Primary basal cell carcinoma of the caruncle: case report and review of the literature

ABSTRACT We present a rare case of primary caruncle basal cell carcinoma (BCC), a condition with limited occurrences. Our patient, an 80-year-old woman without prior ocular pathological history, presented a 2x2mm pedunculated blackish nodular lesion on the caruncle of her left eye, without local conjunctival or cutaneous involvement. Histological analysis following complete excision confirmed the presence of basal cell carcinoma within the caruncle. Over a span of 30 months, no recurrence has been observed. While scant cases are documented in the literature, we conducted a review of these instances. Despite its infrequent manifestation, this condition should be taken into account when evaluating caruncular tumors, given its tendency to invade the orbit. Complete excision with free surgical margins is the treatment of choice, and adjuvant radiotherapy or chemotherapy might be considered.

Conjunctival leiomyosarcoma in a patient with xeroderma pigmentosum: 5-year follow-up without recurrence / Leiomiossarcoma da conjuntiva em paciente com xeroderma pigmentoso: acompanhamento de 5 anos sem recidivas

ABSTRACT Conjunctival leiomyosarcoma is a very rare soft tissue malignancy. Herein, we describe a conjunctival leiomyosarcoma case in a patient with another rare disease, xeroderma pigmentosum. The 27-year-old single-eyed xeroderma pigmentosum patient complained of exophytic mass covering the ocular surface in her left eye. A vascular, hemorrhagic mass covering the entire ocular surface of the left eye was identified on the examination. Thus, total mass excision surgery was performed. The pathological diagnosis was compatible with conjunctival leiomyosarcoma. Additional chemotherapy, radiotherapy, or surgery were not accepted by the patient. No recurrence or metastasis was observed during the 5-year follow-up. Both primary conjunctival leiomyosarcoma and xeroderma pigmentosum are very rare diseases. Conjunctival masses in xeroderma pigmentosum patients should be approached carefully, and histopathological examination is warranted. For conjunctival leiomyosarcoma, early diagnosis, localized, unspread disease, and complete resection provide the best prognosis.

RESUMO O leiomiossarcoma da conjuntiva é um tumor ma­ligno de tecidos moles muito raro. Aqui é descrito um caso de leiomiossarcoma da conjuntiva em um paciente com xeroderma pigmentoso, que também é uma doença rara. Um paciente de 27 anos de idade com xeroderma pigmentoso de olho único queixou-se de uma massa exofítica cobrindo a superfície ocular do olho esquerdo. Ao exame, foi observada uma massa vascular hemorrágica cobrindo toda a superfície ocular do olho esquerdo. Foi realizada uma cirurgia de excisão total dessa massa. O diagnóstico patológico foi compatível com leiomiossarcoma da conjuntiva. O paciente recusou qualquer quimioterapia, radioterapia ou cirurgia adicional. Nenhuma recidiva ou metástase foi observada durante o acompanhamento de 5 anos. Tanto o leiomiossarcoma primário da conjuntiva quanto o xeroderma pigmentoso são doenças muito raras. Massas conjuntivais em pacientes com xeroderma pigmentoso devem ser abordadas com cuidado e deve-se realizar um exame histopatológico. Para o leiomiossarcoma conjuntival, o diagnóstico precoce, uma doença localizada e não disseminada e a ressecção completa proporcionam o melhor prognóstico.

Safety and efficacy of 0.01% hypochlorous acid before cataract phacoemulsification / 国际眼科杂志(Guoji Yanke Zazhi)

AIM: To evaluate the efficacy of 0.01% hypochlorous acid as a conjunctival sac disinfectant before cataract phacoemulsification and its impact on the ocular surface.METHODS: Randomized controlled clinical trial. A total of 285 patients who were scheduled for cataract phacoemulsification surgery were randomly divided into the hypochlorous acid group and the povidone iodine group. Before and after disinfection, conjunctival sac swabs were taken, and bacterial culture and colony-forming units(CFUs)testing were performed using blood agar and chocolate agar media, respectively. All patients were evaluated for ocular symptom scores and pain severity scores 2 h, 1 d, and 1 wk after disinfection, and underwent corneal fluorescein staining, eye redness index, tear meniscus height, and noninvasive breakup time(NIBUT)examination. The incidence of endophthalmitis after surgery was recorded.RESULTS: Conjunctival sac disinfection with 0.01% hypochlorous acid significantly reduced the rate of positive bacterial cultures and colony-forming ability of the conjunctival sac, with statistically significant differences compared with the pre-disinfection period(both P<0.01), and the disinfecting ability of hypochlorous acid was comparable to that of povidone-iodine(χ2=0.811, P=0.368). The scores of ocular symptoms and pain severity in the hypochlorous acid group were significantly lower than those in the povidone-iodine group(both P<0.01). The corneal fluorescein staining and eye redness index in the hypochlorous acid group were significantly lower than those in the povidone-iodine group(all P<0.01). No endophthalmitis occurred in either group of patients. CONCLUSION: As a conjunctival sac disinfectant, 0.01% hypochlorous acid is safe and effective, with minimal discomfort and damage to the ocular surface in patients.

