Pérdida de agudeza visual progresiva en paciente con proptosis. Caso clínico y revisión de la literatura / Progressive visual impairment in a patient with proptosis. Case report and review of the literature.

Introducción: a raíz del siguiente reporte de caso clínico se pretende repensar el diagnóstico diferencial de los tumores orbitales y revisar la literatura existente al respecto. Caso: paciente de 54 años, fumadora, acude a nuestro centro por una pérdida de agudeza visual progresiva de dos años de evolución en el ojo derecho, que se acompañaba de proptosis. Las pruebas de imagen basadas en resonancia magnética y tomografía por emisión de positrones ­ tomografía computarizada (PET-TC) realizadas describían una lesión intraconal derecha de morfología indefinida, que rodeaba el nervio óptico. El estudio inmunohistoquímico y molecular anatomopatológico confirmó la sospecha de síndrome linfoproliferativo extranodal de bajo grado. Discusión: el manejo endoscópico de estas lesiones puede resultar en una menor comorbilidad en comparación con el abordaje externo tradicional. El papel de la cirugía radica en la obtención de una muestra de la lesión que permita un correcto diagnóstico. Conclusiones: el abordaje multidisciplinar con oftalmólogos, hematólogos y expertos en radioterapia permite obtener buenos resultados quirúrgicos y clínicos en la inmensa mayoría de casos.

Introduction: as result of the following clinical case report, we intend to review the differential diagnosis of orbital tumors and review the existing literature in this regard. Case report: a 54-year-old smoking patient, consulted to our department due to a progressive visual impairment over the last two years in her right eye. She presented proptosis in her clinical examination. Imaging studies based on MRI and PET-CT described a right intraconal lesion with an undefined morphology surrounding the optic nerve. Orbital tumors differential diagnosis is delicate. Nevertheless, Non-Hodgkin lymphomas followed by metastasis are the two most common found in this location. The immunohistochemistry and molecular studies, confirmed the suspected diagnosis of extranodal low-grade lymphoproliferative syndrome. Discussion: endoscopic management of these lesions may result in a lower comorbidity compared to traditional external approaches. Role of surgery lays in obtainment of a quality sample which allows a proper diagnosis. Conclusions: multidisciplinary approach with ophthalmologists, hematologists and radiotherapy experts enhance good surgical and clinical results in the vast majority of cases.

Estudo das causas de cegueira e baixa de visão em uma escola para deficientes visuais na cidade de Bauru / The study of the causes of blindness and low vision in a school for visual disabilities in Bauru city

RESUMO Objetivo: Analisar as causas de cegueira dos alunos do Lar Escola Santa Luzia Para Cegos no município de Bauru, Estado de São Paulo. ambém avaliamos e discutimos o grau de inserção social dos alunos e a facilidade de acesso à saúde e locomoção dos deficientes visuais. Métodos: Foi realizado estudo prospectivo, qualitativo e quantitativo com todos os 66 alunos do Lar Escola "Santa Luzia" Para Cegos no município de Bauru. Cada pessoa com deficiência visual respondeu a questionários sobre diversos temas e foi submetido a um exame oftalmológico que constou de: anamnese, refração e acuidade visual corrigida (AV), biomicroscopia, tonometria e exame de fundo de olho. Resultados: Do total de 66 alunos da escola, 44 participaram do estudo e 22 não quiseram ou não puderam comparecer à consulta oftalmológica. 56,81% (25) do total de participantes eram homens e 43,19% (19) mulheres. Os desafios dos alunos deste estudo compreendem basicamente a locomoção com maior autonomia, além de maiores recursos disponíveis em informática e braile. As causas mais frequentes de deficiência visual no presente estudo, em ordem crescente de prevalência foram: atrofia óptica, meningite, retinocoroidite por toxoplasmose, neurite óptica, DMRI, retinopatia da prematuridade, descolamento tracional de retina, hidrocefalia, tumor ocular, glaucoma congênito, uveíte, glaucoma, retinose pigmentar, descolamento de retina regmatogênica e trauma ocular. Conclusão: Medidas governamentais e o apoio da sociedade no sentido de uma intervenção de maneira eficaz e transformadora e de valores sociais solidários em prol da pessoa com deficiência visual são imprescindíveis para a inclusão social.

