Age-related variations in corneal stress-strain index in the Indian population

Purpose: To report age?related variations in corneal stress–strain index (SSI) in healthy Indians. Methods: It was a retrospective study where healthy Indian individuals aged between 11 and 70 years who had undergone corneal biomechanics assessment using Corvis ST between January 2017 and December 2021 were enrolled. Composite corneal biomechanical parameters and corneal SSI were abstracted from Corvis ST and compared across different age groups using one?way analysis of variance (ANOVA). Also, Pearson’s correlation was used to evaluate the association between age and SSI. Results: Nine hundred and thirty?six eyes of 936 patients with ages between 11 and 77 years with mean ± SD intraocular pressure (IOP) and pachymetry of 16.52 ± 2.10 mmHg and 541.13 ± 26.39 ?s, respectively. Composite corneal biomechanical parameters such as deformation amplitude ratio max at 1 mm (P < 0.001) and 2 mm (P < 0.001), biomechanically corrected IOP (P = 0.004), stiffness parameter at A1 (P < 0.001, Corvis biomechanical index (P < 0.018), and SSI (P < 0.001) were found to be significantly different as a function of age group. We noted a statistically significant positive association of SSI with age (P < 0.001), spherical equivalent refractive error (P < 0.001), and IOP (P < 0.001) and a significant negative association with anterior corneal astigmatism (P < 0.001) and Anterior chamber depth (ACD) (P < 0.001). Also, SSI was positively associated with SPA1 and bIOP, whereas negatively associated with integrated radius, max inverse radius, and Max Deformation amplitude (DA) ratio at 1 mm and 2 mm. Conclusion: We noted a positive association of corneal SSI with age in normal healthy Indian eyes. This information could be helpful for future corneal biomechanical research.

Effect on the Prevalence of Various Diffuse Parenchymal Lung Diseases due to Paradigm Change in the Guidelines

Background: Diffuse parenchymal lung diseases (DPLDs) have gone through various changes in nomenclature and classification since they were first described in 1868. Increasing knowledge about their etiopathogenesis has since led to several reclassifications and changes in the nomenclature. This has had a major impact on the prevalence of each interstitial lung disease (ILD) reported by the different registries worldwide. In this study, we attempted to describe the distribution of the different DPLDs in our population and reported changes in prevalence due to changing diagnostic criteria for the disease. Materials and methods: We analyzed retrospective data of 434 patients. For the initial 75 patients, ATS/ERS guidelines published in 2002 were followed in the diagnosis of the ILD (group I). In the later part of the study (359 patients), the diagnosis was based on the computed tomography (CT) patterns defined by ATS/ERS/JPS/ALAT statement on diagnosis of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) and updated 2013 ATS/ERS guidelines (group II). Results: Of the 75 patients in group I, IPF was the most common diagnosis (52%) made at that time, followed by sarcoidosis and connective tissue-related ILD (CTD-ILD) with 12% each. Group II had 359 patients, with IPF again being the most commonly diagnosed ILD with 21.3%. This was followed by CTD-ILD (18.6%), sarcoid (14.7%), and idiopathic nonspecific interstitial pneumonitis (iNSIP; 13.3%). The changing guidelines have an impact on reporting of different DPLD by our multidisciplinary teamover a period of time. Though IPF was the most commonest DPLD reported among both the groups, the diagnosis of IPF had fallen by more than half in the second group. It was paralleled by an increase in the diagnosis of iNSIP and chronic hypersensitivity pneumonitis. These reported changes in the prevalence of DPLDs may reflect the better-defined criteria in the latest guidelines and a better understanding of the fibrotic ILDs other than IPF by the multidisciplinary team. Conclusions: The frequency of diagnosis of the different DPLDs has changed, following the publication of several guidelines in the last decade. It has recognized newer entities with greater clarity, such as idiopathic NSIP and interstitial pneumonia with autoimmune features.

