1
|
Gittel L, Li JQ, Dell J, Wintergerst MWM, Heinz C, Finger RP, Terheyden JH. Piloting Rasch model scoring of the National Eye Institute Visual Function Questionnaire in uveitis. J Ophthalmic Inflamm Infect 2024; 14:16. [PMID: 38625428 PMCID: PMC11021379 DOI: 10.1186/s12348-024-00398-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 04/07/2024] [Indexed: 04/17/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The National Eye Institute Visual Function Questionnaire (NEI VFQ) is a common patient-reported outcome measure (PROM) in uveitis trials. Its psychometric properties using state-of-the-art scoring based on Rasch models, a latent trait model that improves accuracy of PROMs assessment, has not yet been investigated. METHODS The study participants were recruited online from uveitis patient organizations, where individuals self-reported their uveitis diagnosis and visual acuity level. These participants then completed the NEI VFQ-25. The visual function (VF) and socioemotional (SE) subscales were psychometrically analysed in terms of item fit, targeting, internal consistency, dimensionality, and differential item functioning (DIF), using Rasch models. Criterion validity was examined based on associations between NEI VFQ person measures and recent visual acuity (VA) levels. RESULTS Ninety-nine participants recruited online from uveitis patient organizations (68 women, 31 men; mean age 50 ± 15 years; 46.5% self-reported receiving systematic therapy for uveitis, 0.6% NEI VFQ-25 missing data) were included. The mean difficulty of items was lower than the average person ability. None of the items demonstrated misfit to an extent that would induce noise into the measurement. The consistency metrics person reliability and person separation index of the subscales were 0.85 and 2.34 (NEI VFQ-VF), 0.86 and 2.52 (NEI VFQ-SE), respectively. There was no evidence of multidimensionality and none of the items showed DIF by gender. The differences between item and person measures were 1.44 (NEI VFQ-VF) and 1.03 (NEI VFQ-SE). NEI VFQ-25 person measures were significantly lower in participants with visual impairment (all p values ≤ 0.007). CONCLUSION Rasch model-based scoring of the re-engineered NEI VFQ-25 demonstrates acceptable internal consistency, item fit and construct validity for assessing two key domains of quality of life in individuals self-reporting uveitis. The PROM was targeted at a higher level of difficulty than present in our heterogeneous sample.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Gittel
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, Bonn, NRW, 53127, Germany
| | - Jeany Q Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital of Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Jennifer Dell
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, Bonn, NRW, 53127, Germany
| | | | - Carsten Heinz
- Department of Ophthalmology, St. Franziskus Hospital Münster, Münster, Germany
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Robert P Finger
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, Bonn, NRW, 53127, Germany
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Mannheim & Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Jan Henrik Terheyden
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, Bonn, NRW, 53127, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Müller S, Jain M, Sachdeva B, Shah PN, Holz FG, Finger RP, Murali K, Wintergerst MWM, Schultz T. Artificial Intelligence in Cataract Surgery: A Systematic Review. Transl Vis Sci Technol 2024; 13:20. [PMID: 38618893 PMCID: PMC11033603 DOI: 10.1167/tvst.13.4.20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose The purpose of this study was to assess the current use and reliability of artificial intelligence (AI)-based algorithms for analyzing cataract surgery videos. Methods A systematic review of the literature about intra-operative analysis of cataract surgery videos with machine learning techniques was performed. Cataract diagnosis and detection algorithms were excluded. Resulting algorithms were compared, descriptively analyzed, and metrics summarized or visually reported. The reproducibility and reliability of the methods and results were assessed using a modified version of the Medical Image Computing and Computer-Assisted (MICCAI) checklist. Results Thirty-eight of the 550 screened studies were included, 20 addressed the challenge of instrument detection or tracking, 9 focused on phase discrimination, and 8 predicted skill and complications. Instrument detection achieves an area under the receiver operator characteristic curve (ROC AUC) between 0.976 and 0.998, instrument tracking an mAP between 0.685 and 0.929, phase recognition an ROC AUC between 0.773 and 0.990, and complications or surgical skill performs with an ROC AUC between 0.570 and 0.970. Conclusions The studies showed a wide variation in quality and pose a challenge regarding replication due to a small number of public datasets (none for manual small incision cataract surgery) and seldom published source code. There is no standard for reported outcome metrics and validation of the models on external datasets is rare making comparisons difficult. The data suggests that tracking of instruments and phase detection work well but surgical skill and complication recognition remains a challenge for deep learning. Translational Relevance This overview of cataract surgery analysis with AI models provides translational value for improving training of the clinician by identifying successes and challenges.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Simon Müller
- University Hospital Bonn, Department of Ophthalmology, Bonn, Germany
| | | | - Bhuvan Sachdeva
- Microsoft Research, Bengaluru, India
- Sankara Eye Hospital, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
| | | | - Frank G. Holz
- University Hospital Bonn, Department of Ophthalmology, Bonn, Germany
| | - Robert P. Finger
- University Hospital Bonn, Department of Ophthalmology, Bonn, Germany
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Medical Center Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | | | | | - Thomas Schultz
- B-IT and Department of Computer Science, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
- Lamarr Institute for Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence, Dortmund, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Weerts J, Raafs AG, Sandhoefner B, van der Heide FCT, Mourmans SGJ, Wolff N, Finger RP, Falahat P, Wintergerst MWM, van Empel VPM, Heymans SRB. Retinal Vascular Changes in Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction Using Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography. J Clin Med 2024; 13:1892. [PMID: 38610657 PMCID: PMC11012357 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13071892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2024] [Revised: 03/18/2024] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: Systemic microvascular regression and dysfunction are considered important underlying mechanisms in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF), but retinal changes are unknown. Methods: This prospective study aimed to investigate whether retinal microvascular and structural parameters assessed using optical coherence tomography angiography (OCT-A) differ between patients with HFpEF and control individuals (i.e., capillary vessel density, thickness of retina layers). We also aimed to assess the associations of retinal parameters with clinical and echocardiographic parameters in HFpEF. HFpEF patients, but not controls, underwent echocardiography. Macula-centered 6 × 6 mm volume scans were computed of both eyes. Results: Twenty-two HFpEF patients and 24 controls without known HFpEF were evaluated, with an age of 74 [68-80] vs. 68 [58-77] years (p = 0.027), and 73% vs. 42% females (p = 0.034), respectively. HFpEF patients showed vascular degeneration compared to controls, depicted by lower macular vessel density (p < 0.001) and macular ganglion cell-inner plexiform layer thickness (p = 0.025), and a trend towards lower total retinal volume (p = 0.050) on OCT-A. In HFpEF, a lower total retinal volume was associated with markers of diastolic dysfunction (septal e', septal and average E/e': R2 = 0.38, 0.36, 0.25, respectively; all p < 0.05), even after adjustment for age, sex, diabetes mellitus, or atrial fibrillation. Conclusions: Patients with HFpEF showed clear levels of retinal vascular changes compared to control individuals, and retinal alterations appeared to be associated with markers of more severe diastolic dysfunction in HFpEF. OCT-A may therefore be a promising technique for monitoring systemic microvascular regression and cardiac diastolic dysfunction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jerremy Weerts
- Department of Cardiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Maastricht University Medical Centre+ (MUMC+), P.O. Box 616, 6200 MD Maastricht, The Netherlands; (A.G.R.); (S.G.J.M.); (V.P.M.v.E.)
| | - Anne G. Raafs
- Department of Cardiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Maastricht University Medical Centre+ (MUMC+), P.O. Box 616, 6200 MD Maastricht, The Netherlands; (A.G.R.); (S.G.J.M.); (V.P.M.v.E.)
| | - Birgit Sandhoefner
- Carl ZEISS Meditec Inc., 5300 Central Parkway, Dublin, CA 94568, USA (N.W.)
| | - Frank C. T. van der Heide
- Department of Internal Medicine, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Maastricht University Medical Centre+ (MUMC+), 6200 MD Maastricht, The Netherlands;
- University Eye Clinic Maastricht, Maastricht University Medical Centre+ (MUMC+), 6200 MD Maastricht, The Netherlands
- MHeNS, School for Mental Health and NeuroScience, Maastricht University, 6200 MD Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Sanne G. J. Mourmans
- Department of Cardiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Maastricht University Medical Centre+ (MUMC+), P.O. Box 616, 6200 MD Maastricht, The Netherlands; (A.G.R.); (S.G.J.M.); (V.P.M.v.E.)
| | - Nicolas Wolff
- Carl ZEISS Meditec Inc., 5300 Central Parkway, Dublin, CA 94568, USA (N.W.)
| | - Robert P. Finger
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Bonn, 53127 Bonn, Germany; (R.P.F.); (P.F.); (M.W.M.W.)
| | - Peyman Falahat
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Bonn, 53127 Bonn, Germany; (R.P.F.); (P.F.); (M.W.M.W.)
| | | | - Vanessa P. M. van Empel
- Department of Cardiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Maastricht University Medical Centre+ (MUMC+), P.O. Box 616, 6200 MD Maastricht, The Netherlands; (A.G.R.); (S.G.J.M.); (V.P.M.v.E.)
| | - Stephane R. B. Heymans
- Department of Cardiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Maastricht University Medical Centre+ (MUMC+), P.O. Box 616, 6200 MD Maastricht, The Netherlands; (A.G.R.); (S.G.J.M.); (V.P.M.v.E.)
- Department of Cardiovascular Research, University of Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Terheyden JH, Fink DJ, Mercieca K, Wintergerst MWM, Holz FG, Finger RP. Knowledge about age-related eye diseases in the general population in Germany. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:409. [PMID: 38331775 PMCID: PMC10851458 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-17889-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND With a rising prevalence of age-related eye diseases, prevention and early diagnosis of these conditions are key goals of public eye health. Disease-related knowledge in the general public supports these goals but there is little data available. Thus, we have assessed knowledge of cataract, glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and diabetic eye disease in the German adult general population in a cross-sectional study and identified target groups for health education interventions. METHODS Knowledge assessment content was identified based on a literature review, expert input, and a list of items was generated after a qualitative selection process. The resulting 16-item instrument (4 items per condition) was administered to 1,008 participants from a survey panel, demographically representative of the adult German population. Test properties were evaluated based on a Rasch model and multiple correspondence analysis (MCA). Binary-logistic regression analysis was performed to investigate associations with age, sex, education level, employment status, marital status, income, reported health status, visual difficulties, and recent general practitioner (GP) and ophthalmologist consultations. RESULTS Replies were correct for a median of 9 out of 16 (range 2 - 16) items, which differed between conditions (p < 0.0001). Most responses were correct for cataract items (median: 3 / 4) and least were correct for AMD items (median: 2 / 4). 27%, 9%, 1% and 19% of respondents replied correctly to all cataract, glaucoma, AMD and diabetic eye disease-related items, respectively. Rasch analysis suggested an adequate targeting of items and in MCA, no evidence of multidimensionality was present. Older age, being retired, decreased general health and recent GP or ophthalmology consultations were significantly associated with more knowledge about common eye conditions (p ≤ 0.005). GP or ophthalmology consultations remained significant in a multivariable model (p ≤ 0.011). CONCLUSIONS Knowledge gaps regarding eye health are considerable in the German general population and should therefore be addressed in educational interventions targeting the public. Special attention when designing such campaigns needs to be paid to infrequent users of the healthcare system. Knowledge of AMD seems to be poorer compared to other eye conditions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jan Henrik Terheyden
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, 53127, Bonn, NRW, Germany.