ABSTRACT Objective: To analyze the causes of blindness among students of the Lar Escola Santa Luzia Para Cegos in the city of Bauru, State of São Paulo. We also evaluated and discussed the degrees of social insertion of the students and the access to health and locomotion of the visually impaired. Methods: A prospective, qualitative and quantitative study was performed with all 66 students of the Lar Escola Santa Luzia para Cegos in the city of Bauru. Each person with visual impairment answered several questionnaires on various subjects and underwent an ophthalmologic examination consisting of: anamnesis, refraction and corrected visual acuity (VA), biomicroscopy, tonometry and fundus examination. Results: Out of the total of 66 students in the school, 44 participated in the study and 22 did not want or could not attend the ophthalmological visit. 56.81% (25) of the total participants were men and 43.19% (19) women. The students' challenges in this study basically include locomotion with greater autonomy, as well as greater resources available in computer science and Braille. The most frequent causes of visual impairment in the present study, in increasing order of prevalence were: optic atrophy, meningitis, toxoplasmosis retinocoriditis, optic neuritis, AMD, retinopathy of prematurity, tractional retinal detachment, hydrocephalus, ocular tumor, congenital glaucoma, uveitis, glaucoma, pigmentary retinitis, regmatogenic retinal detachment and ocular trauma. Conclusion: Government measures and the support of the society for effective and transformative intervention and solidarity-based social values for the visually impaired are essential for social inclusion.

Ayudas ópticas y no ópticas en la baja visión / Visual and not visual aid in low vision

Este estudio se propone conocer la ayuda visual mejor aceptada por pacientes de visión baja, para lo cual se realizó una revisión bibliográfica con el fin de contribuir al ejercicio optométrico. Se revisaron un total de 28 artículos del año 2007 a la fecha actual. En las diferentes patologías en estudio se encontró que la ayuda visual mejor aceptada para la visión cercana fueron las lupas, y para la visión lejana eran más usados los telescopios(AU)

The aim of this study is to determine which is the most frequent visual aid use in low vision. Twenty-eight articles were consulted in a period from 2007 until now. It was observed that for near vision the hans spectacles were the best aid and for far vision telescope were more used(AU)

Causes of low vision in patients referred to the Low Vision Service in a Reference Center of Ophthalmology / Causas de baixa visão em pacientes encaminhados ao Serviço de Visão Subnormal em um Centro de Referência em Oftalmologia

Abstract Purpose: To identify the prevalence of the most common diseases diagnosed in the Low Vision Service (LVS) Methods: Seven hundred and thirteen patient's clinical records were evaluated. The best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) in the better eye was collected. All of the diagnosed diseases related to visual impairment were identified and classified. A total of 220 patients (36.6%) fulfilled the concept of low vision (group 1), and 381 patients (63.39%) presented legal blindness (groups 2, 3, 4 and 5), according to the WHO Study Group on the Prevention of Blindness (Geneva, l972). Results: The most prevalent disorder was the group of Retinal Inherited Distrophies (n=124; 20.63%). Following the first group were Ocular toxoplasmosis with chorioretinal scars (118 cases, representing a prevalence of 19.63%), Myopic Maculopathy (38-6.32%), Age related Macular Degeneration (AMD) (36 cases, representing a prevalence of 6%). Conclusion: Planning and implementing preventive actions in ophthalmology requires appropriate comprehension about regional clinical problems. Social support, and a proper partnership between educational and health systems, are important to improve visual outcomes in patients diagnosed with low vision and legal blindness.

Resumo Objetivo: identificar a prevalência dos distúrbios mais comuns em pacientes do Serviço de Visão Subnormal do Centro de Referência de Oftalmologia (CEROF - UFG). Método: Foram avaliados 713 registros de pacientes, t odos apresentavam erros refrativos corrigidos. Coletaram-se dois elementos: melhor acuidade visual corrigida (MAVC) no melhor olho e o diagnóstico da doença oftalmológica responsável pela deficiência visual. Todos os grupos etários foram incluídos, sem distinção entre sexo ou raça. Resultados: As doenças mais prevalentes foram distrofias retinianas hereditárias (124 pacientes; 20,63%), cicatrizes coriorretinianas por toxoplasmose (118-19,63%), maculopatia miópica (38-6,32%), Degeneração macular relacionada à idade (DMRI) (36-6%). 220 pacientes (36,6%) preencheram critério de baixa visão (grupo 1), e 381 (63,39%) apresentaram definição de cegueira legal (grupos 2, 3, 4 e 5) recomendada pelo Grupo de Estudos para a Prevenção da Cegueira WHO (Genebra, l972). Conclusão: Estudos nacionais mostram resultados semelhantes sobre cicatrizes coriorretinianas. Estudos epidemiológicos mostram maior prevalência de DMRI, provavelmente porque as clínicas oftalmológicas primárias falham no encaminhamento destes pacientes. A proporção de cegueira relacionada à ROP nos países desenvolvidos é maior, possivelmente porque não há plano de ação público oferecendo acompanhamento oftalmológico adequado para essas crianças. Não havia número significativo de pacientes com glaucoma congênito no departamento, o que pode se relacionar com as condições socioeconômicas e saúde no Brasil. Ações preventivas em oftalmologia necessitam de conhecimento científico de problemas oftalmológicos regionais aplicados à realidade, que será foco de tal ação. Um suporte social, incluindo parceria entre escola, família e sistema público de saúde, seria importante para gerar benefícios para a população.

