VOLUME 69 - ISSUE 5

PURPOSE: To describe retinal nerve fiber layer changes in late-stage diffuse unilateral subacute neuroretinitis eyes and compare these results with healthy eyes observed through nerve fiber analyzer (GDx®). METHODS: This is a retrospective case-control study in which 49 eyes in late-stage diffuse unilateral subacute neuroretinitis were examined from May/97 to December/01. First, eyes with diffuse unilateral subacute neuroretinitis and healthy contralateral eyes (Control Group I) were statistically matched. Subsequently, eyes with diffuse unilateral subacute neuroretinitis were compared with eyes of healthy patients (Control Group II). RESULTS: Eyes from Control Groups I and II had higher relative frequency of "within normal limits" status. Eyes from the diffuse unilateral subacute neuroretinitis (DUSN) Group had higher frequency of "outside normal limits" and "borderline" status. Control Groups I and II had absolute values different from the DUSN Group regarding all parameters (p<0.05), except for Symmetry in Control Groups I and II, Average thickness and Superior Integral in control group II. CONCLUSION: Patients with late-stage diffuse unilateral subacute neuroretinitis presented presumed decrease in nerve fiber layer thickness shown by GDx®. Retinal zones with larger vascular support and larger amount of nerve fibers presented higher decrease in the delay of the reflected light measured by the nerve fiber analyzer.

Keywords: Electroretinography; Evoked potentials, visual; Optic neuritis; Retinitis; Optic nerve diseases; Nerve fibers; Lasers; Perimetry; Uveitis; posterior

PURPOSE: To determine the values in decibels of retinal sensitivity within the central 26 degrees of the visual field of normal subjects divided into homogenous age groups using the Octopus 1-2-3; to compare the values of retinal sensitivity we have found with those considered normal in the statistical package obtained by a multicenter study performed in 1994 with Octopus 201. METHODS: 181 subjects divided into 6 homogeneous age groups (10 to 19 yr; 20 to 29 yr; 30 to 39 yr; 40 to 49 yr; 50 to 59 yr and 60 year-old or older) were evaluated. Data on visual sensitivity and age, average sensitivity of central and paracentral regions and eccentricity were calculated. RESULTS: The average visual sensitivity of all groups was 26.77 ± 1.74 dB. Correlation between visual sensitivity and age evaluated by linear regression was 28.4 - 0.040 x (age) for the whole sample and 28.7 - 0.050 x (age) for subjects aged 20 or more. Sensitivity reduction by eccentricity was -0.30 dB/degree for the whole sample and for subjects aged 20 or more. CONCLUSIONS: Correlation between retinal sensitivity values and age based on the autoperimeter Octopus 201 (average sensitivity of 31.2 - 0.064 x age) is different from that found in this study: average sensitivity of 28.4 - 0.040 x (age) for the whole sample; 28.7 - 0.050 x (age) for subjects aged 20 or more. Values obtained with the Octopus 1-2-3 autoperimeter cannot be compared with those by other Octopus models (101, 201 and 500) due to their distinct features.

Keywords: Perimetry; Perimetry; Visual fields; Age groups; Sensory threshold; Aging

PURPOSE: To evaluate the morphological changes in murine cornea upon metoclopramide-induced hyperprolactinemia during the proestrous phase or pregnancy. METHODS: Forty adult mice were divided into two groups: (control) CTR1 and (treated with metoclopramide (MET1). After fifty days, half of the mice were sacrificed. The remaining animals were mated, and then labeled as pregnant controls (CTR2). Part of these animals were treated with metoclopramide and constituted the metoclopramide-treated pregnant (MET2) group. The groups CTR2 and MET2 were sacrificed on the 6th day of pregnancy. The hormonal levels were assessed by chemioluminescence and radioimmunoassay methods and the cornea was removed for the histomorphometric study. RESULTS: The epithelial, stromal, endothelial and total thickness in the experimental group was: MET1 and MET2 were higher than one in the control group: CTR1 and CTR2. There was a significant reduction of the hormonal level in the animals that received metoclopramide as compared to controls (CTR1: estradiol = 156.6±42.2 pg/ml; progesterone = 39.4±5.1 ng/ml; prolactin = 130.4±26.2 ng/ml; MET1: estradiol = 108.0±33.1 pg/ml; progesterone = 28.0±6.4 ng/ml; prolactin = 551.5±23.3 ng/ml; CTR2: estradiol = 354.0±56.0 pg/ml; progesterone = 251.0±56.0 ng/ml; prolactin = 423.2±28.1 ng/ml; MET2: estradiol = 293.0±43.0 pg/ml; progesterone = 184.0±33.0 ng/ml; prolactin = 823.1±51.1 ng/ml). CONCLUSION: The metoclopramide-induced hyperprolactinemia may increase corneal layers, mainly in pregnant mice. Possibly, this effect is related to reduction in estrogen and progesterone production.