Plaque brachytherapy – Radiating positivity

Background: Plaque brachytherapy is an evolving, yet effective globe and vision-sparing modality for the treatment of intraocular tumors by transscleral irradiation of the tumor base with a radioactive implant. The American Brachytherapy Society (ABS) along with the collaboration of the international multicenter Ophthalmic Oncology Task Force (OOTF) was assembled to reach a consensus regarding establishing practice guidelines and setting standards of care for intraocular tumors. The advent of plaque brachytherapy has revolutionized the outcomes of intraocular tumors, thus ensuring globe salvage, reducing morbidity and mortality, and avoiding cosmetic disfigurement. A well-planned dosimetry for plaque brachytherapy results in achieving local tumor control and excellent prognosis. Purpose: This technique provides the advantage of focal radiation, thus eliminating the damage to the adjacent structures, minimal periorbital tissue damage, absence of cosmetic disfigurement owing to lack of retarded bone growth as seen in external beam radiotherapy. Thus, it reduces the risk of metastasis, and with the recent advances, it provides a shorter duration of treatment. Synopsis: In this video, we shall display the concept of plaque brachytherapy, the various types of plaques available, different radiations sources, planning dosimetry and calculations, target disease spectrum, surgical placement, and post-radiation outcomes in terms of local tumor control and prognosis. Highlights: This video highlights the history, basic principles and techniques of plaque brachytherapy and provides an understanding of its applications in the world of ocular oncology.

Masquerade syndrome in ocular surface squamous neoplasia / Síndrome mascarada em neoplasia escamosa da superfície ocular

ABSTRACT The aim of this study was to alert the ophthalmic community to an atypical manifestation of ocular surface squamous neoplasia, which may delay diagnosis and treatment and result in a guarded visual prognosis and significant sequelae. A 61-year-old immunocompetent man presented with an initial diagnosis of necrotizing scleritis in the right eye for 3 months. He was treated with systemic prednisone but experienced persistent pain and low visual acuity. Conjunctival biopsy of the affected region confirmed the diagnosis of invasive ocular surface squamous neoplasia, which progressed with intraocular and orbital invasion; thus, exenteration was performed. Masquerade syndrome should be suspected in patients with nodulo-ulcerative lesions of the conjunctiva and sclera. This clinical can be more aggressive, with a greater likelihood of intraocular and orbital involvement. The earlier the diagnosis and treatment, the better the patient prognosis.

RESUMO O objetivo é alertar a comunidade oftalmológica sobre uma manifestação atípica de neoplasia escamosa da superfície ocular (OSSN) que pode levar a um atraso no diagnóstico e tratamento, evoluindo com prognóstico reservado e significativas sequelas. Homem, imunocompetente, 61 anos com diagnóstico inicial de esclerite necrosante em olho direito há 3 meses, em tratamento com prednisona sistêmica porém com persistência da dor e baixa acuidade visual. Realizado biópsia conjuntival em região acometida e diagnosticado como neoplasia escamosa da superfície ocular invasiva. Evolui com invasão intraocular e orbital sendo submetido a exenteração. Assim sendo, deve-se suspeitar de síndrome mascarada frente a um paciente com lesões nódulo-ulcerativas da conjuntiva e esclera. Essa forma clínica pode ser mais agressiva, com maior chance de comprometimento intraocular e orbital. Quanto mais precoces o diagnóstico e o tratamento, melhor o prognóstico para o paciente.

