AxoDetect: an automated nerve image segmentation and quantification workflow for computational nerve modeling.

Objective.Bioelectronic treatments targeting near-organ innervation have unprecedented clinical applications. Particularly in the spleen, the inhibition of the cholinergic inflammatory response by near-organ nerve stimulation has potential to replace pharmacological treatments in chronic and autoimmune diseases. A caveat is that the optimization of therapeutic stimulation parameters relies onin vivoexperimentation, which becomes challenging due to the small nerve diameters (2 µm), complex anatomy, and mixed axon type composition of the autonomic nerves. Effective development ofin silicomodels requires tools which allow for fast and efficient quantification of axonal composition of specific nerves. Current approaches to generate such information rely on manual image segmentation and quantification.Approach.We developed a combined image-segmentation and model-generation software called AxoDetect: a target- and format-agnostic computer vision algorithm which can segment myelin, endo/epineurium, and both myelinated and unmyelinated fibers from a nerve image without training.Main results.AxoDetect is over 10 times faster on average when compared with current automatic methods while maintaining flexibility through the use of tunable pixel threshold filters to detect different types of tissue. When compared to a distribution-based and a manually segmented model of the splenic nerve terminal branch 1, the model generated with AxoDetect had comparable threshold prediction and was able to accurately detect an increase in activation threshold caused by the addition of surrounding fat tissue to the modeled nerve.Significance.AxoDetect contributes to the acceleration of neuromodulation treatment development through faster model design and iteration without requiring training. Furthermore, the computer vision approach and tunable nature of the filters in our method allow for its use in a variety of histological applications. Our approach will impact not only the study of nerves but also the design of implantable neural interfaces to enhance bioelectronic therapeutic options.

Scaling up polarized RPE cell supernatant production on parylene membrane.

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a leading cause of vision loss, primarily arises from the degeneration of retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and photoreceptors. Current therapeutic options for dry AMD are limited. Encouragingly, cultured RPE cells on parylene-based biomimetic Bruch's membrane demonstrate characteristics akin to the native RPE layer. In this study, we cultivated human embryonic stem cell-derived polarized RPE (hESC-PRPE) cells on parylene membranes at both small- and large-scale settings, collecting conditioned supernatant, denoted as PRPE-SF. We conducted a comprehensive analysis of the morphology of the cultured hESC-RPE cells and the secreted growth factors in PRPE-SF. To evaluate the in vivo efficacy of these products, the product was administered via intravitreal injections of PRPE-SF in immunodeficient Royal College of Surgeons (iRCS) rats, a model for retinal degeneration. Our study not only demonstrated the scalability of PRPE-SF production while maintaining RPE cell phenotype but also showed consistent protein concentrations between small- and large-scale batches. We consistently identified 10 key factors in PRPE-SF, including BMP-7, IGFBP-2, IGFBP-3, IGFBP-4, IGFBP-6, MANF, PEDF, PDGF-AA, TGFß1, and VEGF. Following intravitreal administration of PRPE-SF, we observed a significant increase in the thickness of the outer nuclear layer (ONL) and photoreceptor preservation in iRCS rats. Furthermore, correlation analysis revealed that IGFBP-3, IGFBP-4, MANF, PEDF, and TGFß1 displayed positive associations with in vivo bioactivity, while GDF-15 exhibited a negative correlation. Overall, this study highlights the feasibility of scaling up PRPE-SF production on parylene membranes without compromising its essential constituents. The outcomes of PRPE-SF administration in an animal model of retinal degeneration present substantial potential for photoreceptor preservation. Moreover, the identification of candidate surrogate potency markers, showing strong positive associations with in vivo bioactivity, lays a solid foundation for the development of a promising therapeutic intervention for retinal degenerative diseases.

A 15-year consolidated overview of data in over 6000 patients from the Transthyretin Amyloidosis Outcomes Survey (THAOS).

