This week in optometry: December 18-December 22

Catch up with what Optometry Times shared this week:

New protocols and technological processes may offer advanced characterization for choroidal nevus

By Leo P. Semes, OD, FAAO

This article presents a case study of a White patient who sought a second opinion after being diagnosed with a freckle in one eye. The patient, in good health, had a pigmented lesion in her left eye diagnosed as a choroidal nevus. Over a year of follow-up visits, the lesion remained unchanged, aligning with the characteristics of a benign nevus.

This article explores the challenges in distinguishing pigmented fundus lesions, discussing historical perspectives and evolving mnemonics. It emphasizes the importance of advanced imaging modalities and emerging technologies in accurate characterization and monitoring of choroidal nevi, highlighting the rarity of their conversion to melanoma.

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Biofilm busting 101

By Ada Noh, OD; Srinivas Kondapalli, MD

Ocular surface biofilms play significant roles in the pathophysiology in ocular surface diseases, including dry eye. In general, biofilms describe groups of microorganisms, including bacteria, which produce a matrix that allows for its propagation. Bacterial biofilms have unique structures and microenvironments that evade traditional methods of eradication.

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Revolutionizing dry eye care with shorter-duration cryopreserved amniotic membrane therapy

By Damon Dierker, OD, FAAO; Emily Kaiser Maharjan, Assistant Managing Editor

In this illuminating interview, Damon Dierker, OD, FAAO, discusses the groundbreaking potential of sutureless cryopreserved amniotic membrane therapy for moderate to severe dry eye.

Dierker highlights findings from the DREAM study, showcasing the remarkable durability and efficacy of a single placement for up to three months. Notably, he reveals compelling data indicating that a shorter treatment duration of just 2 days can yield equivalent benefits, reshaping clinical recommendations and enhancing patient convenience.

As the conversation unfolds, Dierker foresees a transformative impact in 2024, with regenerative therapy playing a crucial role in addressing conditions like neurotrophic keratitis and persistent corneal staining.

Watch the interview...

Investigating the eye-kidney connection via OCT retinal scans

By Lynda Charters

UK investigators identified a link between the findings in the eye seen on optical coherence tomography (OCT) scans and patients with chronic kidney disease. Lead author led by Tariq E. Farrah, BM, BSc, is from Edinburgh Kidney, University/BHF Centre for Cardiovascular Science, The Queen’s Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, and the Department of Renal Medicine, Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK.

The research team pointed out the need for novel biomarkers that reliably track kidney injury, demonstrate a treatment response, and predict outcomes in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). This knowledge would be useful in optometric practices to participate in the care of patients with CKD.

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Harnessing digital media for enhanced patient engagement and outcomes

By Bela Parekh, BA, BS; Imane Tarib, MD

In recent years, the landscape of patient education in the field of eye care has undergone a significant transformation, thanks to the rapid advancement of digital media and smartphone applications. The paradigm shift has led to enhanced engagement and the integration of technology into the doctor-patient relationship, which has translated into improved subjective patient outcomes through improved patient understanding of disease. We have witnessed these improvements in different patient populations.