Cost of Medical Treatment for Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma in Relation to Patients’ Income and Its Impact on the Prognosis of the Disease, in Bouaké University Hospital

Introduction: Medical treatment for POAG is continuous and lifelong treatment. The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between the cost of this treatment and patients’ income and the impact of this relationship on treatment compliance. Materials and Methods: Prospective cross-sectional study with a descriptive aim covering sociodemographic data, average incomes, and direct and indirect costs of treatment of 57 patients followed for POAG during the period from January 1, 2012, to December 31, 2016 (5 years). Results: The patients were aged 25 to 77 years (mean = 54.4 years) with a male predominance (sex ratio = 1.5). Retirees were the most represented (26.32%), followed by workers in the informal sector (14.04%) and housewives (12.28%). Patients who had an annual income less than or equal to 900,000 CFA francs (€1370.83) per year represented 56.14% and those who did not have health coverage represented 57.89%. The treatment was monotherapy (64.91%), dual therapy (31.58%) or triple therapy (3.05%) and the average ratio of “annual cost of treatment to annual income” was 0.56 with for maximum 2.23 and 0.02 as minimum. Patients who considered the cost of treatment unbearable for their income represented 78.95%. Conclusion: Prevention of blindness due to glaucoma requires early detection but also the establishment of health coverage mechanisms to improve compliance with medical treatment. In addition, consideration should be given to the development of glaucoma surgery in our country, the indication of which could be the first intention in certain patients, considering for those patients, the geographical and financial accessibility of medical treatment. .

Epidemiological, Clinical, Therapeutic and Evolutive Profile of Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma in a Cameroonian Population

Background: Sub-Saharan Africa has the highest prevalence of primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG), at 4.2%. The efficacy of medical treatment has been demonstrated and remains one of the treatments of choice for POAG. However, in sub-Saharan Africa, its effectiveness has many challenges, due to multiple factors, including cost and access to care. Thus, the present study aimed to determine the epidemiological, clinical, therapeutic and evolutive profile of primary open-angle glaucoma patients. Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out in two hospitals in western Cameroon. Epidemiological, clinical, therapeutic, and evolutionary data on intraocular pressure at one year after medical treatment were analyzed. SPSS version 23 software was used for statistical analysis, with a significant p-value set at 5%. Results: A total of 201 patients with POAG were included in the study. The population comprised 100 men and 101 women, with a mean age of 54 ± 12 years. At diagnosis, the mean intraocular pressure was 23.9 ± 8.70 mmHg for the right eye and 25.5 ± 9.57 mmHg for the left eye. The mean cup/disc ratio was 0.64 ± 0.2 [0.2-1] and 0.67 ± 0.19 [02-1] in the right and left eyes, respectively. Monotherapy was the most prescribed treatment [59.2%]. After one year of treatment, intraocular pressure was reduced by 15.5% with beta-blockers, 23.66% with prostaglandins, 19.11% with carbonic anhydrase inhibitors, 35, 92% with beta-blockers and carbonic anhydrase inhibitors, 25.92% with beta-blockers and prostaglandins, 48.03% with carbonic anhydrase inhibitors and prostaglandin agonists, and 38.77% with triple therapy. Taking glaucoma severity into account, a significant reduction in intraocular pressure at one year was observed in all participants [p 0.05]. However, the target pressure was obtained in 47%, 20% and 14% of eyes suffering of mild, moderate, and severe grade of POAG respectively. Conclusion: In the present study, there was a significant reduction in intraocular pressure after one year of medical treatment. However, the reduction in intraocular pressure does not allow the target pressure to be reached in severe forms. Thus, alternatives to the medical treatment of POAG should be discussed early in the present context. .

Abnormal Systemic and Ocular Responses to the Valsalva Manoeuvre in Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma:A Case for Autonomic Failure?

