior-temporalis vascular arcade were observed. Intraretinal fluid in the OCT was noted. FA revealed parapapillaris changes suggesting CNV. ICGA showed the presence of branching vascular network extending from choroidal vasculature (BVN) and polypoidal and aneurysmal vascular terminal lesion (PL) localized under retinal pigment epithelium (RPE)., Conclusions: Based on the results PCV was diagnosed and the patient was referred to laserotherapy. Due to the regression of the eye fundus changes during the period of observation, confirmed by control OCT and FA the treatment was not implemented.

Background: The aim of this paper was to analyze the causes of orbital cellulitis in connection with covert dental changes as well as to establish the role of radiological procedures in the final diagnosis and further treatment of such cases., Material/methods: Thirty-two patients, aged 25-56, 22 women and 10 men were diagnosed and treated between January 2007 and April 2011 at the Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin. The patients were examined in the infirmary of the ophthalmological department due to unilateral blepharo-oedema, abrupt pain and vision disturbances; in 5 cases, body temperature increased up to 37.8°C was observed. Next, the patients underwent conventional X-ray examinations of the orbit to exclude any foreign bodies in the eyeball, as well as pantomographies to evaluate the dental status. Visible periapical or periodontal changes in dentition were analyzed with intraoral X-rays with the use of DIGORA System 2.1. Changes found in 3 patients on pantomograms and connected with iatrogenic procedures were further evaluated with CT (64 lines and 128 layers) in frontal, sagittal and axial projections. Orbital disorders were also diagnosed by an ophthalmologist and radiologist with Doppler ultrasound (US) examinations. A linear transducer of 7.5-10 MHz to observe the morphology and vascularity of the eyeball was applied., Results: IATROGENIC TREATMENT WAS THE CAUSE OF SINUSITIS AND CELLULITIS IN THREE CASES: incorrectly implanted dental implant in one case, root of the 3(rd) molar pushed into the sinus in the second case, and communication between the maxillary alveolar process and the sinus after extraction in case of the third patient. Asymptomatic periapical osteolysis, periodontal disease or dead teeth were found in all cases. Diagnosis of orbital cellulitis of dental origin was determined on the basis of clinical, radiographic and ultrasound findings. Ophthalmologic and dental treatment was applied simultaneously., Conclusions: Co-operation between ophthalmologists, radiologists and dentists is necessary during the treatment of such orbital diseases.

Unlabelled: The aim of the study was to evaluate clinical and laboratory findings and predisposing factors for Listeria monocytogenes (Lm) meningitis., Methods: 17 intensive care unit patients (12 M, 5 F), aged 54.4 +/- 15.3 yrs, were studied. CNS listeriosis was confirmed by culture of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) or CSF pleocytosis coupled with Lm bacteriemia., Results: The frequency of central nervous system (CNS) listeriosis among patients with bacterial meningitis was 5.5%. Meningeal signs were present in all patients. 15 patients had impaired level of consciousness. Possible predisposing factors occurred in 15 patients. The average CSF white blood cell count was 1034 +/- 1064 cells/microl., Conclusion: Symptoms and signs of patients with CNS listeriosis were not different from those usually found in other bacterial meningitis. A trend toward fewer WBC in CSF was revealed. Most patients with Lm meningitis were immunocompromised.

Purpose: The aim of this review is to present cases of clinically differentiated picture of persistent fetal vasculature syndrome--PFVS (also called persistent hyperplastic primary vitreous body--PHPVB) observed in group of infants and children., Material and Methods: Case records of four children with characteristic changes of posterior form of persistent fetal vasculature syndrome, which were observed on fundus of the eyes, were analyzed retrospectively. Routine ophthalmological examination, genetic, cytogenetic and laboratory tests towards coexisting bacterial, viral and parasitic diseases and congenital anomaly of the eye or chorioretinal neoplastic changes of neonatal period were performed. Ophthalmological changes were archived using Ret-Cam II apparatus (Clarity Medical Systems). Measurement of the axial diameter of the eyes and exclusion coexisting ocular disease by ultrasonography (A-scan US i B-scan US and color Doppler ultrasonography--CDU), were performed., Results: Different clinical image of posterior form of persistent hyperplastic primary vitreous body was observe in ophthalmological examination. Changes such as fibrovascular tissue connecting optic disc (n. II) with ora serrata of the retina coexisting with retinoschisis, retrolental mass or persistent hyaloid artery were observed. Additionally concomitant features in pathological eyes were: iris hypoplasia, corectopia, microphthalmia, congenital cataract, secondary glaucoma, degeneration or retinoschisis and intrvitreous haemorrhage. Strabismus, nystagmus and heart disease in the form of persistent fetal circulation were associated with ophthalmological changes. Inflammatory and genetically determined diseases were excluded in differential diagnosis., Conclusions: The diagnosis of persistent hyperplastic primary vitreous body (PHPVB) was confirmed by characteristic clinical symptoms and results of the additional research. Suggestion of recognition of this syndrome (PHPVB) as well as persistent fetal vasculature syndrome (PFVS) should be implemented diagnostics towards other optic and systemic development defects.

