Saccadic movements during an exploratory visual search task in patients with glaucomatous visual field loss

ABSTRACT Purpose: To evaluate the saccadic movements of patients with visual field loss due to primary open-angle glaucoma. Methods: Thirteen patients with good visual acuity (0.2 logMAR or better) (seven patients with primary open-angle glaucoma 65 ± 13 years) and six controls (51 ± 6 years) yielded a comprehensive ophthalmological examination, including Humphrey Visual Field tests (SITA-Standard 24-2), and performed a monocular, exploratory digital visual search task that quantifies the duration for finding the number "4" on a random array of digits distributed on the screen. After individual adjustments of the angle and distance positioning, the screen was spatially matched with the 24-2 visual field, and divided into five areas for analysis. During the task, saccades were simultaneously recorded in the same eye with a video-based eye tracker. Results: The patients with primary open-angle glaucoma showed a significantly higher number of saccades/screen (median ± interquartile range, 59.00 ± 29.00 vs. 32.50 ± 19.75 saccades (p=0.027) and visual search time per screen (38.50 ± 60.14 vs. 23.75 ± 8.90 seconds (p=0.035) than the controls did. Although the univariate analysis indicated a significant correlation with visual field mean deviation (coefficient=26.19 (p=0.02), only the visual search time/screen was significantly associated with the number of saccades/screen in the multivariate regression model (coefficient=0.55 (p<0.001). Overall, no significant correlation was observed between the sectorial number of saccades and the sensitivity of the five visual field areas. Conclusions: The patients with primary open-angle glaucoma show impaired search performance and showed a higher number of saccades needed to find stimuli when performing the exploratory visual task.

Paracentral acute middle maculopathy in the immediate postoperative of cataract surgery / Maculopatia média aguda paracentral no pós-operatório imediato de cirurgia de catarata

ABSTRACT This case report identified paracentral acute middle maculopathy as the cause of severe and irreversible vision loss after cataract surgery. Cataract surgeons should be aware of known risk factors for the development of paracentral acute middle maculopathy. In those patients, extra care regarding anesthesia, intraocular pressure, and some other aspects of cataract surgery must be taken. Paracentral acute middle maculopathy is currently understood as a clinical sign evident on spectral-domain optical coherence tomography, and it is probably evidence of deep ischemic insult to the retina. It should be a differential diagnosis in cases of marked low vision acuity associated with no fundus abnormalities in the immediate postoperative period, as demonstrated in the presented case.

RESUMO O presente relato de caso identificou a maculopatia média aguda paracentral como a causa de baixa de acuidade visual severa e irreversível após cirurgia de catarata. Existem fatores de risco bem estabelecidos para o desenvolvimento da maculopatia média aguda paracentral que devem ser conhecidos pelos cirurgiões de catarata. Nesse contexto cirúrgico, precauções extras no tocante a procedimentos anestésicos, pressão intraocular e alguns outros aspectos da cirurgia devem ser consideradas. A maculopatia média aguda paracentral é descrita como um sinal clínico observado no exame de tomografia de coerência óptica por domínio espectral e se trata, provavelmente, da evidência de um evento isquêmico no tecido vascular retiniano. Esse diagnóstico deve ser cogitado nos casos de perda de acuidade visual súbita no pós-operatório imediato associada com exame fundoscópico normal, como evidenciado no caso apresentado.

Multisensory effects of mask wearing on speech intelligibility and the benefit of multilingualism / Efeitos multissensoriais do uso de máscara na inteligibilidade da fala e o benefício do multilinguismo

ABSTRACT Purpose Due to the pandemic of the Covid-19 disease, it became common to wear masks on some public spaces. By covering mouth and nose, visual-related speech cues are greatly reduced, while the auditory signal is both distorted and attenuated. The present study aimed to analyze the multisensory effects of mask wearing on speech intelligibility and the differences in these effects between participants who spoke 1, 2 and 3 languages. Methods The study consisted of the presentation of sentences from the SPIN test to 40 participants. Participants were asked to report the perceived sentences. There were four conditions: auditory with mask; audiovisual with mask; auditory without mask; audiovisual without mask. Two sessions were conducted, one week apart, each with the same stimuli but with a different signal-to-noise ratio. Results Results demonstrated that the use of the mask decreased speech intelligibility, both due to a decrease in the quality of auditory stimuli and due to the loss of visual information. Signal-to-noise ratio largely affects speech intelligibility and higher ratios are needed in mask-wearing conditions to obtain any degree of intelligibility. Those who speak more than one language are less affected by mask wearing, as are younger listeners. Conclusion Wearing a facial mask reduces speech intelligibility, both due to visual and auditory factors. Older people and people who only speak one language are affected the most.

RESUMO Objetivo Devido à pandemia da doença Covid-19, o uso de máscaras em espaços públicos tornou-se comum. Ao cobrir a boca e o nariz, reduzem-se amplamente as pistas visuais associadas à fala, assim como se distorce e atenua o sinal auditivo. Este estudo teve como objetivo analisar os efeitos multissensoriais do uso da máscara na percepção da fala e a diferença entre participantes falantes de uma, duas ou três línguas. Método Este estudo consistiu na apresentação de frases do SPIN teste a 40 participantes. Os participantes tinham como tarefa reportar as frases percebidas em quatro condições: Auditiva com máscara, audiovisual com máscara, auditiva sem máscara, audiovisual sem máscara. Conduziram-se duas sessões, com uma semana de intervalo, cada uma com os mesmos estímulos mas com diferente relação sinal-ruído. Resultados Os resultados demonstraram que o uso de máscara reduz a inteligibilidade da fala, tanto devido à diminuição da qualidade do estímulo auditivo, como devido à perda de informação visual. A relação sinal-ruído afeta a inteligibilidade e com o uso de máscara são necessárias relações mais altas para obter qualquer identificação correta. Aqueles que falam mais do que uma língua, assim como os mais novos, são menos afetados na percepção de fala com uso de máscara. Conclusão O uso de máscara facial reduz a inteligibilidade da fala, tanto devido a fatores visuais como auditivos. Indivíduos monolíngues, assim como os mais velhos, são os mais afetados nesta tarefa.

