Biochemical-molecular-genetic biomarkers in the tear film, aqueous humor, and blood of primary open-angle glaucoma patients.

Introduction: Glaucoma is a chronic neurodegenerative disease, which is the leading cause of irreversible blindness worldwide. As a response to high intraocular pressure, the clinical and molecular glaucoma biomarkers indicate the biological state of the visual system. Classical and uncovering novel biomarkers of glaucoma development and progression, follow-up, and monitoring the response to treatment are key objectives to improve vision outcomes. While the glaucoma imaging field has successfully validated biomarkers of disease progression, there is still a considerable need for developing new biomarkers of early glaucoma, that is, at the preclinical and initial glaucoma stages. Outstanding clinical trials and animal-model study designs, innovative technology, and analytical approaches in bioinformatics are essential tools to successfully uncover novel glaucoma biomarkers with a high potential for translation into clinical practice. Methods: To better understand the clinical and biochemical-molecular-genetic glaucoma pathogenesis, we conducted an analytical, observational, and case-comparative/control study in 358 primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) patients and 226 comparative-control individuals (CG) to collect tears, aqueous humor, and blood samples to be processed for identifying POAG biomarkers by exploring several biological pathways, such as inflammation, neurotransmitter/neurotrophin alteration, oxidative stress, gene expression, miRNAs fingerprint and its biological targets, and vascular endothelial dysfunction, Statistics were done by using the IBM SPSS 25.0 program. Differences were considered statistically significant when p ≤ 0.05. Results: Mean age of the POAG patients was 70.03 ± 9.23 years, and 70.62 ± 7.89 years in the CG. Malondialdehyde (MDA), nitric oxide (NO), interleuquin (IL)-6, endothelin-1 (ET-1), and 5 hydroxyindolacetic acid (5-HIAA), displayed significantly higher levels in the POAG patients vs. the CG (p < 0.001). Total antioxidant capacity (TAC), brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), 5-hydroxy tryptamine (5-HT), solute carrier family 23-nucleobase transporters-member 2 (SLC23A2) gene, and the glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) gene, showed significantly lower levelsin the POAG patients than in the CG (p < 0.001). The miRNAs that differentially expressed in tear samples of the POAG patients respect to the CG were the hsa miR-26b-5p (involved in cell proliferation and apoptosis), hsa miR-152-3p (regulator of cell proliferation, and extracellular matrix expression), hsa miR-30e-5p (regulator of autophagy and apoptosis), and hsa miR-151a-3p (regulator of myoblast proliferation). Discussion: We are incredibly enthusiastic gathering as much information as possible on POAG biomarkers to learn how the above information can be used to better steer the diagnosis and therapy of glaucoma to prevent blindness in the predictable future. In fact, we may suggest that the design and development of blended biomarkers is a more appropriate solution in ophthalmological practice for early diagnosis and to predict therapeutic response in the POAG patients.

Oxidative Stress Mediates Epigenetic Modifications and the Expression of miRNAs and Genes Related to Apoptosis in Diabetic Retinopathy Patients.

Knowledge on the underlying mechanisms and molecular targets for managing the ocular complications of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) remains incomplete. Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a major cause of irreversible visual disability worldwide. By using ophthalmological and molecular-genetic approaches, we gathered specific information to build a data network for deciphering the crosslink of oxidative stress (OS) and apoptosis (AP) processes, as well as to identify potential epigenetic modifications related to noncoding RNAs in the eyes of patients with T2DM. A total of 120 participants were recruited, being classified into two groups: individuals with T2MD (T2MDG, n = 67), divided into a group of individuals with (+DR, n = 49) and without (-DR, n = 18) DR, and a control group (CG, n = 53). Analyses of compiled data reflected significantly higher plasma levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and significantly lower total antioxidant capacity (TAC) in the +DR patients compared with the -DR and the CG groups. Furthermore, the plasma caspase-3 (CAS3), highly involved in apoptosis (AP), showed significantly higher values in the +DR group than in the -DR patients. The microRNAs (miR) hsa-miR 10a-5p and hsa-miR 15b-5p, as well as the genes BCL2L2 and TP53 involved in these pathways, were identified in relation to DR clinical changes. Our data suggest an interaction between OS and the above players in DR pathogenesis. Furthermore, potential miRNA-regulated target genes were identified in relation to DR. In this concern, we may raise new diagnostic and therapeutic challenges that hold the potential to significantly improve managing the diabetic eye.