BACKGROUND: Transthyretin amyloidosis (ATTR amyloidosis) is a progressive, multisystemic, life-threatening disease resulting from the deposition of variant or wild-type (ATTRwt amyloidosis) transthyretin amyloid fibrils in various tissues and organs. METHODS: Established in 2007, the Transthyretin Amyloidosis Outcomes Survey (THAOS) is the largest ongoing, global, longitudinal, observational study of patients with ATTR amyloidosis, including both hereditary and wild-type disease, and asymptomatic carriers of pathogenic TTR mutations. This analysis describes the baseline characteristics of symptomatic patients and asymptomatic gene carriers enrolled in THAOS since its inception in 2007 (data cutoff: August 1, 2022), providing a consolidated overview of 15-year data from the THAOS registry. RESULTS: This analysis included 4428 symptomatic patients and 1707 asymptomatic gene carriers. The majority of symptomatic patients were male (70.8%) with a mean (standard deviation [SD]) age at symptom onset of 56.6 (17.9) years. Compared with the 14-year analysis, V30M remained the most prevalent genotype in Europe (62.2%), South America (78.6%), and Japan (74.2%) and ATTRwt remained most common in North America (56.2%). Relative to the 14-year analysis, there was an increase of mixed phenotype (from 16.6 to 24.5%) and a reduction of predominantly cardiac phenotype (from 40.7 to 31.9%). The proportion of patients with predominantly neurologic phenotype remained stable (from 40.1 to 38.7%). Asymptomatic gene carriers were 58.5% female with a mean age at enrollment of 41.9 years (SD 15.5). CONCLUSIONS: This overview of > 6000 patients enrolled over 15 years in THAOS represents the largest registry analysis of ATTR amyloidosis to date and continues to emphasize the genotypic and phenotypic heterogeneity of the disease. Nearly a quarter of the symptomatic population within THAOS was mixed phenotype, underscoring the need for multidisciplinary management of ATTR amyloidosis. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT00628745.

Dasatinib-Related Pulmonary Toxicity / Toxicidad pulmonar por dasatinib

ABSTRACT 70-year-old male patient with chronic myeloid leukemia receiving treatment with dasatinib develops respiratory failure associated with pulmonary toxicity related to such drug.

RESUMEN Paciente de sexo masculino, 70 años, con leucemia mieloide crónica en tratamiento con dasatinib, desarrolla insuficiencia respiratoria asociada a toxicidad pulmonar por dicho fármaco.

Case report: From monkeypox pharyngitis to myopericarditis and atypical skin lesions.

Background: A global outbreak of the human monkeypox virus (HMPXV), first identified in May 2022, was declared a health emergency of international concern on 23 July 2022. Before the global outbreak, monkeypox cases were mostly confined to central and west African countries, where this virus is prevalent. Close contact, mainly sexual contact, is supposed to be the main route of transmission, and it is remarkable that the incidence is higher in men who have sexual relationships with other men. Case summary: A 40-year-old Caucasian man arrived at the emergency department complaining of oppressive epigastric pain extending to the chest after a diagnosis of pharyngitis, which was suspected to be caused by the human monkeypox virus. Based on the clinical symptoms, physical examination, serum cardiac biomarkers, and electrocardiographic findings, he was diagnosed with myopericarditis. The real-time PCR for human monkeypox in skin lesions, urine, plasma, and the oropharyngeal swab was positive. The peak of troponin I was 20.6 ng/ml, and the electrocardiogram showed an upward concavity in the ST segment in diffuse leads, which was in agreement with the previous diagnosis. The presence of edema, subepicardial, and myocardial late gadolinium enhancement, and increased values on T1 mapping in the cardiac MRI were in agreement with the diagnosis of myopericarditis. Antiviral treatment with tecovirimat was started with excellent tolerability. After 6 days, the patient recovered and was discharged. Discussion: To our knowledge, this is one of the first reported cases of myopericarditis due to human monkeypox infection, which was confirmed by a cardiac MRI following modified Lake Louise criteria. The short span between the onset of the mucocutaneous symptoms and the myocardial damage suggests a pathogenic association. Furthermore, the active viral replication in plasma samples and the negative results on real-time PCR for other viruses support this clinical association.