Cross-cultural validation into Portuguese of a questionnaire to assess computer vision syndrome in workers exposed to digital devices / Validação intercultural em português de um questionário para avaliar a síndrome visual do computador em trabalhadores expostos a dispositivos digitais

ABSTRACT Purpose: As digital devices are increasingly used at work, valid and reliable tools are needed to assess their effect on visual health. This study aimed to translate, cross-culturally adapt, and validate the Computer Vision Syndrome Questionnaire (CVS-Q©) into Portuguese. Methods: A 5-phase process was followed: direct translation, synthesis of translation, back-translation, consolidation by an expert committee, and pretest. To run the pretest, a cross-sectional pilot study was conducted with 26 participants who completed the prefinal Portuguese version of the CVS-Q© and were asked about difficulties, comprehensibility, and suggestions to improve the questionnaire. To evaluate the reliability and validity of the Portuguese version of the CVS-Q©, a cross-sectional validation study was performed in a different sample (280 workers). Results: In the pretest, 96.2% had no difficulty in completing it, and 84.0% valued it as clear and understandable. CVS-Q© in Portuguese (Questionário da Síndrome Visual do Computador, CVS-Q PT©) was then obtained. Validation revealed the scale's good internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha=0.793), good temporal stability (intraclass correlation coefficient=0.847; 95% CI 0.764-0.902, kappa=0.839), adequate sensitivity and specificity (78.5% and 70.7%, respectively), good discriminant capacity (area under the curve=0.832; 95% CI 0.784-0.879), and adequate convergent validity with the ocular surface disease index (Spearman correlation coefficient=0.728, p<0.001). The factor analysis provided a single factor accounting for 37.7% of the explained common variance. A worker who scored ≥7 points would have computer vision syndrome. Conclusions: CVS-Q PT© can be considered an intuitive and easy-to-understand tool with good psychometric properties to measure computer vision syndrome in Portuguese workers exposed to digital devices. This questionnaire will assist in making decisions on preventive measures, interventions, and treatment and comparing exposed populations in different Portuguese-speaking countries.

RESUMO Objetivos: À medida que a utilização de equipamentos digitais no emprego aumenta, a avaliação do seu efeito na saúde visual necessita de ferramentas válidas e robustas. Este estudo teve como objetivo traduzir, adaptar culturalmente e validar para português o Questionário da Síndrome Visual do Computador (CVS-Q©). Métodos: O procedimento foi realizado em 5 fases: tradução direta, síntese da tradução, tradução inversa, consolidação por um painel de especialistas, e pré-teste. Para fazer o pré-teste foi realizado um estudo piloto transversal aplicado a uma amostra de 26 participantes que completaram a versão pré-final da versão portuguesa do CVS-Q©, questionando por dificuldades, compreensão e sugestões de melhoria do questionário. Para avaliar a confiança e validade da versão portuguesa do CVS-Q© foi realizado um estudo transversal de validação em uma amostra diferente (280 funcionários). Resultados: No préteste, 96.2% dos participantes não apresentaram dificuldades no preenchimento do questionário, enquanto 84.0% indicaram que era claro e compreensível. Obteve-se, então, o CVS-Q© em português (Questionário da Síndrome Visual do Computador, CVS-Q PT©). A sua validação revelou uma boa consistência interna da sua escala (Cronbach's alpha=0.793), boa estabilidade tem poral (coeficiente de correlação interclasse=0.847; 95% CI 0.764-0.902, kappa=0.839), sensibilidades e especificidades adequadas (78.5% e 70.7%, respetivamente), boa capacidade de discriminação (área abaixo da curva=0.832; 95% CI 0.784-0.879), e uma adequada validade da convergência com o índice de doença da superfície ocular (ocular surface disease index - OSDI; coeficiente de correlação de Spearman=0.728, p<0.001). A análise fatorial revelou um único fator responsável por explicar a variância comum em 37.7%. Um funcionário com uma pontuação ≥7 pontos sofria de síndrome visual do computador. Conclusão: O CVS-Q PT© pode ser considerada uma ferramenta intuitiva, de fácil interpretação e com boas pro priedades psicométricas para avaliar a síndrome visual do computador em funcionários portugueses expostos a ecrãs digitais. Este questionário facilitará as decisões sobre medidas preventivas, intervenções e tratamento, e a comparação entre as populações expostas em diferentes países de língua portuguesa.

Findings of ocular examinations in healthy full-term newborns / Achados de exame ocular realizado em recém-nascidos a termo saudáveis

ABSTRACT Purpose: To assess the anterior and posterior segments of full-term neonates over a 1.5-year period. Methods: The findings of full-term neonates who underwent ophthalmological examinations between June 2019 and December 2020 were analyzed, and the results were retrospectively recorded. Results: The study comprised 2972 neonates with a mean birth week of 38.7 ± 1.2 weeks and a mean birth weight of 3235 ± 464 g. The neonates were examined on an average of 49.3 ± 18.9 postnatal days. Of the examined neonates, 185 (6.2%) showed abnormal ophthalmological findings, the most prevalent of which were retinal hemorrhage in 2.3% (n=68) and white changes in the peripheral retina in 1.9% (n=55) of the neonates. Cases of optic disc pathologies (n=20), choroidal nevus (n=10), iris-choroidal coloboma (n=5), subconjunctival hemorrhage (n=6), non-specific retinal pigmentary change (n=4), congenital cataract (n=3), posterior synechia (n=3), iris nevus (n=3), corneal opacity (n=1), choroidal coloboma (n=1), iris coloboma (n=1), buphthalmos (n=1), anophthalmos (n=1), microphthalmia (n=1), lid hemangioma (n=1), and vitreous hemorrhage (n=1) collectively accounted for approximately 2% of all neonates. Pathologies that could potentially impair vision, which were detected by ophthalmological examination, accounted for 1.2% of all neonates (n=37). Conclusion: The most prevalent finding of the ophthalmological examinations of neonates in the present study was retinal hemorrhage. Ophthalmological examinations of neonates can help in identifying diseases that may affect their vision and are curable or may lead to amblyopia in the long term.