AS-OCT of cyclitic membrane pre and post treatment with rtPA in the anterior chamber.

We present the case of a 40-year-old male, who presented to the ophthalmology emergency department with pain and visual loss in his left eye 10 days after an intravitreal injection of a split medication. At the exploration, we found an intense corneal edema in the left eye with endothelial dusting and ciliary hyperemia. LE fundus was impracticable due to anterior chamber opacity. Because of the corneal edema, we performed an anterior segment optical coherence tomography (AS- OCT), visualizing a cyclitic membrane with pupillary block and inflammatory cells in the anterior chamber. There are different treatments to lyse the cyclitic membrane; in this case, we managed the cyclitic membrane with 0,05 ml of intracameral recombinant tissue plasminogen activator (rtPA), a highly potent fibrinolytic protein. We disinfected the eyelids and the conjunctival sac with Povidone Iodine solution, applied topical anesthesia with double anesthetic, and injected 0,05 mL rtPA solution into the anterior chamber using an insulin syringe with a 30-gauge needle. Intracameral rtPA was prepared under sterile conditions using 50 mg vials of rtPA diluted with 50 mL of sterile water to create a 1 mg/ mL solution. Four hours after rtPA treatment, the cyclitic membrane lysed, obtaining pupillary mydriasis. The AS OCT before and after the treatment with intracameral rtPA was of high utility as it allowed the visualization of the cyclitic membrane and its removal.

Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory Extracts From Sea Cucumbers and Tunicates Induce a Pro-osteogenic Effect in Zebrafish Larvae.

Bone metabolic disorders such as osteoporosis are characterized by the loss of mineral from the bone tissue leading to its structural weakening and increased susceptibility to fractures. A growing body of evidence suggests that inflammation and oxidative stress play an important role in the pathophysiological processes involved in the rise of these conditions. As the currently available therapeutic strategies are often characterized by toxic effects associated with their long-term use, natural antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds such as polyphenols promise to be a valuable alternative for the prevention and treatment of these disorders. In this scope, the marine environment is becoming an important source of bioactive compounds with potential pharmacological applications. Here, we explored the bioactive potential of three species of holothurians (Echinodermata) and four species of tunicates (Chordata) as sources of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds with a particular focus on polyphenolic substances. Hydroethanolic and aqueous extracts were obtained from animals' biomass and screened for their content of polyphenols and their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Hydroethanolic fractions of three species of tunicates displayed high polyphenolic content associated with strong antioxidant potential and anti-inflammatory activity. Extracts were thereafter tested for their capacity to promote bone formation and mineralization by applying an assay that uses the developing operculum of zebrafish (Danio rerio) to assess the osteogenic activity of compounds. The same three hydroethanolic fractions from tunicates were characterized by a strong in vivo osteogenic activity, which positively correlated with their anti-inflammatory potential as measured by COX-2 inhibition. This study highlights the therapeutic potential of polyphenol-rich hydroethanolic extracts obtained from three species of tunicates as a substrate for the development of novel drugs for the treatment of bone disorders correlated to oxidative stress and inflammatory processes.

Updates on the utility of anterior segment optical coherence tomography in the assessment of filtration blebs after glaucoma surgery.

The formation of filtration blebs is the main drainage mechanism for reducing intraocular pressure after traditional incisional glaucoma surgery such as trabeculectomy and non-penetrating deep sclerotomy. Early and short-lasting blebs may also occur after canaloplasty. Bleb formation also plays an important role after the implantation of glaucoma drainage devices, including Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery devices. Anterior segment optical coherence tomography (AS-OCT) is a rapid and non-invasive high-resolution imaging technique that has evolved in recent years to become a routine examination. Anterior segment optical coherence tomography (AS-OCT) provides key information in the assessment and follow-up of glaucoma surgery, especially in the assessment of filtration blebs. Thus, bleb morphology can be qualitatively classified into diffuse, cystic, encapsulated and flattened, and AS-OCT imaging can also provide several quantitative parameters of the bleb, such as total bleb height, bleb fluid-filled cavity height, bleb wall thickness, number of microcysts and trabeculectomy opening size. These parameters could have an impact on clinical management during follow-up because they may predict the success or failure of the surgery in the early and late postoperative periods. Additionally, they may also guide the procedures used to increase filtration and reduce intraocular pressure, such as bleb needling and laser suture lysis.