Causes of visual impairment and blindness in children at Instituto Benjamin Constant Blind School, Rio de Janeiro / Causas de baixa visão e cegueira infantil na Escola para cegos do Instituto Benjamin Constant, Rio de Janeiro

Abstract Objective: To determine the main causes of visual impairment and blindness in children enrolled at Instituto Benjamin Constant blind school (IBC) in 2013, to aid in planning for the prevention and management of avoidable causes of blindness. Methods: Study design: cross-sectional observational study. Data was collected from medical records of students attending IBC in 2013. Causes of blindness were classified according to WHO/PBL examination record. Data were analyzed for those children aged less than 16 years using Stata 9 program. Results: Among 355 students attending IBC in 2013, 253 (73%) were included in this study. Of these children, 190 (75%) were blind and 63 (25%) visually impaired. The major anatomical site of visual loss was retina (42%), followed by lesions of the globe (22%), optic nerve lesions (13.8%), central nervous system (8.8%) and cataract/pseudophakia/aphakia (8.8%). The etiology was unknown in 41.9% and neonatal factors accounted for 30,9% of cases. Forty-eight percent of cases were potentially avoidable. Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) was the main cause of blindness and with microphthalmia, optic nerve atrophy, cataract and glaucoma accounted for more than 50% of cases. Conclusion: Provision and improvement of ROP, cataract and glaucoma screening and treatment and programs could prevent avoidable visual impairment and blindness.

Resumo Objetivo: Determinar as causas de cegueira e deficiência visual nas crianças matriculadas na Escola do Instituto Benjamin Constant (IBC) em 2013, para contribuir na elaboração de estratégias de controle e prevenção de causas evitáveis de cegueira. Métodos: Desenho de estudo: observacional do tipo transversal. Os dados foram coletados através dos prontuários dos alunos matriculados na Escola em 2013. As causas de cegueira foram classificadas de acordo com os registros de exames elaborados pela OMS/IAPB. Os dados foram analisados, em crianças com idade abaixo de 16 anos, usando o Programa Stata9. Resultados: Entre 355 alunos matriculados no IBC em 2013, 253 (73%) foram incluídos nesse estudo. Dessas crianças, 190 (75%) eram cegas e 63 (25%), deficientes visuais. O principal sítio anatômico, responsável pela perda visual, encontrado foi a retina (42%), seguido de lesões do globo ocular (22%), lesões no nervo óptico (13,8%), cegueira de origem no sistema nervoso central (8,8%) e catarata/pseudofácico/afácico (8.8%). A etiologia foi desconhecida em 41,9% e fatores neonatais corresponderam a 30,9% dos casos. Quarenta e oito porcento dos casos foram potencialmente evitáveis. Retinopatia da prematuridade (ROP) foi a principal causa de cegueira e microftalmia, atrofia do nervo óptico, catarata e glaucoma contaram com mais de 50% dos casos. Conclusão: A oferta e melhoria de programas de triagem e tratamento do ROP, catarata e glaucoma podem prevenir os casos de deficiência visual e cegueira evitáveis.

Baixa visão secundária a osteoma de coroide / Reduced vision caused by choroid osteoma

RESUMO Relatamos um caso de osteoma de coroide em uma paciente feminina de 25 anos. Apresentava uma lesão amarelada e elevada no polo posterior, característica da lesão tumoral. O diagnóstico foi confirmado com a ultrassonografia ocular. A paciente apresentava baixa acuidade visual e edema de mácula, que melhorou após injeção intravítrea de bevacizumab.