| | - David J Fink
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, 53127, Bonn, NRW, Germany
| | - Karl Mercieca
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, 53127, Bonn, NRW, Germany
| | | | - Frank G Holz
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, 53127, Bonn, NRW, Germany
| | - Robert P Finger
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, 53127, Bonn, NRW, Germany
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Mannheim & Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Wintergerst MWM, Merten NR, Berger M, Terheyden JH, Overbeck LJ, Schmid M, Holz FG, Finger RP. Vessel density on optical coherence tomography angiography is prognostic for future disease course in intermediate uveitis. Sci Rep 2024; 14:2933. [PMID: 38317017 PMCID: PMC10844199 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-49926-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 02/07/2024] Open
Abstract
As most rare diseases, intermediate uveitis lacks reliable endpoints necessary for randomized clinical trials. Therefore, we investigated longitudinal changes of retinal and choriocapillaris perfusion on optical coherence tomography angiography (OCT-A) in intermediate uveitis and their prognostic value for future best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and central retinal thickness (CRT). In this retrospective, longitudinal cohort study eyes of patients with intermediate uveitis were imaged by swept-source OCT-A (macula-centered 3 × 3 mm; PLEX Elite 9000, Zeiss) and stratified into clinically stable, worsened and improved based on changes in clinical parameters. Superficial (SRL) and deep retinal layers (DRL) were automatically analyzed for vessel density (VD) and choriocapillaris layer for non-perfused area (CCNPA) using ImageJ. Mixed-effects regression analysis controlling for age, sex, and OCT-A signal strength index (SSI) was used to evaluate the prognostic value of OCT-A parameters. 91 eyes (62 stable, 12 worsened, and 17 improved) were included in the analysis and mean follow-up time was 296 days. Longitudinal changes of VD were different between all three groups (p = 0.002 for SRL and p = 0.017 for DRL). Clinically worsened eyes showed a decrease in VD (- 0.032 ± 0.055 for SRL and - 0.027 ± 0.025 for DRL), whereas clinically improved eyes showed an increase in VD (0.037 ± 0.039 for SRL and 0.001 ± 0.023 for DRL). No difference was found for CCNPA. When controlling for age, sex, and SSI, observed differences held true in clinically worsened eyes for DRL (p = 0.011) and in clinically improved eyes for SRL (p = 0.002). An increase of CCNPA in clinically worsened eyes (p = 0.03) compared to clinically stable and improved eyes was evident. Predictive analysis revealed an association of VD in SRL and DRL at baseline with BCVA at follow-up (p = 0.039 and p = 0.047, respectively) and of VD in SRL at baseline with CRT at follow-up (p = 0.046). Alterations in retinal perfusion on OCT-A in intermediate uveitis are partly reversible and OCT-A VD may serve to predict future BCVA and CRT. Thus, perfusion parameters on OCT-A might aid monitoring and serve as prognostic imaging-biomarker.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maximilian W M Wintergerst
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, Ernst-Abbe-Straße 2, 53127, Bonn, Germany.
- Augenzentrum Grischun, KammannEye AG, Chur, Switzerland.
| | - Nicholas R Merten
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, Ernst-Abbe-Straße 2, 53127, Bonn, Germany
| | - Moritz Berger
- Department of Medical Biometry, Informatics and Epidemiology, University Hospital Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, 53127, Bonn, Germany
| | - Jan H Terheyden
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, Ernst-Abbe-Straße 2, 53127, Bonn, Germany
| | - Lennart J Overbeck
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, Ernst-Abbe-Straße 2, 53127, Bonn, Germany
| | - Matthias Schmid
- Department of Medical Biometry, Informatics and Epidemiology, University Hospital Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, 53127, Bonn, Germany
| | - Frank G Holz
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, Ernst-Abbe-Straße 2, 53127, Bonn, Germany
| | - Robert P Finger
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, Ernst-Abbe-Straße 2, 53127, Bonn, Germany
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Mannheim, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer 1-3, 68167, Mannheim, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Goh KL, Wintergerst MWM, Abbott CJ, Hadoux X, Jannaud M, Kumar H, Hodgson LAB, Guzman G, Janzen S, van Wijngaarden P, Finger RP, Guymer RH, Wu Z. HYPERREFLECTIVE FOCI NOT SEEN AS HYPERPIGMENTARY ABNORMALITIES ON COLOR FUNDUS PHOTOGRAPHS IN AGE-RELATED MACULAR DEGENERATION. Retina 2024; 44:214-221. [PMID: 37831941 DOI: 10.1097/iae.0000000000003958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/15/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate the prognostic value of quantifying optical coherence tomography (OCT)-defined hyperreflective foci (HRF) that do not correspond to hyperpigmentary abnormalities (HPAs) on color fundus photographs (CFPs)-HRF (OCT+/CFP-) -when considered in addition to HPA extent, for predicting late age-related macular degeneration development. This study sought to understand the impact of HRF (OCT+/CFP-) extent on visual sensitivity. METHODS Two hundred eighty eyes from 140 participants with bilateral large drusen underwent imaging and microperimetry at baseline, and then 6-monthly for 3-years. The extent of HPAs on CFPs and HRF (OCT+/CFP-) on OCT was quantified at baseline. Predictive models for progression to late age-related macular degeneration, accounting for drusen volume and age, were developed using HPA extent, with and without HRF (OCT+/CFP-) extent. The association between HPA and HRF (OCT+/CFP-) extent with sector-based visual sensitivity was also evaluated. RESULTS Incorporating HRF (OCT+/CFP-) extent did not improve the predictive performance for late age-related macular degeneration development ( P ≥ 0.32). Increasing HPA and HRF (OCT+/CFP-) extent in each sector were independently and significantly associated with reduced sector-based visual sensitivity ( P ≤ 0.004). CONCLUSION The addition of HRF (OCT+/CFP-) extent to HPA extent did not improve the prediction of late age-related macular degeneration development. HRF (OCT+/CFP-) extent was also independently associated with local reductions in visual sensitivity, after accounting for HPAs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kai Lyn Goh
- Centre for Eye Research Australia, Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital, East Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Surgery (Ophthalmology), The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia; and
| | | | - Carla J Abbott
- Centre for Eye Research Australia, Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital, East Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Surgery (Ophthalmology), The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia; and
| | - Xavier Hadoux
- Centre for Eye Research Australia, Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital, East Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Surgery (Ophthalmology), The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia; and
| | - Maxime Jannaud
- Centre for Eye Research Australia, Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital, East Melbourne, Australia
| | - Himeesh Kumar
- Centre for Eye Research Australia, Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital, East Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Surgery (Ophthalmology), The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia; and
| | - Lauren A B Hodgson
- Centre for Eye Research Australia, Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital, East Melbourne, Australia
| | - Gabriela Guzman
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Simon Janzen
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Peter van Wijngaarden
- Centre for Eye Research Australia, Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital, East Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Surgery (Ophthalmology), The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia; and
| | - Robert P Finger
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Robyn H Guymer
- Centre for Eye Research Australia, Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital, East Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Surgery (Ophthalmology), The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia; and
| | - Zhichao Wu
- Centre for Eye Research Australia, Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital, East Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Surgery (Ophthalmology), The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia; and
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Terheyden JH, Ost RAD, Behning C, Mekschrat L, Bildik G, Wintergerst MWM, Holz FG, Finger RP. Evaluation of the test-retest and inter-mode comparability of the Impact of Vision Impairment questionnaire in people with chronic eye diseases. Graefes Arch Clin Exp Ophthalmol 2024:10.1007/s00417-023-06334-4. [PMID: 38180569 DOI: 10.1007/s00417-023-06334-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2023] [Revised: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The main objective of this study is to assess the test-retest and inter-administration mode reliability of the Impact of Vision Impairment profile (IVI), a common patient-reported outcome measure (PROM) for people with chronic eye diseases. METHODS The IVI was administered to adult patients with stable, chronic eye diseases two to four times per participant (average intervals between administrations 12 to 20 days; maximum two phone interviews, paper administration, electronic administration) by two trained interviewers. Rasch models were fit to the data. Intra-class correlation coefficients (ICCs), mean differences and Cronbach's alpha between test-retest administrations (two phone interviews) and inter-mode comparisons were calculated. RESULTS Two hundred-sixteen patients (mean age 67 ± 12 years, 40% male) were included in the study. The IVI met all psychometric requirements of the Rasch model, and the division into the domains of functional items (IVI_F) and emotional items (IVI_E) corresponded to the German validation study. ICCs (all for IVI_F and IVI_E, respectively) for the retest administrations were 0.938 and 0.912, and 0.853 and 0.893 for inter-mode comparisons phone/paper, 0.939 and 0.930 for phone/electronic, and 0.937 and 0.920 for paper/electronic (all p < 0.01). Mean differences (all for IVI_F and IVI_E, respectively) for the retest administrations were 2.8% and 0.7% and ranged from 2.0% to 6.2% and from 0.4 % to 4.9% between administration modes. Cronbach's alpha ranged from 0.886 to 0.944 for retest and inter-mode comparisons. CONCLUSION Due to the high test-retest reliability and the almost equally high comparability of different modes of administration of the IVI, the study endorses its use as a robust PROM to capture vision-related quality of life. Our results further support the use of the IVI as an endpoint in clinical trials and may simplify implementing it in both clinical trials or real-world evidence generation by offering multiple administration modes with high reliability.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jan Henrik Terheyden
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Bonn, Ernst-Abbe-Str. 2, 53127, Bonn, Germany.
| | - Reglind A D Ost
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Bonn, Ernst-Abbe-Str. 2, 53127, Bonn, Germany
| | - Charlotte Behning
- Department of Medical Biometry, Informatics and Epidemiology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Liza Mekschrat
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Bonn, Ernst-Abbe-Str. 2, 53127, Bonn, Germany
| | - Gamze Bildik
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Bonn, Ernst-Abbe-Str. 2, 53127, Bonn, Germany
| | | | - Frank G Holz
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Bonn, Ernst-Abbe-Str. 2, 53127, Bonn, Germany
| | - Robert P Finger
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Terheyden JH, Gerhards J, Ost RAD, Wintergerst MWM, Holz FG, Finger RP. Patient-reported vision impairment in low luminance predicts multiple falls. BMC Geriatr 2023; 23:583. [PMID: 37735629 PMCID: PMC10515075 DOI: 10.1186/s12877-023-04317-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Visual impairment is an independent risk factor for falling. Whether this extends to patient-reported visual difficulties has not been assessed to date. We have evaluated whether patient-reported visual difficulties in low-contrast and low luminance situations are a risk factor for falls and concerns about falling. METHODS Baseline assessments in outpatients with varying degrees of visual impairment aged ≥ 60 years included the Vision Impairment in Low Luminance (VILL) questionnaire and socio-demographic data; prospective follow-up assessments included falls over 12 months, the Falls Efficacy Scale (FES-I) and the VILL. The VILL was scored using Rasch models, and the FES-I was categorized following published guidelines. Associations were investigated using logistic regression analysis, controlling for age, visual acuity and known risk factors of falling. RESULTS We included 112 participants (74 women, mean age 70 ± 7 years). Twenty-seven participants recalled any falls and eleven recalled multiple falls at follow-up. Higher VILL reading subscale and mobility subscale scores at baseline were significantly associated with reporting less multiple falls at follow-up (OR 0.559 [0.333-0.936], p = 0.027 and OR 0.595 [0.377-0.940], p = 0.026). VILL scores were significantly associated with concerns about falling (high versus low: p ≤ 0.004, reading, mobility and emotional subscales; high versus moderate: p = 0.004, emotional subscale). CONCLUSIONS Patient-reported visual difficulties under low illumination and in low-contrast conditions are predictive of multiple falls in the future, have an additional predictive value over established risk scores, and are associated with concerns to fall. Current fall risk assessments may benefit from the inclusion of such assessments, e.g. the VILL questionnaire.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jan Henrik Terheyden
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Bonn, NRW, Venusberg-Campus 1, Ernst-Abbe-Str. 2, 53127, Bonn, Germany.