Objective This study aimed to examine the association of primary open-angle glaucoma(POAG)with autonomic dysfunction by assessing the differences in systemic and ocular responses to an autonomic provocation test,the Valsalva manoeuvre(VM),between POAG patients and normal subjects.Methods Forty POAG and forty control subjects were subjected to the VM.Systemic and ocular parameters were measured at baseline,phase 2,and phase 4 of the VM(VM2 and VM4),where VM2 and VM4 are sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous activation states,respectively.Heart rate variability was used to assess the autonomic nervous activity,among which the high-frequency component(HF)and the low-frequency(LF)/HF ratio were used as indices of parasympathetic and sympathetic activation,respectively.Results POAG patients demonstrated higher sympathetic activation(LF/HF ratio median:2.17 vs.1.53,P=0.000)than controls at baseline and exhibited attenuated sympathetic and parasympathetic responses(a smaller change in LF/HF and HF values)during the VM than controls.During VM,the intraocular pressure(IOP),mean blood pressure(MAP),mean ocular perfusion pressure(MOPP),and the Schlemm’s canal area(SCAR)increased from baseline to VM2 and then decreased from VM2 to VM4 in both the POAG and control groups(all P<0.05).However,when we compared the changes above,the fluctuations in IOP,MAP,and MOPP were more pronounced in POAG than in controls(all P<0.05),while the changes in amplitudes of SCAR were smaller in POAG(P<0.05).Furthermore,from VM2 to VM4,the choroid thickness(ChT)in the POAG group was significantly decreased,while it was unchanged in normal subjects(P=0.258).A regression analysis showed a significant correlation of the baseline LF/HF with IOP change values(ΔIOP)from baseline to VM2 in POAG(R^(2)=0.147,P=0.014).Conclusion Patients with POAG showed more pronounced fluctuations in IOP,MAP,MOPP and ChT during the VM than controls.These reactions could be associated with autonomic dysfunction in POAG.

Coinheritance of OLFM2 and SIX6 variants in a Chinese family with juvenile-onset primary open-angle glaucoma: A case report

BACKGROUND Juvenile-onset primary open-angle glaucoma(JOAG),characterized by severe elevation of intraocular pressure and optic neuropathy prior to the age of 40,is a rare subtype of primary open-angle glaucoma.Several genetic mutations have been associated with JOAG.CASE SUMMARY The proband patient was a young male,diagnosed with primary open-angle glaucoma at the age of 27.The patient and his unaffected parents who have been excluded from classic genetic mutations for primary open-angle glaucoma were included to explore for other possible genetic variants through whole genome sequencing and bioinformatics analysis.In this trio,we found two heterozygous variants inherited from the parents in the proband:c.281G>A,p.Arg94His in OLFM2 and c.177C>G,p.Ile59Met in SIX6.Both genetic mutations are predicted through bioinformatics analysis to replace evolutionary conserved amino acids,therefore rendering a pathogenic effect on proteins.In contrast,very low frequencies for these genetic mutations were recorded in most common control databases.CONCLUSION This is the first report on coinherited mutations of OLFM2 and SIX6 in a JOAG family,which shows the complexity of JOAG inheritance.Large-scale clinical screening and molecular functional investigations on these coinherited mutations are imperative to improve our understanding of the development of JOAG.

Changes in corneal endothelial cell density in patients with primary open-angle glaucoma

BACKGROUND Glaucoma is a group of diseases characterized by a specific pattern of optic nerve neuropathy and retinopathy.Increasing evidence demonstrates glaucoma associated corneal endothelium loss.Direct-compression mechanism due to elevated intraocular pressure(IOP),cell toxicity after long term exposure to preservatives and glaucoma surgery have been reported to be the possible mechanism.Herein,we compare the specular endothelial microscopy in primary open-angle glaucoma(POAG)patients and healthy controls of the same age group to observe the corneal endothelium changes and the correlations to the mean IOP in a Chinese case control study.AIM To investigate corneal endothelial cell density in Chinese patients with POAG.METHODS A case control study was performed on 60 eyes of 60 patients with POAG.Exclusion criteria included history of corneal diseases,intraocular diseases,contact lens use,ocular trauma or surgery(including intraocular surgery and laser treatment),congenital abnormalities or systemic diseases such as diabetes.Intraocular pressure was measured using Goldmann tonometry.Indirect specular microscopy(TOPCON SP-2000P)was performed on central corneas and endothelial images were acquired.Endothelial cell density,area and cell counts were analyzed.RESULTS Endothelial cell density was 2959±236 cells/mm2 in healthy controls and 2757±262 cells/mm2 in patients with POAG.The POAG eyes had significantly lower endothelial cell density compared to healthy control eyes(P<0.001).In the POAG group,endothelial cell density was 2686±233 cells/mm2 in the patients receiving medication and 2856±272 cells/mm2 in the untreated subgroup.The eyes receiving medication had significantly lower endothelial cell density compared to untreated eyes.There was a negative correlation between cell density and mean IOP(r=-0.286,P=0.004),positive correlation between the average cell area and mean IOP(r=0.228,P=0.022),maximum cell area and mean IOP(r=0.218,P=0.029)and minimum cell area and mean IOP(r=0.290,P=0.003).The percentage of hexagonal cells was not correlated with mean IOP.CONCLUSION Patients with POAG have lower corneal endothelial cell density than healthy controls of the same age.This may be attributed to mechanical damage from elevated IOP and toxicity of glaucoma medications.