Aqueous deficiency dry eye in post conjunctivitis cicatrization - Effect of deep thermal punctal cautery

Purpose: To evaluate the effect of deep thermal punctal cautery in eyes with post?conjunctivitis cicatrization. Methods: This retrospective study consisted of patients who underwent deep thermal punctal cautery for post?conjunctivitis dry eye (PCDE). The diagnosis was based on a history suggestive of viral conjunctivitis in past followed by the onset of present clinical features of aqueous deficiency dry eye (ATD). All patients underwent a rheumatological evaluation to rule out underlying systemic collagen vascular disease as a cause for dry eye. The extent of cicatricial changes was noted. Best?corrected visual acuity (BCVA), Schirmer’s test, and fluorescein staining score (FSS; total score of 9) were analyzed pre? and post?cautery. Results: Out of 65 patients (117 eyes), 42 were males. The mean age at presentation was 25.769 ± 12.03 years. Thirteen patients presented with unilateral dry eye. Pre?cautery BCVA (logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution [logMAR]) and Schirmer’s test (mm) improved from 0.5251 ± 0.662 to 0.372 ± 0.595 (P value = 0.000, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.09–0.22), and 1.952 ± 2.763 to 4.929 ± 4.338 (P value = 0.000, 95% CI: ?3.79–?2.17); post?cautery, respectively. The pre?cautery FSS of 5.9 ± 2.82 reduced to 1.58 ± 2.38 (P value = 0.000, 95% CI: 3.46–5.17) post?cautery. The mean follow?up was 11.22 ± 13.32 months. No progression in cicatricial changes was noted in any eye during the follow?up. Re?canalization rate was 10.64%, and repeat cautery was performed with successful closure of puncta. Conclusion: Symptoms and clinical signs of ATD in PCDE patients improve with punctal cautery

Analysis of ocular surface and quality of life in patients with corneal and conjunctival tumors / Análise da superfície ocular e qualidade de vida em pacientes com tumores córneo-conjuntivais

ABSTRACT Purpose: To evaluate the impact of corneal and conjunctival tumors on the ocular surface and quality of life of patients before and after surgical treatment. Methods: This prospective study conducted a preoperative and 30- and 90-day postoperative assessment of patients diagnosed with conjunctival and corneal tumors. Demographic data were collected preoperatively. The 12-Item Short-Form Health Survey (SF-12) and Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) questionnaires were applied to assess patients' quality of life and perception of their vision-related functions. The tear breakup time and Schirmer tests were performed for ocular surface evaluation. The tumor extensions were measured using ImageJ image analysis software. Results: Twenty-three patients were enrolled. The mean age at examination was 52.8 ± 17.3 years (range: 27-9 years). The most common tumor type was squamous cell carcinoma (61.5%). The patients' visual acuity improved significantly at 1 month and 3 months (p=0.018 and p=0.036, respectively). No significant differences were found between tear breakup time and Schirmer tests preoperatively and at 3 months postoperatively (p=0.150 and p=0.490, respectively). The SF-12 scores demonstrated significant differences between the preoperative and 30- and 90-day postoperative mental components (p=0.008 and p=0.026, respectively). Tumor extension was 868.7 ± 344.9 pixels (range, 224.6-1481.6 pixels) and were significantly correlated with the preoperative (p=0.011), 30-day postoperative (p=0.017), and 90-day postoperative (p=0.012) SF-12 mental components, as well as the emotional component at the 30th postoperative day (p=0.016). Conclusion: Patients with corneal and conjunctival tumors improved their ocular symptoms, visual acuity, and the emotional component of their quality of life after surgical excision of the tumor.

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar o impacto dos tumores cór­neo-conjuntivais na superfície ocular e na qualidade de vida dos pacientes antes e após o tratamento cirúrgico. Métodos: Este estudo prospectivo conduziu uma avaliação pré-operatória e com 30 e 90 dias de pós-operatório de pacientes com diagnóstico de tumores de córnea e conjuntiva. Os dados demográficos foram coletados no pré-operatório. Os questionários Health Survey Short-Form (SF-12) e Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) foram aplicados para avaliar a qualidade de vida dos pacientes e a percepção de suas funções relacionadas à visão. Os testes tear break-up time (TBUT) e Schirmer foram realizados para avaliação da superfície ocular. A extensão do tumor foi medida usando o programa ImageJ. Resultados: Vinte e três pacientes foram incluídos. A média de idade foi de 52,8 ± 17,3 anos (27-79 anos). O tipo mais comum de tumor foi o carcinoma de células escamosas (61,5%). A acuidade visual dos pacientes melhorou significativamente em 1 mês e 3 meses (p=0,018 e p=0,036, respectivamente). Não houve diferenças significativas entre os testes tear break-up time e Schirmer no pré-operatório e com 3 meses de pós-operatório (p=0,150 e p=0,490, respectivamente). Os escores do SF-12 demonstraram que o componente mental apresentou diferença estatisticamente significante entre o pré-operatório e no 30 e 90 dias de pós-operatório (p=0,008 e p=0,026, respectivamente). A extensão do tumor foi de 868,7 ± 344,9 pixels (intervalo, 224,6-1481,6 pixels) e foram significativamente correlacionados com o componente mental de SF-12 no pré-operatório (p=0,011), 30 (p=0,017) e 90 dias de pós-operatório (p=0,012), e o componente emocional no 30º dia de pós-operatório (p=0,016). Conclusão: Pacientes com tumores córneo-conjuntivais melhoraram os sintomas oculares, a acuidade visual e o componente emocional da qualidade de vida após a excisão cirúrgica do tumor.