Keywords: Hyperprolactinemia; Metoclopramide; Cornea; Histocytochemistry; Mice

PURPOSE: To investigate the occurrence of acquired blepharoptosis in contact lens wearers. METHODS: Prospective analysis of 50 contact lens wearers being followed at the Contact Lenses Section of the Ophthalmology Service at the "Complexo Hospitalar Santa Casa de Porto Alegre" between April and November 2004. The margin reflex distance (MRD) was evaluated for the 99 eyelids of contact lens wearers and for the 52 eyelids of controls. A patient whose measurement was less than 2 mm or with an assymetry of margin reflex distance greater or equal to 2 mm were considered with blepharoptosis. The contact lens type and duration of contact lenses wear were evaluated. RESULTS: Five patients presented ptosis, all of them were hard contact lens wearers, one had bilateral and four had unilateral ptosis. The study shows that the contact lens wearers had the margin reflex distance 0.88 mm smaller than the non-wearers. The margin reflex distance values decreased progressively in the studied groups: controls, gelatinous contact lens wearers and rigid contact lens wearers. CONCLUSION: The study suggests that contact lens wearers have alterations in the margin reflex distance values, especially the rigid contact lens wearers.

Keywords: Blepharoptosis; Contact lenses

PURPOSE: To evaluate changes in retinal nerve fiber layer thickness as measured by scanning laser polarimetry (SLP) after the use of medication to reduce intraocular pressure (IOP) in glaucomatous or ocular hypertensive patients. METHODS: The authors prospectively enrolled 37 eyes of 37 patients in whom IOP was reduced by more than 25% after the use of medication. The images were obtained before and 15 to 30 days after the introduction of medication. The SLP parameters measured before and after the use of medication were compared using paired Student's t Test. RESULTS: The mean IOP was significantly reduced from 26.57±4.23 mmHg to 16.54 ±2.92 mmHg after the use of medication (p<0.05). None of the 10 SLP analyzed parameters was significantly affected by the reduction of IOP with medication (p>0.05). CONCLUSION: The retinal nerve fiber layer thickness, as measured by SLP, is not affected by the reduction of IOP with medication in patients with glaucoma or ocular hypertension.

Keywords: Glaucoma; Intraocular pressure; Nerve fibers; Retina; Diagnostic techniques; ophthalmological; Lasers

PURPOSE: To identify the main indications for corneal transplantation, analyze the results and provide demographic and epidemiological profile of patients referred to the Corneal Transplantation Project. METHODS: A retrospective analysis, from June to December 2003, of patients referred to the Corneal Transplantation Project. RESULTS: Total of 171 patients. One hundred and two (59.6%) patients were male and 69 (40.3%) female; mean age was 37 years. One hundred and six (49%) patients had indication for corneal transplantation. The origins of patients were: São Paulo (68%), Minas Gerais (6%), Paraná (6%), Rio de Janeiro (5%), Maranhão (3%) and others (12%). The main indications: keratoconus 65%, pseudophakic bullous keratopathy 21%, corneal scarring 10%, Fuchs dystrophy 1.9%, lattice dystrophy 0.9% and Stevens-Johnson syndrome 0.9%. CONCLUSION: Many patients referred to corneal transplantation had no indication for such procedure. This fact demonstrates the poor knowledge of general ophthalmologists about the real indications of penetrating keratoplasty. Keratoconus was the major indication followed by pseudophakic bullous keratopathy.