Three-year effectiveness and safety of the XEN gel stent as a solo procedure or in combination with phacoemulsification in open-angle glaucoma: a multicentre study.

PURPOSE: To assess the 3-year effectiveness and safety of the XEN gel stent implanted ab interno in open-angle glaucoma (OAG). METHODS: This study was a multicentre, retrospective chart review of consecutive patients with OAG who underwent ab-interno gel stent placement alone or combined with phacoemulsification between 1 January 2014 and 1 October 2015. Outcome measures included mean changes in intraocular pressure (IOP) and IOP-lowering medication count from medicated baseline at 1, 2, 3 (primary outcome) and 4 years (if available) postimplantation. Intraoperative complications, adverse events of special interest (AESIs) and secondary surgical interventions (SSIs) were recorded. RESULTS: The safety and effectiveness populations included 212 eyes (primary and secondary) and 174 eyes (primary), respectively. Mean IOP and medication decreased from 20.7 mmHg and 2.5 at baseline (n = 163 primary/first implanted eyes) to 13.9 mmHg and 1.1 medications (n = 76) at 3 years postimplantation, respectively. Mean changes from baseline in IOP (-5.6, -6.2 and -6.6 mmHg) and IOP-lowering medication count (-1.8, -1.6 and -1.4) were statistically significant at 1, 2 and 3 years postimplantation, respectively. Results appeared comparable when implantation was performed with (n = 76) or without (n = 98) phacoemulsification. In primary eyes with 4-year IOP and medication count data (n = 27), mean IOP was 14.0 mmHg on 1.3 medications at 4 years postimplantation. Fifteen (7.1%) eyes had intraoperative complications, 31 (14.6%) experienced 46 postoperative AESIs, and 26 (12.3%) required SSI. CONCLUSION: The gel stent effectively lowered IOP and IOP-lowering medication count over 3 years, with a predictable and acceptable safety profile, when implanted via the traditional ab-interno technique.

Mucopolysaccharidosis type IV: report of 5 cases of Morquio Syndrome.

Mucopolysaccharidosis type IV or Morquio Syndrome, is a lysosomal deposit disease, of autosomal recessive inheritance with a similar incidence in men and women. The clinical picture is of variable expressiveness, its phenotype is characterized by skeletal dysplasia that includes neck and short trunk, short stature, keel thorax, kyphosis, scoliosis, genus valgus, flat foot, coxa valga, gait disorders, instability of the cervical spine and wedge or ovoid vertebrae. The treatment is symptomatic, with enzyme replacement. We present a series of 5 cases, the product of 2 couples, with a confirmed diagnosis of Mucopolysaccharidosis type IV, and different clinical presentation.

Fractal generation in a two-dimensional active-nematic fluid.

Active fluids, composed of individual self-propelled agents, can generate complex large-scale coherent flows. A particularly important laboratory realization of such an active fluid is a system composed of microtubules, aligned in a quasi-two-dimensional (2D) nematic phase and driven by adenosine-triphosphate-fueled kinesin motor proteins. This system exhibits robust chaotic advection and gives rise to a pronounced fractal structure in the nematic contours. We characterize such experimentally derived fractals using the power spectrum and discover that the power spectrum decays as k-ß for large wavenumbers k. The parameter ß is measured for several experimental realizations. Though ß is effectively constant in time, it does vary with experimental parameters, indicating differences in the scale-free behavior of the microtubule-based active nematic. Though the fractal patterns generated in this active system are reminiscent of passively advected dye in 2D chaotic flows, the underlying mechanism for fractal generation is more subtle. We provide a simple, physically inspired mathematical model of fractal generation in this system that relies on the material being locally compressible, though the total area of the material is conserved globally. The model also requires that large-scale density variations are injected into the material periodically. The model reproduces the power-spectrum decay k-ß seen in experiments. Linearizing the model of fractal generation about the equilibrium density, we derive an analytic relationship between ß and a single dimensionless quantity r, which characterizes the compressibility.