Purpose: The aim of this review is to present cases of chorioretinitis in infants caused by viral and parasitic infections., Material and Methods: Four infants with viral chorioretinitis were identified in a routine ophthalmological examination. Laboratory tests towards bacterial, viral and parasitic diseases were performed., Results: Toxoplasmosis, rubella, and CMV infections were diagnosed in clinical and laboratory tests. After a wide spectrum of therapy a total remission of inflammatory process in all the discussed children was observed., Conclusions: Posterior uveitis is an ocular complication which can be connected with viral or parasitic infections in postnatal period. Prematurity, normal delivery, intrauterine transmission, breast feeding, comorbid diseases might be associated with chorioretinitis in infants.

Purpose: The aim of this work was to present a clinical picture of congenital defects in the anterior and posterior segment of the eye and coexisting systemic developmental anomalies in a group of children during the infantile period., Material and Methods: We performed a retrospective analysis in a group of 1507 infants seen at our outpatient ophthalmology clinic in 2006-2010. Attention was focused on case histories of nine children (0.6%) with congenital defects of the eye. A routine ophthalmologic examination was done and photographs of the anterior and posterior segment of the eye were archived with the Ret - Cam II apparatus. Maternal risk factors during pregnancy and the perinatal period were analyzed, as well as genetic, familial, infectious, traumatic, metabolic, and toxic factors, and drugs which could have contributed to the pathology of the organ of vision. Additionally, congenital polydysplasia was confirmed using ultrasonography, radiography, and imaging techniques (USG, X-ray, MRI)., Results: Congenital anomalies of the anterior and posterior segment of the eye were identified in the study group. Abnomalities of the anterior segment of the eye in four infants were in the form of congenital corneal anomalies (keratopathy, microcornea, sclerocornea, congenital mesenchymal dysgenesis), coloboma of the iris, and aniridia. Additionally, ectopic pupil, congenital cataract, aplasia of the lacrimal point, and palpebral coloboma were observed. Developmental anomalies of the posterior segment of the eye in the form of persistent hyperplastic primary vitreous body or primary fetal vasculature syndrome (PHVB or PFVS), choroid coloboma, coloboma of the optic nerve, and optic disc fovea were recognized in eight children. Anomalies of the anterior and posterior segment of the eye were observed in three children and were associated with microphthalmia, nystagmus, and strabismus. Moreover, systemic anomalies coexisting with ophthalmologic defects were confirmed in 6 children. They were seen in the heart (patent ductus arteriosus (PDA), patent foramen ovale (Pfo), atrial septal defect (ASD), nervous system (aplasia of the corpus callosum, hydrocephalus), osteoarticular system (talipes equinovarus, bifurcate rib, butterfly vertebra, dysmorphic splanchnocranium, contracture of the fingers), genitourinary system (cryptorchism, Wilms' tumor, vesicoureteral reflux grade IV), auditory organ (microtia, aplasia of the external auditory meatus, tympanic cavity, and internal ear), and skin (telangiectasia, syndactyly, appendages, and vegetations). Genetic tests revealed one case of an abnormal karyotype (49, XXXXX). Infections, metabolic disorders, and intoxications were excluded as the background for the anomalies., Conclusions: The finding of a congenital eye anomaly should be followed by a search for other systemic anomalies. Developmental anomalies of the eye and other organs will require a multidisciplinary approach to treatment and care.