Incidence of Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma at the Flamboyants Communal Medical Center of Conakry, Guinea

Background: Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma (POAG) is a chronic, progressive optic neuropathy of multifactorial origin defined by alterations in the visual field, progressive loss of optic nerve fibers and ganglion cells, and an open iridocorneal angle in gonioscopy. It is the world’s leading cause of irreversible blindness. There is no epidemiological study in Guinea that allows us to locate the real level of the problem. The objective of this study is to determine the hospital incidence of POAG at the Centre Médical Communal (CMC) in the Flamboyants. Patients and Method: This was a descriptive cross-sectional study with a prospective collection for one year, from April 1, 2020 to March 31, 2021, in patients aged at least 40 years, received in consultation at the CMC in the Flamboyants. The diagnostic criterion for a new case of glaucoma was the presence in a patient of the following two signs: (excavation of the optical disc C/D ≥ 0.5 and alteration of the visual field) with an open angle at least stage 4 of the Shaffer and Etienne classification associated or not with ocular hypertonia and having never received anti glaucoma treatment. We described variables related to sociodemographic characteristics, visual acuity, intraocular pressures, papillary excavations, and visual field surveys. Informed consent from patients was sought and obtained. The confidentiality of the files was guaranteed. Results: 68 new cases of POAG were diagnosed out of 3220 consultations, an incidence rate of 2.11%. The average age was 58.2 years (10.64 with a male predominance of 63.23%. A family history of glaucoma was present in 11.36% of cases. Visual acuity was poor Conclusion: This study has shown us that POAG in our environment is relatively common, early onset, and rapidly evolving. The implementation of a rapid and reliable screening strategy by the Eye Health Program will make it possible to manage glaucoma from the earliest stages.

Identification and validation of key biomarkers and potential therapeutic targets for primary open-angle glaucoma

Primary open-angle glaucoma(POAG)is a prevalent cause of blindness worldwide,resulting in degeneration of retinal ganglion cells and permanent damage to the optic nerve.However,the underlying pathogenetic mechanisms of POAG are currently indistinct,and there has been no effective nonsurgical treatment regimen.The objective of this study is to identify novel biomarkers and potential therapeutic targets for POAG.The mRNA expression microarray datasets GSE27276 and GSE138125,as well as the single-cell high-throughput RNA sequencing(sc RNA-seq)dataset GSE148371 were utilized to screen POAGrelated differentially expressed genes(DEGs).Functional enrichment analyses,protein-protein interaction(PPI)analysis,and weighted gene co-expression network analysis(WGCNA)of the DEGs were performed.Subsequently,the hub genes were validated at a single-cell level,where trabecular cells were annotated,and the mRNA expression levels of target genes in different cell clusters were analyzed.Immunofluorescence and quantitative real-time PCR(q PCR)were performed for further validation.DEGs analysis identified 43 downregulated and 32 upregulated genes in POAG,which were mainly enriched in immune-related pathways,oxidative stress,and endoplasmic reticulum(ER)stress.PPI networks showed that FN1 and DUSP1 were the central hub nodes,while GPX3 and VAV3 were screened out as hub genes through WGCNA and subsequently validated by q PCR.Finally,FN1,GPX3,and VAV3 were determined to be pivotal core genes via single-cell validation.The relevant biomarkers involved in the pathogenesis of POAG,may serve as potential therapeutic targets.Further studies are necessary to unveil the mechanisms underlying the expression variations of these genes in POAG.

Retinal nerve fiber layer in primary open-angle glaucoma with high myopia determined by optical coherence tomography and scanning laser polarimetry