Strong Crystallographic Influence on Spin Hall Mechanism in PLD-Grown IrO2 Thin Films.

Spin-to-charge conversion is a central process in the emerging field of spintronics. One of its main applications is the electrical detection of spin currents, and for this, the inverse spin Hall effect (ISHE) has become one of the preferred methods. We studied the thickness dependence of the ISHE in iridium oxide (IrO2) thin films, producing spin currents by means of the spin Seebeck effect in γ-Fe2O3/IrO2 bilayers prepared by pulsed laser deposition (PLD). The observed ISHE charge current density, which features a maximum as a consequence of the spin diffusion length scale, follows the typical behaviour of spin-Hall-related phenomena. By fitting to the theory developed by Castel et al., we find that the spin Hall angle θSH scales proportionally to the thin film resistivity, θSH∝ρc, and obtains a value for the spin diffusion length λIrO2 of λIrO2=3.3(7) nm. In addition, we observe a negative θSH for every studied thickness and temperature, unlike previously reported works, which brings the possibility of tuning the desired functionality of high-resistance spin-Hall-based devices. We attribute this behaviour to the textured growth of the sample in the context of a highly anisotropic value of the spin Hall conductivity in this material.

Blue rubber bleb nevus syndrome: Presentation of a case and review of the literature.

Blue Rubber Bleb Nevus Syndrome, is a rare condition characterized by skin lesions caused by vascular malformations most frequently associated with lesions of the gastrointestinal tract, although rare, it can present with lesions in the central nervous system, thyroid, liver, spleen and lungs; common symptoms are: digestive tract bleeding and iron deficiency anemia. The main manifestation are skin lesions that are characterized by being button-like, with a bluish tint, covered by skin, called blue nevus with a rubbery consistency due to its rubber-like consistency. We present a case of Blue Rubber Bleb Nevus Syndrome with involvement in the central nervous and gastrointestinal systems.

Case Report: Evaluating Intraocular Foreign Bodies After Corneal Perforation Using Swept Source Anterior Segment Optical Coherence Tomography.

SIGNIFICANCE: Use of anterior segment optical coherence tomography (OCT) is reported, exploring its advantages over other examination techniques. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to report a case in which anterior segment OCT was used to evaluate the presence of intraocular bodies after corneal perforation. CASE REPORT: A 33-year-old man was referred to our ophthalmology department after traumatic ocular injury. Swept-source anterior segment was carried out showing corneal perforation and anterior lens capsule rupture. CONCLUSIONS: Evaluating the integrity of posterior capsule and iris after traumatic ocular injury with corneal perforation using anterior segment OCT is a valuable tool to rule out the presence of intraocular foreign bodies without contact and without using radiating imaging techniques.

Eficacia de fenilefrina en la prevención de hipotensión en cesárea bajo anestesia subaracnoidea / Effectiveness of phenylefrine in prevention of hypotension during spinal anesthesia for cesarean delivery

