Toxoplasmosis ocular en lactantes de 0 a 12 meses de edad con toxoplasmosis congénita / Ocular toxoplasmosis in infants 0 to 12 months of age with congenital toxoplasmosis

INTRODUCCIÓN: La toxoplasmosis ocular (TO) es una retinocoroiditis que evoluciona con varios episodios de inflamación y puede presentarse, tanto en la forma congénita o adquirida de la enfermedad, OBJETIVO: Describir la frecuencia y características clínicas de la TO en lactantes de 0 a 12 meses, hijos de madres con serología positiva para toxoplasmosis en el periodo perinatal. METODOLOGÍA: Estudio descriptivo transversal, ambispectivo. Ingresaron lactantes de 0 a 12 meses de edad, cuyas madres tenían serología positiva para toxoplasmosis en el periodo perinatal, remitidos al servicio de oftalmología pediátrica para evaluación. Se recogieron variables demográficas, serología materna y de los lactantes, y los resultados del examen oftalmológico. Los datos fueron analizados en SPSS-v21. RESULTADOS: El 46,4% de 125 lactantes tenían TO, de ellos, 67,2% era de sexo femenino (p = 0,04), la mediana de edad fue de 6 meses, el 41% tenía IgG e IgM positiva. Las lesiones fueron bilaterales en 82,8%, central en 86,2%, e inactivas en 81%. La retinocoroiditis se acompañó de estrabismo en 41%. CONCLUSIONES: La frecuencia de TO en esta población de lactantes con toxoplasmosis congénita, fue elevada. Más de 80% de las lesiones oculares eran inactivas, de localización central y compromiso bilateral.

BACKGROUND: Ocular toxoplasmosis (OT) is a retinochoroiditis that evolves with several episodes of inflammation and can occur both in the congenital or acquired form of the disease, AIM: To describe the frequency and clinical characteristics of OT in infants aged 0 to 12 months, children of mothers with positive serology for toxoplasmosis in the perinatal period. METHODS: Cross-sectional descriptive, ambispective study. RESULTS: Infants from 0 to 12 months of age, whose mothers had positive serology for toxoplasmosis in the perinatal period, referred to the pediatric ophthalmology service for evaluation, were admitted. Demographic variables, maternal and infant serology and the results of the ophthalmological examination were collected. Data were analyzed in SPSS v21 RESULTS: 46.4% of 125 infants had OT, of them 67.2% were female, (p = 0.04) the median age was 6 months, 41% had IgG and IgM positive. The lesions were bilateral in 82.8%, central in 86.2%, and inactive in 81%. Retinochoroiditis was accompanied by strabismus in 41%. CONCLUSIONS: The frequency of OT in this population of infants with congenital toxoplasmosis was high. more than 80% of the eye lesions were inactive, centrally located and bilaterally involved.

Pars plana vitrectomy and visual stimulation for treatment of vitreomacular traction secondary to toxoplasmosis retinochoroiditis in a 5-year-old child / Vitrectomia via pars plana e estimulação visual para tratamento da tração vitreomacular secundária à retinocoroidite por toxoplasmose em criança de 5 anos

ABSTRACT Objective: A unusual case of ocular toxoplasmosis with significant vitreomacular traction is reported. The patient improved significantly following pars plana vitrectomy combined with visual stimulation and occlusion therapy. Methods: The case of a 5-year-old girl with significant unilateral vision loss associated with vitreous condensation and macular traction is described. Results: Pars plana vitrectomy was carried out for vitreomacular traction release. This was followed by visual stimulation and occlusion therapy. Significant improvement was observed. Conclusion: Despite structural damage, the combination of properly indicated surgery and amblyopia management strategies allowed the achievement of maximum vision goals in this case, suggesting structural damage may be associated with functional amblyopia.

RESUMO Objetivo: Relata-se um caso de apresentação atípica de toxoplasmose ocular, com importante tração vitreomacular. A paciente apresentou melhora significativa após vitrectomia via pars plana, com estimulação visual e oclusão. Métodos: Descreve-se o caso de uma menina de 5 anos, com importante perda de visão unilateral associada à condensação vítrea e à tração macular. Resultados: Foi realizada vitrectomia via pars plana para alívio da tração vitreomacular, seguida de estimulação visual e oclusão. Foi observada melhora significativa. Conclusão: Apesar dos danos estruturais, a combinação de cirurgia bem indicada com estratégias de tratamento da ambliopia permitiu alcançar o máximo do potencial visual nesta paciente, sugerindo que os danos estruturais podem estar associados à ambliopia funcional.

Retinocoroiditis toxoplásmica y la evolución del resultado visual en pacientes inmunocompetentes / Toxoplasmic retinochoroiditis and the evolution of visual results in immunocompetent patients

Objetivo: Determinar la evolución del resultado visual en pacientes con toxoplasmosis ocular activa. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio observacional prospectivo longitudinal en 101 pacientes inmunocompetentes con toxoplasmosis ocular activa, atendidos en la consulta de Uveítis del Hospital General Docente "Abel Santamaría", desde enero de 2012 a diciembre de 2018. Se evaluaron las variables localización de la lesión, tamaño, número, episodio, grado de inflamación, complicaciones, recurrencia postratamiento y mejor agudeza visual corregida. Se analizaron los resultados utilizando frecuencias absolutas y relativas, la asociación estadística chi cuadrado, las pruebas U Mann-Whitney o Kruskall Wallis, Friedman y de rangos con signos de Wilcoxon. Resultados: Según la localización de la lesión, los resultados visuales inferiores se presentaron en los pacientes con lesiones en zona I y los mejores se obtuvieron cuando hubo afectación en zona III. Se mostró una mejor evolución del resultado visual en los que tuvieron lesiones menores o iguales a un diámetro papilar. Existió diferencia estadística entre los diferentes grados de gravedad de la inflamación, con tendencia al incremento de la mejor agudeza visual corregida en el tiempo, después del tratamiento. Conclusiones: Durante la evolución de los pacientes inmunocompetentes con toxoplasmosis ocular activa se logra mejoría de la visión(AU)

