[Intraoperative opacification of a scleral-fixated Carlevale (Soleko®) intraocular lens]

Thermal shock can cause intraoperative opacification of a Carlevale (Soleko®) implant. This is a rare phenomenon which resolves spontaneously. It is crucial to recognise this phenomenon in order to avoid unnecessary and potentially harmful explantation decisions for the patient.

[Late steroid-induced ocular hypertension after intravitreal dexamethasone implants: A series of 20 cases]

INTRODUCTION

Steroid-induced ocular hypertension (OHT) occurs in approximately one third of cases after dexamethasone implant (DEXi) injection. Among these, more than one fifth occur after the third DEXi intravitreal injection (IVI). Our goal was to analyze the clinical profiles of these late responders.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A real-life, retrospective, observational study was conducted to assess demographic characteristics and intraocular pressure (IOP) responses in late responders (IOP ≥ 21mmHg, n DEXi ≥ 4). The following parameters were analyzed: IOP 2 months after IVI and number of glaucoma medications needed. The IOP response compared to baseline was defined as low (< +6mmHg), moderate (≤ +15mmHg) or high (> 15mmHg).

RESULTS

Late steroid-induced OHT occurred in 20.8% of cases. Twenty eyes (18 patients) were included. The mean duration of follow-up was 3.8±1.9 years. They received a mean number of 9.5±4.2 IVI. The first OHT peak, measured at 25.3±3.2mmHg (21-31), occurred after 6.8±2.3 IVI. Approximately 65% of OHT spikes occurred between the fourth and sixth IVI; 35% occurred later. At maximum, 1.7±1.0 glaucoma medications and 0.75±0.79 SLT procedures were required to control the OHT, with no filtering surgery required. The ratio of "low," "moderate," and "high" responders was 5%, 85% and 10% respectively.

CONCLUSION

Late steroid-induced OHT occurs after at least 3 DEXi in one fifth of multi-injected patients, requiring long-term IOP monitoring. This case series identifies mostly moderate responder profiles, whose IOP rise often remains well-controlled with medical management or laser treatment (SLT).

Ocular hypertension and intravitreal steroids injections, update in 2023. French guidelines of the French glaucoma society and the French ophthalmology society

These guidelines are a consensus of French glaucoma and retina experts on the management of ocular hypertension (OHT) observed in a third of the cases after corticosteroid implant intravitreal injections. They update the first guidelines published in 2017. Two implants are marketed in France: the dexamethasone implant (DEXi) and the fluocinolone acetonide implant (FAci). It is essential to assess the pressure status before injecting a patient with a corticosteroid implant. A molecule-specific monitoring of the intraocular pressure is needed throughout the follow-up and at the time of reinjections. Real-life studies have allowed optimizing the management algorithm by significantly increasing the safety of these implants. Corticosteroid testing with DEXi should be performed before switching to FAci to optimize pressure tolerance of FAci. Beyond topical hypotensive treatments, selective laser trabeculoplasty may be considered in the therapeutic arsenal for the management of steroid-induced OHT and subsequent injections.

[Intraocular pressure elevation and intravitreal steroid implant injection: State of the art in 2023. Recommendations of the French Glaucoma Society and French Ophthalmology Society [French version]]

These are the recommendations of French glaucoma and retina experts on the management of ocular hypertension (OHT) observed in 1/3 of cases after intravitreal steroid implant injections. They are an update to the recommendations first published in 2017. There are two implants on the French market: the dexamethasone (DEXi) and fluocinolone acetonide (FAci) implants. It is important to know the pressure status before injecting a patient with a steroid implant. Monitoring of the IOP adapted to the specific drug is necessary throughout follow-up and reinjections. Real-life studies have made it possible to optimize the management algorithm by significantly increasing the safety of use of these implants. A corticosteroid test with DEXi is necessary before switching to FAci to optimize the pressure tolerance of the latter. In addition to topical glaucoma medications, SLT laser can be considered in the therapeutic arsenal for the management of steroid-induced OHT and future injections.