| | - Johanna Gerhards
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Bonn, NRW, Venusberg-Campus 1, Ernst-Abbe-Str. 2, 53127, Bonn, Germany
| | - Reglind A D Ost
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Bonn, NRW, Venusberg-Campus 1, Ernst-Abbe-Str. 2, 53127, Bonn, Germany
| | - Maximilian W M Wintergerst
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Bonn, NRW, Venusberg-Campus 1, Ernst-Abbe-Str. 2, 53127, Bonn, Germany
| | - Frank G Holz
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Bonn, NRW, Venusberg-Campus 1, Ernst-Abbe-Str. 2, 53127, Bonn, Germany
| | - Robert P Finger
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Bonn, NRW, Venusberg-Campus 1, Ernst-Abbe-Str. 2, 53127, Bonn, Germany
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Mannheim & Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Wolpers AC, Welchowski T, Sedaghat A, Wintergerst MWM, Al-Kassou B, Finger RP, Terheyden JH. Modifications in ocular microperfusion after transcatheter aortic valve implantation. Sci Rep 2023; 13:14181. [PMID: 37648792 PMCID: PMC10468531 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-41054-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2022] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Cerebral embolization is a known complication of transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) but the effect of the procedure on the ocular perfusion is currently unclear. Thus, we investigated post-procedural morphologic and perfusion changes of the retina and choroid, using optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) and color fundus photography (CFP) in a prospective cohort study. Ophthalmic examinations were conducted pre- and post-TAVI. OCTA images were analyzed quantitatively based on vessel density and skeleton density of the superficial and deep retinal plexus as well as the signal intensity and flow deficits in the choriocapillaris. CFP images were assessed for presence of acute retinal ischemia, optic nerve swelling, vessel emboli, hemorrhages and cotton wool spots. Data was analyzed using linear mixed models. Twenty patients (9 women; 11 men) at a mean age of 81 ± 6 years were included. Pre- and post-interventional ocular imaging data were available for 32 eyes. The analysis revealed a significant impairment of the choriocapillaris perfusion after TAVI with an increased proportion of flow deficits (p = 0.044). When controlling for blood pressure, the average size of choriocapillaris flow voids was significantly increased (systolic and diastolic, p = 0.039 and 0.029). Qualitatively, focal areas of retinal ischemia were detected on OCTA in 33% of participants. Silent emboli or cotton wool spots were identified on CFP in 21%. Our findings indicate a reduced choroidal perfusion as well as areas of retinal ischemia and embolization in a considerable proportion of patients following TAVI. Pending confirmation in a larger sample, these complications merit monitoring as well as inclusion in consent procedures for TAVI.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anne Caroline Wolpers
- Department of Medicine II, Heart Center, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
- Department of Cardiology and Internal Intensive Care, Asklepios Clinic St. Georg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Thomas Welchowski
- Institute for Medical Biometry, Informatics and Epidemiology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Alexander Sedaghat
- Department of Medicine II, Heart Center, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany.
- RheinAhrCardio Practice for Cardiology, Wilhelmstr. 14, 53474, Bad Neuenahr-Ahrweiler, Germany.
| | | | - Baravan Al-Kassou
- Department of Medicine II, Heart Center, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Robert P Finger
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, 53127, Bonn, Germany
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Mannheim & Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer 1-3, 68167, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Jan Henrik Terheyden
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, 53127, Bonn, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Shah PN, Mishra DK, Falahat P, Fischer L, Guzman G, Terheyden JH, Holz FG, Krohne TU, Finger RP, Wintergerst MWM. Inter-Rater Reliability of Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy Assessment on Wide-Field OCT-Angiography and Fluorescein Angiography. Transl Vis Sci Technol 2023; 12:13. [PMID: 37432848 DOI: 10.1167/tvst.12.7.13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose To assess inter-rater reliability in the detection of proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR) changes using wide-field optical coherence tomography angiography (WF-OCTA) versus fluorescein angiography (FA). Methods This retrospective, cross-sectional study included patients with severe nonproliferative and PDR. Images were acquired with 12 × 12 mm WF-OCTA and FA with a 55° lens. Images were cropped to represent the exact same field of view. Qualitative (detection of neovascularization at the disc [NVD] and elsewhere [NVE], enlarged foveal avascular zone [FAZ], vitreous hemorrhage [VH]) and quantitative analyses (FAZ area, horizontal, vertical, and maximum FAZ diameter) were performed by 2 masked graders using ImageJ. Inter-rater reliability was calculated using unweighted Cohen's kappa coefficient (κ) for qualitative analyses and intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) for quantitative analyses. Results Twenty-three eyes of 17 patients were included. Inter-rater reliability was higher for FA than for WF-OCTA in qualitative analyses: κ values were 0.65 and 0.78 for detection of extended FAZ, 0.83 and 1.0 for NVD, 0.78 and 1.0 for NVE, and 0.19 and 1 for VH for WF-OCTA and FA, respectively. In contrast, inter-rater reliability was higher for WF-OCTA than for FA in the quantitative analyses: ICC values were 0.94 and 0.76 for FAZ size, 0.92 and 0.79 for horizontal FAZ diameter, 0.82 and 0.72 for vertical FAZ diameter, and 0.88 and 0.82 for maximum FAZ diameter on WF-OCTA and FA, respectively. Conclusions Inter-rater reliability of FA is superior to WF-OCTA for qualitative analyses whereas inter-rater reliability of WF-OCTA is superior to FA for quantitative analyses. Translational Relevance The study highlights the specific merits of both imaging modalities in terms of reliability. FA should be preferred for qualitative parameters, whereas WF-OCTA should be preferred for quantitative parameters.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Payal N Shah
- Department of Vitreoretinal and Ocular Oncology, Sankara Eye Hospital, Kundalahalli Gate, Bangalore, India
| | - Divyansh K Mishra
- Department of Vitreoretinal and Ocular Oncology, Sankara Eye Hospital, Kundalahalli Gate, Bangalore, India
| | - Peyman Falahat
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, Bonn, Germany
| | - Lars Fischer
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, Bonn, Germany
| | - Gabriela Guzman
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, Bonn, Germany
| | - Jan H Terheyden
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, Bonn, Germany
| | - Frank G Holz
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, Bonn, Germany
| | - Tim U Krohne
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, Bonn, Germany
- Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Robert P Finger
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, Bonn, Germany
| | | |
Collapse
|
11
|
Faßbender K, Baumert PM, Wintergerst MWM, Terheyden JH, Aslan B, M Harmening W, Ettinger U. GABAergic Involvement in Selective Attention. J Cogn Neurosci 2023; 35:976-989. [PMID: 36976900 DOI: 10.1162/jocn_a_01989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/30/2023]
Abstract
Animals need to cope with abundant sensory information, and one strategy is to selectively direct attention to only the most relevant part of the environment. Although the cortical networks of selective attention have been studied extensively, its underlying neurotransmitter systems, especially the role of the inhibitory neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), remain less well understood. Increased GABAA receptor activity because of administration of benzodiazepines such as lorazepam is known to slow reactions in cognitive tasks. However, there is limited knowledge about GABAergic involvement in selective attention. Particularly, it is unknown whether increased GABAA receptor activity slows the build-up of selectivity or generally widens attentional focus. To address this question, participants (n = 29) received 1 mg lorazepam and placebo (within-subjects, double-blind) and performed an extended version of the flanker task. The spatial distribution of selective attention was studied by systematically manipulating number and position of incongruent flankers; the temporal build-up was characterized using delta plots. An online task version was presented to an independent, unmedicated sample (n = 25) to verify task effects. Under placebo and in the unmedicated sample, only the number of incongruent flankers, but not their position, influenced RTs. Incongruent flankers impaired RTs more strongly under lorazepam than placebo, especially when adjacent to the target. Delta plot analyses of RT showed that this effect persisted even when participants reacted slowly, indicating that lorazepam-induced impairments in selective attention do not result from simply slowed down build-up of selectivity. Instead, our data indicate that increased GABAA receptor activity widens the attentional focus.
Collapse
|
12
|
Morelle O, Wintergerst MWM, Finger RP, Schultz T. Accurate drusen segmentation in optical coherence tomography via order-constrained regression of retinal layer heights. Sci Rep 2023; 13:8162. [PMID: 37208407 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-35230-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2022] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 05/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Drusen are an important biomarker for age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Their accurate segmentation based on optical coherence tomography (OCT) is therefore relevant to the detection, staging, and treatment of disease. Since manual OCT segmentation is resource-consuming and has low reproducibility, automatic techniques are required. In this work, we introduce a novel deep learning based architecture that directly predicts the position of layers in OCT and guarantees their correct order, achieving state-of-the-art results for retinal layer segmentation. In particular, the average absolute distance between our model's prediction and the ground truth layer segmentation in an AMD dataset is 0.63, 0.85, and 0.44 pixel for Bruch's membrane (BM), retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and ellipsoid zone (EZ), respectively. Based on layer positions, we further quantify drusen load with excellent accuracy, achieving 0.994 and 0.988 Pearson correlation between drusen volumes estimated by our method and two human readers, and increasing the Dice score to 0.71 ± 0.16 (from 0.60 ± 0.23) and 0.62 ± 0.23 (from 0.53 ± 0.25), respectively, compared to a previous state-of-the-art method. Given its reproducible, accurate, and scalable results, our method can be used for the large-scale analysis of OCT data.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Olivier Morelle
- B-IT and Department of Computer Science, University of Bonn, 53115, Bonn, Germany
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Bonn, 53127, Bonn, Germany
| | | | - Robert P Finger
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Bonn, 53127, Bonn, Germany
| | - Thomas Schultz
- B-IT and Department of Computer Science, University of Bonn, 53115, Bonn, Germany.
- Lamarr Institute for Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence, .
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
von der Emde L, Saßmannshausen M, Morelle O, Rennen G, Holz FG, Wintergerst MWM, Ach T. Reliability of Retinal Layer Annotation with a Novel, High-Resolution Optical Coherence Tomography Device: A Comparative Study. Bioengineering (Basel) 2023; 10:bioengineering10040438. [PMID: 37106625 PMCID: PMC10136209 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering10040438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2023] [Revised: 03/24/2023] [Accepted: 03/25/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Optical coherence tomography (OCT) enables in vivo diagnostics of individual retinal layers in the living human eye. However, improved imaging resolution could aid diagnosis and monitoring of retinal diseases and identify potential new imaging biomarkers. The investigational high-resolution OCT platform (High-Res OCT; 853 nm central wavelength, 3 µm axial-resolution) has an improved axial resolution by shifting the central wavelength and increasing the light source bandwidth compared to a conventional OCT device (880 nm central wavelength, 7 µm axial-resolution). To assess the possible benefit of a higher resolution, we compared the retest reliability of retinal layer annotation from conventional and High-Res OCT, evaluated the use of High-Res OCT in patients with age-related macular degeneration (AMD), and assessed differences of both devices on subjective image quality. Thirty eyes of 30 patients with early/intermediate AMD (iAMD; mean age 75 ± 8 years) and 30 eyes of 30 age-similar subjects without macular changes (62 ± 17 years) underwent identical OCT imaging on both devices. Inter- and intra-reader reliability were analyzed for manual retinal layer annotation using EyeLab. Central OCT B-scans were graded for image quality by two graders and a mean-opinion-score (MOS) was formed and evaluated. Inter- and intra-reader reliability were higher for High-Res OCT (greatest benefit for inter-reader reliability: ganglion cell layer; for intra-reader reliability: retinal nerve fiber layer). High-Res OCT was significantly associated with an improved MOS (MOS 9/8, Z-value = 5.4, p < 0.01) mainly due to improved subjective resolution (9/7, Z-Value 6.2, p < 0.01). The retinal pigment epithelium drusen complex showed a trend towards improved retest reliability in High-Res OCT in iAMD eyes but without statistical significance. Improved axial resolution of the High-Res OCT benefits retest reliability of retinal layer annotation and improves perceived image quality and resolution. Automated image analysis algorithms could also benefit from the increased image resolution.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Leon von der Emde
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Bonn, 53127 Bonn, Germany
| | | | - Olivier Morelle
- B-IT and Institut for Informatics, Universität Bonn, 53127 Bonn, Germany
| | - Geena Rennen
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Bonn, 53127 Bonn, Germany
| | - Frank G. Holz
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Bonn, 53127 Bonn, Germany
| | | | - Thomas Ach
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Bonn, 53127 Bonn, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Laupichler MC, Hadizadeh DR, Wintergerst MWM, von der Emde L, Paech D, Dick EA, Raupach T. Effect of a flipped classroom course to foster medical students' AI literacy with a focus on medical imaging: a single group pre-and post-test study. BMC Med Educ 2022; 22:803. [PMID: 36397110 PMCID: PMC9672614 DOI: 10.1186/s12909-022-03866-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2022] [Accepted: 11/04/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The use of artificial intelligence applications in medicine is becoming increasingly common. At the same time, however, there are few initiatives to teach this important and timely topic to medical students. One reason for this is the predetermined medical curriculum, which leaves very little room for new topics that were not included before. We present a flipped classroom course designed to give undergraduate medical students an elaborated first impression of AI and to increase their "AI readiness". METHODS The course was tested and evaluated at Bonn Medical School in Germany with medical students in semester three or higher and consisted of a mixture of online self-study units and online classroom lessons. While the online content provided the theoretical underpinnings and demonstrated different perspectives on AI in medical imaging, the classroom sessions offered deeper insight into how "human" diagnostic decision-making differs from AI diagnoses. This was achieved through interactive exercises in which students first diagnosed medical image data themselves and then compared their results with the AI diagnoses. We adapted the "Medical Artificial Intelligence Scale for Medical Students" to evaluate differences in "AI readiness" before and after taking part in the course. These differences were measured by calculating the so called "comparative self-assessment gain" (CSA gain) which enables a valid and reliable representation of changes in behaviour, attitudes, or knowledge. RESULTS We found a statistically significant increase in perceived AI readiness. While values of CSA gain were different across items and factors, the overall CSA gain regarding AI readiness was satisfactory. CONCLUSION Attending a course developed to increase knowledge about AI in medical imaging can increase self-perceived AI readiness in medical students.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Matthias C Laupichler
- Institute of Medical Education, University Hospital Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, 53127, Bonn, Germany.