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar os segmentos anterior e posterior em recém-nascidos a termo durante um período de 1,5 anos. Métodos: Foram analisados recém-nascidos a termo que tiveram os olhos examinados entre junho de 2019 e dezembro de 2020, e os resultados foram registrados retrospectivamente. Resultados: O estudo foi composto por 2.972 recém-nascidos com média de uma semana de nascimento de 38,7 ± 1,2 semanas e um peso médio ao nascer de 3235 ± 464 g. Os recém-nascidos foram examinados em média pós-natal de 49,3 ± 18,9 dias. Dos recém-nascidos, 185 (6,2%) apresentaram resultados oculares anormais. Os achados oculares anormais mais prevalentes foram hemorragia da retina em 2,3% (n=68) e alterações brancas na retina periférica em 1,9% (n=55) dos recém-nascidos. Casos de patologias de disco óptico (n=20), nevo de coroide (n=10), coloboma iris-coroide (n=5), hemorragia subconjuntival (n=6), alteração pigmentar da retina não específica (n=4), catarata congênita (n=3), Sinequia posterior (n=3), nevo da íris (n=3), opacidade da córnea (n=1), coloboma de coroide (n=1), coloboma de íris (n=1), buftalmos (n=1), anoftalmia (n=1), microftalmia (n=1), hemangioma de pálpebra (n=1) e hemorragia vítrea (n=1) contabilizaram coletivamente cerca de 2% dos recém-nascidos. As patologias que potencialmente prejudicam a visão, detectadas por exame ocular, representaram 1,2% dos recém-nascidos (n=37). Conclusão: O achado mais prevalente de exames oculares de recém-nascidos neste estudo foi hemorragia da retina. Exames oftalmológicos em recém-nascidos podem ser úteis na identificação de doenças que podem impactar a visão deles, podendo ser curáveis ou levar à ambliopia no longo prazo.

Status of the poor vision among 3 014 primary school students in Wucheng district of Jinhua city and analysis of the influencing factors / 国际眼科杂志(Guoji Yanke Zazhi)

AIM: To explore the prevalence and influencing factors of poor vision among 3 014 primary school students in Wucheng District, Jinhua City, in order to provide evidence for the intervention measures of poor vision.METHODS: Using a cross-sectional study, a self-designed questionnaire was done, including general conditions and influencing factors of vision. The international standard logarithmic visual acuity chart was used for visual acuity detection. The risk factors that were statistically significant among the single factor groups were used as independent variables for multivariate Logistic regression analysis.RESULTS: A total of 1 367 students with poor vision were detected, the detection rate was 45.36%, among which mild poor vision rare was 26.08%; moderate rate was 11.51%; and severe rate was 7.76%. Multivariate Logistic regression analysis showed that senior grades, parental myopia, daily insufficient sleep and outdoor activity, overuse of electronics or computers and no eye exercise were risk factors for poor vision.CONCLUSION: The rate of poor vision among the primary school students was severe, schools should take measures to improve and prevent students' poor vision by increasing outdoor activity time, correcting poor reading and writing posture, and reducing the time spent on electronic products.

Characteristics of retinal microcirculation after phacoemulsification and factors affecting visual acuity / 国际眼科杂志(Guoji Yanke Zazhi)

AIM:To investigate the changes of retinal microcirculation after phacoemulsification and the influencing factors of visual acuity.METHODS: Retrospective analysis. A total of 264 cataract patients(264 eyes)who underwent phacoemulsification in our hospital from January 2022 to December 2022 were selected as the study objects. Patients were divided into &#x0026;#x003C; 0.3 group(66 eyes)and ≥0.3 group(198 eyes)according to the recovery of best corrected visual acuity(BCVA)at 3 mo after surgery. The changes of retinal microcirculation indexes were compared before and after treatment. Logistic regression and LASSO regression models were used to screen the influencing factors of postoperative BCVA. A nomogram prediction model of postoperative BCVA was constructed and verified. A restricted cubic spline Logistic regression model was established to analyze the dose-response relationship between end-diastolic velocity(EDV), peak systolic velocity(PSV)and the risk of BCVA recovery.RESULTS: At 3 mo postoperatively, EDV and PSV were significantly improved compared with those before treatment, and resistance index(RI)levels were significantly lower than those before treatment(all P&#x0026;#x003C;0.05). Preoperative EDV, PSV, aqueous humor cell grade, fundus lesion grade, advanced age and Emery grade were influencing factors for poor BCVA recovery after phacoemulsification in cataract patients(P&#x0026;#x003C;0.05). The AUC before and after validation of the nomogram model by Bootstrap method were 0.869(95%CI: 0.815-0.903)and 0.866(95%CI: 0.802-0.895), respectively. The sensitivity was 88.36% and 88.27%, and the specificity was 91.82% and 91.78%, respectively. Restricted cubic spline model analysis showed no nonlinear dose-response relationship between EDV and PSV levels and the risk of poor BCVA recovery in either male or female(P&#x0026;#x003E;0.05).CONCLUSION: After phacoemulsification, retinal microcirculation in cataract patients improved significantly. EDV, PSV, aqueous humor cell grade, fundus lesion grade, advanced age and Emery grade are all factors influencing poor BCVA recovery after cataract surgery.

Comparison of short-term visual acuity and visual disturbance phenomena and spectacle independence after implantation of three different intraocular lenses / 国际眼科杂志(Guoji Yanke Zazhi)