Fluocinolone acetonide implant in diabetic macular edema: International experts' panel consensus guidelines and treatment algorithm

Center-involving diabetic macular edema (DME) is a leading cause of vision impairment in working-age adults. While its management is particularly challenging in a poorly compliant population, continuous innovation and the advent of new molecules have improved its outcome. The control of glycemia and of systemic aggravating factors remain essential to slow down progression of disease complications including DME. The indications for macular laser photocoagulation has progressively been phased out as a standard of care and replaced by local intraocular anti-VEGFs biologics and glucocorticoids (GCs). Intravitreal GCs in controlled-release drug delivery systems have allowed to reduce injection frequency and treatment burden. The non biodegradable Fluocinolone Acetonide (FAc) implant allows a long-lasting stabilization of both functional and anatomic improvements. However, adequate patient selection and monitoring through regular follow-up are essential for optimal results. Based on their experience and the latest literature, the aim of the present review is to provide international expert panel consensus on the place of the FAc implant in the treatment algorithm of DME, as well as its safety profile and how to manage it.

[Treatment of exudative age-related macular degeneration: Consensus of French experts for first-line treatment selection and the importance of long-term risk/benefit ratio]

Choosing a first-line treatment to optimize long-term outcomes is a major challenge for treating patients with neovascular age-related macular degeneration (AMD). The development of several new molecules makes it critical to identify the relevant factors to consider so as to provide an optimal risk-benefit ratio when initiating a treatment in naïve patients with neovascular AMD. This paper proposes a consensus established with the Delphi method (which includes a gradation in a consensus based on an analysis of the convergence rate of answers) to provide criteria that guide the ophthalmologist's decision for treatment initiation and follow-up in neovascular AMD patients. Fourteen questions were submitted to 93 French retina experts. Thirteen (93%) of the questions reached a consensus (≥50% of answers consensual). The criteria recommended to take into account were both efficacy and onset of action of the molecules, their safety, and the ability to decrease injection frequency. The primary criterion of expected efficacy of a molecule is a combination of the gain in visual acuity and resorption of retinal fluid. With regard to safety, experts recommend tighter follow-up for molecules currently in development, and at every scheduled visit, patients should be screened to identify early any potential adverse effects such as intraocular inflammation, retinal vasculitis or vascular occlusion. Experts also emphasize the importance of the packaging of the biological, with a preference toward prefilled syringes. Injection frequency is a key factor, and the authors recommended aiming for a maximal injection interval of 12 to 16 weeks. The stability of that maximum interval is also an important factor to consider in treatment selection.

[Treat-and-extend anti-angiogenic protocol in clinical practice for patients with exudative age-related macular degeneration: Consensus of French experts]

Optimizing treatment regimens for anti-angiogenic drugs is now a major issue in the management of patients with exudative AMD. The evolution of these approaches has led retinologists to favor so-called proactive administration regimens, such as Treat-and-Extend (T&E), which make it possible to anticipate recurrence and to plan intravitreal injections of anti-angiogenic drugs in advance. Nevertheless, a real need to standardize the application of this regimen has been identified. This article proposes a consensus based on the Delphi methodology, which might provide a guide for ophthalmologists to manage patients with exudative AMD using the T&E protocol. While some aspects remain debated to date, this article provides elements to guide the implementation of T&E. The experts recommend that a loading dose of 3 monthly injections should be administered before starting T&E. They also recommend adjusting the reinjection intervals by±2 weeks in a standardized fashion. The intervals are then decreased in the presence of anatomical and/or functional deterioration, maintained when the interval of recurrence is identified, and increased when anatomical and/or functional improvement is observed. A maximum interval between 3 and 4 months is recommended by the experts, with maintenance of the maximum interval for 1 year before considering a possible exit from the T&E protocol. In the event of a significant decrease in visual acuity related to the disease along with significant anatomical degradation, it is recommended to restart monthly injections. In the case of bilateral disease, when synchronized timing of injections for both eyes is desired, the experts recommend using the shorter of the two intervals.

[Descemet's membrane detachment after phacoemulsification: Series of 9 cases]

PURPOSE

Descemet's membrane detachment (DMD) is a rare but potentially serious complication of cataract surgery. Although there are no consensual guidelines regarding the diagnosis or treatment of DMD, incorrect treatment may result in irreversible corneal changes with visual sequellae. The purpose of our study is to describe the diagnosis and treatment of DMD.

METHODS

We report a series of 9 cases of DMD, their diagnosis, treatment and outcomes. We tested the HELP protocol retrospectively against our 9 real-life cases.