| | - Dariusch R Hadizadeh
- Clinic for Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | | | - Leon von der Emde
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Daniel Paech
- Clinic for Neuroradiology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Elizabeth A Dick
- Imperial College NHS Trust and Imperial College London, St. Marys Hospital London, London, UK
| | - Tobias Raupach
- Institute of Medical Education, University Hospital Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, 53127, Bonn, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Langner SM, Terheyden JH, Geerling CF, Kindler C, Keil VCW, Turski CA, Turski GN, Behning C, Wintergerst MWM, Petzold GC, Finger RP. Structural retinal changes in cerebral small vessel disease. Sci Rep 2022; 12:9315. [PMID: 35662264 PMCID: PMC9166694 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-13312-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2021] [Accepted: 05/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Cerebral small vessel disease (CSVD) is an important contributor to cognitive impairment and stroke. Previous research has suggested associations with alterations in single retinal layers. We have assessed changes of all individual retinal layers in CSVD using high-resolution optical coherence tomography (OCT) for the first time. Subjects with recent magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) underwent macular and peripapillary retinal imaging using OCT for this case-control study. Number and volume ratio index (WMRI) of white matter lesions (WML) were determined on MRI. Data were analyzed using multiple linear regression models. 27 CSVD patients and 9 control participants were included. Ganglion cell layer (GCL) volume was significantly reduced in patients with CSVD compared to age-matched controls (p = 0.008). In patients with CSVD, larger foveal outer plexiform layer (OPL) volume and decreased temporal peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness were significantly associated with a higher WMRI in linear regression when controlling for age (p ≤ 0.033). Decreased foveal GCL volume and temporal-inferior RNFL thickness at Bruch's membrane opening (MRW), and increased temporal MRW were associated with a higher WML burden (p ≤ 0.037). Thus, we identified alterations in several OCT layers in individuals with CSVD (GCL, OPL, MRW and RNFL). Their potential diagnostic value merits further study.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S Magdalena Langner
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Bonn, Ernst-Abbe-Str. 2, 53127, Bonn, Germany
| | - Jan H Terheyden
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Bonn, Ernst-Abbe-Str. 2, 53127, Bonn, Germany
| | - Clara F Geerling
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Bonn, Ernst-Abbe-Str. 2, 53127, Bonn, Germany
| | - Christine Kindler
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany.,German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Bonn, Germany
| | - Vera C W Keil
- Department of Radiology, Amsterdam UMC, Location VUmc, De Boelelaan 1117, 1081 HV, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Christopher A Turski
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Bonn, Ernst-Abbe-Str. 2, 53127, Bonn, Germany.,German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Bonn, Germany
| | - Gabrielle N Turski
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Bonn, Ernst-Abbe-Str. 2, 53127, Bonn, Germany.,German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Bonn, Germany
| | - Charlotte Behning
- Institute of Biomedical Statistics, Computer Science and Epidemiology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | | | - Gabor C Petzold
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany.,German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Bonn, Germany.,Division of Vascular Neurology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Robert P Finger
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Bonn, Ernst-Abbe-Str. 2, 53127, Bonn, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Terheyden JH, Mekschrat L, Ost RAD, Bildik G, Berger M, Wintergerst MWM, Holz FG, Finger RP. Interviewer Administration Corresponds to Self-Administration of the Vision Impairment in Low Luminance (VILL) Questionnaire. Transl Vis Sci Technol 2022; 11:21. [PMID: 35446409 PMCID: PMC9034722 DOI: 10.1167/tvst.11.4.21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose To quantify the impact of the mode of administration (MOA) on scores of the Vision Impairment in Low Luminance (VILL) questionnaire. Methods The VILL questionnaire was implemented using different MOAs (paper, interview, electronic), in addition to a demographical survey of adult participants recruited at an outpatient eye clinic, with the initial MOA being either paper or interview. Polytomous Rasch models were used to generate person measure scores for the three subscales of the VILL questionnaire (reading, VILL_R; mobility, VILL_M; and emotional, VILL_E). Measures of agreement among the different MOAs were calculated (self-administered paper/interview, self-administered paper/self-administered electronic, and interview/self-administered electronic). An age-matched analysis was performed to control for the impact of the initial MOA, administration interval, visual acuity, and self-reported hearing difficulties. Results We included 309 participants (mean age, 63 ± 14 years; 61% female). Intra-class correlation coefficients were 0.930, 0.919, and 0.799 for paper versus interview assessment; 0.951, 0.959, and 0.916 for paper versus electronic; and 0.967, 0.955, and 0.907 for interview versus electronic assessment (VILL_R, VILL_M, and VILL_E, respectively). Mean differences were 0.35, 0.41, and 1.74 logits; 0.32, 0.18, and 0.68 logits; and 0.08, 0.22, and 0.63 logits, respectively. None of the mentioned factors significantly affected the results (corrected P ≥ 0.11). Conclusions Paper, interview, and electronic MOAs of the VILL can be considered equivalent. Reporting across the main MOAs of self-administration (paper) and interviewer-administration was unaffected by better eye visual acuity and self-reported hearing difficulties. Translational Relevance The results support use of the VILL questionnaire with flexible modes of administration.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Liza Mekschrat
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Reglind A D Ost
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Gamze Bildik
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Moritz Berger
- Institute for Medical Biometry, Informatics and Epidemiology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | | | - Frank G Holz
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Robert P Finger
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Wintergerst MWM. [Smartphone-based fundus photography: a solution fit for the future?]. Ophthalmologe 2022; 119:110-111. [PMID: 35113223 DOI: 10.1007/s00347-021-01567-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
|
18
|
Mueller S, Wintergerst MWM, Falahat P, Holz FG, Schaefer C, Schahab N, Finger RP, Schultz T. Multiple instance learning detects peripheral arterial disease from high-resolution color fundus photography. Sci Rep 2022; 12:1389. [PMID: 35082343 PMCID: PMC8792038 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-05169-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2021] [Accepted: 01/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) is caused by atherosclerosis and is a common disease of the elderly leading to excess morbidity and mortality. Early PAD diagnosis is important, as the only available causal therapy is addressing risk factors like smoking, hypercholesterolemia or hypertension. However, current diagnostic techniques often do not detect early stages of PAD. We theorize that PAD’s underlying cause atherosclerosis can be detected on color fundus photography (CFP) images with a convolutional neural network architecture, which might aid earlier PAD diagnosis and improve disease monitoring. In this explorative study a deep attention-based Multiple Instance Learning (MIL) architecture is used to capture retinal imaging biomarkers on CFP images of 135 examinations. To capture subtle variations in vascular structures, higher image resolution can be utilized by partitioning the CFP into patches. Our architecture converts each patch into a feature vector, and determines its relative importance via an automatically computed attention weight. Our best model achieves an ROC AUC score of 0.890. Visualizing these attention weights provides insights about the network’s decision and suggests ocular involvement in PAD. Statistical analysis confirms that the optic disc and the temporal arcades are weighted significantly higher (p < 0.001) than retinal background. Our results support the feasibility of detecting the presence of PAD with a modern deep learning approach.
Collapse
|
19
|
Jansen LG, Schultz T, Holz FG, Finger RP, Wintergerst MWM. [Smartphone-based fundus imaging: applications and adapters]. Ophthalmologe 2021; 119:112-126. [PMID: 34913992 DOI: 10.1007/s00347-021-01536-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Smartphone-based fundus imaging (SBFI) is an innovative and low-cost alternative for color fundus photography. Since the first reports on this topic more than 10 years ago a large number of studies on different adapters and clinical applications have been published. OBJECTIVE The aim of this review article is to provide an overview on the development of SBFI and adapters and clinical applications published so far. MATERIAL AND METHODS A literature search was performed using the MEDLINE and Science Citation Index Expanded databases without time restrictions. RESULTS Overall, 11 adapters were included and compared in terms of exemplary image material, field of view, acquisition costs, weight, software, application range, smartphone compatibility and certification. Previously published SBFI applications are screening for diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma and retinopathy of prematurity as well as the application in emergency medicine, pediatrics and medical education/teaching. Image quality of conventional retinal cameras is in general superior to SBFI. First approaches on automatic detection of diabetic retinopathy through SBFI are promising and the use of automatic image processing algorithms enables the generation of wide-field image montages. CONCLUSION SBFI is a versatile, mobile, low-cost alternative to conventional equipment for color fundus photography. In addition, it facilitates the delegation of ophthalmological examinations to assistance personnel in telemedical settings, could simplify retinal documentation, improve teaching, and improve ophthalmological care, particularly in countries with low and middle incomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Linus G Jansen
- Klinik für Augenheilkunde, Universitätsklinikum Bonn, Ernst-Abbe-Str. 2, 53127, Bonn, Deutschland
| | - Thomas Schultz
- Institut für Informatik II, Universität Bonn, Friedrich-Hirzebruch-Allee 5, 53115, Bonn, Deutschland.,Bonn-Aachen International Center for Information Technology (B-IT), Universität Bonn, Friedrich-Hirzebruch-Allee 5, 53115, Bonn, Deutschland
| | - Frank G Holz
- Klinik für Augenheilkunde, Universitätsklinikum Bonn, Ernst-Abbe-Str. 2, 53127, Bonn, Deutschland
| | - Robert P Finger
- Klinik für Augenheilkunde, Universitätsklinikum Bonn, Ernst-Abbe-Str. 2, 53127, Bonn, Deutschland
| | | |
Collapse
|
20
|
Wintergerst MWM, Gorgi Zadeh S, Wiens V, Thiele S, Schmitz-Valckenberg S, Holz FG, Finger RP, Schultz T. Author Correction: Replication and Refinement of an Algorithm for Automated Drusen Segmentation on Optical Coherence Tomography. Sci Rep 2021; 11:15101. [PMID: 34282235 PMCID: PMC8289826 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-94752-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | - Shekoufeh Gorgi Zadeh
- Department of Computer Science, University of Bonn, Endenicher Allee 19a, 53115, Bonn, Germany.,Department of Medical Biometry, Informatics and Epidemiology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Vitalis Wiens
- Department of Computer Science, University of Bonn, Endenicher Allee 19a, 53115, Bonn, Germany.,TIB Leibniz Information Centre for Science and Technology, Hannover and Fraunhofer IAIS, St. Augustin, Germany
| | - Sarah Thiele
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Bonn, Ernst-Abbe-Str. 2, 53127, Bonn, Germany
| | | | - Frank G Holz
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Bonn, Ernst-Abbe-Str. 2, 53127, Bonn, Germany
| | - Robert P Finger
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Bonn, Ernst-Abbe-Str. 2, 53127, Bonn, Germany.
