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Shen Z, Liu Z, Sun L, Li M, Han L, Wang J, Wu X, Sang S. Constructing epidermal rete ridges using a composite hydrogel to enhance multiple signaling pathways for the maintenance of epidermal stem cell niche. Acta Biomater 2023; 169:273-288. [PMID: 37516415 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2023.07.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2023] [Revised: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 07/23/2023] [Indexed: 07/31/2023]
Abstract
The undulating microstructure rete ridge (RR) located at the junction between the dermis and epidermis plays a crucial role in improving skin mechanical properties and maintaining skin homeostasis. However, the investigation of RR microstructures is usually neglected in current tissue engineering for skin regeneration. Here, to create an epidermal model with RR microstructures, keratinocytes were cultured on a patterned GelMA-PEGDA hydrogel constructed using molding technology. Furthermore, grafting acryloylated Arg-Gly-Asp (RGD) peptides on the hydrogel surface significantly improved cell adhesion, fusion, and development. RT-PCR, Western blot, and immunofluorescence staining confirmed that cells on RR microstructures exhibited higher gene and protein expression associated with epidermal stem cells. RNA sequencing analysis of cells on RR microstructure showed higher gene expression profiles related to stem cell maintenance, basement membrane formation, and epidermal development. Furthermore, RT-PCR analysis of epidermal models of various dimensions demonstrated that smaller microstructures were more conducive to epidermal stem cell marker gene expression, which is analogous to human skin. Overall, we have successfully developed a method for integrating RR microstructures into an epidermal model that mimics natural skin to maintain epidermal stem cell niche, providing a valuable reference for researching skin regeneration within the fields of tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: This study presents a method for precisely fabricating microstructures of skin rete ridges using composite hydrogels, thereby creating a skin model that mimics natural human skin. The findings reveal that this microstructure provides a stem cell niche that regulates the pathways and promotes the expression of proteins related to epidermal stem cells. This work advances the functional properties of tissue engineered skin and holds promise for improving the therapeutic efficacy of artificial skin grafts for the skin wounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhizhong Shen
- Shanxi Key Laboratory of Micro Nano Sensors & Artificial Intelligence Perception, College of Information and Computer, Taiyuan University of Technology, Taiyuan, 030024, China
| | - Zixian Liu
- Shanxi Key Laboratory of Micro Nano Sensors & Artificial Intelligence Perception, College of Information and Computer, Taiyuan University of Technology, Taiyuan, 030024, China; Key Lab of Advanced Transducers and Intelligent Control System of the Ministry of Education, Taiyuan University of Technology, Taiyuan, 030024, China
| | - Lei Sun
- Shanxi Key Laboratory of Micro Nano Sensors & Artificial Intelligence Perception, College of Information and Computer, Taiyuan University of Technology, Taiyuan, 030024, China; Key Lab of Advanced Transducers and Intelligent Control System of the Ministry of Education, Taiyuan University of Technology, Taiyuan, 030024, China
| | - Meng Li
- Shanxi Key Laboratory of Micro Nano Sensors & Artificial Intelligence Perception, College of Information and Computer, Taiyuan University of Technology, Taiyuan, 030024, China; Shanxi Research Institute of 6D Artificial Intelligence Biomedical Science, Taiyuan, 030031, China
| | - Lu Han
- Shanxi Key Laboratory of Micro Nano Sensors & Artificial Intelligence Perception, College of Information and Computer, Taiyuan University of Technology, Taiyuan, 030024, China; Shanxi Research Institute of 6D Artificial Intelligence Biomedical Science, Taiyuan, 030031, China
| | - Jianming Wang
- General Hospital of TISCO, North Street, Xinghualing District, Taiyuan, 030809, China
| | - Xunwei Wu
- Engineering Laboratory for Biomaterials and Tissue Regeneration, Ningbo Stomatology Hospital, Savaid Stomatology School, Hangzhou Medical College, Ningbo, China; Department of Tissue Engineering and Regeneration, Shandong University & Shandong Key Laboratory of Oral Tissue Regeneration & Shandong Engineering Laboratory for Dental Materials and Oral Tissue Regeneration, School and Hospital of Stomatology, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Shengbo Sang
- Shanxi Key Laboratory of Micro Nano Sensors & Artificial Intelligence Perception, College of Information and Computer, Taiyuan University of Technology, Taiyuan, 030024, China; Key Lab of Advanced Transducers and Intelligent Control System of the Ministry of Education, Taiyuan University of Technology, Taiyuan, 030024, China.
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Diagnostic Algorithm for Surgical Management of Limbal Stem Cell Deficiency. Diagnostics (Basel) 2023; 13:diagnostics13020199. [PMID: 36673009 PMCID: PMC9858342 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics13020199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2022] [Revised: 12/22/2022] [Accepted: 12/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Limbal stem cell deficiency (LCSD) presents several challenges. Currently, there is no clearly defined systematic approach to LSCD diagnosis that may guide surgical tactics. METHODS The medical records of 34 patients with LSCD were analyzed. Diagnostic modalities included standard (visometry, tonometry, visual field testing, slit-lamp biomicroscopy with corneal fluorescein staining, Schirmer test 1, ultrasonography) and advanced ophthalmic examination methods such as anterior segment optical coherence tomography, in vivo confocal microscopy, impression cytology, and enzyme-linked immunoassay. RESULTS Standard ophthalmological examination was sufficient to establish the diagnosis of LSCD in 20 (58.8%) cases, whereas advanced evaluation was needed in 14 (41.2%) cases. Depending on the results, patients with unilateral LSCD were scheduled to undergo glueless simple limbal epithelial transplantation (G-SLET) or simultaneous G-SLET and lamellar keratoplasty. Patients with bilateral LSCD with normal or increased corneal thickness were enrolled in the paralimbal oral mucosa epithelium transplantation (pLOMET) clinical trial. CONCLUSIONS Based on the diagnostic and surgical data analyzed, the key points in LSCD diagnosis were identified, helping to guide the surgeon in selecting the appropriate surgical procedure. Finally, we proposed a novel step-by-step diagnostic algorithm and original surgical guidelines for the treatment of patients with LSCD.