Clinical profiles at the time of diagnosis of COVID-19 in Costa Rica during the pre-vaccination period using a machine learning approach

BackgroundThe clinical manifestations of COVID-19 disease, caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, define a large spectrum of symptoms that are mainly dependent on the human host conditions. In Costa Rica, almost 319 000 cases have been reported during the first third of 2021, contrasting to the 590 000 fully vaccinated people. In the pre-vaccination period (the year 2020), this country accumulated 169 321 cases and 2185 deaths. MethodsTo describe the clinical presentations at the time of diagnosis of COVID-19 in Costa Rica during the pre-vaccination period, we implemented a symptom-based clustering using machine learning to identify clusters or clinical profiles among 18 974 records of positive cases. Profiles were compared based on symptoms, risk factors, viral load, and genomic features of the SARS-CoV-2 sequence. ResultsA total of seven COVID-19 clinical profiles were identified, which were characterized by a specific composition of symptoms. In the comparison between clusters, a lower viral load was found for the asymptomatic group, while the risk factors and the SARS-CoV-2 genomic features were distributed among all the clusters. No other distribution patterns were found for age, sex, vital status, and hospitalization. ConclusionDuring the pre-vaccination time in Costa Rica, the clinical manifestations at the time of diagnosis of COVID-19 were described in seven profiles. The host co-morbidities and the SARS-CoV-2 genotypes are not specific of a particular profile, rather they are present in all the groups, including asymptomatic cases. In further analyses, these results will be compared against the profiles of cases during the vaccination period. O_FIG O_LINKSMALLFIG WIDTH=200 HEIGHT=109 SRC="FIGDIR/small/21259157v1_ufig1.gif" ALT="Figure 1"> View larger version (18K): org.highwire.dtl.DTLVardef@c39c0forg.highwire.dtl.DTLVardef@3abaedorg.highwire.dtl.DTLVardef@1c61db9org.highwire.dtl.DTLVardef@1c964c6_HPS_FORMAT_FIGEXP M_FIG C_FIG

El análisis inmunohistoquímico para el diagnóstico del tumor fibroso solitario/hemangiopericitoma / Immunohistochemical analysis for the diagnosis of solitary fibrous tumor/hemangiopericytoma

Resumen El tumor fibroso solitario/ hemangiopericitoma (TFS/HP) es un tumor extraaxial de origen mesenquimático de infrecuente observación, que usualmente se confunde con el meningioma, del cual puede ser clínica y radiológicamente indistinguible. El análisis molecular con la detección de la expresión nuclear STAT6 (signal transducer and activator of transcription 6) o la fusión NAB2-STAT6 (NGFI-A binding protein 2) es recomendable para confirmar el diagnóstico. Presentamos 3 casos clínicos, 2 mujeres y 1 varón, con diagnóstico anatomopatológico de meningioma meningotelial en el primer caso; y los casos 2 y 3 con sospecha radiológica de meningioma. La revisión anatomopatológica con estudio molecular permitió certificar el diagnóstico de TFS/ HP. Para el diagnóstico diferencial entre TFS/HP meníngeo y meningioma, se recomienda buscar la expresión de STAT6 como primer paso o la fusión NAB2-STAT6. La revisión de las muestras de biopsia debe estar garantizada en todos los pacientes, inclusive en aquellas que fueron estudiadas en Servicios de Patología Nivel 3.

Abstract The solitary fibrous tumor/ hemangiopericytoma (TFS/HP) is a rare mesenchymal extraaxial tumour. TFS/HP can sometimes be difficult to distinguish from other extra-axial tumors like meningioma, which can be clinically and radiologically indistinguishable. Molecular analysis with STAT6 (signal transducer and activator of transcription 6) nuclear expression or NAB2-STAT6 (NGFI-A binding protein 2) fusion is recommended to confirm the diagnosis. We present 3 cases, 2 women and 1 male, with pathological diagnosis of meningothelial meningioma in the first case; cases 2 and 3 with radiological suspicion of meningioma. The pathological review with molecular study certified the diagnosis of TFS/HP. For differential diagnosis between meningeal TFS/HP and meningioma, it is recommended to look for STAT6 expression as a first step, or NAB2-STAT6 fusion in order to confirm TFS/HP. The review of biopsy samples must be guaranteed in all patients, including those who were studied in Pathology Services Level 3.

Identifying new potential genetic biomarkers for HELLP syndrome using massive parallel sequencing.