| | - Thomas Schultz
- Department of Computer Science, University of Bonn, Endenicher Allee 19a, 53115, Bonn, Germany.,Bonn-Aachen International Center for Information Technology, University of Bonn, Endenicher Allee 19a, 53115, Bonn, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Wintergerst MWM, Bejan V, Hartmann V, Schnorrenberg M, Bleckwenn M, Weckbecker K, Finger RP. Telemedical Diabetic Retinopathy Screening in a Primary Care Setting: Quality of Retinal Photographs and Accuracy of Automated Image Analysis. Ophthalmic Epidemiol 2021; 29:286-295. [PMID: 34151725 DOI: 10.1080/09286586.2021.1939886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Background: Screening for diabetic eye disease (DED) and general diabetes care is often separate, which leads to delays and low adherence to DED screening recommendations. Thus, we assessed the feasibility, achieved image quality, and possible barriers of telemedical DED screening in a point-of-care general practice setting and the accuracy of an automated algorithm for detection of DED.Methods: Patients with diabetes were recruited at general practices. Retinal images were acquired using a non-mydriatic camera (CenterVue, Italy) by medical assistants. Images were quality assessed and double graded by two graders. All images were also graded automatically using a commercially available artificial intelligence (AI) algorithm (EyeArt version 2.1.0, Eyenuk Inc.).Results: A total of 75 patients (147 eyes; mean age 69 years, 96% type 2 diabetes) were included. Most of the patients (51; 68%) preferred DED screening at the general practice, but only twenty-four (32%) were willing to pay for this service. Images of 63 patients (84%) were determined to be evaluable, and DED was diagnosed in 6 patients (8.0%). The algorithm's positive/negative predictive values (95% confidence interval) were 0.80 (0.28-0.99)/1.00 (0.92-1.00) and 0.75 (0.19-0.99)/0.98 (0.88-1.00) for detection of any DED and referral-warranted DED, respectively.Overall, the number of referrals was 18 (24%) for manual telemedical assessment and 31 (41%) for the artificial intelligence (AI) algorithm, resulting in a relative increase of referrals by 72% when using AI.Conclusions: Our study shows that achieved overall image quality in a telemedical GP-based DED screening was sufficient and that it would be accepted by medical assistants and patients in most cases. However, good image quality and integration into existing workflow remain challenging. Based on these findings, a larger-scale implementation study is warranted.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Veronica Bejan
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Vera Hartmann
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Marina Schnorrenberg
- Institute of General Practice and Interprofessional Care, Faculty of Health/Department of Medicine, University Witten/Herdecke, Witten, Germany
| | - Markus Bleckwenn
- Department of General Practice, Medical Faculty, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Klaus Weckbecker
- Institute of General Practice and Interprofessional Care, Faculty of Health/Department of Medicine, University Witten/Herdecke, Witten, Germany
| | - Robert P Finger
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Jansen LG, Shah P, Wabbels B, Holz FG, Finger RP, Wintergerst MWM. Learning curve evaluation upskilling retinal imaging using smartphones. Sci Rep 2021; 11:12691. [PMID: 34135452 PMCID: PMC8209054 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-92232-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2021] [Accepted: 05/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Smartphone-based fundus imaging (SBFI) is a low-cost approach for screening of various ophthalmic diseases and particularly suited to resource limited settings. Thus, we assessed how best to upskill alternative healthcare cadres in SBFI and whether quality of obtained images is comparable to ophthalmologists. Ophthalmic assistants and ophthalmologists received a standardized training to SBFI (Heine iC2 combined with an iPhone 6) and 10 training examinations for capturing central retinal images. Examination time, total number of images, image alignment, usable field-of-view, and image quality (sharpness/focus, reflex artifacts, contrast/illumination) were analyzed. Thirty examiners (14 ophthalmic assistants and 16 ophthalmologists) and 14 volunteer test subjects were included. Mean examination time (1st and 10th training, respectively: 2.17 ± 1.54 and 0.56 ± 0.51 min, p < .0001), usable field-of-view (92 ± 16% and 98 ± 6.0%, p = .003) and image quality in terms of sharpness/focus (p = .002) improved by the training. Examination time was significantly shorter for ophthalmologists compared to ophthalmic assistants (10th training: 0.35 ± 0.21 and 0.79 ± 0.65 min, p = .011), but there was no significant difference in usable field-of-view and image quality. This study demonstrates the high learnability of SBFI with a relatively short training and mostly comparable results across healthcare cadres. The results will aid implementing and planning further SBFI field studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Linus G Jansen
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, 53127, Bonn, Germany
| | - Payal Shah
- Sankara Academy of Vision, Sankara Eye Hospital Bangalore, Varthur Main Road Kundalahalli Gate, Bangalore, 560037, India
| | - Bettina Wabbels
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, 53127, Bonn, Germany
| | - Frank G Holz
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, 53127, Bonn, Germany
| | - Robert P Finger
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, 53127, Bonn, Germany
| | | |
Collapse
|
23
|
Wintergerst MWM, Liu X, Terheyden JH, Pohlmann D, Li JQ, Montesano G, Ometto G, Holz FG, Crabb DP, Pleyer U, Heinz C, Denniston AK, Finger RP. Structural Endpoints and Outcome Measures in Uveitis. Ophthalmologica 2021; 244:465-479. [PMID: 34062542 DOI: 10.1159/000517521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2020] [Accepted: 05/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Most uveitis entities are rare diseases but, taken together, are responsible for 5-10% of worldwide visual impairment which largely affects persons of working age. As with many rare diseases, there is a lack of high-level evidence regarding its clinical management, partly due to a dearth of reliable and objective quantitative endpoints for clinical trials. This review provides an overview of available structural outcome measures for uveitis disease activity and damage in an anatomical order from the anterior to the posterior segment of the eye. While there is a multitude of available structural outcome measures, not all might qualify as endpoints for clinical uveitis trials, and thorough testing of applicability is warranted. Furthermore, a consensus on endpoint definition, standardization, and "core outcomes" is required. As stipulated by regulatory agencies, endpoints should be precisely defined, clinically important, internally consistent, reliable, responsive to treatment, and relevant for the respective subtype of uveitis. Out of all modalities used for assessment of the reviewed structural outcome measures, optical coherence tomography, color fundus photography, fundus autofluorescence, and fluorescein/indocyanine green angiography represent current "core modalities" for reliable and objective quantification of uveitis outcome measures, based on their practical availability and the evidence provided so far.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Xiaoxuan Liu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, United Kingdom
- Academic Unit of Ophthalmology, Institute of Inflammation & Ageing, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
- Health Data Research UK, London, United Kingdom
| | - Jan H Terheyden
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Dominika Pohlmann
- Berlin Institute of Health, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Jeany Q Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Giovanni Montesano
- Division of Optometry and Visual Sciences, School of Health Sciences, City, University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Giovanni Ometto
- Division of Optometry and Visual Sciences, School of Health Sciences, City, University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Frank G Holz
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - David P Crabb
- Division of Optometry and Visual Sciences, School of Health Sciences, City, University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Uwe Pleyer
- Berlin Institute of Health, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Carsten Heinz
- Department of Ophthalmology, St. Franziskus-Hospital Münster, Münster, Germany
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Alastair K Denniston
- Department of Ophthalmology, Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, United Kingdom
- Academic Unit of Ophthalmology, Institute of Inflammation & Ageing, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
- Health Data Research UK, London, United Kingdom
- NIHR Biomedical Research Centre at Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust and UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London, United Kingdom
| | - Robert P Finger
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Pfau M, Walther G, von der Emde L, Berens P, Faes L, Fleckenstein M, Heeren TFC, Kortüm K, Künzel SH, Müller PL, Maloca PM, Waldstein SM, Wintergerst MWM, Schmitz-Valckenberg S, Finger RP, Holz FG. [Artificial intelligence in ophthalmology : Guidelines for physicians for the critical evaluation of studies]. Ophthalmologe 2020; 117:973-988. [PMID: 32857270 DOI: 10.1007/s00347-020-01209-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Empirical models have been an integral part of everyday clinical practice in ophthalmology since the introduction of the Sanders-Retzlaff-Kraff (SRK) formula. Recent developments in the field of statistical learning (artificial intelligence, AI) now enable an empirical approach to a wide range of ophthalmological questions with an unprecedented precision. OBJECTIVE Which criteria must be considered for the evaluation of AI-related studies in ophthalmology? MATERIAL AND METHODS Exemplary prediction of visual acuity (continuous outcome) and classification of healthy and diseased eyes (discrete outcome) using retrospectively compiled optical coherence tomography data (50 eyes of 50 patients, 50 healthy eyes of 50 subjects). The data were analyzed with nested cross-validation (for learning algorithm selection and hyperparameter optimization). RESULTS Based on nested cross-validation for training, visual acuity could be predicted in the separate test data-set with a mean absolute error (MAE, 95% confidence interval, CI of 0.142 LogMAR [0.077; 0.207]). Healthy versus diseased eyes could be classified in the test data-set with an agreement of 0.92 (Cohen's kappa). The exemplary incorrect learning algorithm and variable selection resulted in an MAE for visual acuity prediction of 0.229 LogMAR [0.150; 0.309] for the test data-set. The drastic overfitting became obvious on comparison of the MAE with the null model MAE (0.235 LogMAR [0.148; 0.322]). CONCLUSION Selection of an unsuitable measure of the goodness-of-fit, inadequate validation, or withholding of a null or reference model can obscure the actual goodness-of-fit of AI models. The illustrated pitfalls can help clinicians to identify such shortcomings.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maximilian Pfau
- Department of Biomedical Data Science, Stanford University, Medical School Office Building (MSOB), 1265 Welch Road, 94305-5479, Stanford, CA, USA.
- Universitäts-Augenklinik Bonn, Bonn, Deutschland.