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Shen Z, Sun L, Liu Z, Li M, Cao Y, Han L, Wang J, Wu X, Sang S. Rete ridges: Morphogenesis, function, regulation, and reconstruction. Acta Biomater 2023; 155:19-34. [PMID: 36427683 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2022.11.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2022] [Revised: 10/29/2022] [Accepted: 11/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Rete ridges (RRs) are distinct undulating microstructures at the junction of the dermis and epidermis in the skin of humans and certain animals. This structure is essential for enhancing the mechanical characteristics of skin and preserving homeostasis. With the development of tissue engineering and regenerative medicine, artificial skin grafts have made great progress in the field of skin healing. However, the restoration of RRs has been often disregarded or absent in artificial skin grafts, which potentially compromise the efficacy of tissue repair and regeneration. Therefore, this review collates recent research advances in understanding the structural features, function, morphogenesis, influencing factors, and reconstruction strategies pertaining to RRs. In addition, the preparation methods and limitations of tissue-engineered skin with RRs are discussed. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: The technology for the development of tissue-engineered skin (TES) is widely studied and reported; however, the preparation of TES containing rete ridges (RRs) is often ignored, with no literature reviews on the structural reconstruction of RRs. This review focuses on the progress pertaining to RRs and focuses on the reconstruction methods for RRs. In addition, it discusses the limitations of existing reconstruction methods. Therefore, this review could be a valuable reference for transferring TES with RR structure from the laboratory to clinical applications in skin repair.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhizhong Shen
- Shanxi Key Laboratory of Micro Nano Sensors & Artificial Intelligence Perception, College of Information and Computer, Taiyuan University of Technology, Taiyuan 030024, China
| | - Lei Sun
- Shanxi Key Laboratory of Micro Nano Sensors & Artificial Intelligence Perception, College of Information and Computer, Taiyuan University of Technology, Taiyuan 030024, China; Key Lab of Advanced Transducers and Intelligent Control System of the Ministry of Education, Taiyuan University of Technology, Taiyuan 030024, China
| | - Zixian Liu
- Shanxi Key Laboratory of Micro Nano Sensors & Artificial Intelligence Perception, College of Information and Computer, Taiyuan University of Technology, Taiyuan 030024, China; Key Lab of Advanced Transducers and Intelligent Control System of the Ministry of Education, Taiyuan University of Technology, Taiyuan 030024, China
| | - Meng Li
- Shanxi Key Laboratory of Micro Nano Sensors & Artificial Intelligence Perception, College of Information and Computer, Taiyuan University of Technology, Taiyuan 030024, China; Shanxi Research Institute of 6D Artificial Intelligence Biomedical Science, Taiyuan 030031, China
| | - Yanyan Cao
- Shanxi Key Laboratory of Micro Nano Sensors & Artificial Intelligence Perception, College of Information and Computer, Taiyuan University of Technology, Taiyuan 030024, China; Shanxi Research Institute of 6D Artificial Intelligence Biomedical Science, Taiyuan 030031, China
| | - Lu Han
- Shanxi Key Laboratory of Micro Nano Sensors & Artificial Intelligence Perception, College of Information and Computer, Taiyuan University of Technology, Taiyuan 030024, China; Shanxi Research Institute of 6D Artificial Intelligence Biomedical Science, Taiyuan 030031, China
| | - Jianming Wang
- General Hospital of TISCO, North Street, Xinghualing District, Taiyuan 030809, China
| | - Xunwei Wu
- Department of Tissue Engineering and Regeneration, School and Hospital of Stomatology, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University & Shandong Key Laboratory of Oral Tissue Regeneration & Shandong Engineering Laboratory for Dental Materials and Oral Tissue Regeneration, Jinan, Shandong, China; Engineering Laboratory for Biomaterials and Tissue Regeneration, Ningbo Stomatology Hospital, Savaid Stomatology School, Hangzhou Medical College, Ningbo, China.
| | - Shengbo Sang
- Shanxi Key Laboratory of Micro Nano Sensors & Artificial Intelligence Perception, College of Information and Computer, Taiyuan University of Technology, Taiyuan 030024, China; Key Lab of Advanced Transducers and Intelligent Control System of the Ministry of Education, Taiyuan University of Technology, Taiyuan 030024, China.