Keywords: Corneal transplantation; Keratoplasty; penetrating; Keratoconus; Corneal diseases; Hospitals, special; Retrospective studies

PURPOSE: To determine vision conditions and ocular findings in patients older than 99 years. METHODS: Patients were recruited by media advertisement and examined at the Vision Institute of UNIFESP. The following examinations were performed: visual acuity, ectoscopy, refraction, biomicroscopy, tear film break-up time, Schirmer basal test, tonometry, direct and indirect ophthalmoscopy. Complementary examinations such as optical coherence tomography were performed when indicated. RESULTS: Thirty patients older than 99 years were identified. Mean age of 101.5±1.8, 25 females and 5 males. Most common systemic disease, according to history, was arterial hypertension. In 11 patients (55%), the best corrected far visual acuity was 20/100 or better. The best corrected near visual acuity was J4 or better also in 55% (11 patients) and 63.0% (7 patients) of these were the ones that had not been submitted to cataract surgery. The most frequent visual complaint was low vision for reading (55%) and other 8 patients (40%) reported no disturbance (satisfied with their vision). Lens opacity was present in 9 patients (60%) and 8 patients (40%) had previous cataract surgery (5 aphakic eyes, 9 pseudophakic eyes). Cataract was identified as important for impairment of vision in 5 patients but only 2 of them wanted to be submitted to surgery. The main cause of visual impairment was age-related macular degeneration, present in all patients, 95% with no exudative form. Vision improved with new refractive prescription in 4 patients. CONCLUSION: Once we understand the needs we can plan specific diagnostic and treatment strategies. This sample showed that most were female (83.3%), with good general health (35%), most with systemic arterial hypertension (40%), complaining of low vision for reading (55%) because of age-related macular degeneration (100%, 95% dry form). Only 40% had been previously submitted to cataract surgery. Most of the patients with cataract said to be satisfied with their vision; of the 5 patients that could be operated only 2 decided to do it. Low vision for reading, AMD and cataract were the main findings.

Keywords: Demographic aging; Aging; Vision disorders; Aged, 80 and over; Health services for the aged; Visual acuity; Quality of life

PURPOSE: To evaluate visual results and vitreoretinopathy and retinal detachment frequencies in patients with and without prophylactic pre-equatorial retinal photocoagulation, who underwent clear lens extraction (CLE) to correct myopia. METHODS: Thirty-five patients (60 eyes) that underwent clear lens extraction at the "Fundação Altino Ventura" had median follow-up of 20.5 months. They were classified into 3 groups: Group I that was submitted to preoperative 360° preequatorial retinal photocoagulation; Group II that was submitted to prophylactic photocoagulation around predisposing lesions; and Group III that was not submitted to preoperative retinal photocoagulation. The presence of corrected visual acuity (CVA), refractional spherical equivalent (RSE) and choroidal neovascularization (CNV), predisposing lesions and retinal detachment (RD) was evaluated. RESULTS: Median corrected visual acuity value rose from 0.2 in the preoperative period to 0.5 in the postoperative period and refractional spherical equivalent decreased from -17SD to -1.7SD. There was no retinal detachment, but vitreous retinal traction areas appeared in 4 eyes (2 submitted to 360° laser and 2 not submitted to laser) and 1 case of choroidal neovascularization also occurred. CONCLUSIONS: Clear lens extraction was an effective and predictable surgery to reduce myopias and an apparently safe procedure in patients with and without prophylactic preequatorial retinal photocoagulation. A longer follow-up in a larger group may validate its safety as a refractive surgery.

Keywords: Myopia; Refractive errors; Lens, crystalline; Light coagulation; Retinal detachment; Safety

PURPOSE: To evaluate the visual field changes in blue-on-yellow perimetry (B/Y) strategy 10-2 in alcohol and tobacco smoking consumers. METHODS: Forty-two eyes of twenty-one users were studied. Fifteen individuals were used as a control group. All volunteers were males. After normal ophthalmologic examinations, central 10-2 (B/Y) was performed in both eyes. Analysis of the results was performed through the alterations in the depth graph defect and number of altered points. RESULTS: It was found that the majority of the chronic alcohol and tobacco smoking consumers had a greater frequency of alterations in the depth graph defect; 40 eyes (95.3%), (>10dB), and 27 eyes (64.3%) showed a number of altered points, (>10 points), (p<0.0001). All those who were used as a control group showed alterations in the depth graph defect and number of altered points, but had less than 10dB and 10 altered points, respectively. CONCLUSION: A higher number of abnormal points and depth graph defects and number of altered points were observed in alcohol and tobacco smoking consumers reflecting a higher number of alterations in the cells of the parvocellular system, responsible for color function, by B/Y perimetry.