Resumen Introducción: la hipotensión es el evento adverso más incidente cuando se administra anestesia subaracnoidea para cesárea; múltiples estrategias para su prevención y manejo se han propuesto, entre ellas el uso de vasopresores profilácticos con resultados no concluyentes. Objetivo: evaluar la eficacia preventiva del uso de Fenilefrina en la hipotensión arterial inducida por la anestesia subaracnoidea en gestantes llevadas a cesárea. Materiales y Métodos: ensayo clínico controlado, doble ciego, en gestantes, mayores de 18 años, ASA 1 y 2, quienes recibieron anestesia subaracnoidea para cesárea, fueron aleatorizadas a recibir placebo o infusión profiláctica de fenilefrina 40 mcg/min, durante 5 minutos. Resultados: se incluyeron 140 pacientes en el análisis de datos. La incidencia de hipotensión fue mayor en el grupo control que en el intervenido (RA 45,71% vs 32,85%). Sin presentarse diferencias significativas entre ambos grupos (p=0,119). RR de hipotensión en el grupo intervenido fueron menores, independiente del criterio de hipotensión (tensión arterial sistólica, RR 0,72 (IC95% 0,47-1,09); tensión arterial media, RR 0.93 (IC95% 0,64-1,37); TAS o TAM RR 0.86 (IC95% 0,62-1,21)), pero sin diferencias significativas p>0,05. El uso de vasopresores en los pacientes que presentaron este evento se dio en 75.4% (n=52), con RR mayor en el grupo control y diferencias significativas al evaluar los dos grupos. (RR: 1,4 p=0,032). Conclusiones: fenilefrina profiláctica no demostró ser eficaz en disminuir la incidencia de hipotensión; sin embargo, sí se asocia con una disminución significativa en los requerimientos de vasopresores, así como en la incidencia de náuseas y vómito. MÉD.UIS. 2018;31(2):33-9.

Abstract Background: Hypotension is the most common adverse event when subarachnoid anesthesia is administered for cesarean section; multiple strategies for its prevention and management have been proposed, including the use of prophylactic vasopressors with inconclusive results. Objective: To evaluate the preventive efficacy of the use of phenylephrine in hypotension induced by subarachnoid anesthesia in pregnant women taken to caesarean section. Methods: A double-blind, controlled clinical trial in pregnant women, older than 18 years old, ASA 1 and 2, who received a subarachnoid anesthesia for cesarean section, were randomized to receive placebo or prophylactic infusion of phenylephrine 40 mcg / min, for 5 minutes. Results: 140 patients were included in data analysis. Incidence of hypotension was higher in the control group than in the intervention group (AR 45.71% vs 32.85%). There were no significant differences between the two groups (p = 0.119). RR of hypotension in the intervention group were lower, independent of the criterion of hypotension [systolic blood pressure, RR 0.72 (95% CI 0.47-1.09), mean arterial pressure, RR 0.93 (95% CI 0.64-1.37), SBP or MAP 0.86 (RR 0.86) (IC95% 0.62-1.21)], but without significant differences p> 0.05. The use of vasopressors in patients who presented this event occurred in 75.4% (n = 52), with higher RR in the control group and significant differences when evaluating the two groups. (RR 1.4 p = 0.032). Conclusions: Prophylactic phenylephrine did not prove effective in reducing the incidence of hypotension, however, it is associated with a significant decrease in vasopressor requirements, as well as in the incidence of nausea and vomiting. MÉD.UIS. 2018;31(2):33-9.

Dynamic Assessment of Light-Induced Vaulting Changes of Implantable Collamer Lens With Central Port by Swept-Source OCT: Pilot Study.

PURPOSE: To assess dynamic variations in vault induced by changes in brightness in eyes implanted with phakic collamer intraocular lens (pIOL) with central port for correction of myopia, defining new parameters of vaulting measurement. METHODS: We used a noninvasive Fourier-domain swept-source anterior-segment optical coherence tomography (AS-OCT) system to dynamically evaluate the shifts between the pIOL and anterior chamber structures under changing light conditions. For each eye assessed, we measured vault interval (VI), which we define based on central vault values in maximum mydriasis and in maximum miosis after light-induced changes in pupil diameter, and vault range (VR), which we define as the absolute difference between the VI values. RESULTS: The pilot study sample comprised 39 eyes (23 patients) previously implanted (mean 107 ± 156 days) with a pIOL. A significant difference in vault value was found when maximum and minimum pupil size was assessed under changing external light conditions (P < 0.001). The mean VR from scotopic (0.5 lux) to photopic (18,500 lux) light conditions was 167 ± 70 µm. CONCLUSIONS: Vault is continuously affected during movements of the pupil induced by external luminance. TRANSLATIONAL RELEVANCE: Quantifiable dynamic parameters VR and VI obtained with this AS-OCT device describe the position of the pIOL in the posterior chamber of the eye in a more accurate and real way than static vault measurements, and may contribute to improved understanding of the behavior of the pIOL in terms of safety.