ABSTRACT The authors present a case of choroidal osteoma diagnosed in a 25-year-old female patient. A well-defined and slightly elevated yellow lesion located in the posterior pole of the right eye was suspected to be a tumor. Confirmation of diagnosis was obtained with A and B ecography. The patient had low vision and macular edema, which improved after intraocular injection of bevacizumab .

As principais causas de cegueira e baixa visão em escola para deficientes visuais / The main causes of blindness and low vision in school for blind

RESUMO Objetivo: Identificar e analisar as principais causas de cegueira e baixa visão em escola para deficientes visuais. Métodos: Foram revisados 165 prontuários de alunos portadores de deficiência visual em instituição especializada no ensino de cegos, atendidos no período de agosto de 2013 a maio de 2014. As variáveis analisadas foram: idade, gênero, acuidade visual, diagnóstico principal e secundário, tratamento, recursos ópticos prescritos e prognóstico. Resultados: Dos 165 alunos avaliados, 91 alunos (55%) são legalmente cegos e apenas 74 (45%) dos alunos são enquadrados como baixa visão. As principais causas identificadas foram: retinopatia da prematuridade (21%), atrofia de nervo óptico (18%), glaucoma congênito (16%), distrofias retinianas (11%) e neoplasias (8%). As causas de baixa visão foram: catarata congênita (18%), glaucoma congênito (15%) e cicatriz de retinocoroidite (12%). As causas de cegueira evitáveis (preveníveis ou tratáveis) no estudo perfizeram um total de 52%. Conclusão: As principais causas de cegueira e baixa visão nos alunos do Instituto Benjamin Constant são por doenças evitáveis.

ABSTRACT Objective: Identify and analyze the main causes of blindness and low vision in school for blind. Methods: One hundred sixty-five medical records of visually impaired students were reviewed in an institution specialized in teaching the blind, treated between august 2013 and may 2014. The variables analyzed were age, sex, visual acuity, primary and secondary diagnoses, treatment, optical prescription features and prognosis. Results: 165 students were evaluated, 91 students (55%) are legally blind and only 74 (45%) of the students are classified as low vision. The main causes of blindness were: retinopathy of prematurity (21%), optic nerve atrophy (18%), congenital glaucoma (16%), retinal dystrophy (11%) and cancer (8%). The causes of low vision were: congenital cataract (18%), congenital glaucoma (15%) and retinochoroidal scarring (12%). Conclusions: The main causes of blindness and low vision in the Benjamin Constant Institute are from preventable diseases.

Visual impairment, rehabilitation and International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health / Deficiência visual, reabilitação e Classificação Internacional de Funcionalidade, Incapacidade e Saúde

Objetive: To describe the characteristics of people with visual impairment who participated in the Visual Rehabilitation Groups, according to the ICD-10 and the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF). Methods: Quantitative, cross-sectional survey, developed in a university rehabilitation research center between october and december 2012. The users from the Visual Rehabilitation Groups were invited; 13 of them agreed to participate. We performed an occupational therapy evaluation – with anamnesis, performance evaluation and functional vision assessment – an analysis of medical charts and patient description with the use of the ICF Results: The major causes of visual impairment were diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, optical neuritis and keratoconus. Some functions and structures of the body, performance and capabilities in activities and participation, environmental factors facilitators or limiters were highlighted in this study, allowing the description of the characteristics of each participant through the functionality and the improvement of the therapeutic planning. Assistive technologies, optical and non-optical aids used and their everyday benefits were presented. Conclusion: Visual loss, at any level, led to functional impairments, limiting and restricting the participation and performance in everyday activities, interfering with the individuals’ independence, autonomy and quality of life. However, the use of optical aids, non-optical aids and environmental adaptations proved to be beneficial for increasing the functionality, showing the influence of external factors on the performance. Knowing and recognizing the existence of diversities within the visual impairment universe allows us to understand who the treated individual is, avoiding the generalization by the visual condition. The ICF showed to have a fundamental role in this context. .