| | | | | | - Philipp Berens
- Forschungsinstitut für Augenheilkunde, Universität Tübingen, Tübingen, Deutschland
- Interfakultäres Institut für Bioinformatik und Medizininformatik, Universität Tübingen, Tübingen, Deutschland
| | - Livia Faes
- Augenklinik, Luzerner Kantonsspital, Luzern, Schweiz
- Moorfields Eye Hopsital NHS Foundation Trust, London, Großbritannien
| | | | - Tjebo F C Heeren
- Moorfields Eye Hopsital NHS Foundation Trust, London, Großbritannien
| | - Karsten Kortüm
- Augenklinik, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, München, Deutschland
- Augenarztpraxis Dres. Kortüm, Ludwigsburg, Deutschland
| | | | - Philipp L Müller
- Universitäts-Augenklinik Bonn, Bonn, Deutschland
- Forschungsinstitut für Augenheilkunde, Universität Tübingen, Tübingen, Deutschland
| | - Peter M Maloca
- Moorfields Eye Hopsital NHS Foundation Trust, London, Großbritannien
- Institute of Molecular and Clinical Ophthalmology Basel (IOB), Basel, Schweiz
- OCTlab, Universitätsspital Basel, Basel, Schweiz
| | - Sebastian M Waldstein
- Univ.-Klinik für Augenheilkunde und Optometrie, Medizinische Universität Wien, Wien, Österreich
- Department of Ophthalmology, Westmead Hospital, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australien
| | | | - Steffen Schmitz-Valckenberg
- Universitäts-Augenklinik Bonn, Bonn, Deutschland
- John A. Moran Eye Center, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, USA
| | | | - Frank G Holz
- Universitäts-Augenklinik Bonn, Bonn, Deutschland
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Wintergerst MWM, Jansen LG, Holz FG, Finger RP. A Novel Device for Smartphone-Based Fundus Imaging and Documentation in Clinical Practice: Comparative Image Analysis Study. JMIR Mhealth Uhealth 2020; 8:e17480. [PMID: 32723717 PMCID: PMC7424474 DOI: 10.2196/17480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2019] [Revised: 03/17/2020] [Accepted: 04/10/2020] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Smartphone-based fundus imaging allows for mobile and inexpensive fundus examination with the potential to revolutionize eye care, particularly in lower-resource settings. However, most smartphone-based fundus imaging adapters convey image quality not comparable to conventional fundus imaging. Objective The purpose of this study was to evaluate a novel smartphone-based fundus imaging device for documentation of a variety of retinal/vitreous pathologies in a patient sample with wide refraction and age ranges. Methods Participants’ eyes were dilated and imaged with the iC2 funduscope (HEINE Optotechnik) using an Apple iPhone 6 in single-image acquisition (image resolution of 2448 × 3264 pixels) or video mode (1248 × 1664 pixels) and a subgroup of participants was also examined by conventional fundus imaging (Zeiss VISUCAM 500). Smartphone-based image quality was compared to conventional fundus imaging in terms of sharpness (focus), reflex artifacts, contrast, and illumination on semiquantitative scales. Results A total of 47 eyes from 32 participants (age: mean 62.3, SD 19.8 years; range 7-93; spherical equivalent: mean –0.78, SD 3.21 D; range: –7.88 to +7.0 D) were included in the study. Mean (SD) visual acuity (logMAR) was 0.48 (0.66; range 0-2.3); 30% (14/47) of the eyes were pseudophakic. Image quality was sufficient in all eyes irrespective of refraction. Images acquired with conventional fundus imaging were sharper and had less reflex artifacts, and there was no significant difference in contrast and illumination (P<.001, P=.03, and P=.10, respectively). When comparing image quality at the posterior pole, the mid periphery, and the far periphery, glare increased as images were acquired from a more peripheral part of the retina. Reflex artifacts were more frequent in pseudophakic eyes. Image acquisition was also possible in children. Documentation of deep optic nerve cups in video mode conveyed a mock 3D impression. Conclusions Image quality of conventional fundus imaging was superior to that of smartphone-based fundus imaging, although this novel smartphone-based fundus imaging device achieved image quality high enough to document various fundus pathologies including only subtle findings. High-quality smartphone-based fundus imaging might represent a mobile alternative for fundus documentation in clinical practice.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Linus G Jansen
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Frank G Holz
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Robert P Finger
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Terheyden JH, Wintergerst MWM, Pizarro C, Pfau M, Turski GN, Holz FG, Finger RP. Retinal and Choroidal Capillary Perfusion Are Reduced in Hypertensive Crisis Irrespective of Retinopathy. Transl Vis Sci Technol 2020; 9:42. [PMID: 32855888 PMCID: PMC7422770 DOI: 10.1167/tvst.9.8.42] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2020] [Accepted: 05/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Hypertensive crisis causes end-organ damage through small-vessel damage as described histologically. Noninvasive optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) makes it possible to image retinal and choroidal capillaries on a microscopic level in vivo. We quantified eye vessel perfusion changes in hypertensive crisis using OCTA. Methods Patients with hypertensive crisis (systolic blood pressure ≥180 mm Hg and/or diastolic blood pressure ≥110 mm Hg) and age-matched healthy controls were included in the study. OCTA en face 3 × 3-mm images of the superficial and deep retinal layers and the choriocapillaris were acquired. Outcome parameters included vessel density (VD) and vessel skeleton density (VSD) of the superficial and deep retinal layers, as well as flow voids of the choriocapillaris. Results Twenty-eight eyes of 17 patients and 31 age-matched control eyes of 18 healthy subjects were included. VD and VSD of the deep retinal layer were significantly reduced in hypertensive crisis (P ≤ 0.004). Choriocapillaris signal intensity was more heterogeneous in patients, and flow voids exhibited confluence with a larger average area and a lower absolute count (P ≤ 0.045). These changes were independent of time since onset of hypertensive crisis and of the presence and extent of retinopathy. Deep retinal changes were associated with renal end-organ failure (P = 0.045). Conclusions Hypertensive crisis is associated with a significant reduction in retinal and choroidal capillary perfusion based on OCTA findings. These alterations are independent of retinopathy and related to end-organ damage. Translational Relevance OCTA might help distinguish hypertensive urgency from hypertensive emergency earlier than currently possible.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Carmen Pizarro
- Department of Internal Medicine II-Cardiology/Pneumology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Maximilian Pfau
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | | | - Frank G Holz
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Robert P Finger
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Abstract
With the advent of smartphone-based fundus imaging (SBFI), a low-cost alternative to conventional digital fundus photography has become available. SBFI allows for a mobile fundus examination, is applicable both with and without pupil dilation, comes with built-in connectivity and post-processing capabilities, and is relatively easy to master. Furthermore, it is delegable to paramedical staff/technicians and, hence, suitable for telemedicine. Against this background a variety of SBFI applications have become available including screening for diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, and retinopathy of prematurity and its applications in emergency medicine and pediatrics. In addition, SBFI is convenient for teaching purposes and might serve as a surrogate for direct ophthalmoscopy. First wide-field montage techniques are available and the combination of SBFI with machine learning algorithms for image analyses is promising. In conclusion, SBFI has the potential to make fundus examinations and screenings for patients particularly in low- and middle-income settings more accessible and, therefore, aid tackling the burden of diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, and retinopathy of prematurity screening. However, image quality for SBFI varies substantially and a reference standard for grading appears prudent. In addition, there is a strong need for comparison of different SBFI approaches in terms of applicability to disease screening and cost-effectiveness.
Collapse
|
28
|
Wintergerst MWM, Gorgi Zadeh S, Wiens V, Thiele S, Schmitz-Valckenberg S, Holz FG, Finger RP, Schultz T. Replication and Refinement of an Algorithm for Automated Drusen Segmentation on Optical Coherence Tomography. Sci Rep 2020; 10:7395. [PMID: 32355285 PMCID: PMC7192932 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-63924-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2019] [Accepted: 03/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Here, we investigate the extent to which re-implementing a previously published algorithm for OCT-based drusen quantification permits replicating the reported accuracy on an independent dataset. We refined that algorithm so that its accuracy is increased. Following a systematic literature search, an algorithm was selected based on its reported excellent results. Several steps were added to improve its accuracy. The replicated and refined algorithms were evaluated on an independent dataset with the same metrics as in the original publication. Accuracy of the refined algorithm (overlap ratio 36-52%) was significantly greater than the replicated one (overlap ratio 25-39%). In particular, separation of the retinal pigment epithelium and the ellipsoid zone could be improved by the refinement. However, accuracy was still lower than reported previously on different data (overlap ratio 67-76%). This is the first replication study of an algorithm for OCT image analysis. Its results indicate that current standards for algorithm validation do not provide a reliable estimate of algorithm performance on images that differ with respect to patient selection and image quality. In order to contribute to an improved reproducibility in this field, we publish both our replication and the refinement, as well as an exemplary dataset.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Shekoufeh Gorgi Zadeh
- Department of Computer Science, University of Bonn, Endenicher Allee 19a, 53115, Bonn, Germany
- Department of Medical Biometry, Informatics and Epidemiology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Vitalis Wiens
- Department of Computer Science, University of Bonn, Endenicher Allee 19a, 53115, Bonn, Germany
- TIB Leibniz Information Centre for Science and Technology, Hannover and Fraunhofer IAIS, St. Augustin, Germany
| | - Sarah Thiele
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Bonn, Ernst-Abbe-Str. 2, 53127, Bonn, Germany
| | | | - Frank G Holz
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Bonn, Ernst-Abbe-Str. 2, 53127, Bonn, Germany
| | - Robert P Finger
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Bonn, Ernst-Abbe-Str. 2, 53127, Bonn, Germany.
| | - Thomas Schultz
- Department of Computer Science, University of Bonn, Endenicher Allee 19a, 53115, Bonn, Germany
- Bonn-Aachen International Center for Information Technology, University of Bonn, Endenicher Allee 19a, 53115, Bonn, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Pondorfer SG, Heinemann M, Wintergerst MWM, Pfau M, Strömer AL, Holz FG, Finger RP. Detecting vision loss in intermediate age-related macular degeneration: A comparison of visual function tests. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0231748. [PMID: 32298375 PMCID: PMC7162506 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0231748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2019] [Accepted: 03/31/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The purpose of the study was to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of visual function tests in intermediate age-related macular degeneration (iAMD). A total of 62 subjects (38 patients with iAMD and 24 controls) were included and underwent several functional assessments: Best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), low luminance visual acuity (LLVA), visual acuity (VA) measured with the Moorfields Vanishing Optotypes Acuity Charts (MAC), contrast sensitivity with the Pelli-Robson test, reading speed using the International Reading Speed texts (IReST) and mesopic and dark-adapted microperimetry (S-MAIA, CenterVue, Padova, Italy). Groups were compared using non-parametric Wilcoxon rank sum tests and ROC analyses. Linear regression was used to control for confounding. Results showed that all visual function test performances except the IReST were significantly reduced in iAMD patients compared to controls (p < 0.05). These effects did not alter after controlling for age and sex. Best discrimination between iAMD and controls yield the combination of LLVA and contrast sensitivity as well as MAC-VA and contrast sensitivity (ROC area under the curve 0.95 and 0.93, respectively). Our results suggest that LLVA, MAC-VA, contrast sensitivity and mesopic and dark-adapted microperimetry can capture visual impairment characteristic for iAMD. Best discrimination against iAMD is achieved with a combination of two tests.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Maximilian Pfau
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | | | - Frank G. Holz
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Robert P. Finger
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Terheyden JH, Wintergerst MWM, Falahat P, Berger M, Holz FG, Finger RP. Automated thresholding algorithms outperform manual thresholding in macular optical coherence tomography angiography image analysis. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0230260. [PMID: 32196538 PMCID: PMC7083322 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0230260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2019] [Accepted: 02/25/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction For quantification of Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography (OCTA) images, Vessel Density (VD) and Vessel Skeleton Density (VSD) are well established parameters and different algorithms are in use for their calculation. However, comparability, reliability and ability to discriminate healthy and impaired macular perfusion of different algorithms are unclear, yet, of potential high clinical relevance. Hence, we assessed comparability and test-retest reliability of the most common approaches. Materials and methods Two consecutive 3×3mm OCTA en face images of the superficial and deep retinal layer were acquired with swept-source OCTA. VD and VSD were calculated with manual thresholding and six automated thresholding algorithms (Huang, Li, Otsu, Moments, Mean, Percentile) using ImageJ and compared in terms of intra-class correlation coefficients, measurement differences and repeatability coefficients. Receiver operating characteristic analyses (healthy vs. macular pathology) were performed and Area Under the Curve (AUC) values were calculated. Results Twenty-six eyes (8 female, mean age: 47 years) of 15 patients were included (thereof 15 eyes with macular pathology). Binarization thresholds, VD and VSD differed significantly between the algorithms and compared to manual thresholding (p < 0.0001). Inter-measurement differences did not differ significantly between patients with healthy versus pathologic maculae (p ≥ 0.685). Reproducibility was higher for the automated algorithms compared to manual thresholding on all measures of reproducibility assessed. AUC was significantly higher for the Mean algorithm compared to the manual approach with respect to the superficial retinal layer. Conclusions Automated thresholding algorithms yield a higher reproducibility of OCTA parameters and allow for a more sensitive diagnosis of macular pathology. However, different algorithms are not interchangeable nor results readily comparable. Especially the Mean algorithm should be investigated in further detail. Automated thresholding algorithms are preferable but more standardization is needed for clinical use.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Peyman Falahat
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Moritz Berger
- Department of Medical Biometry, Informatics and Epidemiology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Frank G. Holz
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Robert P. Finger
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Pondorfer SG, Wintergerst MWM, Gorgi Zadeh S, Schultz T, Heinemann M, Holz FG, Finger RP. Association of Visual Function Measures with Drusen Volume in Early Stages of Age-Related Macular Degeneration. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2020; 61:55. [PMID: 32232348 PMCID: PMC7401419 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.61.3.55] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose To assess which visual function measures are most strongly associated with overall retinal drusen volume in age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Methods A total of 100 eyes (16 eyes with early AMD, 62 eyes with intermediate AMD, and 22 eyes from healthy controls) were recruited in this cross-sectional study. All subjects underwent several functional assessments: best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), low-luminance visual acuity (LLVA), visual acuity (VA) measured with the Moorfields Acuity Chart (MAC-VA), contrast sensitivity with the Pelli-Robson test, reading speed using the International Reading Speed texts, and mesopic and dark-adapted microperimetry. Drusen volume was automatically determined based on optical coherence tomography using an approach based on convolutional neural networks. The relationship between drusen volume and visual function was assessed with linear regressions controlling for confounders. Results Mean drusen volume and MAC-VA differed significantly among all AMD stages and controls (P < 0.001). In univariate linear regression, LLVA, MAC-VA, contrast sensitivity, and mesopic and dark-adapted microperimetry were significantly negatively associated with the overall drusen volume (all P < 0.006). After controlling for AMD stage, age, and the presence of subretinal drusenoid deposits, MAC-VA and mesopic and dark-adapted microperimetry were still significantly associated with drusen volume (P = 0.008, P = 0.023, and P = 0.022, respectively). Conclusions Our results suggest that MAC-VA, as well as mesopic and dark-adapted microperimetry, might indicate structural changes related to drusen volume in early stages of AMD.
