Os Intermetatarseum: A Rare Variation of Great Relevance / Os Intermetatarseum: Una Rara Variación de Gran Relevancia

SUMMARY: The os intermetatarseum is an accessory bone located in the foot, usually between the first 2 metatarsals and the cuneiform bone. It can be presented as free, articulated or in a fused fashion. It is a very unusual variation found in less than 13 % of the population. A 27-year-old patient presented to the emergency service due to an ankle lesion. Physical exam showed pain and limited range of motion while supporting partial load. Radiographic imaging showed a bony trace near the base of the first and second metatarsals, diagnosed as the os intermetatarseum. Formation of this supernumerary bone begins as a separate ossification center. Most cases are asymptomatic; however, compression of the deep peroneal nerve branches by the os intermetatarseum can lead to pain. Some authors suggest that the presence of this bone may cause hallux valgus. The intermetatarseum can lead to diagnostic confusion, mainly related to Lisfranc fracture. Its origin is still little understood.

El os intermetatarseum es un hueso accesorio ubicado en el pie, generalmente entre los 2 primeros metatarsianos y el hueso cuneiforme. Puede presentarse de forma libre, articulada o fusionada. Es una variación muy inusual que se encuentra en menos del 13 % de la población. Paciente de 27 años que acude a urgencias por lesión en tobillo. El examen físico mostró dolor y rango de movimiento limitado mientras soportaba una carga parcial. Las imágenes radiológicas mostraron un rastro óseo cerca de la base del primer y segundo metatarsianos, diagnosticado como os intermetatarseum. La formación de este hueso supernumerario comienza como un centro de osificación separado. La mayoría de los casos son asintomáticos; sin embargo, la compresión de las ramas profundas del nervio fibular en el espacio intermetatarsiano puede provocar dolor. Algunos autores sugieren que la presencia de este hueso puede provocar hallux valgus. El hueso intermetatarsiano puede llevar a confusión diagnóstica, principalmente relacionada con la fractura de Lisfranc. Su origen aún es poco comprendido.

Characterization of meibomian gland dysfunction in patients with rosacea / Caracterização da disfunção das glândulas de Meibomio em pacientes com rosácea

ABSTRACT Purpose: To compare ocular surface parameters in rosacea patients with those of controls. Methods: Ninety-three participants took part in this cross-sectional, observational, non-interventional study. These consisted of a rosacea group (n=40) and a control group (n=53). We compared objective parameters of the ocular surface, including conjunctival hyperemia, tear film stability and volume, meibomian gland dysfunction, dry eye disease, and ocular surface staining, between the two groups. Results: In the rosacea group, 69.23% were female. The mean age was 47.34 ± 12.62 years old. No statistically significant differences between groups were found in visual acuity (p=0.987), tear film parameters (tear meniscus height (p=0.338), noninvasive tear film rupture time (p=0.228), invasive rupture time (p=0.471), Schirmer's test scores (p=0.244), conjunctival hyperemia (p=0.106), and fluorescein staining (p=0.489). Significant differences were found in meibography evaluations (p=0.026), mucous layer integrity (p=0.015), and ocular surface symptoms (p<0.0001). Rosacea patients also showed important eyelid differences in glandular expressibility (p<0.001), glandular secretion pattern (p<0.001), and telangiectasia (p<0.001) compared to controls. Conclusion: Meibomian gland dysfunction is frequently associated with dermatological conditions. It can be observed in morphological findings from meibography as well as lipid secretion impairment, leading to evaporative dry eye, ocular surface dysfunction, and inflammation.

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar as alterações da superfície ocular em pacientes com Rosácea, e comparar com grupo controle. Métodos: Noventa e três indivíduos foram selecionados para este estudo transversal, observacional e não intervencionista, dividido em dois grupos: rosácea (n=40) e controles (n=53). Foram avaliados parâmetros objetivos da superfície ocular (hiperemia conjuntival, estabilidade e volume do filme lacrimal, disfunção da glândula meibomiana, doença do olho seco, coloração da superfície ocular) e comparado indivíduos saudáveis com pacientes com rosácea. Resultados: 69,23% dos indivíduos com rosácea eram mulheres, com média de idade de 47,34 ± 12,62 anos. Em comparação com controles pareados, não foram evidenciadas diferenças estatisticamente significativas em relação à acuidade visual (p=0,987) e parâmetros do filme lacrimal (altura do menisco lacrimal (p=0,338), tempo de ruptura do filme lacrimal não invasivo (p=0,228), tempo invasivo de ruptura (p=0,471) e teste de Schirmer (p=0,244), bem como hiperemia conjuntival (p=0,106) e coloração com fluoresceína (p=0,489). Associação significativa foi encontrada na avaliação da meibografia (p=0,026), integridade da camada mucosa (p=0,015) e sintomas de superfície ocular (p<0,0001). Pacientes com rosácea também apresentaram alterações importantes na borda palpebral: expressibilidade glandular (p<0,001), padrão de secreção glandular (p<0,001) e telangiectasia (p<0,001). Conclusão: A disfunção da glândula de Meibômio está frequentemente associada a condições dermatológicas e é caracterizada por achados morfológicos na meibografia, bem como comprometimento da secreção lipídica que leva ao olho seco evaporativo e alterações da superfície ocular e inflamação.

Assessments of the ocular surface and meibomian gland morphology in patients with treatment-naive acne vulgaris / Avaliação da superfície ocular e da morfologia das glândulas meibomianas em pacientes com acne vulgar virgens de tratamento

ABSTRACT Purpose: To investigate ocular surface and meibomian glands in patients with treatment-naive acne vulgaris. Methods: The Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) questionnaire, invasive tear film breakup time, fluorescein staining of the ocular surface, and Schirmer II test were performed for all subjects. Total eyelid and meibomian gland secretion scores were assessed. Non-contact meibography was performed with the Sirius corneal topographic device. Results: The right eyes of 35 patients with acne vulgaris and 35 healthy volunteers were included the study. While the OSDI and staining scores were significantly higher in the acne group than in the control group (p=0.01 and p=0.003, respectively), the invasive tear film breakup time and Schirmer measurements were significantly lower in the acne group (p=0.000 and p=0.003, respectively). The total eyelid and meibomian gland secretion scores were also higher in the acne group than in the control group (p=0.003 and p=0.000, respectively). On the morphological evaluation of the meibomian glands, the thickening, thinning, tortuosity, and presence of ghost areas were statistically significantly more common in the acne vulgaris group than in the control group (p=0.000, p=0.001, p=0.05, and p=0.006, respectively). The percentage of the meibomian gland loss area was significantly high in the acne vulgaris group on both upper and lower meibography. The meibomian gland loss area positively correlated with total eyelid and meibomian gland secretion scores. Conclusion: Acne vulgaris may have a predisposition to meibomian gland dysfunction and ocular surface damage. Early recognition of meibomian gland and ocular surface alterations seems important, especially in acne vulgaris cases for which oral isotretinoin treatment is planned.