RESULTS

Two cases recovered with simple medical management, 4 required air-bubble descemetopexy, and three required keratoplasty. Our study revealed that the main factor associated with poor outcomes is late diagnosis and management.

CONCLUSION

Our series illustrates the importance of proactive management and timely diagnosis by performing anterior segment OCT in the setting of persistent postoperative corneal edema.

Post-marketing surveillance study of the safety of dexamethasone intravitreal implant in patients with retinal vein occlusion or noninfectious posterior segment uveitis

Purpose

To evaluate the long-term safety of dexamethasone intravitreal implant (DEX) in patients treated for macular edema associated with retinal vein occlusion (RVO) or noninfectious posterior segment uveitis (NIPSU) in clinical practice.

Patients and methods

Multicenter (102 sites in France, Germany, Spain, UK), prospective, observational, post-authorization safety study in adult patients treated with DEX. Data collected up to 2 years after enrollment included serious adverse events (SAEs) and adverse events of special interest (AESIs; adverse drug reactions that are considered important risks associated with DEX and listed in the European Union Ozurdex Risk Management Plan).

Results

Overall, 803 patients (652 RVO, 151 NIPSU) received on-study DEX treatment, and 73.1% completed 24 months of follow-up; 72.6% were DEX-naïve. Median number of on-study injections per treated eye was 2 (range, 1–7); median reinjection interval was 27.1 weeks. Nonocular SAEs affected 9.5% of patients; none were considered DEX-related. Ocular SAEs (most common: cataract progression) occurred in 3.2% of treated eyes. SAEs were similar in eyes stratified by previous DEX use and number of on-study DEX injections (≤2 or >2), in both RVO and NIPSU. The most common AESIs were cataract formation and progression (20.0% and 19.2% of treated phakic eyes, n=551), increased intraocular pressure (19.0% of treated eyes), and vitreous hemorrhage (3.3% of treated eyes). Cataract progression was more frequent in baseline phakic eyes that were previously treated with DEX or received >2 on-study DEX injections.

Conclusion

The long-term safety profile of DEX was acceptable. No new safety concerns were identified.

[Prospective, monocentric, uncontrolled study of efficacy, tolerance and adherence of cyclosporin 0.1 % for severe dry eye syndrome]

PURPOSE

To evaluate the efficacy, tolerability and treatment adherence of Ikervis^® (Santen, SAS) (ciclosporine 0.1 %) for first line therapy or following treatment with Restasis^® (Allergan, Inc.) (ciclosporine 0.05 %) for severe dry eye syndrome.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A prospective, monocentric, uncontrolled study was conducted between January 2012 and March 2015 on 110 eyes of 55 patients with severe dry eye on first line therapy or previously treated with Restasis^® who required the introduction of Ikervis^®. Patients' quality of life was assessed before and after treatment was started using a standardized questionnaire (Ocular Surface Disease Index^© [OSDI]), clinical efficacy was quantified at the slit lamp, by measurement of the Break Up time Test (BUT) and the Oxford classification. Tolerability and adherence to treatment were measured using a simple questionnaire.

RESULTS

A total of 72 eyes of 37 patients were included. Etiologies of dry eye syndrome were dominated by Sjögren syndrome (32 %) and severe ocular surface conditions (48 %). The mean age was 57.7 years (±17.45) and mean follow-up was 458 days (±292). The mean BUT increased by 2.043seconds [1.522-2.563] (P<0.0001). Corneal/conjunctival involvement evaluated by the Oxford classification was also improved with a difference in level of 1.68 [1.290-2.071] (P<0.0001). Ocular Surface Disease Index^© (OSDI) decreased by 21.7 [16.372-27.024] (P<0.0001). Treatment tolerability was moderate, with more than 50 % of patients experiencing pain on instillation. Overall satisfaction with treatment was good, with more than 60 % of patients feeling better after initiation of treatment.

CONCLUSION

Ikervis^® is an effective treatment of severe dry eye. Its indications tend to evolve towards less severe dry eye. However, the tolerability profile remains poor, and an improvement in this would be desirable.