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Comparative Histology of the Cornea and Palisades of Vogt in the Different Wild Ruminants (Bovidae, Camelidae, Cervidae, Giraffidae, Tragulidae). Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12223188. [PMID: 36428415 PMCID: PMC9687073 DOI: 10.3390/ani12223188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2022] [Revised: 11/14/2022] [Accepted: 11/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
In the study, we data concerning the histological and morphometrical examination of the cornea and palisades of Vogt in the different species of ruminants from the families Bovidae, Camelidae, Cervidae, Giraffidae and Tragulidae, coming from the Warsaw Zoological Garden, the Wroclaw Zoological Garden and the Division of Animal Anatomy. The following ruminant species were investigated: common wildebeest, Kirk's dik-dik, Natal red duiker, scimitar oryx, sitatunga, Philippine spotted deer, Père David's deer, moose, reindeer, reticulated giraffe, okapi, Balabac mouse-deer and alpaca. The cornea of ruminant species such as the common wildebeest, Kirk's dik-dik, Natal red duiker, scimitar oryx, reindeer and Balabac mouse-deer consisted of four layers (not found in the Bowman's layer): the anterior corneal epithelium, the proper substance of the cornea, the posterior limiting membrane (Descemet's membrane) and the posterior corneal epithelium (endothelium). The anterior corneal epithelium was composed of a multilayer keratinizing squamous epithelium, which was characterized in the studied ruminants with a variable number of cell layers but also with a different thickness both in the central epithelium part and in the peripheral part. Moreover, the proper substance of cornea was thinnest in Balabac mouse-deer, Kirk's dik-dik, Natal red duiker, scimitar oryx, Philippine spotted deer, alpaca, reindeer and sitatunga and was thickest in the reticulated giraffe. The thickest Descemet's membrane was observed in the Père David's deer. The corneal limbus is characterized by a large number of pigment cell clusters in Kirk's dik-dik, scimitar oryx, moose, Balabac mouse-deer and alpaca. In the common wildebeest, Père David's deer, moose, reticulated giraffe, okapi and alpaca, the palisades of Vogt were marked in the form of a crypt-like structure. The corneal limbus epithelium in the examined ruminants was characterized by a variable number of cell layers but also a variable number of melanocytes located in different layers of this epithelium. The detailed knowledge of the corneal structure of domestic and wild animals can contribute to the even better development of methods for treating eye diseases in veterinary medicine.
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Jeong Y, Kang S, Ahn J, Kim S, Kim H, Park J, Seo K. Assessment of corneal and limbal epithelial thickness by spectral-domain optical coherence tomography in brachycephalic and non-brachycephalic dogs. Vet Ophthalmol 2022; 26 Suppl 1:89-97. [PMID: 35904513 DOI: 10.1111/vop.13016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2022] [Revised: 07/12/2022] [Accepted: 07/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the variance in corneal epithelial thickness (CET) and limbal epithelial thickness (LET) according to the age and skull type by using spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) in normal dogs. ANIMALS AND PROCEDURES This study used an eye each from 46 dogs (24 brachycephalic and 22 non-brachycephalic dogs) assessed to have clear corneas. Each dog was classified according to age into groups 1 (0-5 years), 2 (6-10 years), and 3 (>11 years). OCT imaging was performed on the central cornea for CET and perpendicular to the quadrant of the limbus for LET. The average of the maximum LET (maxLET) value was measured in four eye quadrants. RESULTS Corneal epithelial thickness was not significantly different according to age in brachycephalic and non-brachycephalic dogs. Visualization of the limbal invagination was better when the maxLET was thick. Nasal and temporal maxLETs were significantly thicker than superior and inferior maxLETs in non-brachycephalic dogs. In brachycephalic dogs, there was a significant decrease in nasal maxLET with age (rs = -0.489, p = .015). Significant differences between brachycephalic and non-brachycephalic dogs were observed in nasal maxLET (p = .024) and temporal maxLET (p = .011). CONCLUSIONS Invagination was better visualized in the nasal and temporal limbal quadrants of non-brachycephalic dogs compared with brachycephalic dogs, and the maxLETs of the regions were thicker than those of the brachycephalic dogs. CET and LET measurements using SD-OCT can help in clinical assessment and research on ocular surface diseases in dogs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Youngseok Jeong
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Research Institute for Veterinary Science, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Seonmi Kang
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Research Institute for Veterinary Science, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Junyeong Ahn
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Research Institute for Veterinary Science, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Sol Kim
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Research Institute for Veterinary Science, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Hyelin Kim
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Research Institute for Veterinary Science, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Jisoo Park
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Research Institute for Veterinary Science, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Kangmoon Seo
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Research Institute for Veterinary Science, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea
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Kate A, Basu S. A Review of the Diagnosis and Treatment of Limbal Stem Cell Deficiency. Front Med (Lausanne) 2022; 9:836009. [PMID: 35692544 PMCID: PMC9175008 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2022.836009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2021] [Accepted: 05/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD) can cause significant corneal vascularization and scarring and often results in serious visual morbidity. An early and accurate diagnosis can help prevent the same with a timely and appropriate intervention. This review aims to provide an understanding of the different diagnostic tools and presents an algorithmic approach to the management based on a comprehensive clinical examination. Although the diagnosis of LSCD usually relies on the clinical findings, they can be subjective and non-specific. In such cases, using an investigative modality offers an objective method of confirming the diagnosis. Several diagnostic tools have been described in literature, each having its own advantages and limitations. Impression cytology and in vivo confocal microscopy (IVCM) aid in the diagnosis of LSCD by detecting the presence of goblet cells. With immunohistochemistry, impression cytology can help in confirming the corneal or conjunctival source of epithelium. Both IVCM and anterior segment optical coherence tomography can help supplement the diagnosis of LSCD by characterizing the corneal and limbal epithelial changes. Once the diagnosis is established, one of various surgical techniques can be adopted for the treatment of LSCD. These surgeries aim to provide a new source of corneal epithelial stem cells and help in restoring the stability of the ocular surface. The choice of procedure depends on several factors including the involvement of the ocular adnexa, presence of systemic co-morbidities, status of the fellow eye and the comfort level of the surgeon. In LSCD with wet ocular surfaces, autologous and allogeneic limbal stem cell transplantation is preferred in unilateral and bilateral cases, respectively. Another approach in bilateral LSCD with wet ocular surfaces is the use of an autologous stem cell source of a different epithelial lineage, like oral or nasal mucosa. In eyes with bilateral LSCD with significant adnexal issues, a keratoprosthesis is the only viable option. This review provides an overview on the diagnosis and treatment of LSCD, which will help the clinician choose the best option amongst all the therapeutic modalities currently available and gives a clinical perspective on customizing the treatment for each individual case.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anahita Kate
- The Cornea Institute, KVC Campus, LV Prasad Eye Institute, Vijayawada, India
| | - Sayan Basu
- The Cornea Institute, KAR Campus, LV Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad, India
- Prof. Brien Holden Eye Research Centre (BHERC), LV Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
- *Correspondence: Sayan Basu
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Role of AS-OCT in Managing Corneal Disorders. Diagnostics (Basel) 2022; 12:diagnostics12040918. [PMID: 35453966 PMCID: PMC9030521 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics12040918] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2022] [Revised: 03/29/2022] [Accepted: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is analogous to ultrasound biometry in the cross sectional imaging of ocular tissues. Development of current devices with deeper penetration and higher resolution has made it popular tool in clinics for visualization of anterior segment structures. In this review, the authors discussed the application of AS-OCT for diagnosis and management of various corneal and ocular surface disorders. Further, recent developments in the application of the device for pediatric corneal disorders and extending the application of OCT angiography for anterior segment are introduced.
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High-Resolution Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography Characteristics of Limbal Stem Cell Deficiency. Diagnostics (Basel) 2021; 11:diagnostics11061130. [PMID: 34205702 PMCID: PMC8233779 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics11061130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2021] [Revised: 06/02/2021] [Accepted: 06/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to identify the anterior segment high-resolution optical coherence tomography (HR-OCT) and HR-OCT angiography (HR-OCTA) features suggestive of limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD) as confirmed by both impression cytology (IC) and in vivo confocal microscopy (IVCM). This was a single-centre prospective cross-sectional study including 24 eyes of 22 patients with clinical suspicion of LSCD based on peripheral superficial corneal vascularisation and scarring. On IC and IVCM, performed and interpreted by blinded observers, 12 eyes each were diagnosed with and without LSCD. Additionally, 10 eyes of 5 healthy volunteers with no ocular pathology were also imaged. The 136 HR-OCT/A images of these 34 eyes were analysed with respect to 12 imaging parameters; the parameters most suggestive of LSCD were identified and the sensitivity and specificity were calculated. In the LSCD group, the most common aetiology was ocular chemical burns (83%), whereas in the non-LSCD group, the most common aetiology was viral keratitis (67%). Multiple logistic regression analysis revealed that mean epithelial reflectivity, mean stromal reflectivity, and mean superficial vascular density were the parameters that were diagnostic of LSCD on HR-OCT/A (p < 0.0001). A ratio of the mean epithelial reflectivity to stromal reflectivity of >1.29 corresponded with a high sensitivity (91.7%) and specificity (98.75%); while a mean superficial vascular density score of >0.38 corresponded with a sensitivity of 97.9% and specificity of 73.8%. In conclusion, HR-OCT/A as a non-invasive imaging modality could prove to be a useful tool for confirming the diagnosis of LSCD, with potential clinical and research applications.
