Eye Pain Research Articles

Anterior Staphyloma (Right eye) with Phthisis bulbi (Left eye): A case report

Background Staphyloma is a clinical condition characterized by an ectasia of the outer coats of the eye with an incarceration of the uveal tissue.[1] Phthisis bulbi is an end-stage clinical condition occurring due to severe eye injury or disease damage which leads to scarring, inflammation, atrophy and finally disorganization of globe and intraocular contents. [3,4] Case presentation A 16 years old boy presented in the OPD with protusion of the eyeball (right eye) and shrunken left eye which is present since birth. He had history of trauma to right eye with stick 5 years back following which he complains of further increase in size of the eyeball to attain the present size. His chief complaint was pain in right eye. SLE showed anterior staphyloma (right eye) along with mild congestion, mild blepharitis and pannus. Perception of light was present in right eye. Left eye findings were suggestive of pthisis bulbi with calcification, narrowing of palpebral aperture. The left eye was sightless, sizeless, shapeless and perception of light is negative in left eye. Conclusion Early identification of ophthalmological problems in infancy & prompt intervention is mandatory for anterior staphyloma. A comprehensive evaluation of the risk factors, control of ocular comorbid conditions, and an early and meticulous surgery can optimize results.

Clinical and Imaging Characteristics of Posterior Scleritis in Children

ABSTRACT Background Posterior scleritis (PS) is a rare phenotype of scleritis. Comprehensive epidemiological studies on PS in children are limited. We aimed to report on its clinical and imaging features in one of the largest pediatric series to date. Methods Retrospective review of medical files. Results Included were 12 children (7 girls, mean±SD age at diagnosis 13.75 ± 3.3 years,18 eyes, mean follow-up ±SD of 46.7 ± 45.9 months). All patients presented with eye pain followed by headache. Papillitis was the most common presenting sign (16 eyes, 88.9%). Seven patients (58%) showed laboratory markers of systemic inflammation. One patient had periodic fever, aphthous stomatitis, pharyngitis, adenitis (PFAPA). In 2 other patients, Behҫet disease and inflammatory bowel disease were diagnosed subsequently. Initial echography showed increased posterior scleral thickness (mean±SD 2.9 ± 0.68 mm) with a significant reduction four ± 2 months later (mean±SD 1.85 ± 0.62 mm). Retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) was thickened in all examined eyes (mean±SD 136.2 ± 28.4 µm) at presentation and it significantly decreased with treatment (109.8 ± 8.2 µm two months later). In 5 patients (42%), diagnosing PS was prompted by Brain imaging. PS was part of orbital inflammatory syndrome in 4 patients (33.3%). All patients were treated with systemic steroids and 91% required steroid-sparing agent. Adalimumab was added in 2 patients. A chronic course was observed in 63.6%. Remission was achieved in 4 patients. Mean±SD presenting LogMAR VA was 0.23 ± 0.3 with marked improvement to 0.04 ± 0.07 one month later. Conclusion Searching for an associated autoinflammatory/autoimmune disease is an important step in patients’ triaging. B-scan ultrasound remains the gold standard test. OCT proved to be of practical importance in delineating the magnitude of RNFL thickness and could serve as a potential imaging biomarker of disease activity.

Case Report on Tolosa Hunt Syndrome in a Diabetic Patient: An Uncommon Presentation

Tolosa Hunt syndrome (THS), also known as painful ophthalmoplegia, recurrent ophthalmoplegia, or ophthalmoplegia syndrome, is described as severe and unilateral periorbital headaches associated with painful and restricted eye movements. THS is one of the rare disorders recognized by the National Organization for Rare Disorders. The estimated annual incidence is one case per million per year. Case Report: A 49-year-old male with a 12-year history of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus presented with diplopia, ptosis, and right-sided hemifacial pain. Neurological examination revealed right-sided levator palpebrae superioris palsy, complete ophthalmoplegia, and conjunctival hyperemia. MRI confirmed orbital apex syndrome (OAS) in the right orbit known as Tolosa hunt syndrome (THS), while paranasal sinus HRCT showed chronic sinusitis with significant mucosal thickening and structural abnormalities. Management included high-dose intravenous methylprednisolone with gastroprotective therapy, followed by a tapering course of oral prednisolone and gabapentin for neuropathic pain. Keywords: Tolosa Hunt Syndrome (THS), Orbital Apex Syndrome (OAS), Methylprednisolone, Ophthalmoplegia