[Toric lens implantation in cataract surgery: Automatic versus manual horizontal axis marking, analysis of 50 cases]

SUBJECT

The main objective of our study is to evaluate the contribution of automated conjunctival recognition in the alignment of toric implants by comparing the automatic alignment optimized with Callisto™ to the manual marking of the horizontal axis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We performed a prospective, descriptive, and monocentric study on patients undergoing cataract surgery with toric implantation (Asphina 709 Zeiss), operated by a surgeon with good experience in toricity, between September 2016 and March 2017. We analyzed the agreement between the manual marking of the 0°-180° axis versus the one automatically generated by the Callisto™, as well as the alignment of the IOL and the refractive results at 1 month.

RESULTS

We included 50 eyes of 26 patients. The corrected mean astigmatism was 1.9 D. The mean difference between the 2 axes was 4.7° [0°-12.3°]. Only 50 % of the preoperative manual markings were consistent with the automatic measurement (<5°). At one month, the average rotation recorded was 4.3° [0°-29°]. The alignment was identical for 70 % (n=35) of the IOL (≤5°). As for residual subjective astigmatism, it was on average 0.58 D. The mean visual acuity without correction was 8/10 and 55 % had 10/10 without correction.

DISCUSSION

The refractive performance depends on the preoperative measurement, the correct alignment of the IOL and its stability in the bag. Our study shows the value of automatic conjunctival recognition in the determination of the axis of peroperative alignment, even in an experienced operator. This precision is essential for a good refractive result, especially since the residual astigmatism in case of misalignment will increase with the power of the implant.

CONCLUSION

Our study shows excellent refractive results, whatever the initial astigmatism, using the automatic alignment. The precision of the toric implantation opens the way to the toric multifocal implantation under the best conditions.

Toric lens implantation in cataract surgery: Automated versus manual horizontal axis marking, analysis of 50 cases

SUBJECT

The main objective of our study was to evaluate the contribution of automated conjunctival registration in the alignment of toric intraocular lenses by comparing automated registration optimized with Callisto^® to manual marking of the horizontal axis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We performed a prospective, descriptive, monocentric study on patients undergoing cataract surgery with a toric intraocular lens (Asphina 709 Zeiss), performed by a surgeon with good experience in toric implants, between September 2016 and March 2017. We analyzed the agreement between the manual marking of the 0-180° axis versus the one automatically generated by the Callisto™, as well as the alignment of the IOL and the refractive results at 1 month.

RESULTS

We included 50 eyes of 38 patients. The mean corrected astigmatism was 1,9 D. The mean difference between the 2 axes was 4,7° [0-12.3°]. Only 50 % of the preoperative manual markings were consistent with the automated measurement (<5°). At one month, the mean rotation recorded was 4,3° [0-29°]. The alignment was identical for 70 % (n=35) of the IOLs (≤5°). As for residual subjective astigmatism, the mean was 0.58 D. The mean visual acuity without correction was 8/10 and 55 % saw 10/10 without correction.

DISCUSSION

Refractive performance depends on preoperative measurement, correct alignment of the IOL and its stability in the bag. Our study shows the value of automated conjunctival registration in the determination of the intraoperative axis of alignment, even with an experienced surgeon. This precision is essential for a good refractive result, especially since residual astigmatism in the case of misalignment will increase with the power of the implant.

CONCLUSION

Our study shows excellent refractive results, regardless of the initial astigmatism, using automated alignment. Precision of toric implantation opens the way to toric multifocal implantation under the best conditions.

[Evaluation of surgical simulation sessions of the French society of ophthalmology. A new surgical instruction method]

INTRODUCTION

Since 2013, at the French society of ophthalmology (FSO) meetings, two simulators for intraocular surgeries have been available. The goal of this study was to assess the satisfaction of the participants in these organized training sessions.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A questionnaire was mailed to participants in the FSO sessions as well as those carried out during the annual congress. This questionnaire collected data on the participants and the practical modalities of the sessions, and assessed participants' feelings and satisfaction with these sessions.

RESULTS

The participants in the SFO sessions were young members of the SFO (31.8±12.3 years). 53.8 % were in training, looking to improve a problematic surgical step (capsulorhexis in 51.5 %). They spent nearly 5hours on simulators (4.8hours) and were alone on a simulator 50 % of the time. The sessions held during the annual congress were used by older physicians (41.9±26.4 years) already in practice (66.6 %). The goal of such training was curiosity in a third of the cases (to try the simulators). The majority spent less than an hour on the devices and were at least two participants per machine. Despite these differences, participants cited a role for their surgical learning curve and recommended such training to their colleagues.