Objective: Determine the evolution of visual results in patients with active ocular toxoplasmosis. Methods: An observational longitudinal prospective study was conducted of 101 immunocompetent patients with active ocular toxoplasmosis attending the Uveitis Service at Abel Santamaría General University Hospital from January 2012 to December 2018. The variables evaluated were injury location, size, number, episode, degree of inflammation, complications, post-treatment recurrence and best corrected visual acuity. Results were analyzed with absolute and relative frequencies, chi-square statistical association, the Mann-Whitney U or Kruskall Wallis tests, the Friedman test and the Wilcoxon signed-rank test. Results: According to injury location, the lowest visual results were obtained in patients with zone I lesions, whereas the best results corresponded to zone III lesions. A better visual result evolution was achieved in patients with lesions smaller than or equal to a papillary diameter. A statistical difference was found between the various degrees of inflammation severity, with a tendency to an increase in best corrected visual acuity with the passing of time after treatment. Conclusions: Visual improvement is achieved during the evolution of immunocompetent patients with active ocular toxoplasmosis(AU)

Neovascularización coroidea en pacientes con uveítis / Choroidal neovascularization in patients with uveitis

Objetivo: Determinar las características clínicas y epidemiológicas de la neovascularización coroidea en los pacientes con uveítis. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio observacional, descriptivo y transversal en pacientes con diagnóstico de neovascularización coroidea asociada a uveítis, atendidos en el Servicio de Uveítis e Inflamaciones Oculares del Instituto Cubano de Oftalmología "Ramón Pando Ferrer". Resultados: Esta entidad predominó en el sexo femenino, en edad pediátrica y en jóvenes. Se asoció con mayor frecuencia a enfermedades infecciosas, como la toxoplasmosis ocular, y un pequeño número de pacientes desarrolló membrana neovascular coroidea bilateral. Las membranas localizadas con mayor frecuencia fueron las subfoveales. Por angiografía fluoresceínica predominaron las clásicas, mientras el grosor de la membrana neovascular coroidea fue mayor que el grosor foveal central. La agudeza visual mejor corregida en la mayoría de nuestros pacientes fue menor de 85 VAR. Conclusión: La membrana neovascular coroidea asociada a las uveítis es reconocida como una complicación infrecuente, pero compromete de forma severa la visión en estos pacientes(AU)

Objective. To determine the clinical-epidemiological characteristics of choroidal neovascularization in patients with uveitis. Method. An observational, descriptive, cross-sectional study was carried out in patients with a diagnosis of choroidal neovascularization associated with uveitis, attended in the Uveitis and Ocular Inflammations Service of the Cuban Institute of Ophthalmology "Ramón Pando Ferrer". Results. This entity predominated in the female sex, in pediatric age and youth. It was more frequently associated with infectious diseases, such as ocular toxoplasmosis, and a small number of patients developed bilateral choroidal neovascular membrane. The most frequent location of the membranes were the subfoveal ones, by fluorescein angiography the predominantly classic ones and the thickness of the choroidal neovascular membrane was greater than the central foveal thickness. The best corrected visual acuity in most of our patients was less than 85 VAR. Conclusion. CNVM associated with uveitis is recognized as an uncommon complication but one that severely compromises vision in these patients(AU)

Desenvolvimento de sistema estruturado com inteligência artificial para apoio no diagnóstico de patologias oftalmológicas mais relevantes / Development of a structured artificial intelligence system to support the diagnosis of the most relevant ophthalmic diseases

Introdução: A inteligência artificial (IA) está revolucionando a área da saúde. Na oftalmologia, esta tecnologia pode possibilitar diagnósticos mais rápidos e precisos, impedindo a progressão das alterações na visão. Médicos e algoritimosalgoritmos podem ser mais eficientes quando trabalham juntos. Desenvolver um software de IA com alta especificidade e sensibilidade para apoio no diagnóstico de algumas patologias oftalmológicas. Métodos: O software de deep learning foi construído através de redes neurais valendo de duas bases computacionais MobileNet e Inception. Para o treinamento do banco de dados foram utilizadas 2.520 imagens de glaucoma, retinopatia diabética, toxoplasmose ocular, papiledema, descolamento de retina e retina normal. Para a validação foi utilizado 428 imagens patológicas e normais para os cálculos de sensibilidade e de especificidade. Todas as imagens foram cedidas da Sociedade Americana de Especialistas da Retina. Resultados: Os resultados de sensibilidade e especificidade foram no MobileNet de 91% (IC 95%, 89-92%) e 98,5% (IC 95%, 98-99%); no Inception, de 91,4% (IC 95%, 89-93,5%) de 98,4% (IC 95%, 98-98,8%), respectivamente. Não houve diferença significativa entre os dois métodos utilizados. Conclusão: O software apresentou resultados promissores na distinção das condições oftalmológicas pesquisadas. (AU)

Introduction: Artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing health care. In ophthalmology, this technology can enable faster and more accurate diagnoses, preventing the progression of vision Physicians and algorithms are most effective when working together. To develop an AI software with high specificity and sensitivity to support the diagnosis of some ophthalmic diseases. Methods: A deep learning software was built through neural networks using two computational bases, MobileNet and Inception. For training the database, 2520 images of glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, ocular toxoplasmosis, papilledema, retinal detachment, and normal retina were used. For validation, 428 pathological and normal images were used for calculations of sensitivity and specificity. All images were obtained from the American Society of Retina Specialists. Results: The results of sensitivity and specificity were 91% (95% confidence interval [CI], 89-92%) and 98.5% (95% CI, 98-99%) on MobileNet, and 91.4% (95% CI, 89-93.5%) and 98.4% (95% CI, 98-98.8%) on Inception, respectively. There was no significant difference between the two methods. Conclusion: The software showed promising results in distinguishing the main ophthalmic conditions surveyed. (AU)

Toxoplasmose sistêmica associada à forma ocular bilateral atípica mimetizando necrose retiniana aguda / Systemic toxoplasmosis associated to the atypical bilateral ocular involvement mimicking acute retinal necrosis

RESUMO A toxoplasmose ocular pode se manifestar de forma atípica, rara, bilateral e associada à necrose retiniana aguda. É apresentada em pacientes imunossuprimidos, resultando em grave perda visual, se não for solucionada rapidamente. Relata-se um caso atípico de toxoplasmose ocular em paciente diabético, que, em sua internação prévia, já evidenciava aspecto sistêmico, o qual foi elucidado pelo exame clínico oftalmológico e pela anamnese. Além disso, a rotina do setor de uveítes, ao solicitar as sorologias de forma direcionada e criteriosa, foi imprescindível para o diagnóstico da toxoplasmose sistêmica associado à lesão ocular atípica bilateral, mimetizando necrose retiniana aguda com desfecho favorável.