Background Fundus changes associated with high myopia （HM） may mask those associated with primary open-angle glaucoma （POAG）. This study aim to determine the characteristics of RNFL thickness changes in patients with both POAG and HM and compare these to changes in patients with only HM. The diagnostic capabilities of both OCT and GDxVCC in this subset of patients are also evaluated. Methods Twenty-two eyes with POAG and HM （spherical equivalent （SE） between -6.0 and -12.0 D） were evaluated, and 22 eyes with HM were used for comparison. Characteristic retinal nerve fiber layer （RNFL） thickness profiles in patients with POAG and HM were examined using optical coherence tomography （OCT） and scanning laser polarimetry with variable corneal compensation （GDxVCC）, and the diagnostic capabilities of these imaging modalities were compared. RNFL parameters evaluated included superior average （Savg-GDx）, inferior average （lavg-GDx）, temporal-superior-nasal- inferior-temporal （TSNIT） average, and nerve fiber indicator （NFI） on GDxVCC and superior average （Savg-OCT）, inferior average （lavg-OCT）, nasal average （Navg-OCT）, temporal average （Tavg-OCT）, and average thickness （AvgThick-OCT） on OCT （fast RNFL scan）. Visual field testing was performed and defects were evaluated using mean defect （MD） and pattern standard deviation （PSD）. Results The RNFL parameters （P 〈0.05） significantly different between groups included Savg-GDx, lavg-GDx, TSNIT average, NFI, Savg-OCT, lavg-OCT, Tavg-OCT, and AvgThick-OCT. Significant correlations existed between TSNIT average and AvgThick-OCT （r=0.778）, TSNIT average and MD （r=0.749）, AvgThick-OCT and MD （r=0.647）, TSNIT average and PSD （r=-0.756）, and AvgThick-OCT and PSD （r=-0.784）. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve （AUROC） values of TSNIT average, Savg-GDx, lavg-GDx, NFI, Savg-OCT, lavg-OCT, Navg-OCT, Tavg-OCT, and AvgThick-OCT were 0.947, 0.962, 0.973, 0.994, 0.909, 0.917, 0.511, 0.906, and 0.913, respectively. The NFI AUROC was the highest value. Conclusions RNFL thickness was significantly lower in all but the nasal quadrant in patients with POAG and HM, compared to patients with only HM. Measurements with OCT and GDxVCC were well-correlated, and both modalities detected RNFL thickness chanaes. However. GDxVCC was better than OCT in detectina POAG in HM Datients.

Central visual function and inner retinal structure in primary open-angle glaucoma

To investigate associations between central visual function and inner retinal structure in primary open-angle glaucoma(POAG). This study enrolled 78 POAG patients and 58 healthy controls. POAG was classified into early glaucoma and moderate to advanced glaucoma. The following tests were performed on all participants: isolated-check visual evoked potential(ic VEP) testing, 24-2 standard automated perimetry(SAP), and Cirrus optical coherence tomography(OCT) examinations. Signal-to-noise ratio(SNR) measures obtained from ic VEP responses to isolated checks presented at four depths of modulation(DOMs;8%, 14%, 22%, and 32%) were explored. Mean macular sensitivity(mMS) was assessed by calculating the mean sensitivities of central 12 SAP points. Ganglion cell layer+ inner plexiform layer thickness(GCL+IPLT) and peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer thickness(pRNFLT) were measured by OCT scanning. For each group of subjects, linear relationships among the following measures were analyzed: SNR, mMS, GCL+IPLT, and pRNFLT. SNR, mMS, GCL+IPLT, and pRNFLT were all more significantly decreased in glaucoma than in controls(P<0.001). A significant positive association was found between SNR at 14% DOM and GCL+IPLT at the inferior sector in early glaucoma(r=0.465, P=0.004). In moderate to advanced glaucoma, significant correlations were found between SNR at 32% DOM and mean GCL+IPLT(r=0.364, P=0.023), superior GCL+IPLT(r=0.358, P=0.025), and mean p RNFLT(r=0.396, P=0.025). In addition, in moderate to advanced glaucoma, there were significant correlations between mMS and all relevant measures of retinal thickness(r=0.330–0.663, P< 0.010). In early glaucoma, significant correlations were found between mean mMS and minimum GCL+IPLT(r=0.373, P=0.023), and between inferior mMS and superior GCL+IPLT(r=0.470, P=0.003). Linear models provided a good explanation for the relationship between SNR and inner retinal thickness(IRT), whereas nonlinear models better explained the relationship between mMS and IRT. In early glaucoma, both SNR and mMS were related moderately and significantly to IRT, whereas in moderate to advanced glaucoma, mMS was more strongly correlated with IRT than SNR.