Surgical application of Ong speculum in simple limbal epithelial transplantation and pterygium surgery

Ong speculum is used in glaucoma surgeries such as trabeculectomy to expose the superior part of the globe. The large inferior blade pushes the inferior conjunctival fornix, due to which the eyeball rotates downwards. It has not been used in other anterior segment surgeries before. We used this speculum in simple limbal epithelial transplantation (SLET) and pterygium surgery to expose superior bulbar conjunctiva for harvesting limbal and conjunctival grafts, respectively. As the superior conjunctiva and sclera become exposed, it facilitates the steps of harvesting limbal biopsy and conjunctival graft in SLET and pterygium surgery. This eliminated the need for a superior rectus suture or an assistant who would keep the globe rotated downwards. Its position could also be maneuvered to adjust the site of exposure when dissecting the area of pannus in SLET. Thus, it makes the superior conjunctiva more accessible.

Comparison of conjunctiva-related complications between scleral and corneal patch grafts in Ahmed glaucoma valve implantation

Purpose: Comparison of the conjunctiva related complication rates and success rates among eyes with Ahmed glaucoma valve (AGV) implantation in which eye bank derived scleral and corneal patch grafts had been used to cover the tube. Methods: Retrospective comparative study. Patients who underwent AGV implantation between January 2000 to December 2016 were included. Demographic, clinical data, intra and post operative data was obtained from electronic medical records. Conjunctiva related complications were divided into two groups: with and without implant exposure. Conjunctiva related complication rates, success rate, risk factors among eyes with corneal and scleral patch graft were compared. Results: Three hundred and twenty three eyes of 316 patients underwent AGV implantation. Scleral patch graft was used in 214 eyes of 210 patients (65.9%) and corneal patch graft was used in 109 eyes of 107 patients (34%). Median follow up was 14 months. There was no significant difference in the conjunctiva related complication rate (7.3 % in corneal patch graft versus 7.0% in scleral patch graft;p=0.5) and conjunctival dehiscence rate (3.7% versus 4.6%, P = 0.7) among the two groups. Success rate was significantly higher in the corneal patch graft group versus the scleral patch graft group (98% versus 72%; p=0.001). Eyes with corneal patch graft had a higher survival rate (P = 0.01). Conclusion: There was no significant difference in the rate of conjunctiva related complications following corneal and scleral patch grafts used to cover the AGV tube. Eyes with corneal patch graft had a higher success rate and survival rate.

BRAF and NRAS prognostic values in conjunctival melanoma: analysis and literature review / Análise do valor prognóstico dos marcadores BRAF e NRAS no melanoma da conjuntiva e revisão da literatura

ABSTRACT Purpose: Conjunctival melanoma is a rare and aggressive tumor with a propensity for regional and distant metastases. This study aimed to analyze BRAF/NRAS markers in conjunctival melanoma and their relationship with tumor recurrences and patient prognosis. Methods: This retrospective, observational, single-center study included consecutive patients with an anatomopathological diagnosis of conjunctival melanoma, registered between January 1992 and December 2019. BRAF/NRAS mutations were analyzed using cobas®4800 kit (Roche®) in samples obtained by excisional or map biopsy. Additionally, the presence of other associated precancerous or tumor lesions was assessed. Results: A total of 12 patients with positive histological samples for conjunctival melanoma were included (7 women, 5 men), with a mean age at diagnosis of 60 years and a mean evolution time of 6.38 ± 3.4 years. BRAF V600E mutation was observed in three biopsies (25%), similar to NRAS Q61X (25%). Recurrences occurred in all patients with positive BRAF or NRAS mutation, and five of these patients developed systemic dissemination (83.33%). Moreover, four of six patients with mutated BRAF or NRAS (66.66%) had histopathological findings of tumor or precancerous lesions. Conclusions: BRAF and NRAS mutations may be risk factors for recurrence and shorter survival in conjunctival melanoma, which would make these patients candidates for targeted therapies and comprehensive and individualized follow-up. All these data warrant standardized prospective studies.