Abstract Ocular toxoplasmosis can present with an atypical, rare, bilateral involvement, and associated with acute retinal necrosis. It occurs in immunosuppressed patients, resulting in severe visual loss, if not quickly solved. We report an atypical case of ocular toxoplasmosis in a diabetic patient, who already showed a systemic aspect in a previous hospitalization, which was elucidated by the ophthalmologic examination and history. In addition, the routine of the uveitis sector requesting serology in a directed and careful way was essential for the diagnosis of systemic toxoplasmosis associated with atypical bilateral ocular lesion, mimicking acute retinal necrosis with good outcome.

Uncommon progression of toxoplasmic papillitis: patient perception and case report / Papilite por toxoplasmose ocular com evolução incomum: percepção do paciente e relato de caso

ABSTRACT Ocular toxoplasmosis frequently presents as necrotizing retinochoroiditis and, less often, as peripapillary chorioretinitis and/or papillitis. The progression from papillitis to peripapillary retinochoroiditis has been rarely described. We report the case of a 52-year-old patient living in southern Brazil, who developed papillitis in the right eye and was treated with systemic corticosteroids (prednisone 0.6 mg/kg/day and pulse therapy with methylprednisolone 15 mg/kg/day, for 3 days). After 14 days, the patient developed peripapillary retinochoroiditis with vitritis and decreased visual acuity (20/60), and was immediately initiated on the classic oral treatment for toxoplasmosis, consisting of pyrimethamine (50 mg/day), sulfadiazine (4 g/day), folinic acid (15 mg every 3 days) and prednisone (0.6 mg/kg/day). The visual acuity of the right eye normalized after treatment (20/20), which lasted approximately 70 days, but scotomas were detected on visual field examination, especially in the lower nasal quadrant. Although two studies mentioned this presentation, our report emphasizes the possible manifestation of ocular toxoplasmosis as papillitis in the initial phase, with progression to peripapillary retinochoroiditis and permanent visual field defects, which justifies early treatment for toxoplasmosis in suspected cases, especially in endemic regions.

RESUMO A toxoplasmose ocular manifesta-se com maior frequência por um quadro de retinocoroidite necrotizante e, com menor frequência, por coriorretinite justapapilar e/ou papilite. A evolução de papilite para retinocoroidite justapapilar raramente foi descrita. Apresenta-se o relato de caso de uma paciente de 52 anos, habitante da Região Sul do Brasil, que iniciou com quadro de papilite em olho direito, sendo tratada com corticoides sistêmicos (prednisona 0,6/mg/kg ao dia e pulsoterapia com metilprednisolona 15mg/kg ao dia, por 3 dias), mas, após 14 dias, evoluiu para retinocoroidite justapapilar, com vitreíte e diminuição de acuidade visual (20/60), sendo imediatamente instituído o tratamento via oral clássico para toxoplasmose, com pirimetamina (50 mg ao dia), sulfadiazina (4 g ao dia) e ácido folínico (15 mg a cada 3 dias), e mantida a prednisona (0.6 mg/kg/dia). A acuidade visual do olho direito normalizou após o tratamento (20/20), que durou em torno de 70 dias, porém desenvolveu escotomas ao exame de campo visual, sobretudo de quadrante nasal inferior. Embora tenham sido encontrados dois trabalhos que mencionam essa forma de apresentação, o presente relato destaca-se por enfatizar a possibilidade de manifestação da toxoplasmose ocular por meio de papilite na fase inicial, que evolui com retinocoroidite justapapilar, causando defeito permanente de campo visual, justificando que se avalie a instituição de tratamento precoce para toxoplasmose dos casos suspeitos, sobretudo em região endêmica.

Reacción en cadena de la polimerasa en fluidos oculares en las formas atípicas de uveítis posterior / Polymerase chain reaction in ocular fluids in atypical forms of posterior uveitis

RESUMEN La toxoplasmosis ocular es la causa de uveítis posterior más frecuente en muchos países. El diagnóstico correcto se basa principalmente en las características clínicas de la enfermedad; pero en las formas de uveítis posterior atípicas se necesita el apoyo del laboratorio para confirmar el diagnóstico y no indicar tratamientos inapropiados. Se resalta el valor de la reacción en cadena de la polimerasa en fluidos oculares en pacientes con títulos serológicos en suero positivos para toxoplasma y presentaciones atípicas de uveítis posterior. Se presenta un caso clínico de una paciente con toxoplasmosis sistémica, confirmada con títulos serológicos en suero positivos, quien concomitó con uveítis posterior bilateral sin características típicas de toxoplasmosis ocular, en la cual la reacción en cadena de la polimerasa de fluidos oculares fue esencial en el diagnóstico. La reacción en cadena de la polimerasa en fluidos oculares constituye una herramienta inequívoca en el diagnóstico correcto de las formas atípicas de uveítis posteriores(AU)

ABSTRACT Ocular toxoplasmosis is the most frequent cause of posterior uveitis in many countries. Correct diagnosis is mainly based on the clinical characteristics of the disease, but in atypical forms of posterior uveitis laboratory support is required to confirm the diagnosis and not indicate inappropriate treatments. Evidence is provided of the usefulness of polymerase chain reaction in ocular fluids from patients with serum serological titers positive for toxoplasma and atypical presentations of posterior uveitis. A clinical case is presented of a female patient with systemic toxoplasmosis confirmed by positive serum serological titers and concomitant bilateral posterior uveitis without typical features of ocular toxoplasmosis, in which polymerase chain reaction in ocular fluids was essential for the diagnosis. Polymerase chain reaction in ocular fluids is an unequivocal tool for the correct diagnosis of atypical forms of posterior uveitis(AU)

Optic nerve involvement in ocular toxoplasmosis: 12 year data from a tertiary referral center in Turkey / Acometimento de nervo óptico na toxoplasmose ocular: um relato de 12 anos de um centro de referência terciário na Turquia

ABSTRACT Purpose: To evaluate the prevalence, clinical characteristics, and types of optic nerve involvement in patients with ocular toxoplasmosis. Methods: For this retrospective cross-sectional study, we examined all patients with active ocular toxoplasmosis referred to our Uveitis Section during the last 12 years, and we included patients with optic nerve involvement in the study. The primary outcome was the prevalence of optic nerve involvement, and secondary outcomes included the types of optic nerve involvement and the final best-corrected visual acuity after treatment. Results: The prevalence of optic nerve involvement was 14.4%, with the leading cause being the activation of a juxtapapillary lesion (70.5%). We found papillitis in two eyes and neuroretinitis in two eyes (11.7% for each). We only detected one optic nerve involvement secondary to a distant active lesion (5.8%). Sixteen patients (94.1%) had unilateral ocular toxoplasmosis. The overall final best-corrected visual acuity after treatment was 10/10 (LogMAR = 0.0) excluding the three patients with a juxtapapillary scar involving the macula. Conclusions: Optic nerve involvement was common in patients with ocular toxoplasmosis. The main type of optic nerve involvement was caused by activation of an old juxtapapillary lesion. Treatment was quickly effective, but the best-corrected visual acuity was dependent on the presence of a scar in the papillomacular bundle.