Keywords: Alcoholism; Smoking; Perimetry; Visual fields

PURPOSE: To review all cases of orbit exenteration performed at the Orbit Sector, Ophthalmology Department - Federal University of São Paulo, from 1998 to 2003. METHODS: We reviewed conditions leading to orbital exenteration in 21 patients at the Orbit Sector of Unifesp-EPM from August 1998 to May 2003. Data regarding sex, age, race, primary lesion site, visual acuity at the moment of diagnosis, previous surgeries related to the exenteration, type of performed surgery, histopathologic diagnosis, postoperative complications and use of adjuvant treatment were collected. RESULTS: 21 patient charts were retrospectively analyzed. Ages ranged from 5 to 91 years (mean of 58.5 years). Of these, 12 were male and 9 were female, most of them Caucasian. All lesions that led to exenteration were malignant neoplasias; however, none were metastatic. Lesions originated from eyelids in twelve patients, from bulbar conjunctiva in six and from the orbit in three. Cases were also classified as squamous cell carcinoma (eleven cases), basal cell carcinoma (four cases), sebaceous gland carcinoma (two cases), rhabdomyosarcoma (two cases), mucoepidermoid carcinoma (one case) and adnexal microcistic carcinoma (one case). Visual acuity at the moment of diagnosis ranged from 20/40 to no light perception. Only six patients had been submitted to previous surgeries related to the exenteration. After surgery, three patients suffered graft necrosis, one presented ethmoidal sinus fistula to the orbit and one presented orbital socket shrinkage. Six patients needed postoperative radiotherapy and two had been previously submitted to chemotherapy. CONCLUSION: Most patients analyzed in our study presented lesions that are usually small in the beginning; however, they can disseminate to the orbit in the absence of adequate treatment.

Keywords: Orbit evisceration; Eye enucleation; Carcinoma; squamous cell; Eye neoplasms; Neoplasm invasiveness

PURPOSE: To evaluate the efficacy of mitomycin C eye drops 0.02% concentration (0.02% MMC) in pyogenic granuloma in anophthalmic socket. METHODS: Six patients who presented pyogenic granuloma were treated with 0.02% MMC four times a day in fifteen-day cycles with intervals of fifteen days between each cycle. The patients were observed every week. RESULTS: Among the six studied patients, one presented a complete resolution of the pyogenic granuloma after a ten-day treatment with 0.02% MMC that is, before the end of the first cycle. In two patients, the treatment was successful after two weeks using 0.02% MMC (one complete cycle). In other two patients, the resolution of the lesion occurred after five weeks that is, at the beginning of the second cycle. 0.02% MMC was not successful in only one patient whose lesion persisted after two cycles of the treatment. None of the patients presented complications after the use of 0.02% MMC. CONCLUSION: The topical use of 0.02% MMC proved efficacy in the treatment of anophthalmic socket pyogenic granuloma. A small number of patients took part in this study, therefore another randomized and comparative research is necessary in order to compare the efficacy of 0.02% MMC with other drugs such as corticosteroids and antimetabolites.

Keywords: Mitomycin; Granuloma, pyogenic; Anophthalmos; Inflammation

PURPOSE: To determine which low-vision aids could be useful to patients with retinitis pigmentosa and also the benefits that the rehabilitation program could provide based on visual acuity and/or daily visual tasks. METHODS: A group of 30 patients with retinitis pigmentosa aged from 7 to 73 years were enrolled in this study. Visual acuity and visual function tests (visual field, full-field electroretinogram) was performed and low-vision aids tested. Information about the use of the remaining vision was obtained. After choosing the best optical or electronic devices and before their prescription, a low-vision training program was carried out. RESULTS: The best corrected visual acuity varied from HM (hand movements) to 20/40 for distance and visual acuity better than 16M to 0.5M for near. 90% of the patients had optical devices prescribed: 13 for near, 9 for distance, 2 electronic devices and 3 filters. Three patients with extremely narrow visual field and very low visual acuity were referred to orientation and mobility. CONCLUSIONS: The low-vision aids were useful for the retinitis pigmentosa patients: telescopes, hand-held magnifiers, stand magnifiers, half-eye base-in prism lenses, electronic devices and illumination control were beneficial to enhance visual acuity and visual efficiency. The prescription of low-vision aids was helpful in daily-life activities and a high level of satisfaction with the implemented visual rehabilitation program was reported.