Objetivo: Descrever as características das pessoas com deficiência visual participantes de Grupos de Reabilitação Visual, segundo a CID-10 e a Classificação Internacional de Funcionalidade, Incapacidade e Saúde (CIF). Métodos: Pesquisa quantitativa de corte transversal, desenvolvida em um centro universitário de pesquisas em reabilitação entre outubro e dezembro de 2012. Usuários de Grupos de Reabilitação Visual foram convidados, sendo 13 os que aceitaram participar. Foi realizada avaliação de terapia ocupacional – com anamnese, avaliação de desempenho e avaliação funcional da visão – consulta aos prontuários e a classificação dos participantes utilizando a CIF. Resultados: As principais causas de deficiência visual foram retinopatia diabética, glaucoma, neurite óptica e ceratocone. Algumas funções e estruturas do corpo, desempenho e capacidades em atividades e participação, fatores ambientais facilitadores ou limitadores foram destacados neste estudo, possibilitando descrever as características de cada participante por meio de sua funcionalidade e auxiliando no planejamento terapêutico. Tecnologias assistivas, auxílios ópticos e não ópticos utilizados e seus benefícios cotidianos foram apresentados. Conclusão: A perda visual, em qualquer nível, levou a prejuízos funcionais, limitando e restringindo a participação e o desempenho em atividades cotidianas, interferindo na independência, autonomia e qualidade de vida dos sujeitos. Entretanto, o uso de recursos ópticos, não ópticos, auxílios e adaptações ambientais mostraram-se benéficos para a ampliação da funcionalidade, evidenciando a influência de fatores externos no desempenho do indivíduo. Conhecer e reconhecer a existência da diversidade dentro do universo da deficiência visual possibilita entender quem é o sujeito atendido, evitando a generalização pela condição visual, tendo a CIF papel fundamental nesse contexto. .

Prevalence and causes of blindness in an urban area of Paraguay / Prevalência e causas de cegueira em uma população urbana do Paraguai

PURPOSE: To determine the prevalence and causes of blindness in Piribebuy, Paraguay. METHODS: A population based study was conducted from September to November 2007 in Piribebuy, Paraguay. Based on the city map, seven clusters were randomly selected, containing 22 to 36 squares (423 to 578 houses) each, where all subjects > 40 years old who agreed to participate were included in the study. Presenting vision acuity (VA) was obtained for each eye, with 'E' Snellen charts 6 meters far from the patient with appropriate light. Eyes with VA<20/60 were also tested with the pinhole. Objective and subjective refraction was performed, followed by examination of anterior segment under the slit-lamp, Goldmann applanation tonometry, and pupil dilatation with 0.5% tropicamide plus 0.5% phenylephrine, followed by evaluation of the posterior pole. Best corrected visual acuity was used to classify the patients as follows: blindness was defined as visual acuity of the better eye <20/400, low vision as 20/400

OBJETIVO: Determinar a prevalência e causas de cegueira em Piribebuy, Paraguay. MÉTODOS: Um estudo populational foi conduzido de setembro a novembro de 2007 em Piribebuy, Paraguay. Baseado no mapa da cidade, sete agrupamentos foramaleatoriamente selecionados, contendo 22 a 36 quarteirões (423 a 578 casas) cada, onde todos os indivíduos > 40 anos de idade, que concordaram em participar, foram incluídos no estudo. A acuidade visual (AV) conforme apresentada foi obtida para cada olho, com Tabela de Snellen a 6 metros do paciente, com luz apropriada. Olhos com AV<20/60 também foram testados com orifício estenopeico. Refrações objetiva e subjetiva foram realizadas, seguido de avaliação da câmara anterior sob lâmpada de fenda, tonometria de aplanação de Goldmann e dilatação pupilar com tropicamida a 0.5% e fenilefrina a 0.5%, seguido de avaliação do polo posterior. A melhor acuidade visual corrigida foi usada para classificar os pacientes nos seguintes grupos: cegueira foi definida como acuidade visual do melhor olho <20/400, baixa visão como 20/400

Diabetic retinopathy and visual disabilities among patients in a rehabilitation program / Retinopatia diabética e deficiência visual entre pacientes de programa de reabilitação

OBJECTIVE: To assess the prevalence of diabetic retinopathy and to evaluate the management of patients with visual disabilities attending at the CEPRE Rehabilitation Program of University of Campinas. METHODS: A retrospective study was carried out based on medical records of patients with visual disabilities attending a vision rehabilitation program. The following variables were studied: gender, age, marital status, level of schooling, social security status, origin, type and cause of visual disability and vision rehabilitation actions. RESULTS: The sample consisted of 155 patients, 55.5 percent males, aged between 12 and 88 years, mean age 41 years old, 34.8 percent were blind and 65.2 percent with low vision disability. Of those blind patients, 81.8 percent reported acquired blindness, and the leading cause was diabetic retinopathy (33.3 percent), followed by glaucoma (16.6 percent), and retinal detachment (15.0 percent). Of those patients with low vision disability, 14.9 percent had diabetic retinopathy, 14.9 percent hereditary syndromes, and 10.9 percent age-related macular degeneration. Vision rehabilitation therapy included interdisciplinary team consultations helping patients go through the mourning process for the loss or impairment of vision, and promoting the enhancement of their skills for performing activities of daily living independently. The management of patients with low vision was also focused on vision rehabilitation. CONCLUSION: The health of the eyes of patients with chronic diseases such as diabetes is at risk. The prevalence of diabetic retinopathy was found to be a cause for visual disability, suggesting the need to assess these patients' access to health care and rehabilitation and promote health education for changing habits and improving quality of life.