RESUMO Objetivos: Avaliar a prevalência, características clínicas e tipos de acometimento do nervo óptico em pacientes com toxoplasmose ocular. Métodos: Para este estudo retrospectivo transversal, examinamos todos os pacientes com toxoplasmose ocular ativa encaminhados ao nosso Setor de Uveíte nos últimos 12 anos, e incluímos pacientes com comprometimento do nervo óptico no estudo. O resultado primário foi a prevalência do envolvimento do nervo óptico, e os resultados secundários incluíram os tipos de envolvimento do nervo óptico e a acuidade visual final melhor corrigida após o tratamento. Resultados: A prevalência de acometimento do nervo óptico foi 14,4%, sendo a principal causa a ativação de uma lesão justapapilar (70,5%). Encontramos papilite em dois olhos e neuroretinite em dois olhos (11,7% para cada um). Apenas detectamos um comprometimento do nervo óptico secundário a uma lesão ativa distante (5,8%). Dezesseis pacientes (94,1%) apresentavam toxoplasmose ocular unilateral. A acuidade visual final com melhor correção após o tratamento foi 10/10 (LogMAR= 0,0) excluindo os três pacientes com uma cicatriz justapapilar envolvendo a mácula. Conclusões: O comprometimento do nervo óptico foi comum em pacientes com toxoplasmose ocular. O principal tipo de comprometimento do nervo óptico foi causado pela ativação de uma lesão justapapilar antiga. O tratamento foi rapidamente eficaz, mas a acuidade visual final com melhor correção foi dependente da presença de uma cicatriz no feixe papilomacular.

Ultrasonographic characteristics of active ocular toxoplasmosis / Achados ultrassonográficos em toxoplasmose ocular ativa

ABSTRACT Purpose: To evaluate ophthalmic ultrasonographic findings associated with active ocular toxoplasmosis. Methods: Forty-seven eyes with active ocular toxoplasmosis in 47 patients were subjected to ocular ultrasonography using the transpalpebral technique (10-MHz transducer) and fundus photography. Patient medical records were retrospectively reviewed. Results: Ocular ultrasonography revealed vitritis, posterior vitreous detachment, retinal wall thickening, and non-rhegmatogenous retinal detachment in 47 (100%), 36 [76.6%; partial in 12 (25.5%) and total in 23 (48.9%)], 12 (25.5%), and 5 eyes (10.6%). Thirty-five of the 36 eyes with posterior vitreous detachment (97.2%) exhibited posterior hyaloid thickening; moreover, adhesion to the exudative lesion and vitreoschisis were observed in 4 (11.1%) and 12 eyes (25.5%), respectively. Ultrasonography detected the location of the exudative focus in 12 eyes (25.5%). Conclusion: Ultrasonography is helpful for detecting important intraocular findings of acute ocular toxoplasmosis that can be hindered by medial opacity or posterior synechiae.

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar os achados da ultrassonografia na toxoplasmose ocular ativa. Métodos: Quarenta e sete olhos com toxoplasmose ocular ativa em 47 pacientes foram submetidos à ultrassonografia ocular pela técnica transpalpebral (transdutor de 10 MHz) e fundo de olho. Os prontuários médicos foram revistos retrospectivamente. Resultados: A ultrassonografia ocular revelou vitreíte, descolamento vítreo posterior, espessamento da parede da retina e descolamento de retina não regmatogênico em 47 (100%), 36 [76,6%; parcial em 12 (25,5%) e total em 23 (48,9%)], 12 (25,5%) e 5 olhos (10,6%). Trinta e cinco dos 36 olhos com descolamento vítreo posterior (97,2%) exibiram espessamento hialoide posterior; além disso, a adesão à lesão exsudativa e vitreosquise foi observada em 4 (11,1%) e 12 (25,5%), respectivamente. A ultrassonografia detectou a localização do foco exsudativo em 12 olhos (25,5%). Conclusão: A ultrassonografia é útil na detecção de importantes achados intra-oculares de toxoplasmose ocular aguda que podem ser prejudicados pela opacidade medial ou sinéquia posterior.

Primary Ocular Toxoplasmosis Presenting to Uveitis Services in a Non-endemic Setting

PURPOSE: This study sought to describe the different clinical features and presentations of primary ocular toxoplasmosis in a setting not demonstrating an outbreak of disease.METHODS: This was a retrospective review of patients presenting to uveitis management services in Auckland and Hamilton, New Zealand between 2003 to 2018 with uveitis and positive toxoplasmosis immunoglobulin M serology.RESULTS: We identified 16 patients with primary acquired toxoplasmosis infection and ocular involvement. The mean age was 53 years. Systemic symptoms were reported in 56% (9 / 16). Visual acuity was reduced to 20 / 30 or less in 50% of patients (8 / 16). A single focus of retinitis without a pigmented scar was the salient clinical feature in 69% (11 / 16). Optic nerve inflammation was the sole clinical finding in 19% (3 / 16). Bilateral arterial vasculitis was the sole clinical finding in 13% (2 / 16). A delay in the diagnosis of toxoplasmosis of more than two weeks occurred in 38% (6 / 16) due to an initial alternative diagnosis. Antibiotic therapy was prescribed in all cases. Vision was maintained or improved in 69% (11 / 16) at the most recent follow-up visit (15 months to 10 years). Relapse occurred in 69% (11 / 16), typically within four years from the initial presentation.CONCLUSIONS: Primary ocular toxoplasmosis presenting in adulthood is a relatively uncommon cause of posterior uveitis in New Zealand. This condition should be considered in any patient presenting with retinitis or optic nerve inflammation without a retinochoroidal scar. This disease tends to relapse; thus, close follow-up is required.