BACKGROUND: Preeclampsia (PE) is a frequently occurring multisystemic disease affecting ~5% of pregnancies. PE patients may develop HELLP syndrome (haemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, and low platelet), a mother and foetus life-threatening condition. Research into HELLP's genetic origin has been relatively unsuccessful, mainly because normal placental function and blood pressure regulation involve the fine-regulation of hundreds of genes. OBJECTIVE: To identify new genes and mutations constituting potential biomarkers for HELLP syndrome. STUDY DESIGN: The present case-control study involved whole-exome sequencing of 79 unrelated HELLP women. Candidate variants were screened in a control population constituted by 176 individuals. Stringent bioinformatics filters were used for selecting potentially etiological sequence variants in a subset of 487 genes. We used robust in silico mutation modelling for predicting the potential effect on protein structure. RESULTS: We identified numerous sequence variants in genes related to angiogenesis/coagulation/blood pressure regulation, cell differentiation/communication/adhesion, cell cycle and transcriptional gene regulation, extracellular matrix biology, lipid metabolism and immunological response. Five sequence variants generated premature stop codons in genes playing an essential role in placental physiology (STOX1, PDGFD, IGF2, MMP1 and DNAH11). Six variants (ERAP1- p.Ile915Thr, ERAP2- p.Leu837Ser, COMT-p.His192Gln, CSAD-p.Pro418Ser, CDH1- p.Ala298Thr and CCR2-p.Met249Lys) led to destabilisation of protein structure as they had significant energy and residue interaction-related changes. We identified at least two mutations in 57% of patients, arguing in favour of a polygenic origin for the HELLP syndrome. CONCLUSION: Our results provide novel evidence regarding PE/HELLP's genetic origin, leading to new biomarkers, having potential clinical usefulness, being proposed.

Fungal mycotic aneurysm in a patient with Aspergillus terreus chronic meningoencephalitis.

BACKGROUND: Central nervous system involvement due to aspergillosis is an extremely serious entity, particularly in patients with severe neutropenia, hematological diseases, or post-transplant cases. Immunocompetent patients can be infected by intense exposure, particularly iatrogenic after invasive procedures. CASE DESCRIPTION: We present the case of a 26-year-old male with a 1 year appendectomy background, which required epidural anesthesia. After that surgery, insidious headache presented, requiring mild analgesics for adequate control. In the following weeks, headaches increased and tomographic imaging revealed hydrocephalus. A ventriculoperitoneal shunt was placed, and empirical treatment for neurocysticercosis was established, but diagnosis was never confirmed. Sequentially, shunt dysfunction occurred twice, for which shunt replacement was performed. Cerebrospinal fluid and shunt's catheter were cultured. Some days later, a filamentous fungus was isolated and finally identified as Aspergillus sp. Intravenous amphotericin B and fluconazole at therapeutic dosage were administered; however, a torpid clinical evolution was observed. After a 2-week antifungal scheme, the fungus was identified as Aspergillus terreus. The patient developed sudden rostrocaudal deterioration. Computed tomography imaging was done, revealing a 70 cc hematoma in the right operculoinsular region, midline shift, and a 9 mm saccular aneurysm at the bifurcation of the middle cerebral artery. CONCLUSION: Cerebral aspergillosis is a serious disease with high mortality in patients, particularly those without identifiable risk factors. The iatrogenic forms are serious, due to the delay of clinical diagnosis. It is important to have a high index of suspicion in patients with a history of invasive procedures such as epidural anesthesia or surgery, and who develop a persistent chronic headache or chronic meningitis.

Evolução da esclerite nodular com biomicroscopia ultrassônica: relato de caso / Evolution of nodular scleritis with ultrasound biomicroscopy: case report

Estabelecer padrão evolutivo de um caso de esclerite nodular à ultrassonografia de alta frequência durante o tratamento. Mulher, 27 anos, com manifestação inicial de uveíte intermediária, edema macular bilateral após tratamento clínico com corticosteroide tópico e via oral. Após quatro meses, observou-se a formação de um nódulo escleral no olho direito quando foi submetido à ultrassonografia de alta frequência (Paradigm, transdutor de 50 MHz, técnica de imersão). A lesão do olho direito foi caracterizada à ultrassonografia de alta frequência como uma lesão nodular da parede anterior temporal inferior associada à redução localizada da espessura da escleral. Após a injeção intravítrea de triancinolona para tratamento do edema macular, observou-se a regressão clínica do nódulo escleral no olho direito, mantendo reduzida a espessura escleral. A ultrassonografia de alta frequência auxiliou no diagnóstico da esclerite nodular durante as fases de tratamento e na identificação da sua sequela característica, o afinamento escleral.