CONCLUSIONS

The participants' enthusiasm for this new training technique is highlighted by the results of this study.

[Disc-fovea angle adjustment for peripallary retinal nerve fiber layer analysis by a spectral domain optical coherence tomography. Preliminary study]

INTRODUCTION

Circumpapillary retinal nerve fiber layer (cpRNFL) analysis by spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) has become essential for the assessment of glaucoma patients. The foveal projection is conventionally below the disc plane, creating an angle with the horizontal meridian, the disc-fovea angle. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the role of adjustment of cpRNFL analysis based on this angle.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This study concerns 40 control eyes and 55 eyes affected with and followed for primary open angle glaucoma (POAG). After precise localization of the optic disc center and the axis connecting it to the center of the fovea, a circular peripapillary scan is performed with Spectralis OCT (Heidelberg Engineering, Germany). The mean thickness in each of six papillary sectors and the global mean thickness of the cpRNFL were evaluated. The ROC (receiver operating characteristic) analysis evaluated the diagnostic capabilities of the various sectors before and after adjustment of the analysis for the disc-fovea angle.

RESULTS

The disc-fovea angle was not different between the two groups (-7.0 ± 1.2° for controls vs. -6.6 ± 1.2° for POAG, P=0.70). There is a significant variance of this angle in both groups (the angle varies in the control group between -22.5° to +1.8° and in the POAG group between -18° to +2.4°). The global mean and inferior temporal (IT) thickness of the cpRNFL show the best diagnostic performance. Adjustment for disc-fovea angle does not increase the diagnostic accuracy of the various sectors analyzed. Although there is an increase in the area under the curve for the IT sector after adjustment, it is not statistically significant (0.910 ± 0.056 vs. 0.936 ± 0.045, P=0.06).

CONCLUSIONS

There is a significant variation in disc-fovea angle. In this study, accounting for it does not significantly improve the diagnostic capabilities of cpRNFL in patients with POAG.

[Post-traumatic endophthalmitis]

Post-traumatic endophthalmitis is a rare but serious complication of open globe injury, representing a major turning point for the patient's visual prognosis. Risk factors for this complication are lens capsule rupture, an intraocular foreign body, type of eye trauma and especially a delay in initial management of the trauma. Although Staphylococcus epidermidis is the most common organism, as in postoperative acute endophthalmitis, other microorganisms are more frequently represented and the multi-microbial involvement is common. The diagnosis can be difficult in the presence of inflammatory signs of trauma. Aside from rapid globe repair, neither preventive nor curative treatment have been well delineated. The class of antibiotics, the dosage, route of administration, as well as surgical treatment by vitrectomy remain topics of discussion.

[Ocular hypertension after intravitreal steroid injections: Clinical update as of 2015]

Intravitreal injections are a therapeutic delivery method best suited to the treatment of retinal diseases. Recent years have been marked by the use of anti-VEGF agents as well as the arrival of sustained-release corticosteroid implants in France, replacing triamcinolone acetonide. A common complication of IVT steroids is secondary ocular hypertension (OHT) resulting from increased outflow resistance. This article summarizes current understanding. OHT induced by topical steroids has been described for 60 years. Intravitreal use also shows a temporary effect if the exposure is short, dose dependence, and varying incidence depending on the drug used. Sustained release formulations and discontinuing treatment have reduced the risk of induced OHT. Risk factors that induce OHT must be clearly identified prior to an injection. Most cases of OHT can be controlled medically, although differences exist between different drugs. In cases where it cannot be controlled, removal of the implant, selective laser trabeculoplasty, and filtration surgery can be discussed.

[Optical quality after 2.2mm microincisional cataract surgery with bimanual I/A in 154 eyes]

PURPOSE

A prospective study to analyze the effects of 2.2mm microincisional coaxial phacoemulsification with bimanual irrigation/aspiration on the optical quality of the cornea and whole eye.

METHODS

We compare two groups. Group A: 102 consecutive eyes undergoing this three-incision procedure and implanted with an Alcon® SN60WF IQ aspheric intraocular lens. Astigmatism, corneal and total asphericity, as well as H/B ratio were measured by OPD scann II, Nidek®, Japan, preoperatively (Day 0), 15 days postoperatively (Day 15) and 1 month postoperatively (M1). Group B: 52 eyes with corneal astigmatism greater than 1.25D, undergoing the same procedure but implanted with a Toric IOL (Alcon® Toric IQ SN6AT), followed in the same manner but with additional follow-up at 1 year.