RESUMO Objetivo: O melanoma da conjuntiva é um tumor raro e agressivo, com propensão à disseminação metastática regional e distante. Este estudo tem como objetivo analisar os marcadores BRAF e NRAS no melanoma da conjuntiva e sua relação com recidivas tumorais e com o prognóstico do paciente. Métodos: Este foi um estudo retrospectivo, observacional e unicêntrico de pacientes consecutivos com diagnóstico anatomopatológico de melanoma da conjuntiva feito entre janeiro de 1992 e dezembro de 2019. As mutações BRAF e NRAS foram analisadas com o kit cobas® 4800 (Roche®) em amostras obtidas através de biópsia excisional ou por mapa. Além disso, foi avaliada a presença de lesões pré-cancerosas ou tumorais associadas. Resultados: Foram incluídos 12 pacientes com amostras histológicas positivas para melanoma da conjuntiva (7 mulheres e 5 homens), com idade média ao diagnóstico de 60 anos e tempo médio de evolução de 6,38 ± 3,4 anos. A mutação BRAF V600E foi encontrada em 3 biópsias (25%), bem como a NRAS Q61X (25%). Ocorreram recidivas em todos os pacientes positivos para mutações de BRAF ou NRAS e 5 desses pacientes desenvolveram disseminação sistêmica (83,33%). Além disso, 4 dos 6 pacientes com BRAF ou NRAS mutante (66,66%) apresentaram achados histopatológicos de lesões tumorais ou pré-cancerosas. Conclusões: As mutações BRAF e NRAS podem ser fatores de risco para recorrência e menor sobrevida no melanoma da conjuntiva, o que tornaria esses pacientes candidatos a terapias direcionadas e a um acompanhamento mais abrangente e individualizado. Todos esses dados justificam mais estudos prospectivos padronizados.

Dermatophagoides farinae induces conjunctival epithelial cell damage to promote neutrophil migration and neutrophil extracellular traps formation / 中国血吸虫病防治杂志

OBJECTIVE@#To investigate the mechanisms underlying allergic conjunctivitis caused by conjunctival epithelial cell damage, neutrophil migration and neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) formation induced by crude extracts of Dermatophagoides farinae mite (CDM).@*METHODS@#Human conjunctival epithelial cells were stimulated with 500, 1 000, 2 000, 4 000 ng/mL, and the expression levels of interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interferon-γ (IFN-γ) and IL-8 were detected using quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR) assay and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The culture supernatant of human conjunctival epithelial cells was collected and co-cultured with neutrophils. Neutrophil migration was measured using Transwell migration assay, and the expression of NETs markers myeloperoxidase (MPO) and citrullinated histone H3 (CitH3) was quantified using immunofluorescence staining. Neutrophils were stimulated with phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA), and then NETs were collected for treatment of human conjunctival epithelial cells. Cell apoptosis was detected using flow cytometry, and the levels of IL-6, TNF-α, IFN-γ and IL-8 were measured in the cell culture supernatant using ELISA.@*RESULTS@#Treatment with CDM at concentrations of 2 000 ng/mL and 4 000 ng/mL up-regulated IL-6, TNF-α, IFN-γ and IL-8 expression in human conjunctival epithelial cells. Following treatment with CDM at concentrations of 2 000 ng/mL and 4 000 ng/mL, the culture supernatant of human conjunctival epithelial cells promoted neutrophil migration and induced increases in the staining intensity of MPO and CitH3. In addition, increased NETs triggered the apoptosis of human conjunctival epithelial cells and IL-6, TNF-α, IFN-γ and IL-8 secretion in the culture supernatant of human conjunctival epithelial cells.@*CONCLUSIONS@#CDM induces human conjunctival epithelial cell damages, thereby promoting neutrophil migration and NETs formation, while the release of NETs further aggravates human conjunctival epithelial cell damages.

Efficacy of modified pterygium resection combined with conjunctival autograft transplantation in the treatment of pterygium / 国际眼科杂志(Guoji Yanke Zazhi)