To stablish evolutionary pattern of a case of nodular scleritis with high frequency ultrasound during treatment. Twenty-seven year old female, initial manifestation of intermediate uveitis, bilateral macular edema after clinical treatment with topical and oral steroids. After four months, we observed the formation of a scleral nodule in the right eye when patient underwent high frequency ultrasound (Paradigm, 50 MHz transducer, immersion technique). The lesion in right eye was characterized at high frequency ultrasound as a nodular lesion located at the anterior inferior temporal wall associated with localized reduction of scleral thickness. After intravitreal injection of triamcinolone for treatment of macular edema, clinical regression of the scleral nodule was observed in right eye, maintaining reduced scleral thickness. High frequency ultrasound assisted in the diagnosis of nodular scleritis during the phases of treatment and in the identify its characteristic sequel feature, the scleral thinning.

[Positioning of intraocular lens haptics intentionally implanted in the ciliary sulcus by ultrasound biomicroscopy]. / Posicionamento das alças de lentes intraoculares implantadas intencionalmente no sulco ciliar através da biomicroscopia ultrassônica.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the position of haptics of intraocular lens intentionally implanted in the ciliary sulcus in eyes undergoing cataract surgery complication associated with intraoperative posterior capsule rupture, as well as to correlate the findings with clinical changes observed in ophthalmic examination, utilizing ultrasound biomicroscopy. METHODS: Eleven eyes (11 patients) who had posterior capsule rupture during cataract surgery with intentional implantation of the haptics in the ciliary sulcus, underwent complete ophthalmic examination and ultrasound biomicroscopy. Ultrasound biomicroscopy evaluated the parameters: positioning of the distal portion of the haptics, tilt and decentration of the intraocular lens. Ophthalmic examination was aimed to evaluate the presence of flare and cells in the anterior chamber, deposits on the lens and iris transillumination defects. Intraocular pressure was measured, pigmentation of the trabecular meshwork was determined, and a fundoscopic evaluation was needed to rule out peripheral retinal rupture and macular edema. RESULTS: Mean postoperative time for the examinations: 103.09 ± 32.93 days. Asymmetry of the haptics positioning was observed in 3 eyes (27.2%) that had one haptic in the ciliary sulcus, the second haptic was placed in the pars plana in 2 eyes, associated to intraocular lens tilt and decentration; or in the ciliary body (1 eye). Ophthalmic examination observed: 5 (45.5%) eyes with iris transillumination defects, 2 (18.1%) with intraocular lens decentration; 1 eye (9%) presented ocular hypertension. In all cases trabecular hyperpigmentation was observed at gonioscopy. No cases of peripheral retinal rupture and/or macular edema were reported. CONCLUSIONS: Ultrasound biomicroscopy was able to locate the intraocular lens haptics intentionally implanted in the ciliary sulcus during complicated cataract surgery, and could demonstrate the relation of intraocular lens decentration to assymetric haptic implantation.

Posicionamento das alças de lentes intraoculares implantadas intencionalmente no sulco ciliar através da biomicroscopia ultrassônica / Positioning of intraocular lens haptics intentionally implanted in the ciliary sulcus by ultrasound biomicroscopy