AIM: To compare the short-term postoperative visual acuity, visual disturbance phenomena, and spectacle independence rate in patients who underwent monocular implantation with trifocal, multifocal, or extended range of vision intraocular lens(IOL).METHODS: A retrospective analysis was conducted on 67 cataract patients(67 eyes)who underwent phacoemulsification cataract extraction combined with IOL implantation from March 2019 to December 2022. A total of 35 cases(35 eyes)received Symfony extended range of vision IOL implantation, 21 cases(21 eyes)received AcrySof IQ ReSTOR +3D multifocal IOL, and 11 cases(11 eyes)received AcrySof IQ PanOptix trifocal IOL. The preoperative uncorrected distance visual acuity(UDVA), uncorrected intermediate visual acuity(UIVA), and uncorrected near visual acuity(UNVA)and 3 mo postoperatively were documented. Moreover, defocus curves, visual disturbance phenomena, and spectacle independence rates were recorded at 3 mo postoperatively.RESULTS: At 3 mo postoperatively, no statistically significant differences were observed in UDVA among the three groups(P&#x0026;#x003E;0.05). A comparison of UIVA showed superior results in the Symfony and PanOptix groups compared to the ReSTOR group(all P&#x0026;#x003C;0.01). The UNVA of both the ReSTOR and PanOptix groups outperformed the Symfony group(all P&#x0026;#x003C;0.01). The defocus curves indicated that in the intermediate vision range(-1.00 to -1.50 D), the Symfony group exhibited better performance than the ReSTOR group(P&#x0026;#x003C;0.05); while in the near vision range(-2.50 to -3.50 D), the ReSTOR group was superior to the Symfony group(P&#x0026;#x003C;0.05). The PanOptix group demonstrated superior visual acuity in the near vision range(-2.00 to -3.50 D)compared to the Symfony group(P&#x0026;#x003C;0.05)and was also superior in the intermediate vision range(-1.00 to -2.00 D)compared to the ReSTOR group(P&#x0026;#x003C;0.05). No significant differences were observed in the incidence of glare or halo and binocular interference phenomena among the three groups(P&#x0026;#x003E;0.05). The PanOptix and ReSTOR groups exhibited a higher spectacle independence rate compared to the Symfony group(P&#x0026;#x003C;0.0167).CONCLUSION: Compared to Symfony extended range of vision IOL and ReSTOR multifocal IOL, PanOptix trifocal IOL offers a balanced approach to distance, intermediate, and near visual acuity, without a high incidence of glare and halo, and with a higher spectacle independence rate. Caution is still advised when considering monocular implantation with presbyopia-correcting IOLs.

Síndrome de Balint y trombosis de senos venosos cerebrales: reporte de caso / Balint syndrome and cerebral venous sinus thrombosis: Case report

Introducción: El síndrome de Balint es un trastorno neurológico infrecuente, de etiología diversa, cuya presentación incluye la triada clásica de: simultagnosia, ataxia óptica y apraxia oculomotora, síntomas secundarios asociados a lesiones parieto-occipitales, con pronóstico variable según la etiología que se encuentre. A continuación, se reporta un caso secundario a una trombosis de senos venosos. Presentación del caso: Mujer de 66 años que ingresa a urgencias por cefalea aguda asociada a síntomas neurológicos progresivos con compromiso visual. Presentó tensión arterial elevada, simultagnosia, ataxia óptica y apraxia oculomotora. Los estudios imagenológicos reportaron hemorragia subaracnoidea por trombosis de seno sigmoideo izquierdo, por lo que se inició anticoagulación, antihipertensivo, con adecuada evolución del cuadro clínico. Discusión: A pesar de que el síndrome de Balint es un trastorno poco común, de etiología diversa, con escasos reportes a escala global, el caso comentado concordó con las características descritas en la literatura. El abordaje de la paciente en su atención inicial permitió la sospecha diagnóstica oportuna y la indicación de ayudas diagnósticas imagenológicas pertinentes. Tales ayudas soportaron un manejo temprano y la adecuada evolución y resolución del cuadro, en el contexto de la asociación del síndrome a una trombosis de senos venosos cerebrales (una etiología infrecuente). Conclusión: Mediante una historia clínica completa y minuciosa, junto a un adecuado examen neurológico, es posible hacer un acercamiento diagnóstico temprano que permita generar la sospecha del síndrome de Balint y la solicitud temprana de imágenes diagnósticas que orienten en el estudio de su etiología y manejo oportuno, con mejores desenlaces en el paciente.

Introduction: Balint Syndrome is a rare neurological disorder with multiple etiologies. The physical signs include a classic triad (simultagnosia, optic ataxia, and oculomotor apraxia). These symptoms are associated with parieto-occipital lesions, and the prognosis depends on the etiology. This article reports a case secondary to venous sinus thrombosis. Presentation of the case: A 66-year-old woman presented to the emergency room with acute headache associated with progressive neurological symptoms and visual impairment. She had high blood pressure, simultanagnosia, optic ataxia, and oculomotor apraxia. Imaging studies revealed subarachnoid hemorrhage due to thrombosis of the left sigmoid sinus, for which anticoagulation and antihypertensive therapy were started. The patient had a favorable clinical outcome. Discussion: Although Balint syndrome is a rare disorder of diverse etiology with few clinical cases reported globally, the case discussed here was consistent with the characteristics described in the literature. The patient's initial assessment allowed for timely diagnostic suspicion and appropriate imaging studies, which supported early management and the appropriate evolution and resolution of the condition, given the association of the syndrome with an uncommon cause as cerebral venous sinus thrombosis. Conclusion: A complete and thorough medical history, along with a proper neurological exam, can lead to an early diagnostic approach that raises suspicion of Balint's syndrome and prompts timely imaging studies to guide the investigation of its etiology and management, ultimately leading to better outcomes for the patient.

Criterios de referencia y barreras para la atención de personas con baja visión en Santander

Objetivo: Identificar criterios de derivación y barreras percibidas por los optómetras para la rehabilitación de personas con baja visión en Santander. Métodos: Estudio de corte transversal que incluyó 82 optómetras de municipios de Santander, seleccionados mediante muestreo intencionado. Se diseñó un cuestionario con 36 preguntas para recolectar los datos que son reportados empleando estadística descriptiva. Resultados: El 47,5 % de los profesionales tiene claro el nivel de agudeza visual para clasificar a una persona con baja visión. Las principales barreras identificadas para el acceso a servicios de baja visión fueron: el proceso de derivación dentro del sistema de salud es engorroso (74,39 %), falta de servicios cerca (57,31 %) y considerar que los pacientes no pueden pagar las ayudas (48,78 %). Discusión: Es necesario fortalecer la formación de los optómetras para mejorar los procesos de identificación, atención y rehabilitación. Conclusiones: Es importante ubicar como prioritaria la discapacidad visual en Santander, para así robustecer la red de atención en salud.