AIM:To analyze the efficacy of modified pterygium resection combined with conjunctival autograft transplantation(CAT)in the treatment of pterygium.METHODS: A total of 140 patients(154 eyes)with pterygium treated in the ophthalmology department of our hospital from January 2018 to January 2021 were selected and grouped according to random number table method. In the observation group, 70 cases(76 eyes)were treated with modified pterygium excision combined with CAT, and improved iris restorer was used during the operation. In the control group, 70 patients(78 eyes)were treated with conventional pterygium excision combined with CAT, during which traditional iris restorer was used. Follow up for 1a, the postoperative vision, subjective symptoms, conjunctival signs(conjunctival congestion and chemosis), corneal epithelial healing, postoperative complications and recurrence rate were compared between the two groups.RESULTS: Compared with pre-operation, vision of the two groups decreased significantly on 1, 3 and 5d after operation(P<0.05), while there was no statistically significant difference between the groups(P>0.05). Compared with 1d after operation, the scores on subjective symptoms, conjunctival hyperemia and edema in the two groups decreased significantly on 3, 5 and 14d after operation(P<0.05), and those scores of the observation group on 3, 5 and 14d after operation were significantly lower than those of control group(P<0.05).The corneal fluorescein staining(FL)scores of the observation group on 3, 5 and 14d after operation were significantly lower than those of the control group(P<0.05). The proportion of repair time of corneal epithelial defect ≤5d in the observation group was significantly higher than that in the control group(P<0.05). The incidence rates of conjunctival granuloma, symblepharon, and the recurrence rate in the observation group were significantly lower than those in the control group(P<0.05).CONCLUSION: Modified pterygium resection combined with CAT is effective in the treatment of pterygium, which can alleviate postoperative irritative symptoms, conjunctival congestion and edema, and it is more conducive to postoperative corneal epithelial reconstruction, reduction of postoperative complications and recurrence rate.

Quaternary knot technique: suture knot burial without scleral flap or incision for trans-scleral fixation

Despite the introduction of novel sutureless posterior chamber intraocular lens (IOL) fixation techniques, some conditions still require suture-assisted scleral fixation. If the scleral fixation suture knot is left directly under the conjunctiva, it may become exposed, resulting in an increased risk of endophthalmitis. To avoid this problem, we offer a new alternative, simple, and safe way for burying the end of the suture using knots in this report.

Expression and clinical significance of interferon regulatory factor 4 and soluble suppression of tumorigenesis 2 in conjunctival epithelial cells and tears of patients with dry eye / 国际眼科杂志(Guoji Yanke Zazhi)

AIM: To investigate the expression and clinical significance of interferon regulatory factor 4(IRF4)and soluble suppression of tumorigenesis 2(sST2)in conjunctival epithelial cells and tears of patients with dry eye.METHODS: A total of 94 patients with dry eye who admitted to our hospital from January 2019 to December 2021 were selected as the dry eye group, and 97 physical examiners who underwent ophthalmic examination were selected as the control group at the same time. The conjunctival epithelial cells and tears of the subjects were collected, and the clinical indicators, including tear film break-up time(BUT), corneal fluorescein staining(CFS)score, and Schirmer Ⅰ test(SⅠt)were recorded. The levels of IRF4 and sST2 in conjunctival epithelial cells were detected by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction(qRT-PCR), and the levels of IRF4 and sST2 in tears were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay(ELISA). Pearson method was used to analyze the correlation between IRF4 and sST2 levels in conjunctival epithelial cells and tears and clinical indicators of dry eye patients.RESULTS: The levels of IRF4 and sST2 in conjunctival epithelial cells and tears in dry eye group before treatment were significantly higher than those in control group(P<0.001). The levels of IRF4 and sST2 in conjunctival epithelial cells and tears of dry eye patients at 4wk after treatment were significantly lower than those before treatment(P<0.001). The BUT and SⅠt of dry eye patients increased significantly at 4wk after treatment, and the CFS score decreased significantly(P<0.001). The levels of IRF4 and sST2 in conjunctival epithelial cells and tears of dry eye patients before treatment were positively correlated with CFS score before treatment and negatively correlated with BUT and SⅠt before treatment(P<0.001).CONCLUSION: The levels of IRF4 and sST2 in conjunctival epithelial cells and tears of patients with dry eye are increased, and are significantly correlated with BUT, SⅠt and CFS scores, which has potential to become a new therapeutic target for dry eye.

Analysis of conjunctival sac microflora and antibiotic susceptibility testing in adolescents after wearing orthokeratology lens / 国际眼科杂志(Guoji Yanke Zazhi)