Eccentric fixation patterns, clinical findings, and reading speed in patients with bilateral toxoplasmic macular retinochoroiditis / Padrões de fixação excêntrica, achados clínicos e velocidade de leitura em pacientes com retinocoroidite macular bilateral por toxoplasmose

ABSTRACT Purpose: To study visual acuity, refractive errors, eccentric fixation, and reading performance in patients with toxoplasmic macular retinochoroiditis. Methods: Twenty-three participants with bilateral toxoplasmic macular retinochoroiditis and 4 with toxoplasmic macular retinocho­roiditis in their unique eye were evaluated. Participants reported their eye dominance, confirmed by the Portus and Miles test. Best corrected visual acuity, spherical equivalent refraction, magnification need, and reading speed were measured. Microperimetry (MAIA, Centervue - Padova, Italy) recorded the preferred retinal locus and fixation stability by means of the bivariate contour ellipse area. Fourteen eyes from 14 normally sighted subjects served as controls. Results: Mean ± SD best corrected visual acuity was better in the dominant eye than in the nondominant eye: 0.9 ± 0.2 (logMAR 0.5 to 1.4) vs. 1.2 ± 0.3 (logMAR 0.6 to 1.7) (p<0.0001, paired t-test). Spherical equivalent myopia of -4.00 or higher was present in 42% of the eyes. Microperimetry was performed in 42 eyes. Eccentric fixation was observed in all examined eyes. In 14 eyes (33%), the preferred retinal locus was placed (in the retina) superior temporal to the macular lesion, in 10 (24%) superior nasal, in 6 (14%) inferior temporal, and in 12 (28%) inferior nasal. There was no significant difference in the distribution of the preferred retinal locus position between dominant and nondominant eyes (p=0.85, Pearson test). There was no correlation between reading speed and the distance between the preferred retinal locus and the estimated original foveal position (r=-0.09; p=0.73), the bivariate contour ellipse area (r=-0.19; p=0.44), or best corrected visual acuity (r=0.024; p=0.92). Conclusions: Myopia is more prevalent in patients with toxoplasmic macular retinochoroiditis. Reading speed is not dependent on preferred retinal locus position, stability, or visual acuity. Nevertheless, documentation of fixation provides new data on the impact of visual impairment in these patients and may be useful for rehabilitation efforts.

RESUMO Objetivo: Estudar a acuidade visual, erros de refração, fixação excêntrica e desempenho de leitura em pacientes com retinocoroidite macular por Toxoplasmose. Métodos: Vinte e três pacientes com retinocoroidite macular por Toxoplasmose bilateral e quatro com retinocoroidite macular por Toxoplasmose no seu único olho foram avaliados. Os participantes relataram sua dominância ocular, confirmada pelo teste de Portus e Miles. A acuidade visual melhor corrigida, refração em equivalente esférico, magnificação necessária e velocidade de leitura foram medidas. A microperimetria (MAIA, Centervue - Padova, Italy) registrou a estabilidade preferida do locus e da fixação da retina por meio da área da elipse de con­torno bivariada. Quatorze olhos de 14 pacientes com boa visão serviram como controles. Resultados: A média ± DP da acuidade visual melhor corrigida foi melhor no olho do­minante do que no não dominante: 0,9 ± 0,2 (logMAR 0,5 a 1,4) vs. 1,2 ± 0,3 (logMAR 0,6 a 1,7) (p<0,0001, teste t pareado). Miopia em equivalente esférico de -4,00 ou maior estava presente em 42% dos olhos. Microperimetria foi realizada em 42 olhos. Fixação excêntrica foi observada em todos os olhos examinados. Em 14 olhos (33%), o locus retiniano preferencial estava localizado, na retina, na região súpero-temporal à lesão macular, em 10 (24%) súpero-nasal, em 6 (14%) ínfero-temporal, e em 12 olhos (29%) ínfero-nasal. Não houve diferença significativa na distribuição da posição do locus retiniano preferencial entre olhos dominantes e não dominantes (p=0,85, teste de Pearson). Não houve correlação entre velocidade de leitura e distância entre o locus retiniano preferencial e a posição foveal original estimada (r=-0,09; p=0,73), a área bivariada de contorno elipsóide (r=-0,19; p=0,44) ou acuidade visual melhor corrigida (r=0,024; p=0,92). Conclusões: A miopia é mais prevalente em pacientes com retinocoroidite macular por Toxoplasmose. A velocidade de leitura não é dependente da posição do locus retiniano preferencial, da estabilidade ou da acuidade visual. A documentação do padrão de fixação excêntrica, entretanto, oferece novos dados no impacto da deficiência visual nesses pacientes e pode ser útil em estratégias de reabilitação.

Psicofísica visual em caso de toxoplasmose ocular congênita / Visual psychophysics of congenital ocular toxoplasmosis case

Resumo A toxoplasmose ocular congênita é uma manifestação da infecção pelo parasita Toxoplasma gondii que ocorrer por meio placentário. Essa doença pode provocar importantes sequelas visuais. Este trabalho descreve um estudo de caso que utilizou avaliação psicofísica visual para descrever alterações funcionais decorrentes da toxoplasmose ocular congênita. A avaliação foi realizada em paciente de 30 anos, sexo masculino, residente em São Luís (MA), hígido com histórico da mãe ter apresentado infecção por toxoplasmose no período gestacional. Somente aos 26 anos foi feita uma avaliação médica detalhada que descreveu lesão na fóvea do olho direito. Na avaliação clínica clássica e na avaliação psicofísica visual, o paciente apresentou visão normal para o olho esquerdo. O olho direito apresentou baixa acuidade visual (valor decimal: 0,028), campo visual com escotomas localizados até 20º de ângulo visual e alteração da visão de cor. O estudo fornece informações médicas seguras e relevantes para o diagnóstico de toxoplasmose ocular congênita utilizando testes eficazes, de baixo custo e boa portabilidade, possibilitando uma alternativa de diagnóstico funcional para ser aplicada em locais de difícil acesso pelo interior do Brasil.