Simultaneous Four-site Restoration of Bilateral Scleromalacia Using Autologous Tragal Perichondrium and Preserved Sclera

Purpose: We report a case of bilateral nasal and temporal four-site scleromalacia following cosmetic conjunctivectomy, successfully managed with simultaneous restoration surgery at all four sites using autologous tragal perichondrium and preserved scleral graft.Case summary: A 56-year-old woman who underwent cosmetic conjunctivectomy on both eyes 15 years earlier, presented with intermittent eye pain. Examination revealed scleromalacia with calcium plaques in all four nasal and temporal scleral areas. The most extensive avascular area was in the nasal region of the right eye, and the most prominent uveal exposure was in the nasal area of the left eye. Considering the lesion and exposure sizes of the avascular zone and uvea exposure, preserved sclera was transplanted to the temporal and nasal areas of the right eye, while autologous tragal perichondrium was transplanted to the nasal area of the left eye. Tenon's capsule vessels were fixed with pedicle flaps in all four surgical areas for vascularization. Frozen amniotic membrane was transplanted in the nasal area of the left eye, where the conjunctival defect was substantial, and in the lateral area of the left eye, where no graft was used. The conjunctival epithelium was closed using autologous conjunctival flaps in all four areas. Post-surgery, successful engraftment and vascularization of the graft materials were observed in both eyes.Conclusions: Even with multiple areas of scleromalacia in both eyes, successful results can be achieved during simultaneous surgery if an appropriate graft material is selected and the surgery is performed utilizing principles of tissue restoration.

Clinical features, treatment, and prognosis of zoledronic acid-induced uveitis.

Uveitis is a rare ocular adverse reaction of zoledronic acid, the specific clinical features are not clarified. This study was to investigate the clinical features of zoledronic acid-induced uveitis and provide reference for rational use of zoledronic acid. We collected clinical data on zoledronic acid-induced uveitis for retrospective analysis by searching Chinese and English data up to October 31, 2024. Uveitis occurred in 44 patients with a median age of 66.5 years (range 47, 87) and 93.2% in females. The median time to onset of uveitis was 48 h (range 10, 192). Eye pain (86.4%), decreased vision (61.4%), and redness (50.0%) were the most commonly described symptoms. Uveitis could involve unilateral eyes (68.2%) and bilateral eyes (31.8%), and anterior uveitis was the main type (95.5%). Most patients had intraocular pressure within the normal range. Slit lamp examination mainly revealed cells (54.5%), flare (43.2%), and keratic precipitates (29.5%). After discontinuation of zoledronic acid (97.6%) and receipt of topical steroids (97.7%), systemic steroids (15.9%), and cycloplegics (72.7%), all patients showed improvement or recovery. Zoledronic acid-induced uveitis mainly occurs within 72 h after the initial administration, and anterior uveitis is predominant. When zoledronic acid is used, patients should be informed of possible adverse eye reactions. Topical corticosteroids can be used as the main treatment for uveitis.

Characteristics of ocular findings of patients with coronavirus disease 2019 in China.