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Chen YY, Sun YC, Tsai CY, Chu HS, Wu JH, Chang HW, Chen WL. Spectral-domain optical coherence tomography for evaluating palisades of Vogt in ocular surface disorders with limbal involvement. Sci Rep 2021; 11:12502. [PMID: 34127762 PMCID: PMC8203687 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-91999-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2021] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) has been used to observe the morphology of the palisades of Vogt (POV) with satisfactory resolutions. In this study, we used SD-OCT to examine the microstructure of the POV in ocular surface disorders with limbal involvement. We detect subclinical limbal pathologies based on five parameters, including (1) decreased epithelial thickness, (2) loss of the sharp stromal tip, (3) loss of the smooth epithelial-stromal interface, (4) dilated stromal vessels, and (5) decreased POV density. Eighteen eyes of 10 patients with advancing wavelike epitheliopathy (AWE) and 15 eyes of 9 patients with phlyctenular keratitis/ocular rosacea were recruited. SD-OCT could detect abnormal changes in the POV in 100% of the lesion sites. In presumed-healthy areas of the diseased eyes diagnosed by slit-lamp biomicroscopy, SD-OCT detected abnormal changes in the POV in 100% of the eyes in both groups. In patients with unilateral disease, abnormal changes in the POV were detected by SD-OCT in 50% and 100% of presumed-healthy eyes diagnosed by slit-lamp biomicroscopy in the AWE group and phlyctenular keratitis/ocular rosacea group, respectively. SD-OCT is powerful in detecting POV changes in ocular surface disorders and can provide useful information that cannot be provided by slit-lamp biomicroscopy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying-Yi Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, National Taiwan University Hospital, No. 7, Chung-Shan South Road, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Chen Sun
- Department of Ophthalmology, National Taiwan University Hospital, No. 7, Chung-Shan South Road, Taipei, Taiwan.,Department of Ophthalmology, Taipei Tzu Chi Hospital, The Buddhist Tzu Chi Medical Foundation, New Taipei City, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Ying Tsai
- Department of Ophthalmology, National Taiwan University Hospital, No. 7, Chung-Shan South Road, Taipei, Taiwan.,Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan.,Department of Ophthalmology, Fu-Jen Catholic University, New Taipei City, Taiwan.,School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Fu-Jen Catholic University, New Taipei City, Taiwan
| | - Hsiao-Sang Chu
- Department of Ophthalmology, National Taiwan University Hospital, No. 7, Chung-Shan South Road, Taipei, Taiwan.,Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan.,Advanced Ocular Surface and Corneal Nerve Research Center, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Jo-Hsuan Wu
- Shiley Eye Institute and Viterbi Family Department of Ophthalmology, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Huai-Wen Chang
- Department of Ophthalmology, National Taiwan University Hospital, No. 7, Chung-Shan South Road, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Wei-Li Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, National Taiwan University Hospital, No. 7, Chung-Shan South Road, Taipei, Taiwan. .,Advanced Ocular Surface and Corneal Nerve Research Center, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan. .,Department of Ophthalmology, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan.
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Tong CM, He B, Iovieno A, Yeung SN. Diagnosis and management of limbal stem cell deficiency, challenges, and future prospects. EXPERT REVIEW OF OPHTHALMOLOGY 2021. [DOI: 10.1080/17469899.2021.1933441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- C. Maya Tong
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Bonnie He
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Alfonso Iovieno
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Sonia N. Yeung
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
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Güçlü H, Çınar AK, Çınar AC, Akaray İ, Şambel Aykutlu M, Sakallıoğlu AK, Gürlü V. Corneal epithelium and limbal region alterations due to glaucoma medications evaluated by anterior segment optic coherence tomography: a case-control study. Cutan Ocul Toxicol 2021; 40:85-94. [PMID: 33719786 DOI: 10.1080/15569527.2021.1902341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
AIM To investigate the corneal epithelial and limbal epithelial alterations in patients under topical glaucoma treatment using anterior segment-OCT (AS-OCT) and to determine the changes of the limbal region due to the preservatives and glaucoma drugs, that can progress to limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD). Limbal thickness was measured by AS-OCT to evaluate limbal cell deficiency. METHODS Forty-seven patients using topical medication for glaucoma, and 48 control subjects were enrolled in this matched case-control study. The patients were divided into four groups according to the treatment regimens. Group 1: One-drug regimen, Group 2: Two-drug regimen, Group 3: Three-drug regimen, Group 4: Four-drug regimen For the ocular surface evaluation; tear break-up time with standard fluorescein sodium sterile strip application, Schirmer test-I, Ocular Surface Disease Index Questionnaire, and AS-OCT were performed. RESULTS A total of 95 subjects were included: 47 eyes of 47 patients with glaucoma medication and 48 eyes of 48 healthy subjects. There was a statistically significant difference between patients and controls according to BUT, SCH, and OSDI (p < 0.001). The mean central corneal epithelium thickness was 48.5 ± 5.3 in patients and 54.5 ± 5.9 in controls (p < 0.001). The mean central total corneal thickness was 529.2 ± 41.2 in patients and 536 ± 35.3 in controls (p = 0.335). The mean limbal epithelium thickness was 64.1 ± 9.1 in patients and 76 ± 11.5 in controls (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION Using at least one glaucoma drug caused limbal area injury, changed ocular surface measurements, and significantly reduced the limbal epithelial thickness where the stem cells reside. The limbal epithelial thickness measurement by AS-OCT seems to be an innovative, non-invasive, and promising technique for detecting and staging corneal damage in topical glaucoma therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hande Güçlü
- Department of Ophthalmology, Trakya University Faculty of Medicine, Edirne, Turkey
| | - Ayça Küpeli Çınar
- Department of Ophthalmology, Trakya University Faculty of Medicine, Edirne, Turkey
| | - Abdülkadir Can Çınar
- Department of Ophthalmology, Trakya University Faculty of Medicine, Edirne, Turkey
| | - İrfan Akaray