Purpose: The aim of this study was to investigate on a large population if and how genetic factors have an influence on the occurrence of myopia., Material and Methods: A total of 5533 students were examined (2659 boys and 2874 girls, in age 6 18 years, mean age 11.9, S.D. 3.2). The examination included retinoscopy under cycloplegia induced with 1% tropicamide. Myopia was defined as a spherical equivalent of at least -0.5 dioptres. The students and their parents completed a questionnaire on the child's family history of myopia. Data analysis was performed using chi-squared test; p-values of < 0.05 were considered statistically significant., Results: It was found that myopia occurs more often in students whose father (p < 0.001), mother (p < 0.001) or siblings (p < 0.0001) have myopia. A relation between the occurrence of myopia in grandparents and grandchildren was not observed (p > 0.05)., Conclusions: The obtained results indicate that genetic factors have a significant effect on the occurrence of myopia.

Purpose: The aim of our study was to investigate on a large population if reading, writing, working on a computer or watching television might be associated with the occurrence of myopia., Material and Methods: A total of 5865 schoolchildren were examined (2792 boys and 3073 girls, at the age 6-18 years, mean age 11.9, S.D. 3.3). The examination included retinoscopy under cycloplegia induced with 1% tropicamide. Myopia was defined as a spherical equivalent of at least -0.50 dioptres. Mean refractive error was -1.2, SD 1.3. (The students and their parents completed a questionnaire on the child's visual work. Data analysis was performed using independence chi-squared Pearson test; p-values of <0.05 were considered statistically significant., Results: It was observed that myopia occurs more often in students who read and write >2 hours/day (p<0.001), and also work >0.8 hours/day on a computer (p<0.01). Furthermore, no increase in the prevalence of myopia in subjects who spend >2 hours/day watching television was found (p>0.05)., Conclusions: The obtained results indicate that reading, writing, working on a computer might be associated with the occurrence of myopia among schoolchildren. Watching television is not related to the occurrence of myopia.

Purpose: The aim of this article is to introduce and elaborate on changes of eye refraction during growth of the eyeball based on available literature., Material and Methods: All the data in the article comes from studies performed on children from different age groups. In some studies children were divided to different gender groups with some parameters being analyzed separately. Total refraction, corneal and lens power was defined. The theory concerning process to reach emmetropia was presented., Results: The eyeball dimensions undergo intensive change with age. During this time a period of fast and slow growth of the eye can be observed. Axial length of the eye, corneal curvature, depth of anterior chamber, lens's structure and curvature are developed. Due to the dynamic growth of the eyeball, changes in eye refraction also occur. A correct anatomically and functioning eye is called emmetropic. Changes of eye refraction mostly occur during the early years of life and afterward stabilize. Refraction depends on the increase of axial length and changes in corneal and lens power. The process to reach emmetropia in the eye is based on local feedback mechanism. Emmetropia is the result of both passive and active processes during the period of growth. Total refracting power is reduced after birth to maintain an emmetropic state in adults. Mean corneal and lens power. decreased with age. Girls tend to have steeper corneas, stronger crystalline lenses and shorter eyeballs compared with boys. Refraction of small eyeballs in children is more powerful than in adults., Conclusions: Based on available literature it is difficult to conclusively indicate the standards of refraction during growth in children and teenagers. In order to establish these parameters, further examinations on a representative group of children and teenagers is necessary.

Purpose: The aim of an article is to introduce and elaborate on the available literature concerning eyeball development., Material and Methods: The information content in the article comes from studies performed on groups of children of different ages. In some analysis study groups were chosen depending on sex. Axial length of the eye, depth of anterior chamber, lens's thickness and vitreous's dimension was defined., Results: Intensive changes of eyeball dimensions progress with age. A period of fast and slow growth of the eye can be discerned. Axial length of the eye, depth of anterior chamber, lens's thickness and vitreous's dimension increase over time. Growth of the axial length is mainly caused by increasing axial length of vitreous cavity. The increase in depth of the anterior chamber plays a lesser role. Girls tend to have shorter eyes compared with boys. Both age and male gender are associated with deeper anterior chambers and larger vitreous cavity. Lens thickness decreases with the growth of the eyeball. However gender does not play a role., Conclusions: Based on current literature, it is difficult exactly indicate what are the standards of eyeball growth in children and youths. To establish these parameters, further studies on the another examination in representative group of children and teenagers are necessary.