Collapse
|
32
|
Hess K, Pfau M, Wintergerst MWM, Loeffler KU, Holz FG, Herrmann P. Phenotypic Spectrum of the Foveal Configuration and Foveal Avascular Zone in Patients With Alport Syndrome. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2020; 61:5. [PMID: 32031577 PMCID: PMC7324255 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.61.2.5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2019] [Accepted: 11/11/2019] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose To investigate characteristics of the foveal pit and the foveal avascular zone (FAZ) in patients with Alport syndrome (AS), a rare monogenetic disease due to mutations in genes encoding for collagen type IV. Methods Twenty-eight eyes of nine patients with AS, and five autosomal-recessive carriers and 15 eyes from 15 age-similar healthy control subjects were examined using optical coherence tomography (OCT) and OCT-angiography (OCT-A). Foveal configuration and FAZ measures including the FAZ area, circularity, and vessel density in the central 1° and 3° were correlated. Results Foveal hypoplasia was found in 10 eyes from seven patients with either genotype. In contrast, a staircase foveopathy was found in seven eyes of four X-linked AS patients. The average FAZ area did not differ significantly between AS patients and control subjects (mean ± SD 0.24 ± 0.24 mm2 vs. 0.21 ± 0.09 mm2; P = 0.64). Five eyes showed absence or severe anomalies of the FAZ with crossing macular capillaries that was linked to the degree of foveal hypoplasia on OCT images leading to a significant inverse correlation of FAZ area and foveal thickness (r = -0.88; P < 0.001). In contrary, female patients with X-linked mutations exhibited a significantly greater FAZ area (0.48 ± 0.30 mm2 vs. 0.21 ± 0.09 mm2; P = 0.007), in line with OCT findings of a staircase foveopathy. Conclusions The foveal phenotypic spectrum in AS ranges from foveal hypoplasia and absence of a FAZ to staircase foveopathy with an enlarged FAZ. Because the development of the FAZ and foveal pit are closely related, these findings suggest an important role for collagen type IV in foveal development and maturation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kristina Hess
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
- Center for Rare Diseases Bonn (ZSEB), University Hospital of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Maximilian Pfau
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
- GRADE Reading Center, Bonn, Germany
| | | | - Karin U. Loeffler
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Frank G. Holz
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
- Center for Rare Diseases Bonn (ZSEB), University Hospital of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
- GRADE Reading Center, Bonn, Germany
| | - Philipp Herrmann
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
- Center for Rare Diseases Bonn (ZSEB), University Hospital of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Wintergerst MWM, Petrak M, Li JQ, Larsen PP, Berger M, Holz FG, Finger RP, Krohne TU. Non-contact smartphone-based fundus imaging compared to conventional fundus imaging: a low-cost alternative for retinopathy of prematurity screening and documentation. Sci Rep 2019; 9:19711. [PMID: 31873142 PMCID: PMC6928229 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-56155-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2019] [Accepted: 12/07/2019] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is a frequent cause of treatable childhood blindness. The current dependency of telemedicine-based ROP screening on cost-intensive equipment does not meet the needs in economically disadvantaged regions. Smartphone-based fundus imaging (SBFI) allows for affordable and mobile fundus examination and, therefore, could facilitate cost-effective telemedicine-based ROP screening in low-resources settings. We compared non-contact SBFI and conventional contact fundus imaging (CFI) in terms of feasibility for ROP screening and documentation. Twenty-six eyes were imaged with both SBFI and CFI. Field-of-view was smaller (ratio of diameters, 1:2.5), level of detail was equal, and examination time was longer for SBFI as compared to CFI (109.0 ± 57.8 vs. 75.9 ± 36.3 seconds, p < 0.01). Good agreement with clinical evaluation by indirect funduscopy was achieved for assessment of plus disease and ROP stage for both SBFI (squared Cohen's kappa, 0.88 and 0.81, respectively) and CFI (0.86 and 0.93). Likewise, sensitivity/specificity for detection of plus disease and ROP was high for both SBFI (90%/100% and 88%/93%, respectively) and CFI (80%/100% and 100%/96%). SBFI is a non-contact and low-cost alternative to CFI for ROP screening and documentation that has the potential to considerably improve ROP care in middle- and low-resources settings.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Michael Petrak
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Bonn, Ernst-Abbe-Str. 2, 53127, Bonn, Germany
| | - Jeany Q Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Bonn, Ernst-Abbe-Str. 2, 53127, Bonn, Germany
| | - Petra P Larsen
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Bonn, Ernst-Abbe-Str. 2, 53127, Bonn, Germany
| | - Moritz Berger
- Department of Medical Biometry, Informatics and Epidemiology, University Hospital Bonn, Sigmund-Freud-Str. 25, 53105, Bonn, Germany
| | - Frank G Holz
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Bonn, Ernst-Abbe-Str. 2, 53127, Bonn, Germany
| | - Robert P Finger
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Bonn, Ernst-Abbe-Str. 2, 53127, Bonn, Germany
| | - Tim U Krohne
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Bonn, Ernst-Abbe-Str. 2, 53127, Bonn, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Tzaridis S, Wintergerst MWM, Mai C, Heeren TFC, Holz FG, Charbel Issa P, Herrmann P. Quantification of Retinal and Choriocapillaris Perfusion in Different Stages of Macular Telangiectasia Type 2. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019; 60:3556-3562. [DOI: 10.1167/iovs.19-27055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Simone Tzaridis
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | | | - Clarissa Mai
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Tjebo F. C. Heeren
- Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
- University College London, Institute of Ophthalmology, London, United Kingdom
| | - Frank G. Holz
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Peter Charbel Issa
- Oxford Eye Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, and Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | | |
Collapse
|
35
|
Wintergerst MWM, Bouws J, Loss J, Heimes B, Pauleikhoff D, Holz FG, Finger RP. [Reasons for delayed and discontinued therapy in age-related macular degeneration]. Ophthalmologe 2019; 115:1035-1041. [PMID: 29138977 DOI: 10.1007/s00347-017-0610-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Critical prerequisites for successful therapy of neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nvAMD) are an early initiation and continuous monitoring; however, delays in starting therapy and non-medically indicated discontinuation of therapy are frequent, which limits therapy efficacy and, thus, visual outcomes. OBJECTIVE To identify the reasons for delay in therapy and non-medically indicated termination of therapy. MATERIAL AND METHODS Patients who had started a new therapy (starters) and those who independently terminated therapy (dropouts) were interviewed by telephone with a specific, standardized questionnaire. Results were summarized descriptively. RESULTS A total of 100 starters and 55 dropouts were interviewed. The mean therapy delay was 22 (±28 SD) days. This was mainly due to the time until the decision to see an ophthalmologist was made. Main reasons for dropping out were: transportation issues (27%), poor general health (25%) and the assumption that there is no benefit from therapy (11%). Of the patients who dropped out 63% would have liked to continue therapy. CONCLUSION There is potential for improvement in nvAMD management regarding therapy start as well as therapy maintenance. Sensitizing for initial nvAMD symptoms is important as is reduction of barriers to therapy maintenance, since most therapy dropouts would like to continue the therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - J Bouws
- AMD-Netz, Münster, Deutschland
| | - J Loss
- Medizinische Soziologie, Institut für Epidemiologie und präventive Medizin, Universität Regensburg, Regensburg, Deutschland
| | - B Heimes
- St. Franziskus-Hospital Münster, Münster, Deutschland
| | - D Pauleikhoff
- St. Franziskus-Hospital Münster, Münster, Deutschland
| | - F G Holz
- Universitäts-Augenklinik Bonn, Bonn, Deutschland
| | - R P Finger
- Universitäts-Augenklinik Bonn, Bonn, Deutschland.