RESUMO Objetivo: Todos os indivíduos responderam ao questionário Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) e tiveram avaliados o tempo de ruptura do filme lacrimal pelo método invasivo, a coloração da superfície ocular com fluoresceína e o teste de Schirmer II. Foram ainda avaliados o escore palpebral total e o de secreção das glândulas meibomianas. Foi realizada meibografia sem contato com um dispositivo topográfico corneano Sirius. Métodos: Todos os indivíduos responderam ao questionário Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) e tiveram avaliados o tempo de ruptura do filme lacrimal pelo método invasivo, a coloração da superfície ocular com fluoresceína e o teste de Schirmer II. Foram ainda avaliados o escore palpebral total e o de secreção das glândulas meibomianas. Foi realizada meibografia sem contato com um dispositivo topográfico corneano Sirius. Resultados: Foram incluídos no estudo os olhos direitos de 35 voluntários com acne vulgar e 35 saudáveis. Os escores do Ocular Surface Disease Index e da coloração foram significativamente maiores no grupo com acne em comparação com o grupo controle (p=0,01 e p=0,003, respectivamente), mas o tempo de ruptura do filme lacrimal pelo método invasivo e as medidas do teste de Schirmer II foram significativamente menores (p=0,000 e p=0,003, respectivamente). O escore palpebral total e o escore de secreção das glândulas meibomianas também foram maiores no grupo com acne que no grupo controle (p=0,003 e p=0,000). Na avaliação morfológica das glândulas meibomianas, o espessamento, o afinamento, a tortuosidade e a presença de áreas fantasmas nas glândulas foram mais comuns no grupo acne vulgar que no grupo controle, com significância estatística (p=0,000, p=0,001, p=0,05 e p=0,006 respectivamente). A porcentagem da área de perdas das glândulas meibomianas foi significativamente mais alta no grupo com acne vulgar, tanto na meibografia superior quanto na inferior. A área de perda das glândulas meibomianas demonstrou uma correlação positiva com o escore palpebral total e com o escore de secreção das glândulas meibomianas. Conclusão: A acne vulgar pode levar a uma predisposição para a disfunção das glândulas meibomianas e para danos na superfície ocular. Parece ser importante reconhecer precocemente as alterações das glândulas meibomianas e da superfície ocular, especialmente nos casos de acne vulgar para os quais se planeja o tratamento oral com isotretinoína.

Ocular surface assessment and morphological alterations in meibomian glands with non-contact meibography in electronic cigarette smokers / Avaliação da superfície ocular e das alterações morfológicas nas glândulas meibomianas através de meibografia sem contato em usuários de cigarros eletrônicos

ABSTRACT Purpose: The study aimed to evaluate the ocular surface and meibomian gland morphology in electronic cigarette (e-cigarette) smokers. Methods: The upper and lower eyelids of 25 male e-cigarette smokers and 25 healthy male non-smoker patients were evaluated using Sirius meibography. Meibomian glands loss was automatically calculated using Phoenix meibography imaging software module, with the result obtained as percentage loss. Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) questionnaire, tear breakup time test, and Schirmer II test were administered and performed in all cases. Results: The mean e-cigarette smoking duration was 4.9 ± 0.9 (range, 3.4-7) years. While the mean Schirmer II test value was 9.16 ± 2.09 mm in e-cigarette group, it was 11.20 ± 2.14 mm in control group (p=0.003). Mean tear breakup time was 6.96 ± 2.31 seconds in e-cigarette group and 9.84 ± 2.13 seconds in control group (p=0.002). The mean OSDI value was 28.60 ± 6.54 and 15.16 ± 7.23 in e-cigarette and control groups, respectively (p<0.001). In Sirius meibography, the average loss for the upper eyelid was 23.08% ± 6.55% in e-cigarette group and 17.60% ± 4.94% in control group (p=0.002), and the average loss for the lower eyelid was 27.84% ± 5.98% and 18.44% ± 5.91%, respectively (p<0.001). Additionally, a significant positive correlation was identified between the loss rates for both upper and lower eyelid meibography with e-cigarette smoking duration (r=0.348, p<0.013 and r=0.550, p<0.001, respectively). Conclusion: Long-term e-cigarette smoking causes damage to the meibomian glands; therefore, meibomian gland damage should be considered in ocular surface disorders due to e-ci­garette smoking.

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar a superfície ocular e a morfologia da glândula meibomiana em usuários de cigarros eletrônicos. Métodos: Foram avaliadas através de meibografia Sirius as pálpebras superiores e inferiores de 25 usuários de cigarros eletrônicos do sexo masculino e 25 pacientes não usuários saudáveis, também do sexo masculino. A perda nas glândulas meibomianas foi calculada automaticamente com o módulo de software de imagem de meibografia Phoenix. O resultado foi obtido como perda percentual. O questionário Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI), o teste do tempo de ruptura lacrimal e o teste de Schirmer II foram administrados em todos os casos. Resultados: A duração média do uso de cigarros eletrônicos foi de 4,9 ± 0,9 anos (intervalo de 3,4-7 anos). O valor médio do teste de Schirmer II foi de 9,16 ± 2,09 mm no grupo de usuários de cigarros eletrônicos e de 11,20 ± 2,14 mm no grupo controle (p=0,003). O valor médio do teste do tempo de ruptura lacrimal foi de 6,96 ± 2,31 segundos no grupo de usuários de cigarros eletrônicos e 9,84 ± 2,13 segundos no grupo controle (p=0,002). O valor médio do Ocular Surface Disease Index foi de 28,60 ± 6,54 e 15,16 ± 7,23 para os grupos de usuários de cigarros eletrônicos e controle, respectivamente (p<0,001). Na meibografia de Sirius, a perda média para a pálpebra superior foi de 23,08 ± 6,55% para o grupo de usuários de cigarros eletrônicos e 17,60 ± 4,94% para o grupo controle (p=0,002), e a perda média para a pálpebra inferior foi de 27,84 ± 5,98% e 18,44 ± 5,91%, respectivamente (p<0,001). Além disso, foi observada uma correlação positiva significativa entre a taxa de perda na meibografia palpebral superior e inferior com a duração do tabagismo eletrônico, respectivamente de (r=0,348, p<0,013) e (r=0,550, p<0,001). Conclusão: O uso prolongado de cigarros eletrônicos causa danos às glândulas meibomianas. Portanto, esses danos devem ser considerados em distúrbios da superfície ocular devidos ao uso desses dispositivos.