OBJETIVO: Verificar a prevalência da retinopatia diabética e as condutas desenvolvidas entre deficientes visuais atendidos pelo Programa de Reabilitação no CEPRE da Universidade Estadual de Campinas. MÉTODOS: O estudo retrospectivo transversal foi desenvolvido a partir da análise de prontuários de pacientes que participaram do programa de reabilitação de deficientes visuais, considerando-se as variáveis: sexo, idade, estado civil, escolaridade, situação de seguridade, procedência, tipo e a causa da deficiência visual e condutas reabilitacionais. RESULTADOS: A casuística constou de 155 pacientes, 55,5 por cento do sexo masculino, faixa etária entre 12 e 88 anos, média de idade de 41 anos, 34,8 por cento cegos e 65,2 por cento com baixa visão. Dos cegos, 81,8 por cento tinham cegueira adquirida, sendo a retinopatia diabética (33,3 por cento) a causa prevalente da cegueira, seguida por glaucoma (16,6 por cento) e descolamento de retina (15,0 por cento). Dos pacientes com baixa visão, 14,9 por cento apresentavam a retinopatia diabética e síndromes hereditárias somaram 14,9 por cento, seguido pela degeneração macular associada à idade (10,9 por cento). As condutas reabilitacionais desenvolvidas para os pacientes com deficiência visual constaram de atendimentos com equipe interdisciplinar propiciando a elaboração do luto pela perda ou diminuição visual, potencializando as habilidades para o desempenho independente e autônomo nas atividades do cotidiano. Entre os pacientes com baixa visão, as condutas enfocaram a reabilitação visual. CONCLUSÃO: Doenças crônicas como o diabetes constituem risco para a saúde ocular. Destacou-se a prevalência da retinopatia diabética entre as causas da deficiência visual, indicando a necessidade de se avaliar o acesso ao atendimento médico e às ações de reabilitação e educação em saúde favorecendo as mudanças de hábitos e qualidade de vida dos pacientes.

Bilateral central retinal arterial obstruction following head trauma: A very rare case report.

A 30-year-old patient presented at our outpatient department with complaints of severe loss of vision in both eyes following a head injury six days back. He also had a fracture at left side of the mandible and a few bruises over the left cheek. External ocular examination revealed subconjuctival hemorrhage in the left eye and bilateral sluggishly reacting pupils. Fundus examination showed white- out retina and a cherry red spot at the macula in both eyes. A clinical diagnosis of bilateral central retinal arterial obstruction (CRAO) was made which was later confirmed by fundus fluorescence angiography. Bilateral CRAO is a rare disease usually found in patients with cardiac embolic diseases, giant cell arteritis or systemic vascular inflammations. Our case is the second reported case in English literature of bilateral CRAO following head trauma.

Causes of visual impairment and blindness among Yemenis with diabetes: a hospital-based study

We assessed the causes of visual impairment and blindness in 694 diabetic patients attending our eye centre in Sana'a, Yemen from 2001 to 2005 by review of their medical records. The mean age of the patients was 53.9 [SD 11.52] years, range 13-95 years, and 382 [55%] were males. According to the World Health Organization definitions, 273 [39.3%] patients had visual impairment and 109 [15.7%] were blind. Cataract, proliferative diabetic retinopathy [PDR] and diabetic maculopathy were the main causes of visual impairment and blindness. Patients with PDR and maculopathy were significantly more likely to have visual impairment compared to patients without retinopathy [RR = 1.99, 95% CI: 1.74-2.28 and RR - 1.84, [95% Cl: 1.60-2.13 respectively] and be blind [RR - 4.69, 95% Cl: 3.70-5.95% and RR= 2.53, 95% CI: 1.92-3.34 respectively]. Diabetic retinopathy is a public health problem in Yemen and national screening and educational programmes are highly needed to reduce the risk of visual impairment and blindness among diabetics