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Heinemann M, Welker SG, Li JQ, Wintergerst MWM, Turski GN, Turski CA, Holz FG, Finger RP. Awareness of Age-Related Macular Degeneration in Community-Dwelling Elderly Persons in Germany. Ophthalmic Epidemiol 2019; 26:238-243. [PMID: 30917716 DOI: 10.1080/09286586.2019.1597898] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Background: Due to current demographic trends age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is becoming more prevalent. When disease progresses to late-stage neovascular AMD, rapid initiation of treatment is required to achieve optimal outcomes. However, many affected individuals may be unaware of their disease impeding and delaying care seeking. Therefore, in an exploratory study we assessed whether elderly persons living independently in the community were aware of their AMD. Methods: Participants were recruited in eleven seniors' community centers. Participants underwent a standardized interview followed by non-mydriatic fundus photography of the macula and the optic disc in both eyes (Canon CR-2AF, Canon, New York, USA). The images were graded by an ophthalmologist and the data were analyzed descriptively. Results: A total of 281 participants (73.9 ± 8.1 years; 71.9% women) underwent bilateral fundus photography. The fundus photographs of 208 participants (74%; 73.6 ± 7.0 years; 73.1% women) could be graded. In a third (32.2%, n = 67) no pathological changes were detected. AMD was present in 24.5% of the examined subjects (n = 51). Half of the cases had early (47.1%), followed by intermediate (41.2%) and late (11.7%) AMD. Only one third (n = 16, 31.4%) were aware of their disease. Conclusions: A quarter of community dwelling elderly had AMD but only a third of these were aware of being affected with AMD. This confirms previous studies demonstrating low awareness for age-related eye diseases in the community. Considering the increase in population aging, awareness campaigns for AMD are needed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M Heinemann
- a Department for Ophthalmology , University of Bonn , Bonn , Germany
| | - S G Welker
- a Department for Ophthalmology , University of Bonn , Bonn , Germany
| | - J Q Li
- a Department for Ophthalmology , University of Bonn , Bonn , Germany
| | - M W M Wintergerst
- a Department for Ophthalmology , University of Bonn , Bonn , Germany
| | - G N Turski
- a Department for Ophthalmology , University of Bonn , Bonn , Germany
| | - C A Turski
- a Department for Ophthalmology , University of Bonn , Bonn , Germany
| | - F G Holz
- a Department for Ophthalmology , University of Bonn , Bonn , Germany
| | - Robert P Finger
- a Department for Ophthalmology , University of Bonn , Bonn , Germany
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Rapp M, Wintergerst MWM, Kunz WG, Vetter VK, Knott MML, Lisowski D, Haubner S, Moder S, Thaler R, Eiber S, Meyer B, Röhrle N, Piseddu I, Grassmann S, Layritz P, Kühnemuth B, Stutte S, Bourquin C, von Andrian UH, Endres S, Anz D. CCL22 controls immunity by promoting regulatory T cell communication with dendritic cells in lymph nodes. J Exp Med 2019; 216:1170-1181. [PMID: 30910796 PMCID: PMC6504218 DOI: 10.1084/jem.20170277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 122] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2017] [Revised: 11/08/2018] [Accepted: 03/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Rapp et al. demonstrate that dendritic cells in the lymph node secrete CCL22 to build cell–cell contacts with CCR4-expressing regulatory T cells, leading to immune suppression. Conversely, CCL22 deficiency results in enhanced T cell immunity, shown here in the setting of vaccination, cancer, and inflammatory disease. Chemokines have crucial roles in organ development and orchestration of leukocyte migration. The chemokine CCL22 is expressed constitutively at high levels in the lymph node, but the functional significance of this expression is so far unknown. Studying a newly established CCL22-deficient mouse, we demonstrate that CCL22 expression by dendritic cells (DCs) promotes the formation of cell–cell contacts and interaction with regulatory T cells (T reg) through their CCR4 receptor. Vaccination of CCL22-deficient mice led to excessive T cell responses that were also observed when wild-type mice were vaccinated using CCL22-deficient DCs. Tumor-bearing mice with CCL22 deficiency showed prolonged survival upon vaccination, and further, CCL22-deficient mice had increased susceptibility to inflammatory disease. In conclusion, we identify the CCL22–CCR4 axis as an immune checkpoint that is crucial for the control of T cell immunity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Moritz Rapp
- Center of Integrated Protein Science Munich, Division of Clinical Pharmacology, University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Maximilian W M Wintergerst
- Center of Integrated Protein Science Munich, Division of Clinical Pharmacology, University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Wolfgang G Kunz
- Center of Integrated Protein Science Munich, Division of Clinical Pharmacology, University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Viola K Vetter
- Center of Integrated Protein Science Munich, Division of Clinical Pharmacology, University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Max M L Knott
- Center of Integrated Protein Science Munich, Division of Clinical Pharmacology, University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Dominik Lisowski
- Center of Integrated Protein Science Munich, Division of Clinical Pharmacology, University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Sascha Haubner
- Center of Integrated Protein Science Munich, Division of Clinical Pharmacology, University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Stefan Moder
- Center of Integrated Protein Science Munich, Division of Clinical Pharmacology, University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Raffael Thaler
- Center of Integrated Protein Science Munich, Division of Clinical Pharmacology, University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Stephan Eiber
- Center of Integrated Protein Science Munich, Division of Clinical Pharmacology, University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Bastian Meyer
- Center of Integrated Protein Science Munich, Division of Clinical Pharmacology, University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Natascha Röhrle
- Center of Integrated Protein Science Munich, Division of Clinical Pharmacology, University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Ignazio Piseddu
- Center of Integrated Protein Science Munich, Division of Clinical Pharmacology, University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Simon Grassmann
- Institute for Medical Microbiology, Immunology and Hygiene, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Patrick Layritz
- Center of Integrated Protein Science Munich, Division of Clinical Pharmacology, University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Benjamin Kühnemuth
- Center of Integrated Protein Science Munich, Division of Clinical Pharmacology, University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Susanne Stutte
- Department of Immunology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Carole Bourquin
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Geneva, University of Lausanne, Geneva, Switzerland.,Department of Anaesthetics, Pharmacology, Intensive Care and Emergencies, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Ulrich H von Andrian
- Department of Immunology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA .,The Ragon Institute of Massachusetts General Hospital, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, and Harvard, Boston, MA
| | - Stefan Endres
- Center of Integrated Protein Science Munich, Division of Clinical Pharmacology, University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany .,German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), partner site Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - David Anz
- Center of Integrated Protein Science Munich, Division of Clinical Pharmacology, University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany.,Department of Medicine II, University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Wintergerst MWM, Herrmann P, Finger RP. Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography for Evaluation of Sattler's Layer in Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada Disease. Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina 2018; 49:639-642. [DOI: 10.3928/23258160-20180803-14] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2017] [Accepted: 01/30/2018] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
|
39
|
Wintergerst MWM, Larsen PP, Heimes B, Pauleikhoff D, Holz FG, Finger RP. [Pro re nata anti-VEGF treatment results for neovascular age-related macular degeneration in routine clinical treatment: comparison of single with triple injections]. Ophthalmologe 2018; 116:441-446. [PMID: 29923031 DOI: 10.1007/s00347-018-0747-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Different injection regimens from continuous to pro re nata (PRN) have been proposed for treatment of neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD). So far the PRN single injection on reactivation regimen has not been compared to the PRN triple injection on reactivation regimen (IVAN scheme). OBJECTIVE Comparison of the two nAMD PRN injection regimens with single and triple injections on reactivation in a real-world setting in a retrospective case series in two German treatment centers. MATERIAL AND METHODS Naïve nAMD patients, who started treatment according to either the single or triple injection regimen were included. Endpoints were best corrected visual acuity (LogMAR), central retinal thickness on optical coherence tomography (μm) and number of injections, all at 3, 6, 12, 18 and 24 months after treatment initiation. RESULTS A total of 146 patients with single injection and 148 patients with triple injection regimens were included. There were no significant differences between the two treatment regimens in best corrected visual acuity (single vs. triple injection scheme: 0.50 ± 0.42 vs. 0.56 ± 0.42, p = 0.14), central retinal thickness (303 ± 76.2 vs. 306 ± 110, p = 0.79) and number of injections (13 ± 4.4 vs. 12 ± 5.4, p = 0.31). This was the case for all analyzed time points. CONCLUSION There were no significant functional or morphological differences between the two PRN injection regimens with single and triple injections on reactivation after 24 months. For evaluation of long-term therapy results further studies are warranted.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M W M Wintergerst
- Universitäts-Augenklinik Bonn, Ernst-Abbe-Str. 2, 53127, Bonn, Deutschland.
| | - P P Larsen
- Universitäts-Augenklinik Bonn, Ernst-Abbe-Str. 2, 53127, Bonn, Deutschland
| | - B Heimes
- St. Franziskus-Hospital Münster, Hohenzollernring 74, 48145, Münster, Deutschland
| | - D Pauleikhoff
- St. Franziskus-Hospital Münster, Hohenzollernring 74, 48145, Münster, Deutschland
| | - F G Holz
- Universitäts-Augenklinik Bonn, Ernst-Abbe-Str. 2, 53127, Bonn, Deutschland
| | - R P Finger
- Universitäts-Augenklinik Bonn, Ernst-Abbe-Str. 2, 53127, Bonn, Deutschland
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Wintergerst MWM, Schultz T, Birtel J, Schuster AK, Pfeiffer N, Schmitz-Valckenberg S, Holz FG, Finger RP. Algorithms for the Automated Analysis of Age-Related Macular Degeneration Biomarkers on Optical Coherence Tomography: A Systematic Review. Transl Vis Sci Technol 2017; 6:10. [PMID: 28729948 PMCID: PMC5516568 DOI: 10.1167/tvst.6.4.10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2017] [Accepted: 05/30/2017] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To assess the quality of optical coherence tomography (OCT) grading algorithms for retinal biomarkers of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). METHODS Following a systematic review of the literature data on detection and quantification of AMD retinal biomarkers by available algorithms were extracted and descriptively synthesized. Algorithm quality was assessed using a modified version of the Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies 2 checklist with a focus on accuracy against established reference standards and risk of bias. RESULTS Thirty five studies reporting computer-aided diagnosis (CAD) tools for qualitative analysis or algorithms for quantitative analysis were identified. Compared with manual assessment in reference standards correlation coefficients ranged from 0.54 to 0.97 for drusen, 0.80 to 0.98 for geographic atrophy (GA), and 0.30 to 0.98 for intra- or subretinal fluid and pigment epithelial detachment (PED) detection by automated algorithms. CAD tools achieved area under the curve (AUC) values of 0.94 to 0.99, sensitivity of 0.90 to 1.00, and specificity of 0.89 to 0.92. CONCLUSIONS Automated analysis of AMD biomarkers on OCT is promising. However, most of the algorithm validation was performed in preselected patients, exhibiting the targeted biomarker only. In addition, type and quality of reported algorithm validation varied substantially. TRANSLATIONAL RELEVANCE The development of algorithms for combined, simultaneous analysis of multiple AMD biomarkers including AMD staging and the agreement on standardized validation procedures would be of considerable translational value for the clinician and the clinical researcher.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Thomas Schultz
- Department of Computer Science, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Johannes Birtel
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | | | - Norbert Pfeiffer
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Medical Center Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | | | - Frank G Holz
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Robert P Finger
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Lech M, Lorenz G, Kulkarni OP, Grosser MOO, Stigrot N, Darisipudi MN, Günthner R, Wintergerst MWM, Anz D, Susanti HE, Anders HJ. NLRP3 and ASC suppress lupus-like autoimmunity by driving the immunosuppressive effects of TGF-β receptor signalling. Ann Rheum Dis 2014; 74:2224-35. [PMID: 25135254 DOI: 10.1136/annrheumdis-2014-205496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2014] [Accepted: 07/30/2014] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The NLRP3/ASC inflammasome drives host defence and autoinflammatory disorders by activating caspase-1 to trigger the secretion of mature interleukin (IL)-1β/IL-18, but its potential role in autoimmunity is speculative. METHODS We generated and phenotyped Nlrp3-deficient, Asc-deficient, Il-1r-deficient and Il-18-deficient C57BL/6-lpr/lpr mice, the latter being a mild model of spontaneous lupus-like autoimmunity. RESULTS While lack of IL-1R or IL-18 did not affect the C57BL/6-lpr/lpr phenotype, lack of NLRP3 or ASC triggered massive lymphoproliferation, lung T cell infiltrates and severe proliferative lupus nephritis within 6 months, which were all absent in age-matched C57BL/6-lpr/lpr controls. Lack of NLRP3 or ASC increased dendritic cell and macrophage activation, the expression of numerous proinflammatory mediators, lymphocyte necrosis and the expansion of most T cell and B cell subsets. In contrast, plasma cells and autoantibody production were hardly affected. This unexpected immunosuppressive effect of NLRP3 and ASC may relate to their known role in SMAD2/3 phosphorylation during tumour growth factor (TGF)-β receptor signalling, for example, Nlrp3-deficiency and Asc-deficiency significantly suppressed the expression of numerous TGF-β target genes in C57BL/6-lpr/lpr mice and partially recapitulated the known autoimmune phenotype of Tgf-β1-deficient mice. CONCLUSIONS These data identify a novel non-canonical immunoregulatory function of NLRP3 and ASC in autoimmunity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maciej Lech
- Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik IV, Klinikum der Ludwig Maximilians Universität, München-Innenstadt, Munich, Germany
| | - Georg Lorenz
- Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik IV, Klinikum der Ludwig Maximilians Universität, München-Innenstadt, Munich, Germany
| | - Onkar P Kulkarni
- Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik IV, Klinikum der Ludwig Maximilians Universität, München-Innenstadt, Munich, Germany
| | - Marian O O Grosser
- Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik IV, Klinikum der Ludwig Maximilians Universität, München-Innenstadt, Munich, Germany
| | - Nora Stigrot
- Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik IV, Klinikum der Ludwig Maximilians Universität, München-Innenstadt, Munich, Germany
| | - Murthy N Darisipudi
- Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik IV, Klinikum der Ludwig Maximilians Universität, München-Innenstadt, Munich, Germany
| | - Roman Günthner
- Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik IV, Klinikum der Ludwig Maximilians Universität, München-Innenstadt, Munich, Germany
| | - Maximilian W M Wintergerst
- Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik IV, Klinikum der Ludwig Maximilians Universität, München-Innenstadt, Munich, Germany
| | - David Anz
- Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik IV, Klinikum der Ludwig Maximilians Universität, München-Innenstadt, Munich, Germany
| | - Heni Eka Susanti
- Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik IV, Klinikum der Ludwig Maximilians Universität, München-Innenstadt, Munich, Germany
| | - Hans-Joachim Anders
- Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik IV, Klinikum der Ludwig Maximilians Universität, München-Innenstadt, Munich, Germany
| |
Collapse
|