Modified mubarak technique for flexible flatfoot correction in children and adolescents / Técnica de mubarak modificado para correção do pé plano flexível de crianças e adolescentes

ABSTRACT Objective: To describe the technique, analyze possible radiographic correction and evaluate the clinical result of medial and plantar calcaneal displacement osteotomy associated with opening wedge cuboid osteotomy for flexible flatfoot correction. Methods: 23 patients (30 feet) diagnosed with flexible flat foot treated with plantar and medial calcaneal displacement osteotomy associated with opening wedge cuboid osteotomy were evaluated retrospectively. In the lateral radiographs calcaneal pitch and Meary's angle were the radiographic parameters evaluated; while the talonavicular coverage angle was evaluated in the anteroposterior radiographs. To assess the clinical outcome of the surgical procedure, the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society Score (AOFAS) for the ankle and hindfoot was adopted. Results: The mean values of the evaluated angles and AOFAS score for ankle and hindfoot significantly improved when comparing pre- and postoperative values. Conclusion: Plantar and medial calcaneal displacement osteotomy associated with an opening wedge cuboid osteotomy is able to improve radiological and clinical parameters of child patients with flexible flatfoot. Level of Evidence III, Retrospective Comparative Study.

RESUMO Objetivo: Descrever a técnica, analisar possíveis correções radiográficas e avaliar o resultado clínico da osteotomia de deslocamento medial e plantar do calcâneo associada à osteotomia em cunha de adição do cuboide para correção do pé plano flexível de crianças. Métodos: Foram avaliados retrospectivamente 23 pacientes (30 pés) com diagnóstico de pé plano flexível tratadas com osteotomia de deslocamento plantar e medial do calcâneo associada à osteotomia em cunha de adição do cuboide. Os parâmetros radiográficos avaliados nas imagens em perfil foram o pitch do calcâneo e o ângulo de Meary, enquanto nas radiografias anteroposteriores o ângulo de cobertura do tálus. Para avaliar o resultado clínico do procedimento cirúrgico, foi adotado o escore da American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) para tornozelo e retropé. Resultados: Os valores médios dos ângulos avaliados e do escore AOFAS para tornozelo e retropé melhoraram significativamente na comparação dos resultados pré e pós-operatórios. Conclusão: A osteotomia de deslocamento plantar e medial do calcâneo associada à osteotomia em cunha de adição do cuboide é capaz de melhorar os parâmetros radiológicos e clínicos de crianças com pé plano flexível. Nível de Evidência III, Estudo Comparativo Restrospectivo.

Study on the correlation between meibomian gland dysfunction and sleep quality / 国际眼科杂志(Guoji Yanke Zazhi)

AIM: To study the correlation between meibomian gland dysfunction(MGD)patients and their sleep quality.METHODS: Retrospective case-control study. A total of 150 MGD patients treated in our hospital from January 2021 to October 2022 were selected and divided into sleep disorder group(75 cases, PSQI&#x003E;10 points)and control group(75 cases, PSQI≤10 points)according to the Pittsburgh sleep quality index(PSQI). Both groups were scored using the ocular surface disease index(OSDI), underwent meibomian gland-related examinations(eyelid margin morphology, meibomian gland secretion ability, meibomian gland secretion quality score), corneal fluorescein staining(FL)score, Schirmer Ⅰ test(SⅠt), tear film break-up time(BUT)was measured, and sleep indicators(sleep quality, sleep latency, subjective sleep quality, sleep time)were evaluated.RESULTS: There were significant differences in OSDI score, FL score, SⅠt, BUT, eyelid margin morphology score, meibomian gland secretion ability score, and meibomian gland secretion quality score between the two groups(P&#x003C;0.05). In the sleep disorder group, PSQI score, sleep latency score, subjective sleep quality score, and sleep time score were significantly positively correlated with OSDI score, FL score, meibomian gland secretion ability score, and meibomian gland secretion quality score(P&#x003C;0.05); PSQI score, subjective sleep quality score, and sleep time score were significantly positively correlated with eyelid margin morphology score(P&#x003C;0.05); PSQI score, sleep latency score, and subjective sleep quality score were significantly negatively correlated with BUT and SⅠt(P&#x003C;0.05); sleep time score was significantly negatively correlated with BUT(P&#x003C;0.05); sleep latency score was not significantly correlated with eyelid margin morphology score(P&#x003E;0.05); sleep time score was not significantly correlated with SⅠt(P&#x003E;0.05).CONCLUSION:The ocular surface condition of MGD patients is correlated with multiple sleep quality indicators, and a decline in sleep quality may increase the risk of MGD.

Minimally invasive fixation with a locking plate for Sanders Ⅱ and Ⅲ calcaneal fractures via the tarsal sinus approach / 中华创伤骨科杂志