RESULTS

Corneal surgically induced astigmatism (SIA) was essentially neutral: 0.065D ± 0.86 at Day 30 in group A, and 0.06D ± 0.34 at 1 month and -0.008D ± 0.4 at 12 months in group B. Corneal topographic astigmatism underwent a mean axis shift of 29.95° ± 27.6 in group A compared to 5.3° ± 3.7 in Group B, and remained stable at 1 year. Corneal asphericity did not change significantly between Day 0 and 30 in either group. H/B ratio increased significantly in both groups, with a gain of 22 % to 24 % after surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

This three-incision procedure does not degrade the optical quality of the cornea. Postoperative shift in the axis of astigmatism is only an issue in cases of low or asymmetric astigmatism and must be kept in mind for low-power toric IOL implantation.

[Anterior chamber migration of intravitreal dexamethasone implant (Ozurdex®) in pseudophakic eyes: report of three cases]

INTRODUCTION

Intravitreal implantation of Ozurdex(®) (Allergan Inc., Irvine, CA, USA) is being used widely for the treatment of macular edema secondary to retinal vein occlusion and in the setting of non-infectious posterior uveitis. We describe a complication little reported in the literature until now: migration of the dexamethasone implant into the anterior chamber.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We report three cases of migration in two pseudophakic patients with iris claw lenses (on the anterior and posterior aspects of the iris) and in one pseudophakic patient with a posterior chamber IOL and zonular rupture.

DISCUSSION

The risk of anterior chamber migration of the Ozurdex(®) implant is increased in cases of prior vitrectomy (three cases), prone positioning and dilation of the pupil (mydriasis). Clinical tolerability of the implant in the anterior chamber is poor in all cases, with diffuse corneal edema. Endothelial cell loss occurs, as demonstrated by specular microscopy performed in two of our patients. Removal or repositioning of the Ozurdex(®) implant into the posterior segment must be performed without delay because of the risk of endothelial toxicity.

CONCLUSION

Patients without perfect zonular/posterior capsular integrity present a high risk of anterior chamber migration of the Ozurdex(®) implant. In such cases, anti-VEGF therapies should be discussed as an alternative.

[Iridoschisis, a special form of iris atrophy]

Iridoschisis is a rare degenerative disease characterized by the separation of the anterior iris stroma from the posterior layer. The anterior layer splits into strands, and the free ends float freely in the anterior chamber. We report the case of a 57-year-old man, in whom we incidentally discovered isolated unilateral iris atrophy. The patient had no history of the common causes of atrophy (herpes, pigment dispersion, ocular trauma, etc.). During follow-up, the atrophy gradually worsened, with an increase in the number and bilaterality of the lesions. Ultrasound biomicroscopy (UBM) and optical coherence tomography (OCT) of anterior chamber showed thinning of the anterior iris and cleavage of the iris into two layers, an imaging result which, to our knowledge, has not yet been reported in the literature. Familiarity with iridoschisis is important, due to its frequent association with glaucoma, so that appropriate screening can be carried out at the time of diagnosis and on follow-up.

[Delayed subretinal fluid absorption after rhegmatogenous retinal detachment]

INTRODUCTION

Persistent subretinal foveal fluid is responsible for incomplete functional recovery after retinal detachment surgery. The diagnosis may be difficult based on ophtalmoscopy and requires macular optical coherence tomography (OCT).

CASE REPORT

We describe the case of a 25-year-old patient who presented persistence of subretinal foveal fluid over 16 months after an inferior macula off posttraumatic retinal detachment. The patient was initially treated by scleral buckling but the persistence of inferior subretinal fluid led to a second surgery by vitrectomy. The resorption of peripheral subretinal fluid was achieved within one month, but the patient showed incomplete visual function recovery of 3/10 P4 and an OCT macular profile revealed the presence of infraclinical subfoveal fluid. The resorption of this subfoveal fluid was abnormally long with a delay of 16 months before complete reattachment, nonetheless the patient showed an excellent final visual recovery at 8/10 P2.