This study aimed to report the ocular manifestations in individuals with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and investigate any correlation between the occurrence of ocular symptoms and systemic symptoms. A retrospective electronic survey was conducted among the general public in northern China from December 2022 through February 2023. Inclusion criteria for COVID-19 was confirmed testing positive via a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test or testing positive for COVID-19 via an antigen kit. The anonymous survey collected information on demographics, systemic COVID-19 symptoms, ocular diagnosis and symptoms, comorbidities and disease history. A total of 2,405 survey responses were collected and the final analysis included individuals in the 335 COVID-19 positive group and 434 individuals in the COVID-19 negative group. Among COVID-19 positive patients 66.3% (n = 222) reported experiencing ocular symptoms. Dryness (n = 106, 31.6%), blurred vision (n = 81, 24.2%), eye pain (n = 72, 21.5%), and itching (n = 71, 21.2%) were the main features. COVID-19 was found to be associated with a higher prevalence of conjunctivitis, iritis, uveitis, retinal vein occlusion and optic neuritis. The majority of individuals (51.0%) developed eye symptoms after the onset of COVID-19 systemic symptoms. There was no significant association between the severity of systemic symptoms and ocular symptoms. Individuals with COVID-19 were significantly more likely to experience ocular symptoms. COVID-19 was found to be associated with a higher prevalence of retinal diseases. The majority of individuals developed ocular symptoms right after the onset of systemic symptoms.

Man with vision loss and eye pain

Man with vision loss and eye pain

Fronto-Orbital Osteoblastoma With Unilateral Exophthalmos: A Rare Presentation and Review of Diagnostic Challenges.

Osteoblastoma is an uncommon benign bone tumor rarely involving the craniofacial skeleton. Manifestations in the fronto-orbital region are exceptionally rare. A 19-year-old man presented with persistent headache, nausea, vomiting, right eye pain, and longstanding right exophthalmos. Imaging revealed a heterogeneous enhancing lesion located in the right anterior cranial fossa-orbital apex junction causing pressure on the orbital roof. Differential diagnoses included fibrous dysplasia and meningioma. The tumor was resected via frontal craniotomy. Definitive diagnosis of osteoblastoma was achieved postoperatively through histopathological examination and IHC studies. Craniofacial osteoblastomas, especially in the fronto-orbital region, are exceptionally rare and may present radiological features similar to other bone pathologies. Accurate diagnosis hinges on histopathological evaluation. A multidisciplinary approach is pivotal for successful diagnosis and treatment of such challenging cases.

Evaluation of Older People's Presentations to the Emergency Department With Pain During and Before the COVID-19 Pandemic.

This study aimed to determine the tendency of older adults to present to the emergency department with pain complaints during the COVID-19 pandemic compared to the prepandemic period. A cross-sectional, retrospective study design was used. Data were collected from the electronic medical records of older people who presented to emergency departments with pain before (March 2019-March 2020) and during the COVID-19 pandemic (April 2020-July 2021). We identified 10 pain diagnosis groups using ICD-10 codes. Patient data were grouped and cleaned using SQL scripts on the Oracle database. It was determined that 13.3% of 405,404 older people had presented to the emergency department with pain between March 2019 and July 2021. There was a 14.2% decrease in such admissions during the pandemic period. In the study, an increase was observed in the rates of older adults presenting to the emergency department with myalgia and joint pain. In contrast, the rates of those presenting with low back and neck pain, headache, eye pain, dysuria, and acute pain decreased during the pandemic. In the regression analysis, predictors for older adults' presentation to the emergency department with pain included age over 85 years (OR: 1.403), female gender (OR: 1.053), and myalgia (OR: 2.471). During the COVID-19 pandemic, our study revealed fewer presentations to the emergency department for pain-related complaints. To prevent severe health problems from delayed care, we recommend expanding telemedicine, remote pain management, and home-based care. Further research is needed to examine the long-term effects of increased myalgia and joint pain.