Identification of Mutations in Myocilin and Beta-1,4-galactosyltransferase 3 Genes in a Chinese Family with Primary Open-angle Glaucoma

Background： Glaucoma is a major cause of irreversible blindness worldwide. There is evidence showing that a subset of the disease is genetically determined. In this study, we screened for mutations in chromosome lq-linked open-angle glaucoma （GLC1A） in a Chinese family with primary open-angle glaucoma （POAG）. Methods： A total of 23 members from five generations of a family were enrolled and underwent thorough ophthalmologic examinations. In addition, 200 unrelated healthy Chinese controls were also recruited as normal control. GLC1A gene was amplified by polymerase chain reaction, and DNA sequencing was performed to screen for mutations. Results： Six members were diagnosed as POAG, with severe clinical manifestations, and history of high intraocular pressures. The mean age of disease onset was 26.3 years. However, the others were asymptomatic. In six affected and three asymptomatic members, gene sequencing revealed a mutation c.C1456T in exon 3 of myocilin gene （MYOC）. Furthermore, we also identified a novel mutation c.G322A in beta- 1,4-galactosyltransferase 3 （B4GALT3） gene in all six affected and three asymptomatic members, which was not reported previously in POAG patients. The two newly identified variants were absent in other family members as well as controls. Conclusion： The mutations c.1456C〈T （p.L486F） in MYOC and c.322G〈A （p.V1081） in B4GALT3 are likely responsible for the pathogenesis of POAG in this family.

Comparison of corneal biomechanics among primary open-angle glaucoma with normal tension or hypertension and controls

Background:Normal tension glaucoma(NTG)is a less pressure-dependent type of glaucoma with characteristic optic neuropathy.Recently,the biomechanical mechanism has been thought to account for glaucomatous optic neuropathy to some degree.We intended to compare dynamic corneal response parameters(DCRs)among patients with primary open-angle glaucoma with normal tension or hypertension and controls.The correlations between DCRs and known risk factors for glaucoma were also analyzed.Methods:In this cross-sectional study,49 NTG subjects,45 hypertension glaucoma(HTG)subjects,and 50 control subjects were enrolled.We compared the differences in DCRs using corneal visualization Scheimpflug technology among the NTG,HTG,and control groups.We also analyzed the correlations between DCRs and known risk factors for glaucoma(eg,central corneal thickness[CCT],intraocular pressure[IOP],etc).Results:The maximum inverse concave radius(NTG:0.18[0.17,0.20]mm-1;control:0.17[0.16,0.18]mm-1;P=0.033),deformation amplitude ratio of 2 mm(DAR 2 mm,NTG:4.87[4.33,5.39];control:4.37[4.07,4.88];P<0.001),and DAR 1 mm(NTG:1.62[1.58,1.65];control:1.58[1.54,1.61];P<0.001)were significantly higher in NTG than in the controls.The integrated radius(IR,NTG:8.40±1.07 mm-1;HTG:7.64±1.31 mm-1;P=0.026)and DAR 2 mm(NTG:4.87[4.33,5.39];HTG:4.44[4.12,5.02];P<0.007)were significantly higher,whereas the stiffness parameter at the first applanation(SP-A1,NTG:91.23[77.45,107.45];HTG:102.36[85.77,125.12];P=0.007)was lower in NTG than in HTG.There were no significant differences in the DCRs between HTG and control groups(P>0.05).In the univariate and multivariate analyses,some of the DCRs,such as IR,were negatively correlated with CCT and IOP,whereas SP-A1 was positively correlated with CCT and IOP.Conclusions:The cornea was more deformable in NTG than in HTG or controls.There were no significant differences in corneal deformability between HTG and controls.The cornea was more deformable with the thinner cornea and lower IOP.

A highly sensitive fluorescent probe RN-NA reveals peroxynitrite as a novel biomarker for primary open angle glaucoma