OBJETIVOS: Avaliar a posição das alças das lentes intraoculares implantadas intencionalmente no sulco ciliar, em olhos submetidos à cirurgia de catarata com complicação de ruptura de cápsula posterior, e correlacionar os achados com alterações clínicas observadas no exame oftalmológico, utilizando a biomicroscopia ultrassônica. MÉTODOS: Onze olhos (11 pacientes) que apresentaram ruptura de cápsula posterior durante a cirurgia de catarata com implantação intencional das alças no sulco ciliar foram submetidos ao exame oftalmológico e biomicroscopia ultrassônica. Biomicroscopia ultrassônica avaliou os seguintes parâmetros: posicionamento da porção distal das alças, inclinação e descentração da lente intraocular. O exame oftalmológico foi focalizado para avaliar a presença de "flare" e células na câmara anterior, depósitos na lente e defeitos de transiluminação de íris. A pressão intraocular foi medida, a pigmentação do trabeculado foi determinada, e a avaliação fundoscópica foi necessária para afastar a presença de ruptura retiniana periférica e edema de mácula. RESULTADOS: Tempo pós-operatório médio para os exames: 103,09 ± 32,93 dias. Assimetria da posição foi observada em 3 olhos (27,2%), que tinham alça no sulco ciliar e a segunda alça localizada na pars plana em 2 olhos, associada à inclinação e descentração da lente intraocular; ou no corpo ciliar (1 olho). O exame oftalmológico observou: 5 (45,5%) olhos com defeitos de transiluminação de íris, 2 (18,1%) olhos com descentração da lente intraocular; 1 olho (9%) apresentou hipertensão intraocular. Em todos os casos observou-se hiperpigmentação do trabeculado à gonioscopia. Nenhum caso de rotura periférica de retina e/ou edema de mácula foi relatado. CONCLUSÕES: A biomicroscopia ultrassônica foi capaz de localizar as alças das lentes intraoculares implantadas intencionalmente no sulco ciliar durante cirurgia complicada de catarata, e pôde demonstrar a relação da descentração da lente intraocular com a implantação assimétrica das alças.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the position of haptics of intraocular lens intentionally implanted in the ciliary sulcus in eyes undergoing cataract surgery complication associated with intraoperative posterior capsule rupture, as well as to correlate the findings with clinical changes observed in ophthalmic examination, utilizing ultrasound biomicroscopy. METHODS: Eleven eyes (11 patients) who had posterior capsule rupture during cataract surgery with intentional implantation of the haptics in the ciliary sulcus, underwent complete ophthalmic examination and ultrasound biomicroscopy. Ultrasound biomicroscopy evaluated the parameters: positioning of the distal portion of the haptics, tilt and decentration of the intraocular lens. Ophthalmic examination was aimed to evaluate the presence of flare and cells in the anterior chamber, deposits on the lens and iris transillumination defects. Intraocular pressure was measured, pigmentation of the trabecular meshwork was determined, and a fundoscopic evaluation was needed to rule out peripheral retinal rupture and macular edema. RESULTS: Mean postoperative time for the examinations: 103.09 ± 32.93 days. Asymmetry of the haptics positioning was observed in 3 eyes (27.2%) that had one haptic in the ciliary sulcus, the second haptic was placed in the pars plana in 2 eyes, associated to intraocular lens tilt and decentration; or in the ciliary body (1 eye). Ophthalmic examination observed: 5 (45.5%) eyes with iris transillumination defects, 2 (18.1%) with intraocular lens decentration; 1 eye (9%) presented ocular hypertension. In all cases trabecular hyperpigmentation was observed at gonioscopy. No cases of peripheral retinal rupture and/or macular edema were reported. CONCLUSIONS: Ultrasound biomicroscopy was able to locate the intraocular lens haptics intentionally implanted in the ciliary sulcus during complicated cataract surgery, and could demonstrate the relation of intraocular lens decentration to assymetric haptic implantation.

[Evolution of nodular scleritis with ultrasound biomicroscopy: case report]. / Evolução da esclerite nodular com biomicroscopia ultrassônica: relato de caso.

To establish evolutionary pattern of a case of nodular scleritis with high frequency ultrasound during treatment. Twenty-seven year old female, initial manifestation of intermediate uveitis, bilateral macular edema after clinical treatment with topical and oral steroids. After four months, we observed the formation of a scleral nodule in the right eye when patient underwent high frequency ultrasound (Paradigm, 50 MHz transducer, immersion technique). The lesion in right eye was characterized at high frequency ultrasound as a nodular lesion located at the anterior inferior temporal wall associated with localized reduction of scleral thickness. After intravitreal injection of triamcinolone for treatment of macular edema, clinical regression of the scleral nodule was observed in right eye, maintaining reduced scleral thickness. High frequency ultrasound assisted in the diagnosis of nodular scleritis during the phases of treatment and in the identify its characteristic sequel feature, the scleral thinning.

Macular hole: 10 and 20-MHz ultrasound and spectral-domain optical coherence tomography / Buraco macular: ultrassonografia de 10 e 20 MHz e tomografia óptica de domínio espectral