Analysis Of Applicability Of Tools Of Inventory Control And Knowledge Of Hospital Pharmacists On Methods Of Inventory In The Central Pharmacy Of A Tertiary Care Hospital

Objective: A study was conducted to analyse the applicability of the tools of inventory control of drugs, and the awareness of hospital pharmacists on the inventory tools in the central pharmacy of a tertiary care hospital. Methods: Always Better Control (ABC) and High Moderate Low (HML) analysis were carried out for 4057 drugs purchased in the central pharmacy during the financial year of 2017-2018. The drugs were classified as A, B and C category based on their annual usage value and as Category High (H), Moderate (M) and low (L) drugs based on their unit price respectively. The knowledge of the 80 hospital pharmacists on the tools of inventory control was assessed using a structured questionnaire. Results: Based on ABC analysis, of 4057 drugs, 330 drugs were classified under “A” category accounting to 8.13% of the total number of drugs purchased which was 70.91 % of total annual consumption in money value. The category “B” consisted of 667 drugs accounting to 16.44% of the total number of drugs which was 20.01% of total annual money consumption. Category “C” had 3060 drugs which accounted to 75.42% of the total number of drugs purchased which reflected on 9.01% of annual money consumption. Based on HML analysis, 440 drugs (10%) had a unit price above Rs. 500 and were classified under ‘H’ category. The drugs with unit price between Rs.500 and Rs.100 were grouped as ‘M’ items. There were 695 drugs (17.13%) in ‘M’ category. The ‘L’ category consisted of 2922 drugs (72.02%) with their unit price below Rs.100. Of 80 pharmacists, 84 % had good overall knowledge on the inventory control tools and 59 participants were willing to acquire additional training on inventory control techniques. Conclusion: The study explained the need for the application of ABC and HML analysis, and the involvement of hospital pharmacists in the regular implementation of inventory analysis towards effective management of Pharmacy stores in a hospital setting.

Geographical distribution of primary & secondary dengue cases in India – 2017: A cross-sectional multicentric study

Background & objectives: Dengue virus infection is endemic in India with all the four serotypes of dengue virus in circulation. This study was aimed to determine the geographic distribution of the primary and secondary dengue cases in India. Methods: A multicentre cross-sectional study was conducted at Department of Health Research / Indian Council of Medical Research (DHR)/(ICMR) viral research and diagnostic laboratories (VRDLs) and selected ICMR institutes located in India. Only laboratory-confirmed dengue cases with date of onset of illness less than or equal to seven days were included between September and October 2017. Dengue NS1 antigen ELISA and anti-dengue IgM capture ELISA were used to diagnose dengue cases while anti-dengue IgG capture ELISA was used for identifying the secondary dengue cases. Results: Of the 1372 dengue cases, 897 (65%) were classified as primary dengue and 475 (35%) as secondary dengue cases. However, the proportion varied widely geographically, with Theni, Tamil Nadu; Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh and Udupi-Manipal, Karnataka reporting more than 65 per cent secondary dengue cases while Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir reporting as low as 10 per cent of the same. The median age of primary dengue cases was 25 yr [interquartile range (IQR 17-35] while that of secondary dengue cases was 23 yr (IQR 13.5-34). Secondary dengue was around 50 per cent among the children belonging to the age group 6-10 yr while it ranged between 20-43 per cent among other age groups. Interpretation & conclusions: Our findings showed a wide geographical variation in the distribution of primary and secondary dengue cases in India. It would prove beneficial to include primary and secondary dengue differentiation protocol in the national dengue surveillance programme.

Comparative evaluation of RetCam vs. gonioscopy images in congenital glaucoma.

Purpose: To compare clarity, exposure and quality of anterior chamber angle visualization in congenital glaucoma patients, using RetCam and indirect gonioscopy images. Design: Cross‑sectional study Participants. Congenital glaucoma patients over age of 5 years. Materials and Methods: A prospective consecutive pilot study was done in congenital glaucoma patients who were older than 5 years. Methods used are indirect gonioscopy and RetCam imaging. Clarity of the image, extent of angle visible and details of angle structures seen were graded for both methods, on digitally recorded images, in each eye, by two masked observers. Outcome Measures: Image clarity, interobserver agreement. Results: 40 eyes of 25 congenital glaucoma patients were studied. RetCam image had excellent clarity in 77.5% of patients versus 47.5% by gonioscopy. The extent of angle seen was similar by both methods. Agreement between RetCam and gonioscopy images regarding details of angle structures was 72.50% by observer 1 and 65.00% by observer 2. Conclusions: There was good agreement between RetCam and indirect gonioscopy images in detecting angle structures of congenital glaucoma patients. However, RetCam provided greater clarity, with better quality, and higher magnification images. RetCam can be a useful alternative to gonioscopy in infants and small children without the need for general anesthesia.