Abstract Congenital ocular toxoplasmosis is a manifestation of infection by the parasite Toxoplasma gondii that occurs through the placenta. This disease can lead to important visual sequelae. This paper describes a case report that uses visual psychophysics for the alterations of congenital ocular toxoplasmosis. The evaluation was performed in a 30-year-old man, a resident of São Luís (MA), with a history of his mother have had toxoplasmosis in the gestational period. Only at 26 years-old he did the detailed medical evaluation that described a lesion the fovea of the right eye. In the classic clinical examination and in visual psychophysical evaluation, the patient presented normal vision for the left eye. The right eye had low visual acuity (decimal value: 0.028), visual field with scotomas up to 20º of visual angle and alteration of color vision. The study offers safe and relevant medical information for the diagnosis of congenital ocular toxoplasmosis using a low-cost evaluation and with good portability, allowing a functional diagnostic alternative to be applied in places difficult to access in the interior of Brazil.

Surgical outcomes of rhegmatogenous retinal detachment associated with ocular toxoplasmosis / Resultados cirúrgicos do descolamento regmatogênico de retina associado à toxoplasmose ocular

ABSTRACT Purpose: To evaluate the anatomical and functional outcomes of surgical treatment of retinal detachment secondary to ocular toxoplasmosis. Methods: A retrospective analysis of data from patients who had undergone vitreoretinal surgery for retinal detachment secondary to ocular toxoplasmosis was conducted. The parameters that were analyzed include surgical procedures, anatomical outcomes, visual acuity, and postoperative complications. Results: This study included 22 patients, of which 13 were female (59.1%). The mean age was 28.5 years (SD ± 14.5, range 12-78 years) and the follow-up period varied from 1 to 163 months (mean 64 months). The mean baseline best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was 2.0 logMAR (SD ± 1.0). A total of 31 surgeries were performed, and the retina was reattached in 15 patients (68.2%) immediately after the first surgery and in 20 patients (90.9%) at a later point. The mean postoperative BCVA improved to 1.3 logMAR (SD ± 0.9) (p<0.05). Nineteen patients (86.4%) underwent cataract surgery with intraocular lens implant, and 12 patients (60.0%) underwent silicone oil removal. Five patients (22.7%) exhibited elevated intraocular pressure, and 1 patient (4.5%) developed hypotonia. Conclusion: Surgical treatment of retinal detachment secondary to ocular toxoplasmosis resulted in considerable anatomical and functional improvement. Although PPV with silicone oil injection demonstrated the best outcomes, it is not reasonable to conclude that this is the best surgical approach given the small number of patients included in this study.

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar os resultados anatômicos e funcionais após o tratamento do descolamento de retina secundário à toxoplasmose ocular. Métodos: Análise retrospectiva de dados de um banco de dados validado, que incluiu registros de pacientes submetidos à cirurgia vitreorretiniana para descolamento de retina secundário a toxoplasmose ocular. Foram analisados procedimentos cirúrgicos, sucesso anatômico, acuidade visual e complicações pós-operatórias. Resultados: Foram avaliados 22 olhos de 22 pacientes. Treze eram do sexo feminino (59,1%) e a idade média era de 28,5 anos (DP ± 14,5, intervalo de 12 a 78 anos). O período de acompanhamento variou de 1 a 163 meses (média de 64 meses). A melhor acuidade visual corrigida (BCVA) foi 2,0 logMAR (SD ± 1,0). Em geral, entre retinopexia (RSB) e vitrectomia pars plana (PPV) utilizando injeção de óleo de gás ou de silicone (SO), realizaram-se 31 cirurgias. A retina foi considerada colada em 15 olhos (68,2%) na primeira cirurgia e em 20 olhos (90,9%) ao final do estudo. A BCVA pós-operatória média melhorou para 1,3 logMAR (SD ± 0,9) (p<0,05). Dezenove olhos (86,4%) foram submetidos à cirurgia de catarata com implante de lente intraocular e 12 olhos (60,0%) tiveram remoção de óleo de silicone. Cinco olhos (22,7%) desenvolveram pressão intraocu­lar elevada e 1 (4,5%) desenvolveu hipotonia. Conclusão: A abordagem cirúrgica no descolamento de retina secundária a toxoplasmose ocular permitiu importante melhora anatômica e funcional. Embora a PPV com injeção de óleo de silicone tenha demonstrado melhores resultados, não é viável afirmar que é a melhor técnica cirúrgica, devido ao pequeno número e às particularidades dos olhos tratados.

Serologic Tests of IgG and IgM Antibodies and IgG Avidity for Diagnosis of Ocular Toxoplasmosis

This prospective study was aimed to detect acute and chronic ocular toxoplasmosis by comparison of anti-Toxoplasma gondii IgM and IgG antibody levels and IgG avidity test. One hundred and seventeen patients with ocular toxoplasmosis (OT) who referred to the Farabi Eye Hospital, Tehran, Iran were included in this study. Of the patients, 77 cases were positive for anti-T. gondii IgG, and 8 cases were positive for anti-T. gondii IgM. IgG avidity test revealed 11, 4, and 102 cases were low, intermediate, and high, respectively, and 6.8% and 9.4% of cases were positive for IgM and IgG avidity tests, respectively (P=0.632). Agreement (Kappa value) between paired tests IgG-IgM, IgG-IgG avidity, and IgM-IgG avidity was 0.080, 0.099, and 0.721, respectively (P < 0.05). This study showed that conventional serologic tests (IgM and IgG levels) and IgG avidity correlate well each other and can be used to differentiate recent infections from old OT. It seems that reactivated old infections rather than recently acquired infections are majority of Iranian OT patients.