Ocular complications of severe vernal keratoconjunctivitis [VKC] in Yemen

The objective of this study was to assess the ocular complications and visual loss among patients with severe vernal keratoconjunctivitis [VKC]. Four hundred and thirty-one patients with VKC seen at Ibn Al-Haitham Eye Center were the study group. This is a retrospective non-comparative observational study between 01 January 2002 and 31 December 2002. Visual acuity was measured with the standard Snellen visual acuity chart and for children under 5 years of age Kay pictures were used. Visual impairment was assessed by means of the World Health Organization criteria for visual disabilities. Cases with severe VKC that developed ocular complications leading to blindness and severe visual impairment were analyzed. The majority of VKC patients were males [75.9%] with a male:female ratio of 3.1:1. A total of 68 [15.7%] patients [54 boys and 14 girls] had severe VKC. The ocular findings among 20 patients with severe VKC that led to blindness and severe visual impairment included keratoco-nus [7]; steroid-induced cataract [5], central corneal scars [5] and steroid-induced glaucoma [3]. Two of the keratoconus cases developed acute hydrops. Severe VKC in developing countries including Yemen is a potentially blinding disease. Visual loss may be due to keratoconus and corneal scars, as well as complications of the unsuper-vised use of topically administered corticosteroids

Serviço de visão subnormal do Instituto Brasileiro de Oftalmologia e Prevenção da Cegueira (IBOPC): análise dos pacientes atendidos no 1º ano do departamento (2004) / Low vision service at the Instituto Brasileiro de Oftalmologia e Prevenção da Cegueira (IBOPC): analysis of the patients examined on the first year of the department (2004)

Objetivo: Traçar o perfil dos pacientes portadores de baixa visão atendidos no serviço de visão subnormal do Instituto Brasileiro de Oftalmologia e Prevenção da Cegueira (IBOPC). Métodos: Realizou-se um estudo transversal no qual foram revisados 82 prontuários de pacientes com baixa visão, atendidos pelo Serviço Único de Saúde (SUS) no primeiro ano do departamento de Visão Subnormal do Instituto Brasileiro de Oftalmologia e Prevenção da Cegueira em 2004. Os dados analisados foram: sexo, faixa etária, etiologia, acuidade visual inicial e final (pós-refração) para longe e perto, com e sem auxílio óptico e recurso óptico indicado. Resultados: Dos 82 pacientes avaliados, 11 (13,4 por cento) foram excluídos do trabalho por não apresentarem visão subnormal. Dos 71 pacientes restantes, 32 (45 por cento) eram menores de 20 anos. Quanto ao sexo, não houve diferença estatisticamente significante (51 por cento eram mulheres e 49 por cento eram homens). A etiologia mais frequente em crianças e adolescentes foi o glaucoma congênito (15,6 por cento). Em pacientes de 20 a 39 anos prevaleceu a toxoplasmose ocular (21,1 por cento). Entre os pacientes de 40 a 59 anos, a retinose pigmentar foi a patologia mais frequente (19 por cento). Nos idosos, o glaucoma foi a patologia mais encontrada (40 por cento). Trinta e três pacientes (40,2 por cento) tinham acuidade visual entre 20/60 e 20/160. O sistema telescópico foi o único auxílio óptico indicado para longe (44 por cento) e os óculos foram os mais indicados para perto (54,5 por cento). Conclusão: Existe uma alta prevalência de baixa visão em crianças e adolescentes em países em desenvolvimento como o Brasil. Desta forma o oftalmologista precisa criar programas preventivos, melhorar as condições de atendimento e atentar para o diagnóstico precoce e o tratamento destes pacientes.

Purpose: To outline low vision (LV) patients profile of the low vision department of the Instituto Brasileiro de Oftalmologia e Prevenção da Cegueira (IBOPC). Methods: Transversal study of 82 medical charts from the low vision service at the Instituto Brasileiro de Oftalmologia e Prevenção da Cegueira of the first year of the department - 2004, considering age, gender, etiology, distance and near visual acuity with and without optical aids and prescription assistance. Results: Of the 82 available patients, 11 (13.4 percent) were excluded of the study because they did not present low vision. Of the 71 patients, 32 (45 percent) were younger than 20 years old. Regarding the gender, there was not a significant difference (51 percent female and 49 percent male). The most frequent etiology in infants and adolescents was congenital glaucoma and in patients aged between 20-39 years was ocular toxoplasmosis (21.1 percent). In patients with 40-59 years old, pigmentary retinosis was the most frequently pathology (19 percent). In elderly people it was glaucoma (49 percent). Thirty-three patients (40.2 percent) had visual acuity between 20/60 and 20/160. The telescopic system was the only optical aid indicated for distance (44 percent) and glasses were the most indicated for near (54.5 percent). Conclusion: There is a high prevalence of low vision in infants and adolescents that live in developing countries like Brazil. Therefore, ophthalmologists need to be aware to promote early diagnosis and treatment to these patients, creating preventive programs and better assistance conditions.