AIM: To investigate the bacterial flora and antibiotic susceptibility testing of conjunctival sac in adolescents after wearing orthokeratology(OK)lens.METHODS:A total of 101 adolescents aged 8 to 14 who admitted to outpatient department of Xi'an No.1 Hospital from September 2021 to August 2022 were recruited in this cross-sectional observational study. There were 51 cases wearing OK Lens(wearing group)and 50 patients not wearing contact lens(non-lens group), the right eye of all patients was selected into the group. The culture of bacterial flora in conjunctival sac between the two groups were compared, the species were identified by matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry, and the antibiotic susceptibility testing was carried out for the positive strains cultured in the wearing group.RESULTS:The positive rate of conjunctival sac bacterial cultured in the wearing group and the non-lens group was 68.6%(35/51)and 60.0%(30/50), respectively(P>0.05). In both groups, the bacteria with the highest detection rate were staphylococcus epidermidis and staphylococcus aureus. The sensitivity rates of the strains detected in the wearing group to drugs are as follows: Levofloxacin(98%), Moxifloxacin(98%), Gatifloxacin(98%), Cefuroxime(98%), Cefathiamidine(98%), Rifampicin(98%), Chloramphenicol(96%), Cefoxitin(95%), Clindamycin(80%), Gentamicin(74%), Fusidic acid(72%), Tobramycin(64%), Compound sulfamethoxazole(26%), Mezlocillin(10%), Azithromycin(6%), of which the sensitivity rate of Gram-positive cocci was 100% sensitive to Vancomycin.CONCLUSION:Gram-positive cocci are the main bacteria isolated from conjunctival sac of adolescents after wearing OK Lens. Wearing OK Lens will not significantly increase the positive rate of conjunctival sac bacterial flora. Results of antibiotic susceptibility testing may provide guidance for empirical medication in patients wearing OK lens after eye infection.

Dermatophagoides farinae induces conjunctival epithelial cell damage to promote neutrophil migration and neutrophil extracellular traps formation / 中国血吸虫病防治杂志

Objective To investigate the mechanisms underlying allergic conjunctivitis caused by conjunctival epithelial cell damage, neutrophil migration and neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) formation induced by crude extracts of Dermatophagoides farinae mite (CDM). Methods Human conjunctival epithelial cells were stimulated with 500, 1 000, 2 000, 4 000 ng/mL, and the expression levels of interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interferon-γ (IFN-γ) and IL-8 were detected using quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR) assay and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The culture supernatant of human conjunctival epithelial cells was collected and co-cultured with neutrophils. Neutrophil migration was measured using Transwell migration assay, and the expression of NETs markers myeloperoxidase (MPO) and citrullinated histone H3 (CitH3) was quantified using immunofluorescence staining. Neutrophils were stimulated with phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA), and then NETs were collected for treatment of human conjunctival epithelial cells. Cell apoptosis was detected using flow cytometry, and the levels of IL-6, TNF-α, IFN-γ and IL-8 were measured in the cell culture supernatant using ELISA. Results Treatment with CDM at concentrations of 2 000 ng/mL and 4 000 ng/mL up-regulated IL-6, TNF-α, IFN-γ and IL-8 expression in human conjunctival epithelial cells. Following treatment with CDM at concentrations of 2 000 ng/mL and 4 000 ng/mL, the culture supernatant of human conjunctival epithelial cells promoted neutrophil migration and induced increases in the staining intensity of MPO and CitH3. In addition, increased NETs triggered the apoptosis of human conjunctival epithelial cells and IL-6, TNF-α, IFN-γ and IL-8 secretion in the culture supernatant of human conjunctival epithelial cells. Conclusions CDM induces human conjunctival epithelial cell damages, thereby promoting neutrophil migration and NETs formation, while the release of NETs further aggravates human conjunctival epithelial cell damages.

Microbiota conjuntival preoperatoria de pacientes diabéticos candidatos a cirugía de catarata / Preoperative Conjunctival Microbiota of Diabetic Patients who are Candidates for Cataract Surgery

Introducción: La microbiota conjuntival en pacientes con catarata puede afectar el posoperatorio, lo que se puede hacer más complejo en pacientes con diabetes mellitus. Objetivos: Determinar la microbiota conjuntival en los pacientes diabéticos de la línea preoperatoria pendiente a cirugía de catarata en el Instituto Cubano Oftalmología "Ramón Pando Ferrer" desde septiembre de 2018 hasta diciembre de 2019. Método: Se realizó una investigación observacional, descriptiva, de corte transversal con 45 pacientes diabéticos diagnosticados de catarata senil, que fueran atendidos en el período y hospital antes mencionado. A todos los pacientes se les realizó hisopado conjuntival en cultivo correspondiente. Se realizó anamnesis para recoger datos sobre la diabetes. Los datos obtenidos (matriz en Excel) se analizaron con software SPSS 21, y los resultados se presentan en tablas de frecuencias. Se utilizó ji cuadrado para la correlación entre variables. Resultados: De los 45 pacientes, predominaron las mujeres (57,8 por ciento), con edades de 60 años y más (68,9 por ciento), y sin antecedentes patológicos oculares (82,2 por ciento). Hubo crecimiento bacteriano en el 66,7 por ciento (p < 0,002). El germen más frecuente fue Staphylococcus coagulasa negativa (48,3 por ciento). Conclusiones: El estudio de la microbiota conjuntival preoperatoria garantiza, en parte, el éxito de la cirugía de catarata(AU)