Histogenesis of salivary gland neoplasms.

Salivary gland tumors are one of the most complex and relatively rare group of lesions encountered in oral pathology practice. Their complexity is attributed to heterogeneity of the cells of origin of these lesions. The problem is compounded by the ability of these cells to differentiate and modify into various morphological subtypes resulting in a myraid of histomorphological patterns. This also leads to a frequent overlap of microscopic features among various neoplasms and sometimes even between benign and malignant lesions causing significant diagnostic dilemma which sometimes may even not be resolved by immunohistochemical studies. Despite this the knowledge of histogenesis and morhogenetic concepts of salivary gland tumorigenesis greatly helps the pathologist in classifying these lesions as well as determining the prognosis. It will also help in development of newer strategies for differentiating these lesions and making an early diagnosis. The present article is aimed at reviewing and summarizing the current concepts regarding the histogenesis of salivary gland tumors and their relevance to routine diagnosis and classification of these lesions.

Determinants of glaucoma awareness and knowledge in urban Chennai.

Aim: To assess the awareness and knowledge levels about glaucoma and its determinants in an urban population of Chennai in south India. Materials and Methods: Chennai glaucoma study (CGS) was a population based prevalence study to estimate the prevalence of glaucoma in a rural and urban south Indian population. A total of 3850 subjects aged 40 years or above participated in the urban arm of CGS. A systematic random sample of 1926 (50.0%) subjects completed a questionnaire that assesses their awareness and knowledge level of glaucoma. Respondents “having heard of glaucoma” even before they were contacted/recruited for the study were defined as “aware” and respondents having some understanding of the eye disease were defined as “knowledgeable”. Results: Overall 13.5% were aware of glaucoma, the age-gender adjusted rate for awareness was 13.3% (95% CI: 11.57 to 15.03). Two clinicians graded knowledge on glaucoma, based on the subject's knowledge of risk factors, definitions and treatment aspects of glaucoma. Overall 8.7% had some knowledge about glaucoma. Among those who had knowledge 0.5% had good knowledge about glaucoma, 4% had fair knowledge and 4.2% had poor knowledge. We observed a very good agreement between the clinicians in grading knowledge (k =0.92). Determinants of glaucoma awareness and knowledge were higher levels of education, females, age, religion and family history of glaucoma. Conclusion: Awareness and knowledge about glaucoma was very low among the urban population of Chennai. We have found that younger subjects and men were less aware of glaucoma. Subjects with lower levels of education were less aware and knew less about glaucoma than their counterparts. The study findings stress the need for health education for effective prevention of blindness due to glaucoma.

A pilot trial for comparison of photodynamic therapy and transpupillary thermotherapy for the management of classic subfoveal choroidal neovascularization secondary to age-related macular degeneration.

AIM: The aim of the study was to compare the visual outcomes of photodynamic therapy (PDT) with verteporfin and transpupillary thermotherapy (TTT) for classic subfoveal choroidal neovascularization (CNVM) secondary to age-related macular degeneration (ARMD). SETTINGS AND DESIGN: Patients with subfoveal classic CNVM caused by ARMD attending vitreo-retinal services at a tertiary care setup were included in this nonrandomized, open label, prospective, clinical, comparative pilot trial. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Standardized refraction, visual acuity testing, evaluation of fundus and serial color photography and fundus fluorescein angiography were carried out to evaluate the effects of treatment in 32 eyes each undergoing either PDT or TTT. Follow-up was carried out at four weeks, 12 weeks and six months. Retreatment if indicated was carried out three months post treatment. RESULTS: Stabilization or improvement occurred in 69% of patients undergoing PDT and 50% patients undergoing TTT at six months of follow-up. Among patients with a pretreatment visual acuity greater than or equal to 20/63, only one out of six patients who underwent PDT had a drop of visual acuity > 2 lines as compared to four patients (100%) who underwent TTT. (P =0.0476, two-tailed Fisher's exact test). CONCLUSION: For short-term preservation of vision in patients of classic CNVM due to ARMD, PDT seems to be better than TTT if the pre-laser best corrected visual acuity is > 20/63 but both are equally effective if pre-laser best corrected visual acuity is < 20/63.

Factors determining successful outcome following pneumatic balloon dilation in achalasia cardia.