PURPOSE: Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is valuable for macula evaluation. However, as this technique relies on light energy it cannot be performed in the presence of opaque media. In such cases, the ultrasound (US) may predict some macular features. The aim of this study was to characterize images obtained by ultrasound with 10 and 20-MHz transducers comparing to OCT, as well as to analyze the relationship between the vitreous and retina in eyes with macular hole (MH). METHODS: 29 eyes of 22 patients with biomicroscopic evidence of MH at different stages were included. All patients were evaluated using ultrasonography with 10 and 20-MHz transducers and OCT. RESULTS: OCT identified signs of MH in 25 of 29 eyes. The remaining 4 cases not identified by US were pseudoholes caused by epiretinal membranes. In MH stages I (2 eyes) and II (1 eye), both transducers were not useful to analyze the macular thickening, but suggestive findings as macular irregularity, operculum or partial posterior vitreous detachment (PVD) were highlighted. In stages III (14 eyes) and IV (5 eyes), both transducers identified the double hump irregularity and thickening. US could measure the macular thickness and other suggestive findings for MH: operculum, vitreomacular traction and partial or complete PVD. In cases of pseudoholes, US identified irregularities macular contour and a discrete depression. CONCLUSION: 10-MHz US was useful for an overall assessment of the vitreous body as well as its relationship to the retina. The 20-MHz transducer allowed valuable information on the vitreomacular interface and macular contour. OCT provides superior quality for fine morphological study of macular area, except in cases of opaque media. In these cases, and even if OCT is not available, the combined US study is able to provide a valid evaluation of the macular area improving therapeutic approach.

OBJETIVO: A tomografia de coerência óptica (OCT) é um método diagnóstico valioso para estudo da mácula. Entretanto, por se basear na energia luminosa, não pode ser realizada quando existe opacidade de meios. Nesses casos, o ultrassom (US) pode predizer algumas características maculares. Este estudo teve como objetivos caracterizar imagens obtidas por US com transdutores de 10 e 20-MHz comparadas ao OCT, assim como analisar a relação vitreorretiniana em olhos com buraco macular (BM). MÉTODOS: Vinte e nove olhos de 22 pacientes com evidência biomicroscópica de BM em diferentes estágios foram incluídos. Todos os pacientes foram avaliados com ultrassonografia utilizando transdutores de 10 e 20-MHz e OCT de domínio espectral. RESULTADOS: OCT diagnosticou BM em 25 dentre 29 olhos estudados. Os 4 casos não identificados por US eram pseudoburacos decorrentes de membrana epirretiniana. Nos BM estágios I (2 olhos) e II (1 olho), ambos transdutores não foram úteis para analisar o espessamento macular, mas foram identificados sinais sugestivos como irregularidade macular, opérculo ou descolamento parcial do vítreo posterior (DVP). Nos estágios III (14 olhos) e IV (5 olhos), ambos transdutores identificaram irregularidade, dupla corcova e espessamento macular. O US foi capaz de medir a espessura macular e identificar outros indícios de BM, como opérculo, tração vitreorretiniana e DVP. Em pseudoburacos, o US identificou irregularidades no contorno macular e discreta depressão. CONCLUSÃO: US de 10-MHz foi útil para uma avaliação global do corpo vítreo e sua relação à retina. O US de 20-MHz forneceu informações importantes sobre a junção vitreorretiniana e contorno macular. OCT fornece qualidade superior para estudo morfológico da região macular, exceto em casos de opacidade de meios. Nesses casos, ou quando o exame tomográfico não for disponível, o estudo ultrassonográfico de 10 e 20-MHz é capaz de proporcionar análise válida da região macular e auxiliar na abordagem terapêutica.

Macular hole: 10 and 20-MHz ultrasound and spectral-domain optical coherence tomography.

PURPOSE: Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is valuable for macula evaluation. However, as this technique relies on light energy it cannot be performed in the presence of opaque media. In such cases, the ultrasound (US) may predict some macular features. The aim of this study was to characterize images obtained by ultrasound with 10 and 20-MHz transducers comparing to OCT, as well as to analyze the relationship between the vitreous and retina in eyes with macular hole (MH). METHODS: 29 eyes of 22 patients with biomicroscopic evidence of MH at different stages were included. All patients were evaluated using ultrasonography with 10 and 20-MHz transducers and OCT. RESULTS: OCT identified signs of MH in 25 of 29 eyes. The remaining 4 cases not identified by US were pseudoholes caused by epiretinal membranes. In MH stages I (2 eyes) and II (1 eye), both transducers were not useful to analyze the macular thickening, but suggestive findings as macular irregularity, operculum or partial posterior vitreous detachment (PVD) were highlighted. In stages III (14 eyes) and IV (5 eyes), both transducers identified the double hump irregularity and thickening. US could measure the macular thickness and other suggestive findings for MH: operculum, vitreomacular traction and partial or complete PVD. In cases of pseudoholes, US identified irregularities macular contour and a discrete depression. CONCLUSION: 10-MHz US was useful for an overall assessment of the vitreous body as well as its relationship to the retina. The 20-MHz transducer allowed valuable information on the vitreomacular interface and macular contour. OCT provides superior quality for fine morphological study of macular area, except in cases of opaque media. In these cases, and even if OCT is not available, the combined US study is able to provide a valid evaluation of the macular area improving therapeutic approach.