Objective: To identify referral criteria and barriers perceived by optometrists for the rehabilitation of people with low vision in Santander. Methods: Cross-sectional study, which included 82 optometrists from municipalities of Santander, selected by purposive sampling. A questionnaire with 36 questions was designed to collect data that are reported using descriptive statistics. Results: A total of 47.5% of the professionals are clear about the level of visual acuity to classify a person with low vision. The main barriers identified for access to low vision services were: the referral process within the health system is cumbersome (74.39%), lack of services nearby (57.31%) and considering that patients cannot afford the aids (48.78%). Discussion: It is necessary to strengthen the training of optometrists to improve the processes of identification, care and rehabilitation. Conclusions: It is important to prioritize visual impairment in Santander in order to strengthen the health care network.

Accuracy of an artificial intelligence-based mobile application for detecting cataracts: Results from a field study

Purpose: To assess the accuracy of e?Paarvai, an artificial intelligence?based smartphone application (app) that detects and grades cataracts using images taken with a smartphone by comparing with slit lamp?based diagnoses by trained ophthalmologists. Methods: In this prospective diagnostic study conducted between January and April 2022 at a large tertiary?care eye hospital in South India, two screeners were trained to use the app. Patients aged >40 years and with a best?corrected visual acuity <20/40 were recruited for the study. The app is intended to determine whether the eye has immature cataract, mature cataract, posterior chamber intra?ocular lens, or no cataract. The diagnosis of the app was compared with that of trained ophthalmologists based on slit?lamp examinations, the gold standard, and a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was estimated. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV) were computed. Results: The two screeners used the app to screen 2,619 eyes of 1,407 patients. In detecting cataracts, the app showed high sensitivity (96%) but low specificity (25%), an overall accuracy of 88%, a PPV of 92.3%, and an NPV of 57.8%. In terms of cataract grading, the accuracy of the app was high in detecting immature cataracts (1,875 eyes, 94.2%), but its accuracy was poor in detecting mature cataracts (73 eyes, 22%), posterior chamber intra?ocular lenses (55 eyes, 29.3%), and clear lenses (2 eyes, 2%). We found that the area under the curve in predicting ophthalmologists’ cataract diagnosis could potentially be improved beyond the app’s diagnosis based on using images only by incorporating information about patient sex and age (P < 0.0001) and best?corrected visual acuity (P < 0.0001). Conclusions: Although there is room for improvement, e?Paarvai app is a promising approach for diagnosing cataracts in difficult?to?reach populations. Integrating this with existing outreach programs can enhance the case detection rate.

A comparative study of vision-related quality of life (VRQoL) among glaucoma and nonglaucoma patients at a tertiary care center of North India

Purpose: Glaucoma influences vision?related quality of life (VRQoL) of an individual in various ways. There are very limited studies on the Indian population and the northern part of India. Therefore, we conducted the present study to evaluate VRQoL in glaucoma patients as well as the association between the severity of glaucoma and VRQoL. Methods: An institution?based, cross?sectional, analytical study was conducted from August 2022 to October 2022 involving 190 participants (95 glaucoma patients and 95 controls). The glaucoma quality of life?15 (GQL?15) questionnaire was explained in their vernacular language by the interviewer. The scoring was given according to the validated scoring algorithm for the questionnaire. Results: Mean GQL score in the control group was 19.66 ± 5.5 and in glaucoma cases was 32.8 ± 10.2, whereas the mean score of mild glaucoma cases was 22.3 ± 4.83, moderate glaucoma cases was 36.3 ± 4.09, and severe glaucoma cases was 47.24 ± 3.03. Therefore, as the severity of glaucoma increases, the GQL score also increases, indicating poorer quality of life. Visual field loss was strongly positively correlated (correlation coefficient = 0.759, P < 0.01) with the GQL?15 score, while a weaker positive correlation was found with best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), cup disc ratio, and duration of treatment. Conclusion: Besides controlling or reducing intraocular pressure (IOP) to the target level, the goal of glaucoma treatment should be to provide an individual with good functional vision to maintain an acceptable quality of life. It would also help in providing patients with the best possible treatment, not only in terms of good vision but also in maintaining or improving their overall quality of life.

Características visuales en el albinismo: Revisión sistemática

El albinismo es una condición compleja, en muchos casos incapacitante, afectando a muchas personas alrededor del mundo, incluso puede conducir a la muerte. Los problemas visuales más comunes que pueden existir en el albinismo con fotofobia son defectos refractivos con medidas considerables, problemas a nivel de fondo de ojo, fotofobia y translucencia de iris. La realidad actual estima que 1 de cada 10.000 personas tienen albinismo y pueden presentar estos problemas visuales. Objetivo. Identificar las características visuales en cada tipo de albinismo presentados en los estudios de Latinoamérica durante el periodo 2014-2022. Metodología. Se realizó una revisión sistemática. Como criterios de inclusión se tomó en cuenta el año de publicación de las fuentes. Se utilizaron los siguientes descriptores de búsqueda en español y en inglés: "albinismo", "tipos de albinismo" y "complicaciones albinismo", "albinism", "albinism types", "albinism issues". Resultados. Fueron seleccionados 22 artículos obtenidos de Google Académico, revistas como pubmed, scielo, Elsevier, tesis, de los cuales y basado en controles de calidad se analizaron 12 fuentes. Conclusión. La mayoría de estudios describen tratamientos posibles para el albinismo. Se resaltan hallazgos clínicos que destacan las características en los tipos de albinismo como lo son problemas a nivel del nervio óptico como la hipoplasia, y disminución de la agudeza visual, nistagmus y en ocasiones el problema de posición compensatoria de cabeza.

Albinism is a complex condition, in many cases disabling, affecting many people around the world, and can even lead to death. The most common visual problems that may exist in albinism with photophobia are refractive defects with considerable measurements, problems at the fundus level, photophobia and iris translucency. Current reality estimates that 1 in 10,000 people have albinism and may present with these visual problems. Objective. To identify the visual characteristics in each type of albinism presented in studies in Latin America during the period 2014-2022. Methodology. A systematic review was performed. The year of publication of the sources was taken into account as inclusion criteria. The following search descriptors were used in Spanish and English: "albinism", "types of albinism" and "albinism complications", "albinism", "albinism types", "albinism issues". Results. Twenty-two articles obtained from Google Scholar, journals such as pubmed, scielo, Elsevier, theses were selected, from which and based on quality controls 12 sources were analyzed. Conclusion. Most studies describe possible treatments for albinism. Clinical findings that highlight the characteristics in the types of albinism such as problems at the level of the optic nerve as hypoplasia, and decreased visual acuity, nystagmus and sometimes the problem of compensatory head position are highlighted.