AIM:To directly quantify peroxynitrite(ONOO-)using a highly sensitive fluorescence resonance energy transfer probe RN-NA,investigate the association between ONOOand primary open angle glaucoma(POAG),and clarify whether RN-NA could be used as a potential tool for POAG diagnosis.METHODS:Plasma and aqueous humor(AH)samples were collected from POAG patients(n=100,age:59.70±6.87y)and age-related cataract(ARC)patients(n=100,age:61.15±4.60y)admitted to our hospital.Next,RN-NA was used to detect ONOO-in plasma and AH samples,and the relationship between ONOO-level and POAG was analyzed using binary logistic regression.Besides,Pearson correlation analysis was applied to characterize the correlation of the levels of ONOO-with the patients’age,intraocular pressure(IOP),and mean deviation of visual field testing.The ONOO-scavenger MnTMPyP was employed to treat the 3-morpholinosyndnomine(SIN-1)-induced ocular hypertension in mice(n=7,6-8wk).Finally,the IOP and ONOO-in both eyes were measured 30min after the last drug treatment.RESULTS:ONOO-levels of AH and plasma were significantly higher in the POAG group than in the ARC group(P<0.01).Additionally,ONOO-levels were closely correlated with POAG in a binary logistic regression analysis[odds ratio(OR)=1.008,95%confidence interval(CI):1.002-1.013,P<0.01 for AH;OR=1.004,95%CI:1.002-1.006,P<0.001 for plasma].Pearson correlation analysis showed that ONOO-levels in AH or plasma were positively associated with visual field defects(R=0.51,P<0.01 for AH;R=0.45,P<0.001 for plasma),and ONOO-levels in plasma and AH were correlated in the POAG group(R=0.69,P<0.001).However,administering MnTMPyP to mouse eyes reversed the elevated IOP caused by SIN-1(P<0.05).CONCLUSION:ONOO-levels in AH and plasma,detected by RN-NA,are significantly related to POAG and positively correlated with visual field defects in POAG patients.Hence,ONOO-is a potential biomarker of POAG,especially advanced POAG.Besides,anti-nitration compounds may be novel ocular hypotensive agents based on the animal study.

MP-3 microperimeter in early primary open angle glaucoma with a new pattern

AIM:To investigate macular microperimetry in patients with early primary open angle glaucoma(POAG)using a new custom-made pattern,and analyze the characteristics of macular sensitivity.METHODS:This case-control study included 38 patients with POAG,who were divided into pre-perimetric glaucoma(18 eyes of 18 patients),early-stage(20 eyes of 20 patients),and control(20 eyes of 20 patients)groups.All subjects underwent standard 24-2 humphrey visual field test.An MP-3 microperimeter with a new custom-made pattern(28 testing points distributed in four quadrants,covering the central 10°of the retina)was used to evaluate macular sensitivity.Ganglion cell complex(GCC)thicknesses were examined using an RS-3000 Advance OCT system.The features of structure and function were analysed per quadrant.RESULTS:The pre-perimetric glaucoma group had significantly lower inferior hemifield macular sensitivity compared to controls(P<0.05).The early-stage POAG group had significantly lower average,inferior hemifield,inferonasal,and inferotemporal mean sensitivities compared to the pre-perimetric glaucoma group(P<0.05),and lower macular sensitivity in all sectors compared to controls(P<0.05).Regarding GCC thickness,all sectors in the early-stage POAG group became thinner compared to those in controls(P<0.05);whereas all sectors in the early-stage POAG group,except the superonasal quadrant,became thinner compared to those in the pre-perimetric glaucoma group(P<0.05).Macular sensitivity and GCC thickness were significantly associated in each sector.The inferotemporal quadrant had the highest correlation coefficients(0.840).The structure-function relationship for the inferonasal and inferotemporal sectors was stronger compared to the corresponding superior sectors.CONCLUSION:Microperimetry reveals variations in macular sensitivity in patients with early glaucoma earlier than conventional perimetry,particularly in pre-perimetric glaucoma cases in which it might be undetectable by conventional methods.The new custom-made pattern may improve the accuracy of microperimetry by enhancing point arrangement and reducing fatigue effects.Macular sensitivity measured by MP-3 with this pattern shows statistically significant structural and functional associations with the thicknesses of the GCC.

Morphological disruption and visual tuning alterations in the primary visual cortex in glaucoma(DBA/2J)mice

Glaucoma is a leading cause of irreve rsible blindness wo rldwide,and previous studies have shown that,in addition to affecting the eyes,it also causes abnormalities in the brain.However,it is not yet clear how the primary visual cortex(V1)is altered in glaucoma.This study used DBA/2J mice as a model for spontaneous secondary glaucoma.The aim of the study was to compare the electrophysiological and histomorphological chara cteristics of neurons in the V1between 9-month-old DBA/2J mice and age-matched C57BL/6J mice.We conducted single-unit recordings in the V1 of light-anesthetized mice to measure the visually induced responses,including single-unit spiking and gamma band oscillations.The morphology of layerⅡ/Ⅲneurons was determined by neuronal nuclear antigen staining and Nissl staining of brain tissue sections.Eighty-seven neurons from eight DBA/2J mice and eighty-one neurons from eight C57BL/6J mice were examined.Compared with the C57BL/6J group,V1 neurons in the DBA/2J group exhibited weaker visual tuning and impaired spatial summation.Moreove r,fewer neuro ns were observed in the V1 of DBA/2J mice compared with C57BL/6J mice.These findings suggest that DBA/2J mice have fewer neurons in the VI compared with C57BL/6J mice,and that these neurons have impaired visual tuning.Our findings provide a better understanding of the pathological changes that occur in V1 neuron function and morphology in the DBA/2J mouse model.This study might offer some innovative perspectives regarding the treatment of glaucoma.