Objective:To evaluate the minimally invasive fixation with a locking plate via the tarsal sinus approach in the surgical treatment of Sanders Ⅱ and Ⅲ calcaneal fractures.Methods:A retrospective study was conducted to analyze the 65 patients who had been surgically treated for Sanders Ⅱ and Ⅲ calcaneal fractures at Department of Foot and Ankle Surgery, Binzhou Medical College Hospital from April, 2019 to September, 2020. There are 44 males and 21 females with an age of (42.5±10.4) years, and 46 Sanders type Ⅱ fractures and 19 Sanders type Ⅲ ones. The patients were divided into group L and group S according to surgical methods. Group S of 35 cases was fixated with a minimally invasive locking plate through the tarsal sinus incision while group L of 30 cases fixated with a locking plate through the L-shaped incision. The 2 groups were compared in terms of waiting time before surgery, surgical time, hospital stay, intraoperative bleeding, visual analogue scale (VAS) at 3 days after surgery, American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) ankle-hindfoot score at 1 year after surgery, excellent and good rate by the Maryland foot function score, B?hler angle, Gissane angle, varus angle, and complications.Results:There was no significant difference in the general data before surgery between the 2 groups, showing comparability ( P>0.05). All patients were followed up for (13.3±1.6) months after surgery. The waiting time before surgery [(2.8±1.8) d], surgical time [(80.7±9.9) min], hospital stay [(6.7±1.9) d], intraoperative bleeding [(54.3±14.2) mL], and VAS at 3 days after surgery [6 (5, 7) points] in group S were all significantly less or lower than those in group L [(8.2±2.8) d, (105.0±15.7) min, (14.6±3.4) d, (74.3±12.8) mL, and 7 (6, 8) points] (all P<0.05). At one year after surgery, the AOFAS ankle-hindfoot score [(90.1±3.5) points] in group S was significantly higher than that in group L [(83.5±6.7) points] ( P<0.05), but there was no statistically significant difference in the excellent and good rate by the Maryland foot function score between the 2 groups [91.4% (32/35) versus 86.7% (26/30)] ( P=0.695). The B?hler angle, Gissane angle, and varus angle were significantly improved in all patients one year after surgery compared with the values before surgery ( P<0.05), but there were no statistically significant differences within either group or between the 2 groups at 3 days or 1 year after surgery ( P>0.05). Peroneal muscle pain was reported in 1 case in group S; there were 2 cases of skin necrosis, 1 case of incision hematoma and 1 case of sural nerve injury in group L. Conclusion:The minimally invasive fixation with a locking plate via the tarsal sinus approach is an effective treatment for Sanders Ⅱ and Ⅲ calcaneal fractures.

Comparison of efficacy of staged versus elective operation for treating acute closed fracture-dislocation of tarsometatarsal joint complex / 中华创伤杂志

Objective:To compare the efficacy of staged versus elective operation for treating acute closed fracture-dislocation of tarsometatarsal joint complex.Methods:A retrospective cohort study was used to analyze the clinical data of 26 patients with acute closed fracture-dislocation of tarsometatarsal joint complex admitted to Tongji Hospital of Tongji University from January 2017 to January 2021, of whom 18 were males and 8 were females, aged 32-52 years [(44.3±5.2)years]. According to the time from injury to admission, 14 patients admitted within 8 hours after injury underwent staged surgical treatment (staged group), and 12 patients admitted more than 8 hours after injury underwent elective surgery (elective group). In the staged group, emergency reduction and temporary internal fixation with K-wire were done under the supervision of a C-arm X-ray machine in the first stage, while after the swelling subsided, open reduction and internal fixation were done for tarsometatarsal joint fracture-dislocation in the second stage. In the elective group, open reduction and internal fixation were performed for tarsometatarsal joint fracture-dislocation on a scheduled basis after the swelling subsided. The operation time, hospitalization time and fracture healing time were recorded. The visual analogue score (VAS) and American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) midfoot score were evaluated before operation, at 1, 6, 12 months after operation and at the final follow-up. The rate of complications was observed after operation.Results:All patients were followed up for 12-24 months [(18.5±3.8)months]. The operation time, hospitalization time and fracture healing time in the staged group were (77.3±5.6)minutes, (14.3±2.2)days and (12.3±1.2)weeks, respectively, significantly shorter than those in the elective group [(101.5±7.5)minutes, (20.3±5.2)days and (14.3±2.2)weeks] (all P<0.01). VAS significantly decreased and AOFAS midfoot score significantly increased in both groups as postoperative time increased (all P<0.05). There were no significant differences in VAS between the two groups before operation, at 12 months after operation or at the final follow-up (all P>0.05). The VAS at 1, 6 months after operation was (4.4±0.8)points and (2.1±0.4)points in the staged group, significantly lower than those in the elective group [(6.0±1.0)points and (3.5±0.6)points] (all P<0.01). There was no significant difference in preoperative AOFAS midfoot score between the two groups ( P>0.05). The AOFAS midfoot score at 1, 6, 12 months after operation and at the final follow-up was (67.6±4.5)points, (75.7±5.2)points, (83.6±2.2)points and (85.9±4.3)points in the staged group, significantly higher than those in the elective group [(60.2±3.9)points, (70.2±3.4)points, (75.4±3.3)points and (78.7±4.4)points] (all P<0.01). The rate of complications was 14.3% (2/14) in the staged group, significantly lower than that in the elective group [33.3% (4/12)] ( P<0.05). Conclusion:Compared to traditional elective surgery, staged surgery for acute closed fracture-dislocation of tarsometatarsal joint complex has the advantages of shortened operation time, hospitalization time and fracture healing time, eary pain relief, improved functional recovery of the foot and reduced postoperative complications.

Fracturas de la base del quinto metatarsiano: ¿es útil mi tornillo de esponjosa con rosca parcial? Experiencia de 10 años / Fractures of the base of the fifth metatarsal bone: is my partially-threaded cancellous screw useful? 10-year experience

OBJETIVO Evaluar el resultado quirúrgico de fracturas de las zonas 2 y 3 de la base del quinto metatarsiano usando tornillos de esponjosa de diámetro de 4,0 mm con rosca parcial. MATERIALES Y MÉTODOS Evaluación retrospectiva de pacientes operados entre 2010 a 2019. Incluimos todos los casos sintetizados con este dispositivo con seguimiento mínimo de tresmeses, y excluimos casos operados con otros dispositivos y seguimiento menor a tres meses. Evaluamos la consolidació n y la presencia de complicaciones. Determinamos el largo del tornillo, el diámetro del canal endomedular, la distancia entre el borde proximal de la tuberosidad y la fractura, y la distancia de paso de la rosca sobre el rasgo de la fractura en radiografías anteroposterior (AP) y oblicua del pie. RESULTADOS Evaluamos 39 casos, y la muestra tenía una edad promedio de 27 años, y predominio del sexo masculino. El largo de tornillo más usado fue el de 45 mm, y los diámetros promedios del canal endomedular medidos en las radiografías AP y oblicua fueron de 4,6 mm y 3,96 mm, respectivamente. La distancia del borde de la tuberosidad hasta la fractura fue de 25,8 mm, y la distancia de paso de la rosca sobre el rasgo de la fractura fue en promedio de 24 mm. Hubo 100% de consolidación, en un promedio de 9,4 semanas, y 3 casos de retardo de consolidación, 2 de retroceso de tornillo, 1 de rosca intrafoco, y 1 de fractura cortical superior. No hubo retiros de tornillos a la fecha. DISCUSION No existe consenso respecto al tornillo ideal. La literatura internacional recomienda dispositivos intramedulares de diámetro de al menos 4,5 mm. Existen pocos reportes del uso de tornillos de diámetro de 4,0 mm. CONCLUSIONES El tornillo de esponjosa de diámetro de 4,0 mm con rosca parcial es una alternativa eficaz, segura y con baja tasa de complicaciones para el manejo de estas fracturas en nuestra población.