BACKGROUND: Pneumatic balloon dilation is a popular method of treating patients with achalasia cardia. It may be useful to know the factors that predict response to this treatment. AIM: To determine predictors of outcome following pneumatic balloon dilation in patients with achalasia cardia. METHODS: Records of 62 patients who had undergone pneumatic dilation using Rigiflex balloon dilators (Boston Scientific, Boston, MA, USA) were reviewed. Follow-up data were available for 52 patients. Data from patients with and without improvement in symptoms were compared. RESULTS: Of the 52 patients (age mean 44 [range 11-68] years; 27 male; median symptom duration 20 [4-90] months], 42 (81%) patients had response in symptoms after balloon dilatation. On univariate analysis, the responders more often had age> 40 years (26/42 [62%] versus 1/10 [10%], p=0.003), and less often had lower esophageal sphincter pressure> 50 mmHg (8/10 [80%] versus 10/42 [24%], p=0.0007) and mid-esophageal body hypocontraction (7/10 [70%] versus 12/24 [29%] p=0.01) than the non-responders. On multivariate analysis only age <or= 40 years (p=0.02) was associated with poor outcome. CONCLUSION: Younger age may predict non-response to balloon dilation using Rigiflex balloon dilators in patients with achalasia cardia.

Infiltrating Strongyloides stercoralis presenting as duodenal obstruction.

Small intestinal obstruction due to Strongyloides stercoralis is rare and has not been reported in an immunocompetent patient. We describe a 70-year-old immunocompetent man presenting with duodenal obstruction secondary to severe S. stercoralis infestation, as documented on duodenal biopsy. He was treated with ivermectin, with which he recovered remarkably.

Natural course of asymptomatic pancreatic pseudocyst: a prospective study.

AIM: To study the natural course of asymptomatic pseudocysts of the pancreas. METHODS: Thirty patients (age range 18-68 years, mean 44; 24 men) with asymptomatic pseudocysts of the pancreas were enrolled between December 2001 and December 2003, and were followed up every month. Those who developed symptoms due to pseudocyst (increasing pain or features of obstruction such as vomiting or jaundice) were subjected to an endoscopic or surgical drainage procedure. End point of the study was either spontaneous resolution of pseudocyst or drainage procedure. RESULTS: Eighteen (60%) of 30 patients had resolution of the pseudocyst over an average duration of 5 months. Maximum diameter of less than 7.5 cm and cyst volume less than 250 mL were significantly more frequent in patients with resolution of pseudocyst than in those without (14/18 vs 2/12 [p=0.001] and 15/18 vs 2/12 [p=0.0003], respectively). Presence of internal debris was associated with non-resolution (9/12 vs 2/18; p=0.001). CONCLUSION: Pseudocysts with less than 7.5 cm diameter, volume less than 250 mL, and absence of internal debris were associated with spontaneous resolution within an average duration of 5 months.

Pattern of pediatric ocular trauma in India.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of the study is to identify the causes, demographic and clinical profile and evaluate final visual outcome of pediatric ocular injuries. METHODS: Two hundred and four children aged fourteen years or less presenting to the emergency services of a tertiary care centre with ocular injury were included. Demographic data, nature and cause of injury, duration between injury and presentation to an ophthalmologist and the diagnosis were recorded. Evaluation of visual acuity, anterior segment and fundus were done. All patients were appropriately managed and followed up on days 1, 7, 1 month, 3 and 6 months. RESULT: Majority of injuries occurred in children of 5 years and older (87.7%). There were 133 (65.1%) boys and 71 (34.9%) girls. Forty-nine (24%) cases presented within 6 hours of injury while 70 (34.3%) presented after more than 24 hours after trauma. Most common cause of injury was bow and arrow (15.2%) followed by household appliances(14.3%). Closed globe injuries accounted for 42.2% injuries, open globe for 53.9% and 3.9% were chemical injuries. Best corrected visual acuity of 6/12 or better was achieved in 79 eyes (91.86%) in closed globe group. However, only 17 eyes (15.45%) in open globe group could achieve this. CONCLUSION: Most ocular injuries in children are preventable and occur from unsupervised games like bow and arrow and firecracker, which can lead to significant visual loss.

Subcutaneous phycomycosis in a child.

Subcutaneous phycomycosis is a rare entity. We hereby report a case of subcutaneous phycomycosis on the chestwall in a one and a half year old child. Excision of the lesion was followed by a recurrence. Oral potassium iodide completely cured the disease.