Keywords: Retinitis pigmentosa; Vision, low; Visual acuity; Lenses

PURPOSE: To describe the technique and initial results of laser-assisted dacryocystorhinostomy performed through the canaliculi. METHODS: Ten patients with nasolacrimal duct obstruction underwent transcanalicular laser-assisted dacryocystorhinostomy. A silicone tube was inserted through the canaliculi and the ostium into the nasal cavity where it will be kept for 6 months. RESULTS: All ten operations were performed without negative occurrences. One patient presented displacement of the silicone tube one day after surgery. Nine of the ten patients reported disappearance of epiphora at the end of the first week following surgery. During the first month, one of these patients presented with epiphora due to obstruction of the lacrimal-nasal fistula and another lost the silicone tube in the first month following surgery. CONCLUSIONS: Transcanalicular laser-assisted dacryocystorhinostomy is a potentially useful method to perform dacryocystorhinostomy.

Keywords: Dacryocystorhinostomy; Lacrimal duct obstruction; Nasolacrimal duct; Lacrimal apparatus diseases

PURPOSE: To compare intraocular pressure (IOP) rise in normal individuals and primary open-angle glaucoma patients and the safety and efficacy of ibopamine eye drops in different concentrations as a provocative test for glaucoma. METHODS: Glaucoma patients underwent (same eye) the ibopamine provocative test with two concentrations, 1% and 2%, in a random sequence at least 3 weeks apart, but not more than 3 months. The normal individuals were randomly submitted to one of the concentrations of ibopamine (1% and 2%). The test was considered positive if there was an IOP rise greater than 3 or 4 mmHg at 30 or 45 minutes to test which subset of the test has the best sensitivity (Se)/specificity (Sp). RESULTS: There was no statistically significant difference in any of the IOP measurements, comparing 1% with 2% ibopamine. The IOP was significantly higher at 30 and 45 minutes with both concentrations (p<0.001). The best sensitivity/specificity ratio was achieved with the cutoff point set as greater than 3 mmHg at 45 minutes with 2% ibopamine (area under the ROC curve: 0.864, Se: 84.6%; Sp:73.3%). All patients described a slight burning after ibopamine's instillation. CONCLUSION: 2% ibopamine is recommended as a provocative test for glaucoma. Because both concentrations have similar ability to rise IOP, 1% ibopamine may be used to treat ocular hypotony.

Keywords: Dopamine Agonists; Glaucoma, open-angle; Intraocular pressure; Ophthalmic solutions; Sensitivity and specificity

PURPOSE: To evaluate the costs and efficacy of type A botulinum toxin in the treatment of essential blepharospasm and hemifacial spasm. METHODS: Pacients with essential blepharospasm and hemifacial spasm had their files analyzed. All patients were treated with type A botulinum toxin (Dysport®) between April 2002 and May 2004 at the Oculoplastic Clinics of "Santa Casa de São Paulo". Twenty-seven patients presented essential blepharospasm and 23 presented hemifacial spasm. Information about the patient's degree of satisfaction after treatment, complaints and personal costs were recorded by a questionnaire, and information about the costs of Dysport® treatment were obtained at the administration department of "Santa Casa de São Paulo". Wilcoxon and Mann-Whitney tests were used for statistical analysis. RESULTS: 1- The annual treatment costs were R$ 1,239.32 for essential blepharospasm and R$ 661.72 for hemifacial spasm. 2- The patient's annual costs were R$ 145.48 for essential blepharospasm and R$ 6.07 for hemifacial spasm. 3- The hospital's annual costs for the treatment were R$ 1,095.84 for essential blepharospasm and R$ 535.65 for hemifacial spasm. 4- Dysport® treatment is successful in both essential blepharospasm and hemifacial spasm. CONCLUSIONS:. The costs of essential blepharospasm and hemifacial spasm treatment with Dysport® are high, mainly because of the toxin price. On economic analysis of health, we can conclude that this procedure has an excellent cost-benefit ratio.