OBJETIVE To evaluate the surgical result of zone-2 and -3 fractures of the base of the fifth metatarsal bone using partially-threaded cancellous screws with a diameter of 4.0 mm. MATERIALS AND METHODS A retrospective evaluation of patients submitted to surgery between 2010 and 2019. We included all of the cases synthesized with this device with a minimum follow-up of three months, and excluded the cases operated on with other devices and follow-up shorter than three months. We evaluated the consolidation and the presence of complications, and determined, screw length, diameter of the endomedullary canal, the distance between the proximal edge of tuberosity and the fracture, and thread pitch over the fracture line on anteroposterior (AP) and oblique radiographs. RESULTS We evaluated 39 cases, and the sample had an average age of 27 years and male predominance. The most used screw length was 45 mm, and the average diameters of the medullary canal measured on the AP and oblique radiographs were of 4.6 mm and 3.96 mm respectively. The distance from the edge of the tuberosity to the fracture was of 25.8 mm, and the thread pitch over the fracture line was on average 24 mm. The rate of consolidation was of 100%, occurring in an average of 9.4 weeks, and there were 3 cases of consolidation delay, 2 of screw recoil, 1 of intrafocus thread, and 1 of superior cortex fracture. To date, there have been no cases of screw removal. DISCUSSION There is no consensus regarding the ideal screw. The international literature recommends intramedullary devices with a diameter of at least 4.5 mm. There are few reports of the use of screws with 4.0 mm in diameter. CONCLUSIONS The partially-threaded cancellous screw with a diameter of 4.0 mm is an effective and safe option, with a low complication rate for the management of these fractures.

Meibomian gland dysfunction and dry eye in keratoconus / Disfunção de glândulas de Meibomius e olho seco em ceratocone

ABSTRACT The objective of this report is to describe a case of meibomian gland dysfunction associated with keratoconus and to examine the importance of treatment for evaporative dry eye in cases of corneal ectasia. A 45-year-old man diagnosed as having keratoconus complained of burning, tearing, itching, and red eye. He had a history of penetrating corneal transplantation and wearing rigid contact lenses. The meibography revealed a severe meibomian gland dropout and normal tear meniscus height in both eyes. Objective propaedeutic tests are important tools for dry eye diagnosis and proper evaluation of ocular surface and tear film. In older patients, the classic signs of atopic conjunctivitis are not always present, and the causes of chronic rubbing must be further investigated. Treatment of underlying chronic inflammation such as dry eye, meibomian gland dysfunction, and blepharitis might be important to prevent keratoconus progression and guarantee symptom relief.

RESUMO O objetivo é relatar um caso de associação entre disfunção de glândulas de meibomius (DGM) e ceratocone, assim como ressaltar a importância do tratamento do olho seco evaporativo em casos de ectasia corneana. Paciente do sexo masculino de 45 anos com ceratocone e queixas de ardência, lacrimejamento, prurido e olho vermelho. O mesmo tem histórico de transplante de córnea penetrante e uso de lentes de contato rígidas. A meibografia revelou severa perda de glândulas de meibomius e menisco lacrimal normal em ambos os olhos. Testes propedêuticos objetivos são importantes ferramentas para diagnóstico de olho seco e apropriada avaliação da superfície ocular e filme lacrimal. Em pacientes mais velhos, os sinais clássicos de atopia não estão sempre presentes e investigações adicionais das causas de prurido crônico são necessárias. O tratamento da inflamação crônica subjacente como olho seco, disfunção de glândulas de meibomius e blefarite podem ser importantes para prevenir a progressão do ceratocone e garantir alívio dos sintomas.

Correlation of meiboscale symptom score and sign score for primary meibomian gland dysfunction in Indian eyes – A cross-sectional study

Purpose: To evaluate the correlation of Meiboscale with symptom score (Ocular Surface Disease Index [OSDI]) and meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) sign score. Methods: We performed a cross?sectional hospital?based study of 53 patients of primary MGD who filled the OSDI questionnaire form and underwent complete ocular examination. The MGD sign score was calculated in both eyes using the sum of six grading systems proposed by Arita et al. in 2016. The participants underwent imaging of the upper and lower eyelids of both eyes (212 eyelids) by specular microscope. The area of meibomian gland loss (MGL) was visually assessed and scored using the Meiboscale photographic card. Correlation between these three values – OSDI score, sign score, and MGL score based on Meiboscale ? was calculated using Spearman’s correlation analysis and Jonckheere– Terpstra (J–T) test. Correlation coefficient rs > 0.5 was considered clinically significant. Results: Associations between MGL score and OSDI score, as well as between OSDI and sign score were statistically significant, but not clinically significant (rs = 0.3684, P < 0.001 and rs = 0.41179, P < 0.001, respectively). The association between MGL score and MGD sign score was statistically as well as clinically significant (rs = 0.8392, P < 0.001). J–T test revealed large effect size (P < 0.001, r?effect = 0.93). Conclusion: The Meiboscale card had not been tested for utility in the Indian outpatient setting yet. Meiboscale can be used for reliable assessment and grading of MGD, and has clinical utility similar to the sum of six MGD sign scores. Additionally, assessment of symptoms using OSDI or a similar questionnaire is also recommended.