DISCUSSION

We discuss the reasons for this long resorption of macular subretinal fluid despite a successful surgical treatment. Furthermore the excellent visual recovery suggests a surprisingly good tolerance of chronic macular subfoveal fluid in this pathology.

CONCLUSION

The infraclinical persistence of subfoveal fluid is responsible for delayed functional recovery in patients treated for retinal detachment. Macular OCT allowed an early diagnosis and accurate follow up of these specific patients.

[PET-scan in orbital Malt lymphoma and its value in diagnosis and management: a series of four cases]

INTRODUCTION

The orbital location of mucosa associated lymphoid tissue (Malt) lymphoma (ML) is rare and can appear in very different forms. Biopsy is decisive for diagnosis. Although the positron emission tomography (PET) scan is rarely used in ophthalmology, it appears useful in our experience. We report four cases illustrating the diversity of the orbital localization in ML. Case 1 is a 41-year-old woman presenting unilateral corticosteroid-resistant dacryoadenitis. The PET-scan clearly fixed at the orbit. After anatomopathologic confirmation, a 36-Gy orbital radiotherapy was carried out, leading to the clinical and tomographic remission.

CASE REPORTS

Case 2 is a 61-year-old patient, presenting a small cell carcinoma of the lung, initially referred for unilateral exophthalmia. MRI highlighted a bilateral orbital infiltration, with a hot spot on the PET-scan. The clinical suspicion of orbital metastasis was not confirmed: the biopsy concluded in ML. Case 3 is a 64-year-old woman, referred for unilateral and resistant conjunctival hyperemia. Clinical diagnosis was myositis of the superior rectus muscle. The PET-scan did not fix in the orbit but revealed a pleural location. The muscular biopsy concluded once again in ML. Case 4 is a 68-year-old woman who had a history of sinusal ML. Diplopia with a second orbital location, non specific in CT but fixed in PET, was found. The biopsy concluded in ML with transformation toward an aggressive lymphoma.

CONCLUSION

Although the lacrimal gland location is well-known, unspecific orbital infiltration and orbital myositis are less common, which highlights the value of a non invasive exploration before biopsy. The advantages of the PET scan in orbital ML has not been sufficiently studied. In our experience, it was useful in these four cases. Orbital ML can take on different aspects that are sometimes misleading. PET is very useful in diagnosis before the biopsy, in therapeutic decisions, and in follow-up after treatment even if it does not always fix in the orbit.

Influence of age on retinochoroidal healing processes after argon photocoagulation in C57bl/6j mice

PURPOSE

To analyze the influence of age on retinochoroidal wound healing processes and on glial growth factor and cytokine mRNA expression profiles observed after argon laser photocoagulation.

METHODS

A cellular and morphometric study was performed that used 44 C57Bl/6J mice: 4-week-old mice (group I, n=8), 6-week-old mice (group II, n=8), 10-12-week-old mice (group III, n=14), and 1-year-old mice (group IV, n=14). All mice in these groups underwent a standard argon laser photocoagulation (50 microm, 400 mW, 0.05 s). Two separated lesions were created in each retina using a slit lamp delivery system. At 1, 3, 7, 14, 60 days, and 4 months after photocoagulation, mice from each of the four groups were sacrificed by carbon dioxide inhalation. Groups III and IV were also studied at 6, 7, and 8 months after photocoagulation. At each time point the enucleated eyes were either mounted in Tissue Tek (OCT), snap frozen and processed for immunohistochemistry or either flat mounted (left eyes of groups III and IV). To determine, by RT-PCR, the time course of glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), and monocyte chemotactic protein-1 (MCP-1) gene expression, we delivered ten laser burns (50 microm, 400 mW, 0.05 s) to each retina in 10-12-week-old mice (group III', n=10) and 1-year-old mice (group IV', n=10). Animals from Groups III' and IV' had the same age than those from Groups III and IV, but they received ten laser impacts in each eye and served for the molecular analysis. Mice from Groups III and IV received only two laser impacts per eye and served for the cellular and morphologic study. Retinal and choroidal tissues from these treated mice were collected at 16 h, and 1, 2, 3, and 7 days after photocoagulation. Two mice of each group did not receive photocoagulation and were used as controls.