Factores de riesgo para hipotensión en anestesia regional subaracnoidea para cesárea. Papel del Índice Cintura Cadera e Índice de Masa Corporal / Risk factors for hypotension in regional spinal anesthesia for cesarean section. Role of the Waist-to-Hip Ratio and Body Mass Index

Abstract Introduction: Because of its incidence, hypotension under spinal anesthesia has been the subject of study and debate. Studies have been aimed at defining risk factors, clarifying pathophysiology, and creating prophylaxis and management protocols. There are no studies of anthropometric measurements, such as waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) and body mass index (BMI), associated with maternal hypotension. The higher the content of the abdominal cavity, the greater the likelihood of aorto-caval compression syndrome and the higher the risk of hypotension. Objective: To determine if the WHR and the BMI correlate with the probability of developing hypotension in pregnant women undergoing cesarean section under subarachnoid anesthetic block. Materials and methods: A prospective cohort study of 231 women undergoing cesarean section under regional anesthesia. Anthropometric measurements were made before anesthesia, and vital signs were recorded during the procedure at predetermined time points to analyze the hemodynamic status. Hypotension was defined as a systolic blood pressure below 90 mm Hg. Results: The incidence of hypotension was 38%; 45.8% of the women had a WHR >0.99, with an incidence of 21.7% versus 15.2%, and a nonsignificant risk ratio of 2.12 (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.52-3.54, P = 0.021). Women with a BMI >29 had an incidence of 42.8% versus 57.14%, without a significant difference (P = 0.576). There was a significant association between the weight of the newborn >3900g and the risk of hypotension (relative risk 2.12, 95% CI 1.52-3.54, P = 0.021). Conclusion: There was no positive correlation between WHR and BMI, and the risk of developing hypotension. The weight of the newborn must be further analyzed in future studies.

Resumen Introducción: La hipotensión bajo anestesia regional subaracnoidea ha sido tema de estudio y debate, dada su alta incidencia. Los estudios se han encaminado a encontrar factores de riesgo, estudiar fisiopatología, crear protocolos de manejo y profilaxis. No hay estudios de medidas antropométricas, como el índice de relación cintura-cadera (IRCC) e Índice de masa corporal (IMC) asociados a hipotensión en maternas. A mayor contenido en cavidad abdominal, mayor probabilidad de síndrome de compresión aorto-cava y mayor riesgo de hipotensión. Objetivo: Determinar si el Índice de Relación Cintura Cadera y el Índice de masa Corporal se correlacionan con la probabilidad de desarrollar hipotensión en gestantes sometidas a Cesárea bajo anestesia subaracnoidea. Materiales y métodos: estudio analítico de cohorte prospectivo. 231 maternas sometidas a cesárea bajo anestesia regional; se tomaron medidas antropométricas antes de anestesia, se registraron signos vitales durante el procedimiento en momentos preestablecidos para analizar el comportamiento hemodinámico. Se definió hipotensión como tensión arterial sistólica < 90 mmHg. Resultados: La incidencia de hipotensión fue 38%. El 45,8% tuvieron IRCC >0,99 con incidencia de hipotensión de 21,7% vs 15.2% y RR no significativo de 2.12 (IC95% 1.52-3.54 p = 0.021). Pacientes con IMC>29 la incidencia de hipotensión fue 42,8% versus 57.14%, sin diferencias significativas. (p = 0,576). El peso del recién nacido >3.900 gramos se asoció significativamente con riesgo de hipotensión; RR:2.12 (IC95% 1.523.54 p=0.021). Conclusiones: EL Índice Cintura Cadera y el Índice de Masa Corporal no presentaron correlación positiva con el riesgo de presentar hipotensión. El peso del recién nacido debe documentarse en futuros estudios.

Parenting children with Down syndrome: Societal influences.