Supernumerary muscles in the posterior leg compartment: a case report / Músculos supernumerarios en el compartimento posterior de la pierna: reporte de un caso

SUMMARY: The leg muscles are organized in anterior, lateral and posterior compartments. The posterior compartment is usually divided in two layers: superficial and deep. The deep muscles of the posterior compartment of the leg are known to mainly plantar flexion and toes flexion. In comparison to the other leg compartments, variations of the posterior one are rare. These variants often involve the presence or absence of one or more muscles, and they have differences among origin and insertion, which leads to confusion between anatomists. We aim to describe a case of a male cadaver that possessed three supernumerary muscles in the lateral and posterior compartments of both legs: the peroneus quartus muscle and two accessory bellies of the flexor digitorum longus. This presentation seems to be very rare and scarcely reported in the literature. These variants have the potential of causing nervous or vascular compression, thus leading to tarsal tunnel syndrome or a symptomatic peroneus quartus. The clinical and surgical implications of this abnormal presentation is discussed.

RESUMEN: Los músculos de la pierna están organizados en compartimentos anterior, lateral y posterior. El compartimento posterior por lo general es dividido en dos capas: superficial y profunda. Se sabe que los músculos profundos del compartimento posterior de la pierna se caracterizan principalmente por participar de la flexión plantar y la flexión de los dedos de los pies. En comparación con los otros compartimentos de la pierna, las variaciones musculares en el compartimiento posterior son raras. Estas variantes suelen implicar la presencia o ausencia de uno o más músculos y presentan diferencias en el origen y en la inserción, lo que conduce a confusión entre los anatomistas. Nuestro objetivo fue describir el caso de un cadáver masculino que poseía tres músculos supernumerarios en los compartimentos lateral y posterior de ambas piernas: el músculo fibular cuarto y dos vientres accesorios del músculo flexor largo de los dedos. Esta presentación parece ser muy rara y escasamente reportada en la literatura. Estas variantes musculares tienen el potencial de causar compresión nerviosa o vascular, lo que conduce al síndrome del túnel del tarso o un cuarto músculo fibular sintomático. Se discuten las implicaciones clínicas y quirúrgicas de esta presentación anormal.

Anatomical landmarks for locations and boundary of distal tarsal tunnel at medial side of ankle with clinical implication / Puntos de referencia anatómicos para ubicaciones y límites del túnel tarsiano distal en el lado medial del tobillo con implicación clínica

SUMMARY: The tarsal tunnel (TT) is an osteofibrous tunnel that separates into proximal and distal tarsal tunnels. The most common nerve entrapment which involved tarsal tunnel was tarsal tunnel syndrome (TTS) which divided into proximal TTS and distal TTS because they had different compression areas and symptoms. We were interested in distal TT because this structure had limited studies. Therefore, we studied anatomical landmarks of locations and boundary of distal TT. We studied forty legs from fresh frozen cadavers and used two reference lines: Malleolar-calcaneal (MC) and navicular-calcaneal (NC) axes. The locations of the distal tarsal tunnel were defined by 10 located points and were recorded in X-coordinate and Y-coordinate. The lengths of boundary of the tarsal tunnel were measured from one point to the other. These results were reported as mean±SD. We found that the distal TT located deep to abductor hallucis (AbH) muscle. Medial wall of distal TT had two layers such as deep fascia of AbH muscle and deep thin layer. It showed the trapezoidal shape and was divided into two tunnels by the septum. The information of the location and boundary of the distal TT could improve knowledge and understanding of clinicians and anatomists. Additionally, this information could help surgeons improve their treatments, especially tarsal tunnel release.

RESUMEN: El túnel tarsiano (TT) es un túnel osteofibroso que se divide en túneles tarsianos proximal y distal. El atrapamiento nervioso más común del túnel tarsiano es el síndrome del túnel tarsiano (TTS), el cual se divide en TTS proximal y TTS distal debido a diferentes áreas de compresión. En este trabajo se estudiaron los puntos de referencia anatómicos de las ubicaciones y los límites del TT distal. Estudiamos cuarenta piezas de cadáveres frescos congelados y utilizamos dos líneas de referencia: ejes maleolar-calcáneo (MC) y navicular-calcáneo (NC). Las ubicaciones del túnel tarsiano distal se definieron en 10 puntos y se registraron en coordenadas X e Y. Las longitudes de los límites del túnel tarsiano se midieron desde un punto a otro. Estos resultados se informaron como media ±DE. Encontramos que el TT distal se ubicaba profundo al músculo abductor del hállux (AbH). La pared medial del TT distal tenía dos capas, la fascia profunda del músculo AbH y una capa delgada profunda. Se observó la forma trapezoidal del túnel la que se encontraba dividida por el tabique en dos túneles. La información de la ubicación y el límite del TT distal podría mejorar el conocimiento de los médicos y anatomistas. Además, esta información podría ayudar a los cirujanos durante los tratamientos, especialmente la liberación del túnel tarsiano.

Clinilal effects of a modified double-eyelid blepharoplasty: tarsus-orbicularis oculi muscle-septum fixation / 中华医学美学美容杂志

Objective:To observe the effect of a new modified double-eyelid operation.Methods:From February 2018 to January 2021, modified tarsal plate-orbicularis oculi muscle-orbital septum (TMS) suture was performed in 193 double-eyelid operation in the plastic surgery department of Peking Union Medical College Hospital, including 14 males and 179 females. The patients aged from 18 to 45 years with an average of (22.3±4.2) years. The patients were followed up for 6-24 months to observe the morphology of the double eyelid fold and complications.Results:The 193 patients were included. The double eyelid lines of 173 patients were smooth, natural, durable and the scar was shallow; both doctors and patients were satisfied. There were no obvious complications after the operation. The double eyelid line became shallow or disappeared in 11 patients, and the double eyelid asymmetry occurred in 7 patients after the operation. However, the folds were symmetrical and natural after secondary operation, and both doctors and patients were satisfied.Conclusions:TMS suture not only establishes a firm adhesion, but also effectively transmits the force of the levator aponeurosis with significant advantages. After the operation, the double eyelid line is smooth, natural and stable. Both doctors and patients are highly satisfied. It is an improved double eyelid procedure worthy of clinical promotion.

