JAMA ophthalmology
-
Cataracts are a main cause of low vision; with the growing elderly population, the incidence of cataracts is likely to increase. Investigators have previously hypothesized that statin antioxidant effects may slow the natural aging process of the lens. ⋯ The risk for cataract is increased among statin users as compared with nonusers. The risk-benefit ratio of statin use, specifically for primary prevention, should be carefully weighed, and further studies are warranted.
-
A validated questionnaire that assesses symptoms and the effect of dry eye disease (DED) on the patient's daily life is needed to evaluate the condition. ⋯ The DEQS questionnaire is valid and reliable for evaluating the multifaceted effect of DED on the patient's daily life, including mental health, and it can be used easily in routine clinical practice.
-
The French Impressionist painter Edgar Degas had progressive visual loss from a type of maculopathy during the last 40 years of his life. The effects of this visual failure are evident in a comparison of early and later pastels, which shows a loss of precision in outlining, shading, and detail over the years. ⋯ Computer simulations show Degas' own view of this painting at each of these times and demonstrate how his style changed: details became rougher and larger in correspondence with his failing acuity. The painting is an eye chart of his career.
-
Multicenter Study
Baseline factors predictive of visual prognosis in acute postoperative bacterial endophthalmitis in patients undergoing cataract surgery.
Although rare, postoperative endophthalmitis in patients undergoing cataract surgery can lead to anatomical or functional loss of the eye. Therapeutic strategies such as antibiotic prophylaxis and microbiological diagnosis are more effective with a target patient population. New prospective data are needed to identify prognostic factors. ⋯ Most clinical outcome factors in acute postoperative endophthalmitis can be identified at presentation. The bacterial virulence level is the main factor predictive of the final visual prognosis.