Most studies of parenting children with Down syndrome (DS) have been conducted in industrialized countries. They suggest that sensitive communication on the part of professionals, and social support, can lead to acceptance and positive adjustments in the family. This study examined the impact of a diagnosis of DS on Ecuadorian families, in particular at how the diagnosis had been communicated and received, as well as the feelings and experiences which followed. Despite considerable progress in recent years, Ecuador is still marked by discriminatory attitudes which affect children with disabilities and their families, and by the persistence of widespread poverty. This qualitative study, conducted in Cuenca, Ecuador's third largest city, is based on a focus group discussion and four in-depth interviews with Ecuadorian parents of DS children attending a specialist center in the city. The study shows that, reflecting the effects of status differences and lack of appropriate training, professionals rarely communicate a DS diagnosis in an appropriate manner. Further, it is shown that lack of social support, and the widespread stigmatization confronting children with DS and their families, hinder development of positive and empowering adjustments that would best serve the child's and the family's interest.

A new technique for diode laser cyclophotocoagulation.

Destruction of the ciliary body, an option in glaucoma surgical treatment, can be performed using various methods. Laser energy, now the principle source for cyclodestruction, can be delivered in a transpupillar, transvitreal in conjunction with a vitrectomy and transscleral manner. The current technique for endocyclophotocoagulation requires of an endoscopic probe. We describe an accessible and inexpensive alternative. Gonioprism-assisted diode cyclophotocoagulation (GADC) with a peripheral corneal approach is a new surgical technique for pseudophakic and aphakic patients that uses a manual gonioprism, iris hooks, ophthalmic operating microscope, and an 810-nm laser diode probe. GADC is performed under topical and intracameral anesthesia, prior pupil dilation. First, 4 iris hooks are placed to expose the posterior chamber. The ciliary processes are viewed through a Swan-Jacob gonioprism and the diode laser probe is inserted through a peripheral corneal incision. The energy of the laser is set at 250 mW and the duration of the application to each process is variable, from 500 to 800 ms, until shrinkage and whitening occur. We apply this technique in approximately 360 degrees of the ciliary processes. Subconjunctival dexamethasone phosphate is administered at the end of the surgery prior subconjunctival injection of lidocaine. GADC has a relatively quick learning curve, allows direct visualization with less energy delivered to the ciliary processes and obviates the acquisition of a new endoscopic device.

Central toxic keratopathy: a clinical case series.

PURPOSE: To describe clinically, a case series of central toxic keratopathy (CTK), and contribute with one possible aetiology of this entity. METHODS: A retrospective observational case series, which included 12 eyes diagnosed with CTK after undergoing laser refractive surgery in situ keratomileusis (LASIK). RESULTS: From a total of 28 eyes that underwent LASIK in the same week, 12 develop CTK. The mean time of the diagnostic was 4 days after surgery. The resolution time had an interval between 1, 3 and 9 months, and an average of 4.6 months. The occurrence of CTK cases coincided with the change of the brand of surgical gloves, and no further cases were found after their replacement. CONCLUSIONS: The CTK clinical findings are well described, but with a yet unknown origin. It seems clear that it does not require specific treatment. It is possible that there might be a relationship between a substance of the gloves and CTK. Further studies are needed to know all the details of this process.

Intravitreal voriconazole for the treatment of Aspergillus chorioretinitis.

The aim of this article is to report a case of Aspergillus chorioretinitis successfully treated with intravitreal voriconazole based on an interventional case report. An immunodeficient patient, 34 years old, receiving systemic antifungal treatment for 1 month for invasive aspergillosis with necrotizing pneumonia and brain metastasis, who presented with blurred vision in his left eye. Visual acuity (VA) was 20/20 in his right eye, and 8/20 in his left eye. Ophthalmological examination showed a paramacular nodular yellowish chorioretinal lesion with intraretinal hemorrhages, in the absence of vitritis or anterior uveitis. The patient was treated with one dose of intravitreal voriconazole (100 µg/0.1 ml). One week after the intravitreal injection, the patient's VA was 10/20, the retinal lesions had diminished, and the hemorrhages had disappeared. At 3-month follow-up, his AV was 20/20 with a residual retinal scar. The significant and rapid improvement in this patient suggests that early injection of intravitreal voriconazole may be the first therapeutic option in Aspergillus chorioretinitis, obviating the need for vitrectomy.