Selective column arthrodesis based on three-column theory for malunion of Lisfranc injury / 中华创伤骨科杂志

Objective:To investigate the mid-term clinical outcomes of selective column arthrodesis based on the three-column theory in the treatment of malunion of Lisfranc injury.Methods:The 28 patients with malunion of Lisfranc injury were analyzed retrospectively who had been treated by selective column arthrodesis at Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine from January 2011 to January 2020.They were 18 males and 10 females, with an average age of 37.2 years(from 18 to 65 years). Twelve left and 16 right sides were affected. According to Myerson's three-column classification, one case was medial column injury (type A), 4 ones middle column injury (type B), 7 ones medial plus middle columns injury and 16 ones three-column injury. Medial column arthrodesis was conducted in 7, middle column arthrodesis in 4 and medial plus middle columns arthrodesis in 17. The American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) midfoot score and visual analogue scale (VAS) were compared between preoperation and the last follow-up to evaluate the improvements in foot function and pain. The operation-related complications were recorded.Results:All patients were followed up for an average of 35.6 months (from 18 to 60 months). The AOFAS midfoot score increased from 43.1±4.1 at pre-operation to 84.1± 7.4 at the last follow-up and the VAS score decreased from 5.7±1.3 at pre-operation to 2.0±0.9 at the last follow-up (both P<0.001). The wounds healed in 28 patients, 3 of whom had postoperative wound exudation but responded to dressing change. There were no such complications as injury to the deep peroneal nerve or deep venous thrombosis. The internal fixation was removed in 5 patients at about one year after arthrodesis. Conclusion:Selective column arthrodesis based on the three-column theory can result in satisfactory med-term clinical outcomes in the treatment of malunion of Lisfranc injury.

Repair of soft tissue defect around ankle with lateral tarsal artery island flap / 中华显微外科杂志

Objective:To investigate the surgical method and therapeutic effect on repairing soft tissue defects around ankle with lateral tarsal artery island flap.Methods:From July 2013 to December 2020, the lateral tarsal artery island flap were used to repair the soft tissue defects around ankle in 12 patients in Hand Surgery Department, Jiangnan Hospital Affiliated to Binjiang College. Of which, 6 patients had soft tissue defects complicated with bone or tendon exposure after injury and 6 had skin necrosis with internal fixation after fracture. The area of soft tissue defects was 6.0 cm×4.0 cm-9.0 cm×5.0 cm, and the size of the flaps was 7.0 cm×5.0 cm-10.0 cm×6.0 cm. After the flap was freed, the vascular pedicle was separated up to the origin of dorsalis pedis artery. As the pedicel was not long enough in 1 patient, the dorsal pedis artery was ligated and transected at the origin of the lateral tarsal artery. Full thickness skin graft was used to repair the donor sites. The patients were treated with anti-infection and anticoagulant therapies. The postoperative follow-ups were conducted by outpatient clinic visit, telephone or WeChat interviews or home visit to observe the recoveries in texture, appearance, sensation, donor site and function of ankle.Results:All the flaps and skin grafts survived. The wound healed well without occurrence of ulcer. The follow-up ranged 6-108 months (mean 17 months). Appearance of the flaps was good. It was not bloated and the sensation was restored to S 2-S 3. Conclusion:It is a good method to apply the lateral tarsal artery island flap in repair of the soft tissue defects around ankle. It features a hidden donor site, simple operation and the high level of safety. The texture and appearance of the flap are close to those of the recipient site.

Eficiencia de la técnica de Broström-Gould en el tratamiento quirúrgico de la inestabilidad lateral crónica de tobillo / Broström-Gould technique efficiency in chronic lateral ankle instability surgical treatment

Los déficits neuromusculares resultantes de las lesiones que comprometen al tobillo, facilitan la aparición de recidivas, por la afectación estructural que no sólo ocurre en los ligamentos, sino también en los nervios y tejido músculo-tendinoso, pudiendo provocar numerosas alteraciones asociadas que provocan inestabilidad crónica. El objetivo de este trabajo es analizar la eficiencia de la técnica de Broström modificada en pacientes con inestabilidad crónica del tobillo, atendidos en el Hospital Dr. Miguel Pérez Carreño y consulta privada entre noviembre 2016 y enero 2020. El tipo de investigación prospectiva, descriptiva, de campo clínico. La muestra la conformaron 31 pacientes. La edad promedio fue 34,4 años, la mayoría de género masculino, y con predominio en el tobillo derecho. Al aplicar la escala EVA en el pre y post quirúrgico, se observó disminución del grado de dolor postquirúrgico con una escala entre 0 y 4. La escala de Karlsson y Peterson aplicada en el lapso de 1 año después del período postquirúrgico a los pacientes, el 90 % estuvo entre 65 y 90 según escala que significa bueno y excelente. Entre la escala EVA y la de Karlsson y Peterson aplicados al año, se observó una relación entre la disminución del dolor y la buena y excelente evaluación funcional. La técnica de Broström modificada demostró tener muy buenos resultados en el tratamiento quirúrgico de la inestabilidad de tobillo(AU)

The neuromuscular deficits resulting from ankle injuries, make possible the appearance of recurrences, due the structural affectation that not only occurs in the ligaments, but also in nerves and muscle-tendon tissue, and can produce numerous associated alterations that cause ankle chronic instability. The objective is to analyze the efficiency of Broström modified technique in patients with chronic ankle instability, treated at the Dr. Miguel Pérez Carreño Hospital and private practice from November 2016 to January 2020. A prospective, descriptive and clinical study was made. 31 patients were included. The average age was 34,4 years, majority of male patients, and predominance of right ankle. When applying the VAS scale before and after surgery, a decrease in the degree of postoperative pain was observed with a scale between 0 and 4. The Karlsson and Peterson scale applied in the period of 1 year after the postoperative period to the patients, the 90% were between 65 and 90 according to a scale that means good and excellent. Between the VAS scale and the Karlsson and Peterson scale applied after one year, a relationship was observed between pain reduction and good and excellent functional evaluation. The modified Broström technique has shown to have very good results in the surgical treatment of ankle instability(AU)

Subtalar joint in neutral and relaxed positions for evaluation of medial longitudinal arch / Articulação subtalar em posições neutra e relaxada para avaliação do arco longitudinal medial

ABSTRACT Objective: The medial longitudinal arch is the main structure of load bearing and shock absorption of the foot. The evaluation of medial longitudinal arch, such as the navicular height, the medial longitudinal arch angle and the Feiss line should be performed with the subtalar joint in the neutral and relaxed position. Our study analyzed the correlation between the measurements of the subtalar joint in neutral and relaxed positions during the evaluation tests of the medial longitudinal arch. Methods: This is a cross-sectional study, in which 51 healthy volunteers (102 feet; 36 women; 28 ± 5 years, 1.66 ± 0.10 m; 24.5 ± 4.5 kg/m2) had their navicular height, medial longitudinal arch angle and Feiss line measured in the neutral and relaxed positions. The correlation between the measures was evaluated using Pearson's test. Results: A strong correlation of the 102 feet Feiss line measurements between neutral and relaxed positions (r = 0.81) was observed, and a moderate correlation between the medial longitudinal arch angle (r = 0.78) and between navicular height in neutral and relaxed positions (r = 0.76). Conclusion: The measurements of the longitudinal medial arch between the neutral and relaxed positions are strongly correlated. Therefore, it is not necessary to measure the medial longitudinal arch in both neutral and relaxed positions. Level of Evidence II, Diagnostic Studies - Investigating a diagnostic test.