Keywords: Blepharospasm; Dystonia; Hemifacial spasm; Botulinum toxin type A; Botulinum toxin type A; Costs and cost analysis; Muscle spasticity

PURPOSE: To evaluate sensibility and specificity of a screening questionnaire with multivariable analysis, compare them and elaborate an artificial neural network for future screenings. METHODS: Observational, transversal study performed at UNIFESP, with 48 patients with allergic conjunctivitis and 54 children without the disease. Their age ranged between 3 and 14 years and there was no restriction related to gender, systemic allergy or treatment. The questionnaire was applied and multivariable statistical analysis was performed. Finally, an artificial neural network was elaborated. RESULTS: Mean age was 8.4 years (7-13) and male gender was more frequent (60.7%). Mean score was 10.04 (0-18), and it was higher in the study group (p<0.001). Allergic diagnosis was increased with the inclusion of the fifth question in 68.8%. Kappa coefficient was low (0.337; p=0.071) and showed no agreement between diagnosis made by the questionnaire and clinical examination. Only the question number five had good sensitivity (85.4%) and specificity (85.1%). The cutoff point to separate allergic patients was 10 (sensitivity= 77.08% and specificity= 79.63%). The artificial neural network predicted allergic diagnosis in 100% using 7 of the 15 existent items. CONCLUSIONS: An efficient model was developed using seven questions, in a manner that its application might be easy to large populations.

Keywords: Conjunctivitis; allergic; Neural networks (Computer); Questionnaires

PURPOSE: To determine whether there is a circadian change of the concentration of C-type natriuretic peptide (CNP) in rabbit aqueous humor. METHODS: Forty-one male white New Zealand rabbits were submitted to a 12 h light and 12 dark lighting schedule; lights on was at 0 h, lights off at 12 h. C-type natriuretic peptide was assayed at 3 light (2 h, 6 h and 10 h) and 3 dark (14,18 and 22 h) times. All groups consisted of four animals but two had more animals to increase the power of tests (6 h, n=12; 22 h, n=13). Dependence between the two eyes was tested by Pearson's correlation. The mean of two eyes was considered for analysis. Differences in concentration in pg/200 ml were evaluated by one-way ANOVA, t test and COSINOR analysis. RESULTS: There were no significant differences between the 6 analyzed groups (one-way ANOVA p=0.157). Pooled into two groups (light and dark), the C-type natriuretic peptide concentration of the light group was lower, 2.626±0.92 pg/200 ml compared with the dark group 3.02±1.16 pg/200 ml but did not reach a significant difference (t test; p=0.23). COSINOR analysis was not statistically significant (R%=7.72 p=0.209). CONCLUSION: These data demonstrate that the concentration of CNP in aqueous humor did not show a statistically significant circadian change in rabbits entrained to a 12 h light: 12 h dark lighting schedule.

Keywords: Natriuretic agents; Cyclic GMP; Aqueous humor; Intraocular pressure; Ocular physiology; Glaucoma; Natriuretic peptide; C-type; Circadian rhythm; Rabbits

PURPOSE: The study aimed to measure the scientific production in Ophthalmology and Vision (O&V) in Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Paraguay and Uruguay over a period of 10 years (1995-2004), in order to find out temporal evolution and variations in this field of research. METHODS: PubMed / Medline was used to retrieve records on O&V research literature. The search strategy included keywords, country in the affiliation field and publication date. Data were extracted from each citation and recorded in a spreadsheet. Subsequent analysis focused on type and main topic of publication, journals where articles had been published, and evolution of research done on animals and humans. RESULTS: A total of 1,216 citations were retrieved. Brazil had the largest number of authored publications with an average annual production of 82.4, followed by Argentina with 31.0, Chile 6.4, Uruguay 1.6, and Paraguay 0.2. The ratio of articles on O&V relative to publications involving Health Science ranged from 1.0 to 2.3. The frequency of publications almost tripled from 1995 to 2004. Research on humans showed a significant increase in Argentina and Brazil. CONCLUSIONS: Results provide initial benchmarks on O&V publication rates in countries in South America that may be useful to follow research trends.