RESULTS

In the cellular and morphologic study, the resultant retinal pigment epithelium interruption expanse was significantly different between the four groups. It was more concise and smaller in the oldest group IV (112.1 microm+/-11.4 versus 219.1 microm+/-12.2 in group III) p<0.0001 between groups III and IV. By contrast, while choroidal neovascularization (CNV) was mild and not readily identifiable in group I, at all time points studied, CNV was more prominent in the (1-year-old mice) Group IV than in the other groups. For instance, up to 14 days after photocoagulation, CNV reaction was statistically larger in group IV than in group III ((p=0.0049 between groups III and IV on slide sections and p<0.0001 between the same groups on flat mounts). Moreover, four months after photocoagulation, the CNV area (on slide sections) was 1,282 microm(2)+/-90 for group III and 2,999 microm(2)+/-115 for group IV (p<0.0001 between groups III and IV). Accordingly, GFAP, VEGF, and MCP-1 mRNA expression profiles, determined by RT-PCR at 16 h, 1, 2, 3, and 7 days postphotocoagulation, were modified with aging. In 1-year-old mice (group IV), GFAP mRNA expression was already significantly higher than in the younger (10-12 week) group III before photocoagulation. After laser burns, GFAP mRNA expression peaked at 16-24 h and on day 7, decreasing thereafter. VEGF mRNA expression was markedly increased after photocoagulation in old mice eyes, reaching 2.7 times its basal level at day 3, while it was only slightly increased in young mice (1.3 times its level in untreated young mice 3 days postphotocoagulation). At all time points after photocoagulation, MCP-1 mRNA expression was elevated in old mice, reaching high levels of expression at 16 h and day 3 respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results were based on the study of four different age groups and included not only data from morphological observations but also from a molecular analysis of the various alterations of cytokine signaling and expression. One-year-old mice demonstrated more extensive CNV formation and a slower pace of regression after laser photocoagulation than younger mice. These were accompanied by differences in growth factors and cytokine expression profiles indicate that aging is a factor that aggravates CNV. The above results may provide some insight into possible therapeutic strategies in the future.

[Scar sarcoidosis: an exceptional entity in ophthalmology]

INTRODUCTION

Scar sarcoidosis is a cutaneous demonstration of sarcoidosis arising on old cutaneous scars and generating nodular erythematous lesions.

CASE REPORT

We report the case of a 55-year-old patient sent for a multinodular erythematous tumefaction, at the level of the right eyebrow arch. The pathologic exam of the surgical specimen found a noncaseating inflammatory granulomatous reaction with no caseous necrosis. The diagnosis of sarcoidosis was retained based on a number of diagnostic arguments including the thoracic scanner and bronchoscopy results.

DISCUSSION

Scar sarcoidosis is a cutaneous sarcoidosis expression but exceptionally leads to discovery of this disease, which then requires a search for visceral lesions because of their frequent association. The location is essentially facial and the peak of frequency is in the 5th decade. This pathology highlights the problem of its differential diagnosis, based on biopsy, which will eliminate cutaneous metastases, lymphoma, as well as other cutaneous granulomas.

[A novel mutation of the OPA1 gene responsible for isolated autosomal dominant optic atrophy in two brothers]

Autosomal dominant optic atrophy, or Kjer disease, is the most frequent form of autosomal dominant optic neuropathy. We report a novel mutation of the OPA1 gene in two brothers with autosomal dominant optic atrophy and describe their clinical features. The two patients, aged 41 and 37, presented with a bilateral visual impairment that had been detected at the age of 4 in both of them. Their ophthalmoscopic examinations disclosed a bilateral optic atrophy and their Goldmann visual fields showed cecocentral scotomas. The patients thought their disease might be a Leber's hereditary optic neuropathy; however, mutations had ever been sought. When first seen by us, they wished to know whether their disorder might be transmitted to their children. They had a family history of visual impairment. We carried out mtDNA sequencing but we did not identify any primary or rare Leber's hereditary optic neuropathy mutations. On the other hand, the 30 coding exons of the OPA1 gene and the intron-exon junctions were amplified by polymerase chain reaction and sequenced. A novel mutation of the OPA1 gene was found in both brothers: a deletion of four nucleotides in intron 19, associated with anomalous splicing, demonstrating the pathogenicity of the mutation. These molecular analyses contributed to identifying a novel mutation of the OPA1 gene with a clinical phenotype of isolated optic atrophy.