Management of a case of stromal herpetic keratitis

Aims/Purpose: To present a case study of stromal herpetic keratitis (SHK) and emphasize the importance of accurate differential diagnosis and appropriate therapeutic approaches in primary care settings.Methods: A detailed anamnesis and ocular examination were conducted, including fluorescein staining to identify dendritic corneal ulcers indicative of herpetic keratitis (HK). The patient was followed closely with a combination of antiviral and corticosteroid therapy.Results: A 20‐year‐old woman presented with 72 hours of left eye redness, pain, tearing, and vision loss. No traumatic history was reported, but a recent herpetic lesion on the upper lip was noted. Clinical examination revealed significant conjunctival hyperemia and a characteristic dendritic lesion on the cornea. Detailed examination with a slit lamp showed a central dendritic ulcer stained with fluorescein and peripheral infected cells stained with rose Bengal, alongside a focal stromal inflammation. These findings confirmed the diagnosis of SHK. Follow‐up revealed resolution of the stromal inflammation and closure of the dendritic epithelial defect.Conclusions: The case underscores the critical need for accurate diagnosis of HK subtypes, as SHK requires specific treatment with topical corticosteroids in addition to antiviral therapy. Clinical guidelines indicate that the benefits of corticosteroid use in SHK outweigh the risks, though close monitoring is essential to mitigate adverse effects such as increased intraocular pressure and cataract formation. This case highlights the importance of prompt specialist referral when primary care practitioners encounter complex ocular presentations, ensuring timely and appropriate management to prevent irreversible vision loss.References Guidelines for Ocular Herpes Management. SECOIR Monography: Update on Corneal Infections. Chapters 7 and 11.

Ocular bee sting with retained stinger

Aims/Purpose: Ocular bee stings are a rare but can lead to severe inflammatory complications. Some cases have been described, but stinger retention is exceptional. We report the case of a young patient with a limbal bee sting, with stinger retention.Methods: A male 19‐year‐old, presented a painful red eye following an accidental bee sting. Examination found a visual acuity of 20/20, conjunctival hyperaemia, a clear cornea, calm anterior chamber, and a perilimbal foreign body, which corresponded to the bee stinger.We performed a conjunctival peritomy and removed the stinger using McPherson forceps under topical anesthesia. The sclera being intact, we sutured the conjunctiva and prescribed antibiotiotics and steroid drops. Evolution was marked with improvement and disappearance of symptoms.Results: Bee sting wounds can penetrate tissues like a harpoon, complicating the stinger's removal, along with possible sequelae: mechanical like corneal abrasion or intrastromal retention, and toxic effects. The venom contains phospholipase A2 and mellitin, leading to membrane lysis and pain, as well as apamin, which causes mast cells degranulation and histamine release. It can cause conjunctivitis, corneal infiltrates, cataract, uveitis, hyphema, lens subluxation, retinal lesions, optic neuropathy or choroidal detachment.Conclusions: Ocular bee stings are rare and can induce severe inflammation. Extraction of the stinger and topical antibiotic associated with steroids are the treatment of choice, in addition to close monitoring of possible complications.References Gudiseva H, Uddaraju M, Pradhan S, Das M, Mascarenhas J, Srinivasan M, Prajna NV. Ocular manifestations of isolated corneal bee sting injury, management strategies, and clinical outcomes. Indian J Ophthalmol. 2018 Feb; 66(2): 262‐268. Chilibeck, C., Wang, N., & Murphy, C. (2021). Making a bee‐line for the eye: a limbal sting and retained honey bee. Clinical and Experimental Optometry, 104(4), 538–540.

Reducing disconfort in contact lens wearers: Refitting symptomatic users to Kalifilcon A

Aims/Purpose: The prevalence of discomfort associated with contact lens (CL) wear is estimated to affect up to half of the wearers, often resulting in the discontinuation of CL wear. This study aimed to determine whether refitting symptomatic wearers with a daily disposable CL (Kalifilcon A) reduces symptoms and improves the wearer experience.Methods: 47 symptomatic CL wearers (CLDEQ‐8 > 12) were randomly assigned in a masked fashion to receive either Kalifilcon A or their usual CL (placebo). Following one month of CL wear, participants were switched to Kalifilcon A or placebo, which they wore for another month. Non‐invasive tear break‐up time measurements were performed using a Medmont E300USB topographer. Furthermore, the participants completed the CLDEQ‐8 and NEI VQF‐25 questionnaires to assess symptomatology and vision‐related quality of life while wearing CLs. Finally, the participants were asked to subjectively rate the ease of handling, manipulation and comfort of both CLs.Results: After a one‐month period of wearing both CLs, the results of theCLDEQ‐8 revealed a statistically and clinically significant reduction in symptomatology with Kalifilcon A CL (10.95 ± 8.82) in comparison to the placebo CL (14.65 ± 7.83; p = 0.02). The NEI VFQ‐25 questionnaire outcomes indicate that Kalifilcon A CL exhibits a substantial improvement in the subscales of eye pain, with a score of 59.4 ± 9.9, compared to the score of 47.3 ± 8.2 (p < 0.0001), and in the subscales of role difficulties, with a score of 10.1 ± 13.9, compared to the score of 38.6 ± 8.2 (p < 0.0001).In terms of subjective rate, Kalifilcon A CL demonstrated superior performance in terms of overall satisfaction with comfort (7.78 ± 1.88vs8.5 ± 1.86; p = 0.01) and overall satisfaction with the CL (7.8 ± 1.89vs8.44 ± 1.61; p = 0.04). The results of the tear quality study revealed no statistically significant differences between the two CLs.Conclusions: Refitting individuals who exhibit symptoms while wearing CLs with Kalifilcon A daily disposable contact lenses resulted in a significant reduction in the incidence of symptoms and a noticeable enhancement in the user's overall experience. This presents a valuable solution for those who may otherwise be at risk of discontinuing CL wear.