Introduction: The conjunctival microbiota in cataract patients may affect the postoperative course, which may become more complex in patients with diabetes mellitus. Objectives: To determine the conjunctival microbiota in diabetic patients in the preoperative line pending cataract surgery at the Cuban Ophthalmology Institute "Ramón Pando Ferrer" from September 2018-2019. Methods: An observational, descriptive, cross-sectional, descriptive research was conducted, 45 diabetic patients, diagnosed with senile cataract, who were treated in the period and hospital mentioned above. All patients underwent conjunctival swabbing and corresponding culture. Anamnesis was performed to collect data on diabetes. The data obtained (matrix in Excel) were analyzed with SPSS 21 software, and the results were presented in frequency tables. Chi-square was used for correlation between variables. Results: Out of the 45 patients, women predominated (57.8 percent), aged 60 years and older (68.9 percent), and with no ocular pathological history (82.2 percent). There was bacterial growth in 66.7 percent (p < 0.002). The most frequent germ was coagulase-negative Staphylococcus (48.3 percent). Conclusions: The study of the preoperative conjunctival microbiota, guarantees, in part, the success of cataract surgery(AU)

Analytical Study of Ocular Surface Changes in Patients of Chronic Kidney Disease undergoing Hemodialysis and Peritoneal Dialysis

Objectives?The idiopathic group is a significant cause of chronic kidney disease (CKD) in developing countries. Literature available on ocular surface changes has predominantly been reported in patients undergoing hemodialysis. Little is known about the changes in patients undergoing peritoneal dialysis. The present study aimed to identify ocular surface changes in an idiopathic group of CKD undergoing dialysis. Aim?To compare tear film disorders and the severity of ocular surface changes (goblet cell density, squamous metaplasia, and corneoconjunctival calcification) in patients of idiopathic etiology with CKD undergoing hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis. This is an analytical study. Materials and Methods?Asymptomatic adult patients of idiopathic CKD, on treatment with dialysis underwent comprehensive ophthalmic examination, including best-corrected visual acuity, slit-lamp examination, and a dilated fundus examination. Dry eye assessment was done by ocular surface staining score, Schirmer test, and tear breakup time (TBUT). Conjunctival impression cytology was studied to assess changes on ocular surface. Chest X-rays for aortic calcification were reviewed and data analyzed. Results?Both eyes of 76 patients of hemodialysis and 32 patients of peritoneal dialysis were studied. Ocular surface staining (OSS) scores were low. Impression cytology showed a drop in goblet cell density, presence of squamous metaplasia, and conjunctival keratinization significantly more in the hemodialysis group. No correlation was seen between the presence of conjunctival calcification and aortic calcification. Conclusion?The hemodialysis group had mild subclinical dry eye but keratinization of conjunctiva was seen. Similarly, advanced squamous metaplasia was seen in the peritoneal dialysis group. These changes were positively correlated to decrease in goblet cell density.

Pterygium management and comparison of different surgical approaches with supportive treatment in Rural Maharashtra

Background:Numerous surgical procedures and changes have been ineffective in preventing the recurrence of pterygium. Aprospective clinical observational analysis of 205 individuals with primary pterygium was conducted where patients were treated with various surgical procedures. The patients were observed for two to five years in order to examine the frequency of recurrences and consequences. Result: Patients were divided into four groups and treated using a variety of surgical methods. Straightforward excision of pterygium was the treatment of choice in group 1. Excision with conjunctival rotation pedicle graft was used on patients in Group 2. Excision and conjunctival autograft were used to treat Group 3 patients. Patients in Group 4 received excision and a 0.02 percent solution of mitomycin c drops as a postoperative treatment. Age varied from 22 to 58, with a median of 34. All four groups had an equal number of men and women. Hemorrhage, astigmatism, symblepheron, foreign body feeling, and a corneo-scleral ulcer were among complications that were reported. There were 12 percent complications in group 1, 16 percent complications in group 2, 6 percent complications in group 3, and 8 percent complications in group 4. Criteria for recurrence was defined as the regrowth of fibrovascular tissue or the appearance of an aesthetic flaw. It's 30 percent for group 1; 14 percent for group 2, 9 per cent for group 3, and 8 per cent for group 4. Conclusion: The least rate of recurrence was noted in patients of Group 4 who had pterygium excision with postoperative mitomycin c instillation, and complications were least common in patients in Group 3 who had pterygium resection with conjunctival autograft