Clinical Application of Cataract Ultrasonic Emulsification Combined with Atrial Angle Segmentation in the Treatment of Primary Angle-Closure Glaucoma

Objective:To evaluate the therapeutic effect of cataract ultrasonic emulsification(PE)combined with atrial angle separation(CSS)for primary angle-closure glaucoma(PACG).Methods:78 patients with PACG admitted to the hospital between October 2021 and October 2023 were selected and grouped by randomized numerical table;39 cases were counted in the observation group and selected PE combined with CSS surgery;39 cases were counted in the reference group and selected PE combined with trabeculectomy and the total effective rate,the state of the atrial angle,the clinical indexes,the degree of ocular symptoms,and the complication rate were compared.Results:The total effective rate of the observation group was higher than that of the reference group,and the percentage of the wide atrial angle of the atrial angle status was higher than that of the reference group;3 months after the operation,the logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution(Log MAR)and intraocular pressure of the observation group was lower than that of the reference group,and the central anterior chamber depth(ACD)was greater than that of the reference group;the scores of the degree of ocular symptoms of the observation group were lower than that of the reference group,and the rate of complication was lower than that of the reference group(P<0.05).Conclusion:PE combined with CSS surgical treatment for PACG patients can improve the efficacy of treatment,improve the state of the patients’atrial angles,and restore the ocular function indexes.It can alleviate the ocular symptoms as soon as possible and has a high surgical safety.

Selective laser trabeculoplasty as adjunctive treatment for open-angle glaucoma vs following incisional glaucoma surgery in Chinese eyes

BACKGROUND Selective laser trabeculoplasty(SLT)is a relatively safe and effective therapy in lowering intraocular pressures(IOP)for glaucoma.AIM To study the long-term effects of SLT on IOP and number of glaucoma medications used in Chinese eyes.METHODS This is a retrospective study in which 75 eyes of 70 patients with open-angle glaucoma(OAG,n=36)and eyes with prior glaucoma surgery(PGS,n=39)were included.Changes in mean IOP and number of glaucoma medications used evaluated at 1 d,1 wk,1 mo,3 mo,6 mo,12 mo,and 36 mo after laser treatment.RESULTS All patients(33 male,37 female)were Chinese.The mean age was 44.34±16.14years.Mean pre-SLT IOP was 22.75±2.08 mmHg in OAG and 22.52±2.62 mmHg in PGS.Mean IOP was significantly reduced 1 d,1 wk,1 mo and 3 mo after laser treatment(P<0.05,respectively).Whereas,there were no significant differences between baseline and SLT treated groups at the 6th month both in OAG(P=0.347,P>0.05)and in PGS(P=0.309,P>0.05).Six months after SLT treatment,some patients received retreatment of SLT or were given more topical IOP-lowering medication to control the IOP.By the end of our study,the average IOP decreased to 20.73±1.82 mmHg in OAG and 20.49±1.53 mmHg in PGS groups.The number of glaucoma medications used was significantly reduced until the end of 3 years compared to baseline.CONCLUSION SLT could reduce IOP as adjunctive treatment both in OAG and PGS groups.SLT significantly reduced the number of glaucoma medications used 3-years following treatment in glaucoma patients.

Effect of high myopia on 24-hour intraocular pressure in patients with primary open-angle glaucoma

Background As intraocular pressure （lOP） and lOP fluctuation are known risk factors for glaucoma, it is important to understand the effects of high myopia on these ocular parameters. The aim of this study was to investigate if primary open-angle glaucoma （POAG） patients with high myopia exhibit higher lOP and greater lOP fluctuations at resting conditions over 24 hours. Methods We designed a prospective control clinical study. Eighty-two eyes of 82 high-tension Chinese POAG patients only on prostaglandin analogue locally were divided into 3 groups according to various myopic grades （〈-6.0 D, n=27 and between -0.76 and -5.99 D, n=33） or without myopia （-0.75 to 0.75 D, n=22）. Single time lOP at 10 am, mean corrected 24-hour lOP, mean corrected night lOP, 24-hour lOP fluctuation and lOPs of 10 am, 2 pm, 6 pm, 10 pm, 2 am, 6 am and 8 am were measured. Results The lOP was higher in POAG patients with high myopia over those POAG alone in three ways： the elevated lOP value was 0.65 mmHg measured in single time lOP at 10 am, 0.84 mmHg in mean corrected 24-hour lOP, 0.97 mmHg in mean corrected night lOP. The 24-hour lOP fluctuation was lower in the two myopia groups than in non-myopia group. Further, using repeated measurement analysis of variance, there was no statistical significance among groups regarding the lOPs at the seven time points （P=0.77） and there was no interaction between groups and time points （P=0.71）, but the difference of lOPs at the seven time points in same group was statistically significant （P=0.01）. Conclusion High-tension POAG patients with high myopia, even on pharmacological glaucoma therapy, still have hinhe.r IC）P. h^Jt 24-hnur IC）P fluc.tuatinn at re.qtina ~.nnditinn.q wA.q InwAr in th~..~, n^ti~.nt.q