Keywords: Bibliometrics; Research; Comparative study; Ophthalmology; South America

PURPOSE: To evaluate the influence of a blue light spectrum filter (BLSF), similar in light spectrum transmittance to the intraocular lens Acrysof NaturalTM, on standard automated perimetry (SAP) and short-wavelength automated perimetry (SWAP). METHODS: Twenty young individuals (<30 y.o.), without any systemic or ocular alterations (twenty eyes) underwent a random sequence of four Humphrey visual field tests: standard automated perimetry (SAP) and short-wavelength automated perimetry (SWAP) with and without a blue light spectrum filter. All patients had intraocular pressure lower than 21 mmHg, normal fundus biomicroscopy, and no crystalline lens opacity. Foveal threshold (FT), mean deviation (MD), and pattern standard deviation (PSD) indexes obtained from the visual field tests and the difference caused by eccentricity in short-wavelength automated perimetry examinations were analyzed using paired t test. Interindividual variability (standard deviation) was calculated using Pitman's test for correlated samples. RESULTS: Statistically significant reductions in the mean deviation (p<0.001) and in the foveal threshold (p<0.001) measured by short-wavelength automated perimetry with the use of the blue light spectrum filter in comparison to short-wavelength automated perimetry without the use of the blue light spectrum filter were observed, but not in standard automated perimetry exams. No other parameters showed statistically significant differences in the short-wavelength automated perimetry and standard automated perimetry tests. Interindividual standard deviation of the test points in the short-wavelength automated perimetry exams increased with eccentricity both with and without the use of the blue light spectrum filter, as sensitivity for inferior and superior hemifields (inferior hemifield minus superior hemifield), but no statistically significant difference in the variability when comparing the use or not of the blue light spectrum filter was noted. When comparing only the four most inferior points and the four most superior points, the inferior-superior difference increases in both situations - without and with the use of the blue light spectrum filter. The difference between without and with the use of the blue light spectrum filter was not statistically significant. CONCLUSION: Statistically significant reductions in mean deviation and foveal threshold in the short-wavelength automated perimetry with the use of the blue light spectrum filter were observed, but not in standard automated perimetry examinations. Additional studies are necessary to determine the influence of intraocular lenses with short-wavelength light filter after cataract extraction on short-wavelength automated perimetry.

Keywords: Cataract extraction; Lens implant; intraocular; Visual field; Perimetry; Lens; crystaline; Sensitivity and Specificity; Macular degeneration; Visual perception; Macula lutea

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate patient characteristics and satisfaction in an outpatient service at a university hospital, aiming at obtaining subsidies for standardization of a quality assessment program. METHOD: Patient-representative sample was selected. It consisted of users of the Ophthalmology Outpatient Service at the Hospital das Clínicas, Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP). A structured questionnaire was applied through interview, including the following variables: personal characteristics (gender, age, literacy, job), type of appointment (new patient, follow-up), waiting time for the first appointment, opinion regarding ease of access to the hospital, assistance at the front desk, time spent in the waiting room on the appointed day, quality of care, degree of satisfaction with the consultation and general evaluation of the assistance. RESULTS: The sample was characterized by patients with low literacy and socioeconomic level; 21.7% had a steady income. The majority of them think that it is easy to obtain an appointment. According to patients, the mean waiting time for the appointment was 94.6 minutes and 45.3% of them received no orientation after the appointment. Final evaluation of the quality of assistance was positive and patients were satisfied with the provided assistance. CONCLUSION: Although a high level of satisfaction regarding the provided service was observed, when the various factors that can affect patient satisfaction are considered, users reported limitations as concerns quality. Evaluation allowed a better knowledge about the provided service in a university hospital and pointed to the possibility of implantation of quality assessment routines.

Keywords: Patient satisfaction; Consumer satisfaction; Quality of health care; Health care quality; access and evaluation; Quality assurance; health care

Ophthalmoplegic migraine is a rare syndrome in which episodic fixed unilateral headaches are associated with ipsilateral ophthalmoplegia. Its physiopathology remains obscure. We describe a case in a patient with ophthalmoplegic migraine diagnosed according to the International Headache Society (IH-2004) criteria, who showed an unusual clinical presentation. The first ophthalmoplegic migraine episode occurred in adult life. Pain side changed in one episode. Oculomotor abnormalities were painless during the last crisis. Since diagnosis is made by exclusion, differential diagnosis and need for etiologic investigation are discussed.

Keywords: Migraine; Opthalmoplegia; Magnetic resonance imaging; Headache; Ocular motility disorders; Case reports

A case of anterior internal ophthalmomyiasis is described. A 27-year-old female from Northern Brazil presenting with anterior uveitis and vitritis had a fly larva surgically removed from the anterior chamber of the left eye. The species was Cochliomyia hominivorax. The larva was covered by macrophages and foreign body giant cells characterizing a foreign body granulomatous reaction.