RESUMO Objetivo: O arco longitudinal medial é a estrutura principal para suporte de carga e absorção de impacto no pé. Medidas para avaliação do arco longitudinal medial, como a altura navicular, o ângulo do arco longitudinal medial e a linha de Feiss devem ser realizadas com a articulação subtalar na posição neutra e relaxada. Este estudo analisou a correlação entre as medidas da articulação subtalar em posições neutra e relaxada durante os testes de avaliação do arco longitudinal medial. Métodos: Neste estudo transversal, 51 voluntários saudáveis (102 pés; 36 mulheres; 28 ± 5 anos, 1,66 ± 0,10 m; 24,5 ± 4,5 kg/m2) tiveram altura navicular, ângulo do arco longitudinal medial e linha de Feiss medida nas posições neutra e relaxada. A correlação entre eles foi avaliada pelo teste de Pearson. Resultados: Houve uma correlação muito forte das medidas de linha de Feiss de 102 pés entre a posição neutra e relaxada (r = 0,81) e uma correlação moderada entre o ângulo do arco longitudinal medial (r = 0,78) e altura navicular nas posições neutra e relaxada (r = 0,76). Conclusão: As medidas do arco medial longitudinal entre as posições neutra e relaxada estão fortemente correlacionadas. Não é necessário, portanto, medir o arco longitudinal medial nas posições neutra e relaxada. Nível de Evidência II, Estudos diagnósticos - Investigação de um exame para diagnóstico.

Manifestations of different imaging methods of Lisfranc joint injury and their clinical significance / 中国基层医药

Objective:To investigate the manifestations of different imaging methods of Lisfranc joint injury and their classification, providing a theoretical basis for increasing the rate of diagnosis of Lisfranc joint injury.Methods:The clinical data of 238 patients with Lisfranc joint injury who received treatment in the First People's Hospital of Wenling from January 2017 to January 2020 were retrospectively analyzed. According to the different types of injury, the clinical data were classified into Myerson and Nunley-Vertullo types and then statistically analyzed. The features of X-ray, CT and MRI images of injured Lisfranc joint were observed.Results:Among the 238 patients, 175 had Lisfranc joint fracture and dislocation, with Myerson classification type I 18 patients, type II 149 patients, and type III 8 patients; 63 had Lisfranc joint injury or sprain, with Nunley-Vertullo classification type I 14 patients, type II 45 patients and type III 4 patients. Only X-ray examination was performed in 8 patients, only CT scan in 10 patients, and only MRI in 17 patients. Both X-ray examination and CT scan were performed in 172 patients, both X-ray examination and MRI in 13 patients, both CT scan and MRI in 13 patients, and all X-ray examination, CT scan and MRI in 5 patients. The correct rate of the first X-ray diagnosis was 85.35% (169/198). In 157 patients with Myerson-type Lisfranc joint injury, the correct rate of diagnosis was 92.36% (145/157). In 41 patients with Nunley-Vertullo-type Lisfranc joint injury, the correct rate of diagnosis was 65.85% (27/41). There was significant difference in the correct rate of diagnosis between Myerson-type and Nunley-Vertullo-type Lisfranc joint injury ( χ2 = 5.135, P = 0.024). CT scan examination invovled the basal part of M2 in 88.50% (177/200) of patients, the basal part of M2-M4 in 64.00% (128/200) of patients, and the lateral dislocation of M2 in 65.00% (130/200) of patients . Three-dimensional reconstructions revealed that 37.00% (74/200) of patients had dorsal dislocation or subluxation and 7.50% (14/200) of patients had metatarsal dislocation or subluxation. MRI examination revealed that six patients had grade I injury, showing abnormal but uninterrupted signal, 24 patients had grade II injury, showing partial rupture of ligament, and 18 patients had grade III injury, showing complete rupture of ligament (interrupted or absent ligament signal). Conclusion:Among the different imaging diagnostic methods of Lisfranc joint injury, X-ray examination may lead to missed diagnosis. For patients with highly suspected Lisfranc joint injury who are not confirmed to suffer from Lisfranc joint injury by X-ray examination, CT scan or MRI should be performed.

Comparative Evaluation of Bepotastine Besilate Versus Olopatadine And Ketorolac Combination on Upper Tarsal Conjunctival Brush Cytology in Patients of Vernal Keratoconjunctivitis

Comparative evaluation of bepotastine besilate versus olopatadine and ketorolac combination onupper tarsal conjunctival brush cytology in patients of vernal keratoconjunctivitis. This studywas a prospective, open label, randomized, comparative clinical study. 100 patients of vernalkeratoconjunctivitis between 6 to 20 years of age of either sex willing to give informed consentwere enrolled in the study. In Group 1, 50 patients received Bepotastine besilate (0.15%) eyedrops twice daily for 8 weeks whereas in Group 2, 50 patients received Olopatadine (0.2%) andKetorolac (0.4%) combination eye drops twice daily for 8 weeks. Upper tarsal conjunctival brushcytology for eosinophil count was done in both the drug groups during the baseline and at 8th weekduring the treatment. It was found that after the 2 months of drug therapy, patients in both thegroups showed reduction in the eosinophil count. However, there was no statistically significantdifference between the two treatment groups at the baseline and at 8th week. There was 32%reduction in group A versus 28% reduction in group B in eosinophil count at the end of 8th weekcompared to baseline. Both bepotastine besilate versus olopatadine and Ketorolac combinationwere found to be effective in reducing the eosinophil count in patients of VKC.