Genetic and environmental risk factors for primary open-angle glaucoma

Background Primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) is characterized by optic nerve damage and consists of a group of genetically heterogeneous disorders. This study was to investigate the associations of genetic and environmental factors with POAG in a hospital-based Chinese population Methods Thirty-two adult onset POAG patients and 96 age-sex matched control subjects were studied by multivariable logistic regression analysis for the relationships between POAG and its risk factors including family history, diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular diseases, cigarette smoking, alcohol consumption and polymorphisms of the myocilin and the optineurin genes Results Univariate analysis showed that POAG was related to family history, cardiovascular disease, alcohol consumption and a myocilin sequence alteration (T353I) ( P <0 04) Multivariable logistic regression analysis confirmed that POAG was significantly associated with family history ( OR =20 2), hypertension ( OR =3 58), cigarette smoking ( OR =10 8), alcohol consumption ( OR =0 028) and T353I ( OR =6 03, all P <0 05) Conclusions Family history, hypertension, cigarette smoking and T353I in the myocilin gene are risk factors for POAG Alcohol consumption, however, has a protective effect

A case of primary open-angle glaucoma

In this case,the acupuncture treatment for open-angle glaucoma patient achieved a significant result.The acupoints Jingming(睛明BL1),Qiuhou(球后Extra),Fengchi(风池GB20),and Taichong(太冲LR3)were used as the main ones plus some symptomatic acupoints.After one course of treatment,the left eye pressure decreased by 12 mmHg compared with that before treatment,the left eye vision improved,and the fundus oozing was significantly reduced.After two courses of treatment,the left eye pressure was below 20 mmHg,left eye vision obviously improved,and the fundus oozing completely disappeared.

Prevalence of Open-angle Glaucoma in Southwestern China: the Yongchuan Glaucoma Study

This study examined the prevalence of primary open-angle glaucoma（POAG） among residents aged ≥50 years living in Yongchuan district of Chongqing. Stratified cluster sampling was employed in random selection to estimate the prevalence of glaucoma from April to June, 2005. Twenty-nine villages or neighborhood communities were randomly selected in urban area（Zhongshan Road）, suburban area（Shanjiao Town） and exurban area（Zhutuo Town） of this district. All the respondents underwent detailed ophthalmic examinations. The examinations included questionnaire investigation, visual acuity test, naked-eye examination, measurement of peripheral anterior chamber depth（Van Herrick＇s technique）, detection of intraocluar pressure（IOP） with a Perkins hand-held applanation tonometer（HA-2） and examination of the optic disc by using a 78 diopters（D） lens（including the cup-disc ratio, cup/disc ratio asymmetries, horizontal and vertical diameter, notching and optic disc hemorrhages）. A total of 5938 residents were actually examined, and the response rate was 85.19%. The crude prevalence of POAG was 0.86%（n=51/5938, 95% CI 0.64%–1.11%）. There were 24 males and 27 females in the glaucoma group. The glaucoma prevalence was not significant different in case number between the male and female subjects（P=0.4900）. Furthermore, no association between age or schooling and POAG was noted（P=0.8030, 0.0734）. Out of 51 subjects with POAG, unilateral glaucoma-related blindness occurred in 38 subjects（74.5%） and bilateral glaucoma-related blindness was found in 7 subjects（13.7%）. This study exhibited that the prevalence of POAG was 0.86% among residents aged ≥50 years living in Yongchuan District of Chongqing. The vision loss caused by POAG in this population was obviously higher than that previously reported in other studies. Glaucoma management, detection of affected persons and handling of the burden of glaucoma should be the priorities of the agenda of local health authorities of Western China.