Ocular Symptoms Among COVID-19 Positive Patients in Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Survey.

Background Coronavirus disease (COVID-19), a widespread viral illness, has been linked to a range of respiratory and other systemic symptoms. Along with the respiratory symptoms caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2), many extrapulmonary manifestations have also been reported. This study was conducted to report the ocular manifestations of COVID-19 in confirmed cases from the Qassim region, of Saudi Arabia. Methods In this retrospective survey-based study, anelectronic survey was distributedviasocial media toindividualswho reported a positiveCOVID-19test. Demographic data,medical and ocular history,anddata about their COVID-19 infection and ocular symptoms were collected. Results Atotal of 200 survey responses were included (35% male and 65% female,age30.3 years).At least one ocular symptom was reported by41(20.5%)participants.Light sensitivity(8.5%),blurredvision(7.5%),redness(7.0%),and eye pain(7.0%) werethe mostcommon ocular symptoms. Conclusion Among the study participants, ocular symptoms were reported by more than one-fifth of the COVID-19 patients. These ocular symptoms were mostly mild. Further research is required to fully understand the association between COVID-19 and ocular manifestations.

Comparative Analysis of Cosmetic and Functional Outcomes in Corneal Tattooing (Keratopigmentation) versus Ocular Prosthesis.

This study compares the cosmetic and functional outcomes of corneal tattooing/keratopigmentation and ocular prostheses in rehabilitating disfigured eyes, focusing on esthetic appearance and emotional well-being. Ninety-two patients were included: 48 received corneal tattooing, and 44 were fitted with ocular prostheses. Anophthalmic surgery was indicated for trauma, painful blind eye, endophthalmitis, tumor, and corneal ulcer, while corneal tattooing was performed for trauma, corneal ulcer, and endophthalmitis. Comprehensive ophthalmic examinations, a seven-item satisfaction questionnaire, and assessments of ocular movement in four directions and postoperative complications (e.g., infection, enophthalmos, fornix loss, and eyelid disorders) were conducted. Patients who underwent ocular cosmetic rehabilitation reported high satisfaction, with corneal tattooing yielding higher satisfaction rates across all measures (P<0.001). Patients with corneal tattooing exhibited significantly better ocular movement in all four cardinal directions (P<0.001 for temporal, nasal, superior, and inferior). The prosthesis group experienced more postoperative complications, including ocular surface disorders and structural anomalies. Corneal tattooing and ocular prostheses both provide viable options for rehabilitating disfigured eyes. Corneal tattooing offers advantages in ocular movement, fewer complications, and higher patient satisfaction, while ocular prostheses are more suitable for addressing phthisis bulbi, tumors, and ocular pain.