- Department of Ophthalmology, Trakya University Faculty of Medicine, Edirne, Turkey
| | - Merve Şambel Aykutlu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Trakya University Faculty of Medicine, Edirne, Turkey
| | | | - Vuslat Gürlü
- Department of Ophthalmology, Trakya University Faculty of Medicine, Edirne, Turkey
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Ouyang J, Mathai TS, Lathrop K, Galeotti J. Accurate tissue interface segmentation via adversarial pre-segmentation of anterior segment OCT images. BIOMEDICAL OPTICS EXPRESS 2019; 10:5291-5324. [PMID: 31646047 PMCID: PMC6788614 DOI: 10.1364/boe.10.005291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2019] [Revised: 07/10/2019] [Accepted: 07/10/2019] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) is an imaging modality that has been widely adopted for visualizing corneal, retinal and limbal tissue structure with micron resolution. It can be used to diagnose pathological conditions of the eye, and for developing pre-operative surgical plans. In contrast to the posterior retina, imaging the anterior tissue structures, such as the limbus and cornea, results in B-scans that exhibit increased speckle noise patterns and imaging artifacts. These artifacts, such as shadowing and specularity, pose a challenge during the analysis of the acquired volumes as they substantially obfuscate the location of tissue interfaces. To deal with the artifacts and speckle noise patterns and accurately segment the shallowest tissue interface, we propose a cascaded neural network framework, which comprises of a conditional Generative Adversarial Network (cGAN) and a Tissue Interface Segmentation Network (TISN). The cGAN pre-segments OCT B-scans by removing undesired specular artifacts and speckle noise patterns just above the shallowest tissue interface, and the TISN combines the original OCT image with the pre-segmentation to segment the shallowest interface. We show the applicability of the cascaded framework to corneal datasets, demonstrate that it precisely segments the shallowest corneal interface, and also show its generalization capacity to limbal datasets. We also propose a hybrid framework, wherein the cGAN pre-segmentation is passed to a traditional image analysis-based segmentation algorithm, and describe the improved segmentation performance. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first approach to remove severe specular artifacts and speckle noise patterns (prior to the shallowest interface) that affects the interpretation of anterior segment OCT datasets, thereby resulting in the accurate segmentation of the shallowest tissue interface. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first work to show the potential of incorporating a cGAN into larger deep learning frameworks for improved corneal and limbal OCT image segmentation. Our cGAN design directly improves the visualization of corneal and limbal OCT images from OCT scanners, and improves the performance of current OCT segmentation algorithms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiahong Ouyang
- The Robotics Institute, Carnegie Mellon University, PA 15213, USA
- Equal contribution
| | | | - Kira Lathrop
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - John Galeotti
- The Robotics Institute, Carnegie Mellon University, PA 15213, USA
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
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Deng SX, Borderie V, Chan CC, Dana R, Figueiredo FC, Gomes JAP, Pellegrini G, Shimmura S, Kruse FE. Global Consensus on Definition, Classification, Diagnosis, and Staging of Limbal Stem Cell Deficiency. Cornea 2019; 38:364-375. [PMID: 30614902 PMCID: PMC6363877 DOI: 10.1097/ico.0000000000001820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 179] [Impact Index Per Article: 35.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Despite extensive knowledge gained over the last 3 decades regarding limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD), the disease is not clearly defined, and there is lack of agreement on the diagnostic criteria, staging, and classification system among treating physicians and research scientists working on this field. There is therefore an unmet need to obtain global consensus on the definition, classification, diagnosis, and staging of LSCD. METHODS A Limbal Stem Cell Working Group was first established by The Cornea Society in 2012. The Working Group was divided into subcommittees. Four face-to-face meetings, frequent email discussions, and teleconferences were conducted since then to obtain agreement on a strategic plan and methodology from all participants after a comprehensive literature search, and final agreement was reached on the definition, classification, diagnosis, and staging of LSCD. A writing group was formed to draft the current manuscript, which has been extensively revised to reflect the consensus of the Working Group. RESULTS A consensus was reached on the definition, classification, diagnosis, and staging of LSCD. The clinical presentation and diagnostic criteria of LSCD were clarified, and a staging system of LSCD based on clinical presentation was established. CONCLUSIONS This global consensus provides a comprehensive framework for the definition, classification, diagnosis, and staging of LSCD. The newly established criteria will aid in the correct diagnosis and formulation of an appropriate treatment for different stages of LSCD, which will facilitate a better understanding of the condition and help with clinical management, research, and clinical trials in this area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophie X. Deng
- Stein Eye Institute, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles
| | - Vincent Borderie
- Quinze-Vingts National Eye Hospital, Faculté de Médecine Sorbonne Université, Paris, France
| | - Clara C. Chan
- University of Toronto Department of Ophthalmology & Vision Sciences Toronto, Ontario
| | - Reza Dana
- Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Harvard Medical School
| | - Francisco C. Figueiredo
- Department of Ophthalmology, Royal Victoria Infirmary and Institute of Genetic Medicine, Newcastle University, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK
| | - José A. P. Gomes
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Escola Paulista de Medicina/Universidade Federal de São Paulo (EPM/UNIFESP), Brazil
| | - Graziella Pellegrini
- Centre for Regenerative Medicine, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia; Holostem Terapie Avanzate, Modena, Italy
| | - Shigeto Shimmura
- Department of Ophthalmology, Keio University School of Medicine, Japan
| | - Friedrich E. Kruse
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Erlangen and Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Germany