[Surgical correction of esotropia in eccentric fixation patients]. / Correção cirúrgica da esotropia em portadores de fixação excêntrica.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the result of the surgical correction of esotropic patients with eccentric fixation and to compare it with operated on esotropic patients who did not have this sensorial disorder. METHODS: A retrospective study of the result of the surgical correction of essential esotropia in 19 patients with eccentric fixation of the "Santa Casa de São Paulo". As group controls, 17 esotropic patients with strabismic amblyopia and central fixation and 16 esotropic patients without amblyopia who had been operated on. The statistical test was application of variance for proportions (ANOVA). RESULTS: In the 3 studied groups undercorrection prevailed, 12 (63.2%) cases in group I, 13 (76.5%) cases in group II and 13 (81.3%) patients in group III. The surgical success occurred in 7 (36.8%) patients of the group with eccentric fixation, of whom 4 cases were overcorrected and 3 of orthotropia. In group II, of the 7 cases of surgical success, 3 (17.6%) had orthotropia and 1 (5.9%) case presented with overcorrection. In group III, we had 5 (31.3%) cases of surgical success, 1 (6.3%) of them with orthotropia. Among the 36 amblyopic patients, 5 (13.9%) presented overcorrection. The standard error of the average of the surgical correction was 4.6 in the group of patients with eccentric setting. ANOVA test for the average of the surgical correction was p=0.349. Considering the good result (a deviation smaller than 10delta), the statistical analysis revealed a p=0.847. CONCLUSION: The eccentric setting did not represent a determinant factor in the surgical result (good versus bad) of the horizontal surgical alignment.

Correção cirúrgica da esotropia em portadores de fixação excêntrica / Surgical correction of esotropia in eccentric fixation patients

OBJETIVO: Avaliar o resultado da correção cirúrgica da esotropia em pacientes com fixação excêntrica e compará-lo com o de pacientes esotrópicos operados que não possuíam essa alteração sensorial. MÉTODOS: Estudo retrospectivo do resultado da correção cirúrgica da esotropia essencial de 19 pacientes com fixação excêntrica do Serviço de Motilidade Ocular Extrínsica da Santa Casa de São Paulo. Como grupo-controle, foram estudados 17 pacientes esotrópicos com ambliopia estrábica e fixação central e 16 pacientes esotrópicos sem ambliopia. O teste estatístico utilizado foi aplicação de variância para proporções (ANOVA). RESULTADOS: Nos 3 grupos estudados prevaleceu a subcorreção, 12 (63,2 por cento) casos no grupo I, 13 (76,5 por cento) casos no grupo II e 13 (81,3 por cento) pacientes no grupo III. O sucesso cirúrgico (desvios <10delta) ocorreu em 7 (36,8 por cento) pacientes do grupo com fixação excêntrica, dos quais 4 casos eram de supercorreção e 3 de ortotropia. No grupo II, dos 7 casos de sucesso cirúrgico, 3 (17,6 por cento) estavam com ortotropia e 1 (5,9 por cento) caso estava supercorrigido. No grupo III, tivemos 5 (31,3 por cento) casos de sucesso cirúrgico, sendo 1 (6,3 por cento) de ortotropia. Entre os 36 pacientes amblíopes, 5 (13,9 por cento) apresentaram supercorreção. O erro padrão da média da correção cirúrgica foi de 4,6 no grupo de pacientes com fixação excêntrica. O teste ANOVA para a média da correção cirúrgica foi de p=0,349. Considerando o bom resultado (desvio de até 10delta a partir da posição primária do olhar), obtivemos um p=0,847. CONCLUSÃO: A fixação excêntrica não representou fator determinante no resultado cirúrgico (bom vs mau) do desvio horizontal dos pacientes com esotropia entre 20delta e 50delta.