The diagnostic challenge of orbital tuberculosis in an otherwise healthy individual: A case report

Ocular tuberculosis occurs in 1.5-18% of all extrapulmonary tuberculosis cases, with orbital tuberculosis being a very small proportion of all cases of ocular tuberculosis. High variability of manifestations of orbital tuberculosis may result in delayed diagnosis. Children are the populations most affected by this disease. This study aims to report a case of orbital tuberculosis in a patient without systemic tuberculosis symptoms. We presents a 13-year-old girl who is reported protrusion of the right eye for four months. She complained diplopia and pain in the right eye radiating to the head. She reported no other systemic symptoms. Ophthalmological examination revealed that her best corrected visual acuity of the right eye was 0.25, and the left eye was 1.0. The movement of the right eye was limited to the superior, temporal, and nasal directions. Anterior segment examinations demonstrated proptosis of the right eye with 3 mm of lagophthalmos. The patient then underwent an orbitotomy and biopsy procedure. Histopathological analysis revealed chronic granulomatous inflammation with Langerhans cells, indicative of tuberculosis. The patient was diagnosed with proptosis of the right eye and multiple cranial nerve palsy due to orbital tuberculosis. The patient was subsequently prescribed an antituberculosis treatment and attended regular monthly follow-ups. Ten months after surgery and completed antituberculosis treatment, the proptosis improves and there is no further growth of the mass. Orbital tuberculosis is a rare condition and is often challenging to diagnose, particularly in healthy individuals. Thorough history taking, physical examination, and ancillary testing are essential to establish an accurate diagnosis. This case emphasizes the necessity for heightened suspicion of tuberculosis in atypical presentations, particularly in pediatric patients in endemic areas, to prevent morbidity and ensure timely treatment.

Paranasal Sinus Mucoceles and their Ocular Impacts: A case report

Introduction: Paranasal sinus mucoceles are the build-up of mucous-containing, epithelium-lined, cystic lesions within the air-filled cavities in the bones surrounding the nasal cavity. An accumulation of mucous can occur in the sinus cavity when the normal drainage pathways are blocked, resulting in an increased volume of mucous. Case report: A 56-year-old Hispanic male complained of proptosis, periorbital edema, and pain in the right eye, accompanied by cluster headaches persisting for the past six months. Initial examination demonstrated uncorrected visual acuity of 20/20 in both eyes at distance and near. Clinical assessments further revealed Hertel exophthalmometry measurements of 21 mm in the right eye and 19 mm in the left (base of 108 mm), along with resistance to manual pressure in the affected right eye. Subsequent computed tomography imaging of the head and orbits identified a sizable, well-defined mass originating from the right nasal cavity, extending into multiple paranasal sinuses, and inducing structural alterations in the medial wall of the maxillary sinus, consistent with paranasal sinus mucoceles. Conclusion: Proptosis and lid edema can arise from various etiologies, encompassing intracranial masses, autoimmune disorders, or impaired venous return. This case report adds another consideration of a diagnosis in a patient with a history of sinus surgery. Comprehensive history gathering and meticulous clinical examination are paramount to discerning pathological manifestations in establishing an accurate diagnosis.

Mental burden of ocular surface discomfort.

This research investigates the associations between Dry Eye Disease (DED), pain perception, and mental health, focusing on how neuropathic pain influences treatment efficacy and patients' quality of life. The study delves into the complexity of DED by assessing the correlation between ocular pain, depression, PTSD, and systemic pain conditions. It highlights the role of chronic neuropathic pain in DED and the nociceptive hypothesis, which suggests that psychological stress can exacerbate DED symptoms. Additionally, it explores diagnostic and management strategies for DED, emphasizing the importance of considering psychological aspects to improve patient care. The intricate nature of DED, closely linked to mental health issues, requires a comprehensive diagnostic and therapeutic approach. Addressing neuropathic pain and psychological factors is crucial for effective DED management. Future efforts should focus on developing specific interventions targeting DED's physical and emotional impacts to enhance overall patient well-being.

Standardized Assessment of Health-Related Quality of Life in Patients with Congenital Aniridia.