Characteristics of 681 Low Vision Patients in Korea

The purpose of our study was to evaluate the characteristics and the changes of low vision patients over ten years in Korea, and to establish useful data for planning low vision services, active care and rehabilitation. We conducted a retrospective study of 681 low vision patients who visited two low vision clinics in Seoul from 1995 to 2008. Age and sex distribution, cause of low vision, type of prescribed low vision aids, and changes of the characteristics were reviewed. In result, male were more than female. The age group between 11 and 20-yr-old (18.1%) was the largest age group. Optic atrophy (28.3%) was main causes of low vision. However, elderly low vision patients is increasing and macular degeneration is becoming a leading cause of low vision (P<0.05). One thousand five low vision aids (LVAs) were prescribed for 681 patients (1.46+/-0.62 aids for each patient). Near LVAs were prescribed more than distance LVAs. In most patients, the use of LVAs improved both near and distance visual function. This study is the first survey of a large number of low vision patients over a ten year period in Korea. On the base of this study, the planning of low vision services and more active rehabilitation for low vision patients, especially elderly patients, need in Korea.

Causes and anatomical site of blindness and severe visual loss in Isfahan, Islamic Republic of Iran

This study in 2005 evaluated the causes and major anatomical site of blindness and severe visual loss at a school for blind children in Isfahan province, Islamic Republic of Iran. All 211 students were examined according to the modified WHO/PBL eye examination record: 70.4% were blind, 24.3% had severe visual loss and 5.3% were visually impaired. The major causes of abnormality were hereditary factors [42.7%], prenatal/ neonatal [18.5%] and unknown etiology [35.5%]. The main sites of abnormality were the retina [62.6%], whole globe [17.5%], lens [7.1%] and optic nerve [7.1%]. A high proportion of parents were in a consanguineous marriage [49.2%]. The pattern of blindness in Isfahan encompasses characteristics of both developed and developing countries

Profile of childhood blindness and low vision in Yemen: a hospital-based study

A retrospective review of records determined the frequency and causes of low vision and blindness in all children aged <16 years attending an ophthalmic practice in Sana'a, Yemen between January and December 2001. Of the 1104 children studied, 45 [4.1%] were found to have bilateral blindness and 115 [10.4%] were unilaterally blind; 48 children [4.3%] were bilaterally visually impaired and 109 [9.9%] were unilaterally visually impaired. The main causes of bilateral blindness included cataract, glaucoma and retinal disorders. The most common causes of bilateral low vision included refractive errors, keratoconus and retinal disorders. These results provide a basis for planning blindness prevention programmes in Yemen

Mobile eye services: literature review with special reference to the experience of Al-Basar international foundation

To evaluate the concept of quality assured mobile eye services [MES] in implementing the vision 2020 initiative. Literature review as well as the medical records of Al-Basar International Foundation [BIF] on MES. Emphasis was focused on the causes of blindness, objectives, operation, management and the benefits of MES, a critical appraisal of MES, training for MES and the relationship with other organizations and concerned government agencies. More than 38 countries have been included in this exercise during which more than 620 eye camps have been conducted. More than two million people have benefited from the services provided including medicines and glasses in these eye camps and about 180,000 sight restoring surgeries performed for cataract, glaucoma etc. Quality assured MES are a very important means of tackling the problems of blindness and implementing the vision 2020 initiative. The adoption of this concept by major stake-holders in the prevention of blindness [e.g. WHO, IAPB] will bring an additional momentum to the achievement of this noble goal

rare cause of visual defect in a postpartum woman

Reversible, predominant posterior leucoencephalopathy may develop in patient with preeclampsia, eclampsia or delayed PPE. Its clinicoradiological diagnosis is characterized by clinical findings of headache, visual perception defect, altered mental status, and seizures, in conjunction with radiological findings of posterior cerebral whitematter edema/hypodensities