Keywords: Myiasis; Anterior chamber; Screw worm infection; Diptera; Case reports

The congenital optic disc pit is a rare anomaly that can lead to major visual impairment associated with subretinal fluid accumulation. The authors describe the optical coherence tomography study of three cases of untreated congenital optic disc pits with different levels of visual impairment and its different presentations of intraretinal fluid collections.

Keywords: Tomography, optical coherence; Optic disk; Optic disk; Retinal detachment; Retinal detachment

Intralenticular foreign bodies comprise about 5% to 10% of all intraocular foreign bodies and can result in serious complications. The management depends on some factors like size, location, material type and the risk of infection. We present a patient with an intralenticular metal foreign body in the left eye that, following initial treatment with topical steroid and antibiotic, underwent lens aspiration with removal of the intralenticular foreign body and insertion of a posterior chamber intraocular lens with good visual outcome.

Keywords: Eye foreign bodies; Eye injuries, penetrating; Lens, crystalline; Lens implantation; intraocular; Case reports

The authors present a report of a 44-year-old female patient, with complaints of visual disturbances in the left eye. The symptoms were present for at least 5 years and worsened in the last 2 years, impairing her activities. The patient reported perception of a floating circle, which blurred her vision. There was no previous history of trauma, infectious or inflammatory disease. Clinical evaluation included physical examination, laboratory testing, abdominal ultrasonography, thorax X-ray and head tomography. Ophthalmologic examination consisted of visual acuity, motility tests, biomicroscopy, tonometry and indirect ophthalmoscopy. Complementary investigation was done with a and b scan ocular ultrasonography. The chosen therapeutic approach to excise the cyst was pars plana vitrectomy, successfully performed. Anatomopathologic analysis revealed a pigmented vitreous cyst, of possible congenital origin, described as a cystic choristoma from the primitive hyaloid system. Benign evolution, clinical findings and histopathological analysis corroborated the diagnostic hypothesis of a cystic choristoma of the primitive hyaloid system. Surgery (pars plana vitrectomy) was successful and the patient returned with visual acuity of 20/20 in both eyes, and with no further complaints.

Keywords: Vitreous body; Choristoma; Vitrectomy

Age-related macular degeneration (ARMD) remains a leading cause of blindness in the western world. Several clinical forms of the disease are recognized, whereas choroidal neovascularization (CNV) represents an important manifestation suitable for treatment. The treatment of CNV has been a major focus of research in the past decades, and the first evidence-based established therapy was laser photocoagulation, which reduces the risk of visual loss in extrafoveal lesions. In the late 90's photodynamic therapy has been established as an efficient method for the treatment of predominantly classic and occult CNV. Additional therapies such as macular translocation, submacular surgery, and indocyanine-mediated prothrombosis are currently under investigation in large-scale clinical trials. Molecular biology has recently provided a better comprehension of the pathogenesis of ARMD, and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) was recognized as key mediator in the angiogenesis of CNV-formation. Therefore, the pharmacological approach rose as a key research area to treat CNV. The first FDA-approved agent for CNV-therapy is aptamer pegaptanib sodium (Macugen®), which inactivates the key angiogenic isoform VEGF165. Additional VEGF-blockers such as ranibizumab RhuFab V2 (Lucentis®) and bevacizumab (Avastin®) are under evaluation in major clinical studies. Impressive results of intravitreal bevacizumab were released recently. Moreover, the steroid-derived anecortave acetate as well as the corticosteroid triamcinolone acetate have been proposed as methods for treatment of wet-ARMD. This paper presents the rationale and principles of the pharmacologic antiangiogenic therapy for CNV in ARMD.

Keywords: Macular degeneration; Retinal neovascularization; Vascular endothelial growth factor; Angiogenesis inhibitors

Evaluation of the chromatic sense has a great value in ophthalmic practice, both for diagnosis of the congenital defects (daltonism), as well as for diagnosis and follow-up of acquired defects. Many clinical tests are available to be used for this purpose. However it is necessary to know the details and sensitivity of each test, since there are many variations in the results, depending on the searched condition, if congenital or acquired pathologies. Our goal is to review the types of defects of the chromatic sense and provide information about the main current available tests and their best purpose. We further emphasize the importance of standard illumination procedure in the application of the tests.

Keywords: Color vision defects; Color perception; Light; Color perception tests; Vision tests; Eye