Congenital aniridia is a rare panocular disorder that is associated with varying degrees of impairment of visual acuity. The COST Action (CA18116) developed a survey (aniridia-net.eu) to assess patient-reported experiences with congenital aniridia and its impacts on vision and daily life. Here, we correlate the survey responses of German patients with congenital aniridia with clinical ophthalmology data acquired at the Homburger Aniridia Center. The patients completed the German-language version of a 20-point ANIRIDIA-NET survey. The survey included demographic information, the most common symptoms caused by the disease, difficulties caused by visual impairment in various life situations, and the frequency of using visual aids in daily life. As for clinical data, best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) as well as corneal, lens, and glaucoma status were collected. A total of 71 participants, 27 (38.0%) children and 44 (61.7%) adults, completed the questionnaire, with an age range of 28.8 ± 20.2 years (6 - 78 years). Among them, 55 (77.4%) reported daily light sensitivity, 34 (47.8%) experienced dry eyes, 17 (23.9%) had fluctuating vision, 11 (15.4%) reported eye pain, and 5 (7.0%) experienced daily watering eyes. Older patients reported significantly more eye complaints than children (p < 0,001). Notably, patients with more advanced aniridia-associated keratopathy (AAK) exhibited a discernibly lower quality of life (ρ = 0.28, p = 0.027). Similarly, cataract surgery early in life was associated with a more pronounced decline in quality of life (ρ = - 0.36, p = 0.002). Thirty-five (49.2%) patients never needed assistance for their commute to school/work, 27 (38.0%) and 22 (30.9%) never needed assistance for their daily routines at home or various social activities, respectively. Regarding the use of visual aids, 39 (24.9%) reported that they always used visual aids at work or school, 24 (33.8%) during social activities, and 32 (45.1%) during free time activities. Although congenital aniridia is associated with reduced visual acuity, the majority of affected individuals, especially during childhood, report that they were able to manage personal communication and various life situations independently and without significant difficulties, despite their eye-related issues. Visual aids serve as crucial support for them during their transition into adulthood and as they age. Symptoms of congenital aniridia subjects, described by the ANIRIDIA-NET survey, correlated well with clinical findings. Therefore, the questionnaire may provide important information for the treating ophthalmologist for follow-up examination of these patients and improvement in their life quality.

Impact of PSDS Combined with Ganciclovir on Treatment and Serum C5 with Inflammation and Oxidative Stress in Serum and Tears of Herpes Simplex Keratitis Patients

Background: Herpes simplex virus (HSV) is a well-established cause of eye disease and associated blindness. It is known as herpes simplex keratitis (HSK) when the HSV invades the cornea and causes symptoms such as eye pain and dryness, lacrimation, and impaired vision. Objectives: To investigate the therapeutic effect of potassium sodium dehydroandroandrographolide succinate (PSDS) combined with ganciclovir in patients with HSK. Methods: Herpes simplex keratitis patients (n = 80) were randomized into two groups (control group and ganciclovir + PSDS group). Treatment efficacy was recorded. The changes in serum C5 and concentrations of inflammatory and oxidative stress factors in the serum and tears were compared. The correlations between changes in serum C5 concentration and changes in high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) concentrations in serum and tears were analyzed. Results: The treatment efficacy was better in the ganciclovir + PSDS group. Serum C5 concentration was lower in the ganciclovir + PSDS group after treatment. In addition, the concentrations of hs-CRP and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) as well as malondialdehyde (MDA) and SOD in the serum and tears were also lower in the ganciclovir + PSDS group. Serum C5 concentration was positively correlated with hs-CRP concentration and negatively associated with SOD concentration. Conclusions: We found improvements in clinical symptoms of patients treated with ganciclovir + PSDS. Our results suggest that the addition of PSDS to ganciclovir treatment will effectively reduce inflammation and oxidative stress and relieve the clinical symptoms of patients with HSK.

Divorce: In the Eyes of Public Health

A family’s social support is one of the primary ways family positively impacts health. Marriage isassociated with physical health, psychological well-being, and low mortality. It was also revealed thatdivorce has psychological and emotional effects on women’s personal and social lives. This review articlediscovered that divorced women and children experience more social isolation. Divorce women includesome psychological and emotional effects like low appetite, reduced physical energy and strength, chestpain, severe pressure in the chest, difficulty in hearing, eye pain, digestive problems, divorce on women.