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Banayan N, Georgeon C, Grieve K, Ghoubay D, Baudouin F, Borderie V. [In vivo confocal microscopy and optical coherence tomography as innovative tools for the diagnosis of limbal stem cell deficiency (French translation of the article)]. J Fr Ophtalmol 2018; 41:968-980. [PMID: 30473234 DOI: 10.1016/j.jfo.2018.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2018] [Revised: 07/10/2018] [Accepted: 07/13/2018] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
The limbus is the anatomical and functional barrier between corneal and conjunctival epithelia. It is characterized by presence of the limbal stem cell niche which allows corneal homeostasis to be maintained. Limbal stem cell deficiency is characterized by a dual process: insufficient regeneration of corneal epithelium, which cannot therefore assure its function of physiological support, associated with corneal invasion by conjunctival proliferation. Diagnosis is currently made via routine clinical examination, corneal impression cytology and in vivo confocal microscopy (IVCM). Slit lamp examination shows abnormal limbal anatomy, thin and irregular epithelium with late fluorescein staining, and superficial vascularization. With its high resolution, IVCM allows identification of limbal and corneal epithelial changes at a cellular level in en face views, parallel to the corneal surface, but with a restricted viewing field of the corneal surface. It shows a poor transition between the corneal and conjunctival epithelia, associated with a loss of the normal corneal epithelial stratification, low basal cell and sub-basal nerve plexus densities, even with sub-epithelial fibrosis. Optical coherence tomography in central cornea and at the limbus, with scans in different orientations, allows a quick, global and non-invasive analysis of normal eyes and those with limbal stem cell deficiency. It shows a thin limbal epithelium, lacking normal thickening, featuring absence of stromal undulations and limbal crypts in cross-sections and sections parallel to the limbus, lack of visible limbal crypts in en face sections, loss of clear transition between the hyporeflective corneal epithelium and the hyperreflective conjunctival epithelium, and hyperreflective sub-epithelial fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Banayan
- Service d'ophtalmologie 5, centre hospitalier national d'ophtalmologie des Quinze-Vingts, 28, rue de Charenton, 75012 Paris, France
| | - C Georgeon
- Service d'ophtalmologie 5, centre hospitalier national d'ophtalmologie des Quinze-Vingts, 28, rue de Charenton, 75012 Paris, France
| | - K Grieve
- Inserm UMR S 968, institut de la vision, Sorbonne université, CHNO des 15-20, 75012 Paris, France
| | - D Ghoubay
- Service d'ophtalmologie 5, centre hospitalier national d'ophtalmologie des Quinze-Vingts, 28, rue de Charenton, 75012 Paris, France; Inserm UMR S 968, institut de la vision, Sorbonne université, CHNO des 15-20, 75012 Paris, France
| | - F Baudouin
- Inserm UMR S 968, institut de la vision, Sorbonne université, CHNO des 15-20, 75012 Paris, France
| | - V Borderie
- Service d'ophtalmologie 5, centre hospitalier national d'ophtalmologie des Quinze-Vingts, 28, rue de Charenton, 75012 Paris, France; Inserm UMR S 968, institut de la vision, Sorbonne université, CHNO des 15-20, 75012 Paris, France.
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15
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Banayan N, Georgeon C, Grieve K, Ghoubay D, Baudouin F, Borderie V. In vivo confocal microscopy and optical coherence tomography as innovative tools for the diagnosis of limbal stem cell deficiency. J Fr Ophtalmol 2018; 41:e395-e406. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jfo.2018.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2018] [Revised: 09/10/2018] [Accepted: 09/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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Ang M, Baskaran M, Werkmeister RM, Chua J, Schmidl D, Aranha dos Santos V, Garhöfer G, Mehta JS, Schmetterer L. Anterior segment optical coherence tomography. Prog Retin Eye Res 2018; 66:132-156. [DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2018.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 216] [Impact Index Per Article: 36.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2017] [Revised: 02/20/2018] [Accepted: 04/04/2018] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
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Le Q, Cordova D, Xu J, Deng SX. In Vivo Evaluation of the Limbus Using Anterior Segment Optical Coherence Tomography. Transl Vis Sci Technol 2018; 7:12. [PMID: 30112250 PMCID: PMC6082326 DOI: 10.1167/tvst.7.4.12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2018] [Accepted: 06/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Purposes To investigate the limbal structure using anterior segment optical coherence tomography (AS-OCT) and compare the difference between a Chinese Han population and a Caucasian population. Methods Sixty healthy Chinese Han subjects (109 eyes, Chinese group) and 32 healthy Caucasian subjects (51 eyes, Caucasian group) were included in this comparative cross-sectional study. The central cornea and the superior, inferior, nasal, and temporal limbal regions of each subject underwent Fourier-domain AS-OCT. The following parameters were measured: corneal epithelial thickness (CET), maximum limbal epithelial thickness (LET), the mean LET, the width of limbus, distance between scleral spur and the location where limbal epithelium was the thickest (S-T), and limbal epithelial area between scleral spur and the end of Bowman's layer (LEA). Results CET was similar in both groups (P = 0.577). The width of limbus was more than 32.8% greater in all limbal quadrants in the Caucasian group (range, 1.25–2.20 mm) than in the Chinese group (range, 0.81–1.40 mm). S-T and LEA were also significantly higher in all limbal quadrants in the Caucasian group (all P < 0.001). The maximum LET and mean LET were 7.8% and 6.9% thicker at the nasal limbus and 8.1% and 8.7% thicker in the temporal limbus in Caucasian subjects than in Chinese subjects. Conclusions The limbal structures can be visualized using AS-OCT and differ significantly between the Caucasian and Chinese eyes. Translational Relevance Research of the limbus and surgeons performing procedures involving the limbal area should take into consideration of the anatomic differences especially when limbus is used as an anatomic reference.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qihua Le
- Stein Eye Institute, Cornea Division, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA.,Department of Ophthalmology, Eye & ENT Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Daniel Cordova
- Stein Eye Institute, Cornea Division, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Jianjiang Xu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Eye & ENT Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Sophie X Deng