Toxoplasmosis ocular en Colombia: 10 años de aportes investigativos / Ocular toxoplasmosis in Colombia: 10 years of research contributions

Objetivo: Describir aportes investigativos en Toxoplasmosis ocular, realizados en Colombia. Método: Revisión narrativa de la literatura entre 2007 y 2017 en Toxoplasmosis Ocular (TO) en Colombia, sobre aspectos relacionados con el parásito y con el hospedero. Se incluyeron las revisiones publicadas, así como todos los artículos originales relacionados con diversos temas: epidemiológicos, inmunológicos, clínicos, diagnósticos y terapéuticos a través de PubMed usando los términos MeSH, con la siguiente sintaxis: "(((Colombia[Affiliation]) OR colombia[MeSHTerms]) OR south america[MeSH Terms]) AND "toxoplasmosis, ocular"[MeSH Terms] AND ("2007/01/01"[PDAT] : "2017/12/31"[PDAT]). Adicionalmente se realizaron búsquedas manuales. Resultados: En la búsqueda de la literatura con los términos MESH mencionados, se encontraron 36 artículos, distribuidos en el territorio con 10 en Colombia y 26 en el resto de Suramérica. Se encontraron diferencias importantes relacionadas con el parásito y con el hospedero, al comparar Colombia con el mundo. Las cepas en Colombia son más virulentas (Tipo I/III y atípicas). Se encontró una alta prevalencia de títulos positivos y desarrollo de TO en el país, presentándose el agua y los productos cárnicos como uno de los principales medios de contagio. Se determinó la importancia de péptidos que activan la respuesta inmune humoral en pacientes. Se encontraron diferencias significativas en la severidad clínica (tamaño de las lesiones, grado de inflamación, compromiso macular, compromiso bilateral y recurrencias, siendo mayores para los pacientes colombianos) relacionada con la respuesta inflamatoria producida en el hospedero, asociada con una disminución de los niveles intraoculares de IFN-γ /IL-17 y un aumento de IL-6/Il-13. En los pacientes colombianos el citoquinoma ocular está relacionado con las características clínicas, presentando una respuestaTh 2 relacionada con un compromiso severo ocular. Conclusión: Los aportes investigativos que Colombia ha realizado en TO, han sido de importancia mundial, permitiendo conocer más acerca del tipo de parásito, la epidemiología, la presentación clínica y la respuesta inmune.

Purpose: To describe research contributions in ocular toxoplasmosis performed in Colombia. Method: We conducted a narrative review of the literature on ocular toxoplasmosis (OT) in Colombia between 2007 and 2017 on aspects related to the parasite and to the host. Published reviews were included, as well as all the original articles related to various topics: epidemiological, immunological, clinical, diagnostic and therapeutic through PubMed using the MeSH terms, with the following syntax: "(((Colombia [Affi liation]) OR colombia [MeSH Terms]) OR south america [MeSH Terms]) AND "toxoplasmosis, ocular" [MeSH Terms] AND ("2007/01/01" [PDAT]: "2017/12/31" [PDAT]). Hand searches were also conducted. Results: In the literature search with the MESH terms, 36 articles were found, distributed in the territory with 10 in Colombia and 26 in the rest of South America. Important diff erences were found in the relationship between the parasite and the host when comparing Colombia with the rest of the world. The strains in Colombia are more virulent (Type I / III and atypical) and we found a high prevalence of positive titers and development of OT in the country, with water and meat products as one of the main means of contagion. The importance of peptides that triggered the humoral immune response in patients was determined. Significant differences were found in the clinical severity (with Colombian patients experiencing a greater size of lesions, degree of infl ammation, macular involvement, bilateral involvement, and recurrences) related to the infl ammatory response produced in the host, associated with a decrease in intraocular levels of IFN-γ / IL-17 and an increase of IL-6 / Il-13. In Colombian patients, ocular cytokinome is related to clinical features, presenting a Th 2 response related to severe ocular involvement. Conclusion: Research contributions of OT in Colombia have been of global importance, allowing to know more about the type of parasite, the epidemiology, the clinical presentation, the immune response.

Acometimento visceral e ocular simultâneo em infecção por toxocara canis acompanhado de farmacodermia / Concurrent visceral and ocular involvementin toxocara canis infection and pharmacodermia

A toxocaríase humana é uma infecção parasitária de distribuição mundial causada pelos nematelmintos das espécies Toxocara canis e Toxocara cati, presentes no intestino do cão e do gato, respectivamente. Clinicamente, na maioria das vezes, é assintomática, porém pode apresentar-se de duas formas: visceral ou ocular. Visceralmente, gera uma síndrome hipereosinofílica crônica, acompanhada por leucocitose e hepatomegalia, podendo ocorrer algum grau de infiltrado pulmonar e febre. Na toxocaríase ocular, ocorre uveite intermediária ou posterior, podendo haver formação de granuloma, geralmente unilateral. O acometimento misto é raro, o que motivou este relato. Trata-se de paciente de 19 anos, sexo masculino, que apresentou como sintoma inicial perda da acuidade visual em olho esquerdo. Recebeu tratamento, sem melhora, com sulfametoxazol + trimetoprima e corticoide, fazendo farmacodermia. Evoluiu com diarreia, febre, dor abdominal e hepatoesplenomegalia. Descartadas infecções agudas por toxoplasmose, sífilis, vírus da imunodeficiência humana (HIV), citomegalovirose e dengue; apresentou leucocitose com hipereosinofilia. Foi solicitada sorologia para toxocaríase, confirmando esta infecção. Após o tratamento, apresentou completa remissão dos sintomas. O objetivo aqui foi debater os fatores confundidores, diagnósticos diferenciais, necessidade de exames complementares específicos e conduta terapêutica, de acordo com o quadro clínico.(AU)

Human toxocariasis is a worldwide parasitic infection caused by ascarid nematodes species: Toxocara canis and Toxocara cati, that are present in the intestines of dogs and cats, respectively. Although clinically, most human infections are asymptomatic, two syndromes of human toxocariasis are recognized: visceral and ocular. The visceral form is a hypereosinophilic syndrome accompanied by leukocytosis, hepatomegaly, some degree of pulmonary infiltrate and fever. In ocular toxacariasis there is intermediate or posterior uveitis, and there may be granuloma formation, usually unilateral. The simultaneous involvement of the two forms is rare, which is what, motivated this report. It is a 19-year-old male patient who initially presented loss of visual acuity in the left eye. He received treatment, without improvement, with sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim and corticoid, causing a pharmacodermia. He developed diarrhea, fever, abdominal pain and hepatosplenomegaly. It was discarded acute infections by toxoplasmosis, syphilis, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), cytomegalovirus and dengue. The patient also manifested leukocytosis with hypereosinophilia. Serological testing for toxacariasis was requested, diagnosing the infection. After treatment, he progressed with full symptoms remission. The aim of this study was to discuss confounding factors, differential diagnoses, the need for specific complementary exams and therapeutic management, according to the clinical aspects.(AU)

Toxoplasmosis ocular recurrente. Presentación de 3 casos y revisión de la literatura / RECURRENT OCULAR TOXOPLASMOSIS: REPORT OF 3 PATIENTS AND REVISION OF THE LITERATURE