O albinismo é uma condição complexa e, em muitos casos, incapacitante, que afeta muitas pessoas em todo o mundo e pode até levar à morte. Os problemas visuais mais comuns que podem existir no albinismo com fotofobia são defeitos de refração de tamanho considerável, problemas no nível do fundo do olho, fotofobia e translucidez da íris. A realidade atual estima que 1 em cada 10.000 pessoas tem albinismo e pode apresentar esses problemas visuais. Objetivo. Identificar as características visuais em cada tipo de albinismo apresentado em estudos na América Latina durante o período de 2014 a 2022. Metodologia. Foi realizada uma revisão sistemática. O ano de publicação das fontes foi levado em consideração como critério de inclusão. Foram usados os seguintes descritores de busca em espanhol e inglês: "albinismo", "tipos de albinismo" e "complicações do albinismo", "albinismo", "tipos de albinismo", "questões de albinismo". Resultados. Foram selecionados 22 artigos do Google Scholar, revistas como pubmed, scielo, Elsevier, teses, dos quais 12 fontes foram analisadas com base em controles de qualidade. Conclusão. A maioria dos estudos descreve possíveis tratamentos para o albinismo. Os achados clínicos destacam as características dos diferentes tipos de albinismo, como problemas no nervo óptico, como hipoplasia, diminuição da acuidade visual, nistagmo e, às vezes, problemas compensatórios na posição da cabeça.

Optic nerve sheath fenestration: A second lease at sight

Purpose: To study the safety and efficacy of optic nerve sheath fenestration surgery in patients with optic disc edema due to different etiologies. Methods: Records of 18 eyes of 15 patients who underwent optic nerve sheath fenestration for vision threatening optic disc edema were reviewed retrospectively, and results were analyzed. Improvement of visual acuity was the main measure of outcome. Improved visual fields, resolution of optic disc edema, diplopia, and headache were other benefits that were observed. Results: Fifteen patients between 13 and 54 years of age were included in the study. Three patients underwent successive bilateral surgery. Idiopathic intracranial hypertension was the most common cause for optic disc edema and was found in 80% of the patients. Mean preoperative logMAR acuity was ?1.9789 ± 1.46270, which improved to ?0.9022 ± 1.23181 (p < 0.005) in the operated eye, and mean logMAR acuity of contralateral eye improved from ?1.3378 ± 1.50107 to ?1.0667 ± 1.33813 (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Early optic nerve sheath fenestration is an effective modality for treating optic disc edema due to a wide myriad of causes and helps resolve the associated symptoms.

Accuracy of trained technicians in screening orbital and adnexal diseases at rural vision centers in South India

Purpose: To assess the agreement between the diagnosis made by trained technicians at vision centers (VC) and oculoplasty specialists at the base hospital, in patients referred from VC to the orbit and oculoplasty clinic of a tertiary eye care hospital in south India. Methods: This was a retrospective study that compared the findings of VC technicians and the specialists of the orbit and oculoplasty services in a base hospital. A total of 384 patients referred from 17 VCs between May 2021 and May 2022 were included. The diseases were categorized according to the site of involvement as diseases of the eyelids (43%), diseases of the lacrimal system (37.3%), orbital diseases (15.6), and others (4.1%). The mean age of the patients was 35.9 years and 50.6% were females. Medical records of all referred patients who attended the orbit clinic were analyzed. Results: Of the 384 patients, 378 (98.67%) were confirmed to have orbital and adnexal diseases. There was an overall 80% agreement between the diagnosis made by trained VC technicians and oculoplasty specialists; the kappa coefficient was 0.78 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.76 to 0.80), with a P value < 0.001. The agreement was the highest for diseases of the lacrimal system (90.9%, kappa coefficient 0.87), followed by eyelid pathologies (80%, kappa coefficient: 0.77). Of these, 54.8% of patients were managed with surgical procedures. Conclusion: There is good agreement between the findings of VC technicians and oculoplasty specialists. Trained technicians can help in the early detection and referral to higher centers. They also help to make sure adherence to treatment and periodic evaluation, especially in resource?constraint settings.

Efficacy of low-vision devices in elderly population with age-related macular degeneration

Purpose: Age?related macular degeneration (AMD) is a common cause of blindness, residual damage to macular area in spite of treatment necessitates visual rehabilitation by means of low?vision aids (LVAs). Methods: Thirty patients suffering from different stages of AMD requiring LVAs were included in this prospective study. Patients with nonprogressive, adequately treated AMD were enrolled over a 12?month period, prescribed requisite LVAs and followed?up for a minimum 1?month period. Before and after provision of LVAs, near work efficiencies were evaluated by calculating reading speed as words per minute (wpm) under both photopic and mesopic light conditions, and impact of poor vision on activities of daily living (ADL) was quantified by modified standard questionnaire based on Nhung X et al. questionnaire. Results: Of the 30 patients mean studied with mean age of 68 ± 10 years, 20 patients (66.7%) had dry AMD in better eye and 10 (33.3%) had wet AMD. Post?LVA, near visual acuity improved significantly and all cases were able to read some letters on near vision chart with an average improvement of 2.4 ± 0.96 lines. The different LVAs prescribed were high plus reading spectacles (up to 10 D) in 23.3%, hand?held magnifiers in 53.3%, base in prisms in 10%, stand held magnifiers in 6.7%, and bar and dome magnifiers in 3.3%. Conclusion: LVAs are effective in visual rehabilitation in patients with AMD. Self?reported reduction in visual dependency and improvement in vision?related quality of life post use of aids corroborated perceived benefit.