- Stein Eye Institute, Cornea Division, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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Spectral-domain Optical Coherence Tomography in Limbal Stem Cell Deficiency. A Case-Control Study. Am J Ophthalmol 2018; 190:179-190. [PMID: 29621511 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajo.2018.03.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2017] [Revised: 03/21/2018] [Accepted: 03/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate the efficacy of optical coherence tomography (OCT) as a noncontact method for imaging the ocular surface in limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD) and normal eyes. DESIGN Retrospective case-control study. METHODS Setting: Institutional. STUDY POPULATION Twenty-two eyes with LSCD (study group, 22 patients) and 10 normal eyes (control group, 10 patients). OBSERVATION PROCEDURES Spectral-domain (SD)-OCT and confocal microscopy in both the limbal and central corneal zones. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Pachymetry data from the central cornea, presence of the palisades of Vogt, limbal crypts, and clear transition between the hyporeflective corneal epithelium and the hyperreflective conjunctival epithelium assessed on cross sections parallel and perpendicular to the limbus and en face sections of the limbal region. Parallel, perpendicular, and en face limbal scores were calculated by adding results of the 4 limbal quadrants. RESULTS Both the difference between the minimal and the maximal epithelial thicknesses and the epithelial thickness standard deviation were significantly higher in the study group (mean, 47 μm/10 μm) compared with the control group (mean, 8 μm/2 μm). The parallel, perpendicular, and en face limbal scores were significantly lower in the study group (0.1/0.6/0.2) compared with the control group (7.4/4.8/3.5). Poorer visual acuity was significantly associated with higher standard deviation and difference between minimal and maximal corneal epithelial thicknesses (rs, +0.81/+0.77) and lower parallel, perpendicular, and en face limbal scores (-0.82/-0.73/-0.82). CONCLUSIONS SD-OCT of both the central cornea and limbus with various section orientations is a valuable imaging modality allowing noninvasive and rapid overall precise assessment of both normal and LSCD eyes.
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Le Q, Xu J, Deng SX. The diagnosis of limbal stem cell deficiency. Ocul Surf 2018; 16:58-69. [PMID: 29113917 PMCID: PMC5844504 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtos.2017.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 122] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2017] [Revised: 08/24/2017] [Accepted: 11/03/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Limbal stem cells (LSCs) maintain the normal homeostasis and wound healing of corneal epithelium. Limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD) is a pathologic condition that results from the dysfunction and/or an insufficient quantity of LSCs. The diagnosis of LSCD has been made mainly based on medical history and clinical signs, which often are not specific to LSCD. Methods to stage the severity of LSCD have been lacking. With the application of newly developed ocular imaging modalities and molecular methods as diagnostic tools, standardized quantitative criteria for the staging of LSCD can be established. Because of these recent advancements, effective patient-specific therapy for different stages of LSCD may be feasible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qihua Le
- Stein Eye Institute, Cornea Division, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, USA; Department of Ophthalmology, Eye & ENT Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Jianjiang Xu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Eye & ENT Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Sophie X Deng
- Stein Eye Institute, Cornea Division, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, USA.
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Bizheva K, Tan B, MacLellan B, Hosseinaee Z, Mason E, Hileeto D, Sorbara L. In-vivo imaging of the palisades of Vogt and the limbal crypts with sub-micrometer axial resolution optical coherence tomography. BIOMEDICAL OPTICS EXPRESS 2017; 8:4141-4151. [PMID: 28966853 PMCID: PMC5611929 DOI: 10.1364/boe.8.004141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2017] [Revised: 08/11/2017] [Accepted: 08/13/2017] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
A research-grade OCT system was used to image in-vivo and without contact with the tissue, the cellular structure and microvasculature of the healthy human corneo-scleral limbus. The OCT system provided 0.95 µm axial and 4 µm (2 µm) lateral resolution in biological tissue depending on the magnification of the imaging objective. Cross-sectional OCT images acquired tangentially from the inferior limbus showed reflective, loop-like features that correspond to the fibrous folds of the palisades of Vogt (POV). The high OCT resolution allowed for visualization of individual cells inside the limbal crypts, capillaries extending from the inside of the POV's fibrous folds and connecting to a lateral grid of micro-vessels located in the connective tissue directly below the POV, as well as reflections from individual red blood cells inside the capillaries. Difference in the reflective properties of the POV was observed among subjects of various pigmentation levels of the POV. Morphological features observed in the high resolution OCT images correlated well with histology. The ability to visualize the limbal morphology and microvasculature in-vivo at cellular level can aid the diagnostics and treatment of limbal stem cell dysfunction and dystrophies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kostadinka Bizheva
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, N2L 3G1, Canada
- School of Optometry and Vision Sciences, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, N2L 3G1, Canada
- Systems Design Engineering Department, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, N2L 3G1, Canada
| | - Bingyao Tan
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, N2L 3G1, Canada
| | - Benjamin MacLellan
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, N2L 3G1, Canada
| | - Zohreh Hosseinaee
- Systems Design Engineering Department, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, N2L 3G1, Canada
| | - Erik Mason
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, N2L 3G1, Canada
| | - Denise Hileeto
- School of Optometry and Vision Sciences, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, N2L 3G1, Canada
| | - Luigina Sorbara
- School of Optometry and Vision Sciences, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, N2L 3G1, Canada
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