La toxoplasmosis ocular recurrente es la forma más común de toxoplasmosis ocular. Las lesiones se localizan adyacentes a una cicatriz coriorretinal resultado de una infección previamente adquirida. La retinitis por toxoplasma provoca una respuesta inflamatoria variable, ocasionando vasculitis, vitreítis, coroiditis y uveítis anterior. El diagnóstico se realiza examinando el fondo de ojo, y su etiología debe considerarse cuando en un adulto joven inmunocompetente, se observa en la fundoscopía la presencia de una lesión retinal focal, asociada a una cicatriz coriorretinal. La retinografía permite documentar los hallazgos observados en el fondo de ojo. El examen serológico para identificar anticuerpos anti toxoplasma de clase IgM e IgG solo confirma la exposición al parásito pero no constituyen pruebas diagnósticas confirmatorias. Se presentan 3 casos de toxoplasmosis ocular recurrente en pacientes adultos cuyos diagnósticos se realizaron mediante el examen fundoscópico y la retinografía.

Recurrent ocular toxoplasmosis is the most common form of ocular toxoplasmosis. Lesions are located adjacent to a chorioretinal scar as a result of a previously acquired infection. Toxoplasma retinitis produces a variables inflammatory response, leading to vasculitis, vitreitis, choroiditis and anterior uveities. Diagnosis is performed by fundoscopy and its ethiology must be considered when fundoscopy shows the presence of a focal retinal lesion associated to a chorioretinal scar in a young immunocompetent adult. Retinography allows documenting findings from the fundoscopy. Serological examination to identify anti toxoplasma antibodies classes IgM and IgG only confirms exposure to the parasite but do not constitute confirmatory diagnostic evidence. We present 3 cases of recurrent ocular toxoplasmosis in adult patients that were diagnosis by fundoscopic examination and retinography

Análise do controle da toxoplasmose gestacional e ocular nos serviços de Atenção Primária da 15ª Regional de Saúde do Paraná / Control analysis of pregnancy and ocular toxoplasmosis in Primary Care centers of the 15th Health Division of the state of Parana

Introdução: A primo-infecção pelo Toxoplasma gondii na gestação causa um risco de transmissão fetal entre 10% e 100%. Em 2006, a 15ª Regional de Saúde do Paraná criou a Rede de Controle da Toxoplasmose Gestacional e Congênita com referência para o Hospital Universitário de Maringá. Objetivo: avaliar as medidas adotadas pelos profissionais da Atenção Primária, para o controle da toxoplasmose gestacional e ocular. Método: Foram sorteadas 20% das 39 Unidades Básicas de Saúde de quatro municípios pertencentes à 15ª Regional de Saúde. A abordagem aos profissionais que assistiam as gestantes foi mediada por um questionário estruturado. Os dados coletados foram sobre as medidas realizadas: com gestantes soro não reagentes, com suspeita aguda, e com toxoplasmose ocular. Resultados: A maioria dos profissionais desconhecia a rede de controle, maneiras de infecção e medidas profiláticas para toxoplasmose. Conclusão: Isto mostra a importância da atualização profissional e perseverança da educação continuada (AU)

INTRODUCTION The primary infection by Toxoplasma gondii in pregnancy leads to a 10%--100% risk of fetal transmission. In 2006, the15th Health Division of the state of Paraná created the Network for Gestational and Congenital Toxoplasmosis Control with reference to the University Hospital of the city of Maringá. OBJECTIVE to evaluate the measures taken by primary care professionals regarding the control of gestational and ocular toxoplasmosis. METHOD Twenty percent of the 39 Basic Health Units in four municipalities belonging to the 15th Health Division of Paraná. The professionals who attended the pregnant women were interviewed through structured questionnaires. Data were collected on the measures carried out with non-reactive pregnant women, with acute suspicion, and ocular toxoplasmosis. RESULTS Most professionals were unaware of this control network, of the mode of infection, and the toxoplasmosis prophylactic measures. CONCLUSION This shows the importance of professional updating, and perseverance in continuing education (AU)

Ocular sarcoidosis masked by positive IgM for toxoplasmosis / Sarcoidose ocular mascarada por IgM positivo para toxoplasmose

ABSTRACT We report a case of ocular sarcoidosis with positive immunoglobulin (Ig) M and IgG serology for toxoplasmosis. The patient was a young female with red painful eyes, bilateral eyelid edema, and panuveitis with periphlebitis. In laboratory testing, she was IgM and IgG positive for toxoplasmosis and anergic in the tuberculin test. Topical treatment for anterior uveitis and oral antibiotics for toxoplasmosis were started, without improvement. Orbit tomography showed increased lacrimal glands bilaterally, and chest X-ray radiographic findings were consistent with pulmonary sarcoidosis, which supported the presumed ocular sarcoidosis diagnosis. The patient was treated with oral prednisone and methotrexate without antibiotics. She showed clinical and vision improvement without recurrences during the 1-year follow-up. Ocular sarcoidosis is an important differential diagnosis requiring careful anamnesis and ophthalmological examinations. Ancillary tests, such as X-ray radiography, tomography, and clinical and laboratory evaluations may help rule out other causes. Treatment mainly consists of corticosteroids and immunosuppression.

RESUMO Relatamos um caso de sarcoidose ocular com IgM e IgG positivos para toxoplasmose. Mulher jovem com quadro ocular bilateral de dor, vermelhidão, edema palpebral e panuveíte com periflebite. Os testes laboratoriais mostraram IgM e IgG positivos para toxoplasmose, teste tuberculínico anérgico. Realizou-se tratamento tópico da uveíte anterior e antibióticos orais para toxoplasmose, sem melhora. Tomografia de órbita mostrou aumento das glândulas lacrimais bilaterais e radiografia de tórax foi consistente com sarcoidose pulmonar, auxiliando no diagnóstico de sarcoidose ocular presumida. Iniciou-se prednisona e metotrexato orais, sem antibióticos, com melhora clínica e oftalmológica, sem recidivas em 1 ano de follow-up. Sarcoidose ocular é um importante diagnóstico diferencial que exige anamnese e exame oftalmológico cuidadosos. Exames complementares, como raio-X, tomografia computadorizada e avaliação clínica e laboratorial ajudam na avaliação e exclusão de outras causas. O tratamento consiste principalmente no uso de corticosteróide e imunossupressores.