Distance and near vision changes after intravitreal anti-vascular endothelial growth factor injection in eyes with center-involving diabetic macular edema

Purpose: To elucidate distance and near vision changes after intravitreal injections in center?involving diabetic macular edema (CIDME) in phakic and pseudophakic groups. Methods: A retrospective study was done on 148 eyes (72 phakic and 76 pseudophakic) with center?involving DME. All eyes were treated with intravitreal anti?vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) injection. All patients underwent distance best?corrected visual acuity (BCVA) testing, near BCVA testing, dilated fundus examination, and optical coherence tomography (OCT) at baseline and follow?up visits. Eyes that could not improve after the first injection were given 2nd, 3rd, and more injections in the subsequent visits. Results: On follow?up, post injections in the phakic group (n = 72), there were 65 eyes (90.3%) with stable/improved near vision and 59 eyes (81.9%) with stable/improved distance vision, whereas in the pseudophakic group (n = 76), 63 eyes (82.9%) and 60 eyes (78.9%), respectively. Both in phakic and pseudophakic eyes, 7.7%–13% of the cohort showed only near vision improvement. Conclusion: In DME, besides the changes in distance vision, there are also changes in near vision. These changes should be taken into account while determining the response to anti?VEGF in DME treatment.

Factores asociados a baja agudeza visual en una población escolar de la ciudad de Bucaramanga, Colombia / Factors Associated with Low Visual Acuity in a School Population in the City of Bucaramanga, Colombia / Fatores associados à baixa acuidade visual em uma população escolar da cidade de Bucaramanga, Colômbia

Introducción. La baja agudeza es un problema de salud pública en el mundo, que aumenta año tras año, relacionada con factores comportamentales poco saludables como el sedentarismo. La baja agudeza afecta especialmente a escolares, en quienes la visión representa uno de los sistemas más importantes para su desarrollo, tanto para el aprendizaje como para las relaciones sociales. El objetivo es establecer asociación entre baja agudeza visual y características sociodemográficas y comportamentales en una población escolar de la ciudad de Bucaramanga, Colombia. Metodología. Estudio observacional de corte transversal basado en datos recolectados de encuestas a estudiantes de una institución educativa de Bucaramanga entre los años 2006 y 2017, sobre las cuales se realizó un análisis bivariado entre características sociodemográficas y comportamentales con baja agudeza visual. Resultados. La prevalencia de baja agudeza visual fue de 33.57%, con mayor prevalencia de baja agudeza visual en mujeres y aquellos con mayor índice de masa corporal. La agudeza visual baja no tuvo asociación estadísticamente significativa con las otras variables estudiadas. Discusión. Las mujeres tienen una mayor prevalencia de baja agudeza visual. Parece existir una relación entre la actividad física y la agudeza visual. Conclusiones. Las diferencias encontradas según el sexo pueden deberse a patrones comportamentales diferentes entre hombres y mujeres, como la actividad física y el sedentarismo. Hacen falta estudios que evalúen la causalidad de la asociación entre los problemas de agudeza visual y los hábitos de vida poco saludables. Palabras clave: Agudeza Visual; Adolescente; Conducta Sedentaria; Visión Ocular; Baja Visión.

Introduction. Low visual acuity is a public health problem worldwide, which is increasing year by year, and it is associated with unhealthy behavioral factors such as sedentary lifestyle. Low visual acuity particularly affects schoolchildren, whom eyesight is one of the most important abilities for their development, both in terms of learning and social interactions. The objective of this study is to establish an association between low visual acuity, sociodemographic, and behavioral characteristics of a student population in Bucaramanga, Colombia. Methodology. This was a cross-sectional observational study based on data collected from surveys of students within an educational institution sited in Bucaramanga between 2006 and 2017. A bivariate analysis was conducted between sociodemographic and behavioral characteristics and low visual acuity. Results. The prevalence of low visual acuity was 33.57%, with a higher prevalence of low visual acuity in women and those with a higher body mass index. However, low visual acuity didn't have a statistically significant association with the other variables studied. Discussion. Women have a higher prevalence of low visual acuity. There appears to be an association between physical activity and visual acuity. Conclusions. The encountered differences according to sex may be due to different behavioral patterns between males and females, such as physical activity and sedentary lifestyle. Further studies are needed to assess the causality of the association. Keywords: Visual Acuity; Adolescent; Sedentary Behavior; Vision, Ocular; Vision, Low.

Introdução. A baixa acuidade é um problema de saúde pública no mundo, que aumenta a cada ano, relacionada a fatores comportamentais pouco saudáveis, como o sedentarismo. A baixa acuidade atinge especialmente as crianças em idade escolar, para as quais a visão representa um dos sistemas mais importantes para o seu desenvolvimento, tanto para a aprendizagem quanto para as relações sociais. O objetivo é estabelecer uma associação entre baixa acuidade visual e características sociodemográficas e comportamentais em uma população escolar na cidade de Bucaramanga, Colômbia. Metodologia. Estudo observacional transversal baseado em dados coletados em pesquisas com estudantes de uma instituição de ensino de Bucaramanga entre 2006 e 2017, nos quais foi realizada uma análise bivariada entre características sociodemográficas e comportamentais com baixa acuidade visual. Resultados. A prevalência de baixa acuidade visual foi de 33.57%, com maior prevalência de baixa acuidade visual em mulheres e naqueles com maior índice de massa corporal. A baixa acuidade visual não teve associação estatisticamente significativa com as demais variáveis estudadas. Discussão. As mulheres apresentam maior prevalência de baixa acuidade visual. Parece haver uma relação entre atividade física e acuidade visual. Conclusões. As diferenças encontradas segundo o sexo podem ser decorrentes de diferentes padrões comportamentais entre homens e mulheres, como atividade física e sedentarismo. Estudos são necessários para avaliar a causalidade da associação entre problemas de acuidade visual e hábitos de vida pouco saudáveis. Palavras-chave: Acuidade Visual; Adolescente; Comportamento Sedentário; Visão Ocular; Baixa Visão.

Efficacy of fitting HydroCone (Toris K) contact lenses for the visual rehabilitation of patients with posterior microphthalmos / Eficácia da adaptação de lentes de contato HydroCone (Toris K) para reabilitação visual de pacientes com microftalmia posterior

ABSTRACT Purpose: To evaluate the efficacy of soft HydroCone silicone hydrogel contact lenses in patients with posterior microphthalmos. Methods: The charts of 13 patients with posterior microphthalmos (26 eyes) who were fitted with soft HydroCone silicone hydrogel contact lenses were reviewed retrospectively. All the patients underwent assessments of uncorrected and best spectacle-corrected visual acuity and cycloplegic refraction. They were fitted with contact lenses according to the parameter values obtained from the topographical analysis and best contact lens-corrected visual acuity measurement. Results: The spherical equivalents of the right and left eyes ranged from 10.00 to 19.25 diopters and from 11.00 to 21.5 diopters, respectively. The mean axial and posterior chamber lengths were shorter than those of the age-matched population. However, the mean values of the anterior segment parameters such as horizontal visible iris diameter, central anterior chamber depth, lens thickness, and central corneal thickness were in the normal range. The mean keratometric measurements revealed increased corneal curvature compared with that in the normal population. The mean best contact lens-corrected visual acuity was significantly higher than the mean best spectacle-corrected visual acuity for both eyes (p=0.045). Conclusion: HydroCone silicon soft contact lenses provided better visual acuity than spectacles in the patients with posterior microphthalmos in this study.