Unlabelled: Burkholderia cepacia is an opportunistic gram-negative, inherently resistant to multiple antibiotics and highly transmissible bacteria found in the soil and moist environments. The bacteria is known as a cause of severe lung infections in cystic fibrosis and immunocompromised patients. The authors observed a nosocomial outbreak of B. cepacia, the strains were isolated from five patients. In one case occurred colonization of the decubitus and in the other four severe pneumonia or sepsis. Four patients developed respiratory failure and septic shock and were admitted to intensive care unit. The infections led to death of two patients. The aim of the study was to evaluate the possibility that the hospital environment or cross-infection were the source of pathogen. The authors discussed the influence of previously used antibiotics on B. cepacia selection and drug susceptibility data as well, as the influence of obtained microbiological data on therapeutic decision making process. We were not able to confirm origin of B. cepacia strains, but in our opinion the hospital environment was the most probable source of pathogen. Increasing multidrug resistance were observed during the time of outbreak. In a case of the last patient we observed only weak susceptibility to imipenem., Conclusions: B. cepacia may be an etiologic agent of severe hospital acquired pneumonia and sepsis among immunocompromised patients. Clinically infection develops picture of superinfection and usually is life-threatening condition.

Purpose: The aim of the paper was to study the prevalence of myopia, hyperopia and astigmatism in schoolchildren ranging from 6-18 years of age., Material and Methods: 5724 children from elementary schools, junior high schools and high schools were examined (2765 boys and 2959 girls, aged 6-18 years, mean age 11.7, SD = 3.2). The examined students were Caucasian and resided in and around Szczecin, Poland. The examination included retinoscopy under cycloplegia. The refractive error readings were expressed as the spherical equivalent (SE). Myopia was defined as SE of at least -0.5 D, hyperopia as SE of at least +1.0 D. Astigmatism was diagnosed when the difference in the refraction of axes in one eye was greater than 0.5 DC. The statistical analysis of data was performed by calculating the linear correlation coefficients and the coefficients for the regression equation. Additionally, Spearman's rank correlation coefficient was calculated. P values of less than 0.05 were considered statistically significant., Results: It was observed that 13% of Polish students in the age group from 6 to 18 were myopic, 38% of students were hyperopic and 4% were astigmatic. Besides, a positive correlation was found between the prevalence of myopia and age (p <0.001) as well as a negative correlation between prevalence of hyperopia and age (p < 0.001). An association between the prevalence of astigmatism and age was not observed.

Purpose: The aim of the paper was to study the role of gender in the occurrence of refractive errors in schoolchildren ranging from 6-18 years of age., Material and Methods: 5865 children from elementary schools, junior high schools and high schools were examined (2845 boys, aged 6-18 years, mean age 11.4, SD = 3.0 and 3020 girls, aged 6-18 years, mean age 11.9, SD = 3.3). The examined students were Caucasian and resided in and around Szczecin, Poland. The examination included retinoscopy under cycloplegia. The refractive error readings were reported as spherical equivalent (SE). Myopia was defined as SE of at least -0.5 D, hyperopia as SE of at least +1.0 D. Astigmatism was diagnosed when the difference in the refraction of axes in one eye was > 0.5 DC. Data analysis was performed using chi2 test. P values of less than 0.05 were considered statistically significant., Results: It was found that myopia occurs more frequently in girls (7.4%) than in boys (5.1%) - p < 0.001. Hyperopia occurs more frequently in boys (19.6%) than in girls (18.2%) - p < 0.001. A slightly higher prevalence of astigmatism in girls (1.9%) than in boys (1.5%) was also observed (p > 0.05)., Conclusions: Gender influences the occurrence of myopia and hyperopia in schoolchildren ranging from 6-18 years of age.

An extraction-AAS method of determination of Co, Ni, and Mn in metallurgical copper materials containing considerable amounts ofCu, Fe, Pb, Zn, and Al has been developed. Good selectivity of group separation of Co, Ni, and Mn has been achieved by (a) the use of tetrabutylammonium bromide to improve extractability of HTTA complexes by ion-pair formation, and (b) the masking of major elements with sodium thiosulphate and sulphosalicylic acid. The extracts are stable for at least 3 weeks.