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar a eficácia das lentes de contato gelatinosas HydroCone, de hidrogel com silicone, em pacientes com microftalmia posterior. Métodos: Foram revisados retrospectivamente 26 olhos com microftalmia posterior, a partir dos prontuários de 13 pacientes que receberam lentes de contato gelatinosas HydroCone, de hidrogel com silicone. Todos os pacientes foram submetidos ao exame de acuidade visual não corrigida e com melhor correção por óculos e com refração cicloplégica. Todos os pacientes receberam lentes de contato de acordo com os parâmetros obtidos na análise topográfica e foi obtida a melhor acuidade visual corrigida com lentes de contato. Resultados: O equivalente esférico do olho direito variou de 10,00 a 19,25 dioptrias, e o do olho esquerdo de 11,00 a 21,5 dioptrias. Os comprimentos médios axiais e das câmaras posteriores foram menores do que para a população de mesma idade. No entanto, os valores médios dos parâmetros do segmento anterior, como o diâmetro horizontal visível da íris, a profundidade da câmara anterior central, a espessura da lente e a espessura central da córnea estavam dentro da faixa normal. Os valores médios da ceratometria revelaram curvatura corneana aumentada em relação à população normal. A média da melhor acuidade visual corrigida com lentes de contato foi significativamente maior que a média da melhor acuidade visual corrigida com óculos em ambos os olhos (p=0,045). Conclusão: As lentes de contato gelatinosas de silicone HydroCone proporcionam melhor acuidade visual que óculos em pacientes com microftalmia posterior.

Participación de pacientes en la guía de práctica clínica de baja visión / Involvement of patients in the clinical practice guideline for low vision / Participação de pacientes na diretriz de prática clínica de visão subnormal

Objetivo: como parte de la elaboración de una guía de práctica clínica (GPC) para el cuidado de personas con baja visión en Colombia, se recomienda incluir la participación de pacientes. El objetivo fue identificar los aspectos de la vida cotidiana que se ven más afectados por la baja visión, los cuales se deben trabajar en un proceso de rehabilitación de la visión y así reconocer las barreras para acceder a ese proceso. Además, se pretende calificar la importancia de los desenlaces para los pacientes y sus cuidadores. Metodología: pacientes con baja visión y sus familiares fueron invitados a participar en un grupo focal que indagó por sus percepciones sobre los aspectos más afectados por la baja visión, los elementos más importantes de los procesos de rehabilitación de la visión y sus barreras más frecuentes. Resultados: se reportaron dificultades en la realización de las actividades instrumentales, como el uso del computador o celular, el uso del transporte público, el manejo del dinero, ir de compras, la movilidad y la orientación. La rehabilitación de la visión exitosa fue definida como aquella que les permite recuperar la independencia y ganar confianza en sí mismos. Las intervenciones de rehabilitación que mejoren las capacidades de orientación y movilidad, que incluyan acompañamiento psicológico para el paciente y la familia y que cuenten con enfoques grupales fueron altamente apreciadas. Las barreras administrativas fueron las más mencionadas. Conclusión: estos resultados apoyaron la toma de decisiones en el desarrollo de las recomendaciones de la GPC para personas con baja visión en Colombia.

Objective: As part of the development of a clinical practice guideline (CPG) for the care of individuals with low vision in Colombia, it is recommended to include patient involvement. The objective was to identify aspects of daily life most affected by low vision, which should be addressed in a vision rehabilitation process, and to recognize barriers to accessing that process. Additionally, the aim was to assess the importance of outcomes for patients and their caregivers. Methodology: Patients with low vision and their family members were invited to participate in a focus group that explored their perceptions regarding the most affected aspects of low vision, the key elements of vision rehabilitation processes, and the most common barriers they face. Results: Difficulties were reported in performing instrumental activities such as computer or cellphone use, using public transportation, handling money, shopping, mobility, and orientation. Successful vision rehabilitation was defined as the ability to recover independence and gain self-confidence. Rehabilitation interventions that improve orientation and mobility skills, include psychological support for patients and their families, and incorporate group approaches were highly valued. Administrative barriers were the most frequently mentioned.

Objetivo: Como parte do desenvolvimento de uma diretriz de prática clínica (CPG) para o atendimento de pessoas com baixa visão na Colômbia, recomenda-se incluir a parti-cipação dos pacientes. O objetivo foi identificar os aspectos do cotidiano mais afetados pela baixa visão, que devem ser trabalhados em um processo de reabilitação da visão e assim reconhecer as barreiras para acessar esse processo. Além disso, pretende-se qualificar a importância dos desfechos para os pacientes e seus cuidadores. Metodologia: os pacientes com baixa visão e seus familiares foram convidados a par-ticipar de um grupo focal que indagou sobre suas percepções sobre os aspectos mais afetados pela baixa visão, os elementos mais importantes dos processos de reabilitação da visão e suas barreiras mais frequentes. Resultados: foram relatadas dificuldades na realização de atividades instrumentais, como uso do computador ou celular, uso de transporte público, administração do dinheiro, compras, locomoção e orientação. A reabilitação visual bem-sucedida foi definida como aquela que lhes permite recuperar a independência e ganhar autoconfiança. Intervenções de reabilitação que melhoram as habilidades de orientação e mobilidade, que incluem apoio psicológico para o paciente e a família e que têm abordagens em grupo foram muito apreciadas. As barreiras administrativas foram as mais mencionadas. Conclusão: estes resultados apoiaram a tomada de decisões no desenvolvimento das recomendações CPG para pessoas com baixa visão na Colômbia.