Dark and white lesions observed in central serous chorioretinopathy on optical coherence tomography angiography.

PubMed

De Bats, Flore; Cornut, Pierre-Loïc; Wolff, Benjamin; Kodjikian, Laurent; Mauget-Faÿsse, Martine

2018-03-01

To describe abnormal dark (hyposignal) and white (hypersignal) lesions observed on optical coherence tomography angiography in central serous chorioretinopathy. Prospective, multicenter, and descriptive study including patients with active or quiescent central serous chorioretinopathy. All patients had undergone a complete ophthalmic examination. Abnormal dark lesions were detected as "dark spots" and "dark areas" on optical coherence tomography angiography. A "dark spot" could correspond to six different abnormalities: pigment epithelium detachment, subretinal deposit, "Lucency" within surrounding subretinal fibrin, choroidal cavitation, choroidal excavation, and choroidal fluid. A "dark area" could be related to a serous retinal detachment or choriocapillary compression. Abnormal white lesions were also detected: A "white spot" could correspond with the leaking point on fluorescein angiography or with hyper-reflective dots; A "white filamentous pattern" at the Brüch's membrane level corresponded to abnormal choroidal neovascular vessels. A semiology is described using optical coherence tomography angiography in central serous chorioretinopathy as abnormal dark and white lesions. Multimodal imaging is mandatory in addition to optical coherence tomography angiography to diagnose non-neovascular retinal and choroidal central serous chorioretinopathy lesions. However, optical coherence tomography angiography alone is helpful in detecting choroidal neovascular membrane in central serous chorioretinopathy.

Electron microscopic demonstration of hormone-producing metastatic carcinoma of the choroid from the bronchus.

PubMed

Amemiya, T; Nomura, S

1975-01-01

Clinical, laboratory and pathological findings of a patient in bronchial carcinoma with choroidal metastasis were presented. X-ray examination of the chest suggested the tumor shadow in the posterior segmental bronchus of the right upper lobe of the lung (r-B2b), while funduscopy and fluorescein angiography revealed the presence of choroidal tumor. ACTH levels in tumor tissues at autopsy and in serum were measured and definitely demonstrated and elevated. Histopathologically, the primary lesion was r-B2b and diagnosed as a mucocellular type of adenocarcinoma. The choroidal lesion was metastatic carcinoma. Electron microscopic examination of the choroidal lesion reembedded for electron microscopy from celloidin-embedded materials for light microscopy could reveal the presence of characteristic cytoplasmic granules referred to as neurosecretory-type granules. It is extremely rare that a hormone-producing metastatic carcinoma of the choroid from the bronchus has been proved.

Evaluation of focal choroidal excavation in the macula using swept-source optical coherence tomography

PubMed Central

Lim, F P M; Loh, B K; Cheung, C M G; Lim, L S; Chan, C M; Wong, D W K

2014-01-01

Purpose To evaluate imaging findings of patients with focal choroidal excavation (FCE) in the macula using swept-source optical coherence tomography (SS-OCT) and correlate it clinically. Methods Prospective observational case series. Eleven consecutive patients (12 eyes) with FCE were described. Data on demographics and clinical presentation were collected and imaging findings (including color photography, fundus autofluorescence imaging, fluorescein angiography, indocyanine green angiography, spectral-domain optical coherence tomography, and SS-OCT) were analyzed. Results The primary diagnosis was epiretinal membrane (two eyes), choroidal neovascularization (one eye), polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy (three eyes), central serous chorioretinopathy (one eye), and dry age-related macular degeneration (two eyes). Eleven out of 12 of the lesions were conforming. One presented with a non-conforming lesion that progressed to a conforming lesion. One eye had multiFCE and two had two overlapping choroidal excavations. Using the SS-OCT, we found the choroid to be thinned out at the area of FCE but sclera remained normal. The choroidal tissue beneath the FCE was abnormal, with high internal reflectivity and poor visualization of choroidal vessels. There was loss of contour of the outer choroidal boundary that appeared to be pulled inward by this abnormal choroidal tissue. A suprachoroidal space was noted beneath this choroidal tissue and the choroidal–scleral interface was smooth. Repeat SS-OCT 6 months after presentation showed the area of excavation to be stable in size. Conclusion FCE can be associated with epiretinal membrane, central serous chorioretinopathy, and age-related macular degeneration. The choroid was thinned out in the area of FCE. PMID:24946847

Multifocal choroiditis - an unusual finding in Crohns disease.

PubMed

Vianna, R N G; Ozdal, P C; Deschnes, J

To report a patient with Crohns disease and acute decreased vision in one eye secondary to multifocal choroiditis and serous retinal detachment. A complete ocular examination, including fluorescein angiography, was performed. Fundus biomicroscopy disclosed multifocal, deep, discretely elevated yellowish lesions at the posterior pole of the affected eye. Fluorescein angiographic study of these lesions revealed early hypofluorescence followed by late yperfluorescence. Subtenonian injection of corticosteroids rapidly induced remission of the choroidal lesions. Chorioretinal involvement in patients with Crohns disease may or may not be related to reactivation of this disorder. Therefore, even patients without gastrointestinal symptoms who present with posterior segment inflammation must be informed of this. The chorioretinal inflammatory lesions do seem to respond promptly to periocular injection of corticosteroids. (Eur J Ophthalmol 2004; 14: 345-9).

Choroidal and skin metastases from colorectal cancer.

PubMed

Ha, Joo Young; Oh, Edward Hynseung; Jung, Moon Ki; Park, Song Ee; Kim, Ji Tak; Hwang, In Gyu

2016-11-21

Choroidal and skin metastasis of colon cancer is rare. In women, the frequency of cutaneous metastasis from colon cancer as the primary lesion in is 9% and skin metastasis occurs in 0.81% of all colorectal cancers. We report a patient with colonic adenocarcinoma who presented with visual disorder in her right eye and scalp pain as her initial symptoms. Contrast-enhance orbital magnetic resonance imaging with fat suppression revealed an infrabulbar mass, and skin biopsy of the posterior parietal scalp confirmed adenocarcinoma. These symptoms were diagnosed as being caused by choroidal and skin metastases of colonic adenocarcinoma. We started palliative chemotherapy with oral capecitabine (1000 mg/m 2 , twice a day, on days 1-14) every 3 wk, which was effective at shrinking the brain masses and improving the visual disorder. This is the first report that capecitabine is effective at reducing a choroidal and cutaneous metastatic lesion from right-sided colorectal cancer.

Sarcoid granuloma of the choroid.

PubMed

Marcus, D F; Bovino, J A; Burton, T C

1982-12-01

Two patients were found to have macular choroidal granulomas associated with systemic sarcoidosis. This unusual fundus picture was documented by serial fundus photography and fluorescein angiography. Both patients had a similar clinical picture of decreased vision, chorioretinal granulomas, and overlying neurosensory detachments. Staining of the inflammatory mass with fluorescein and leakage of dye into the neurosensory space was typical. Lymph node biopsies were performed to substantiate the diagnosis. Both patients responded promptly to systemic corticosteroid therapy with dramatic improvement in visual acuity and resolution of the choroidal lesions.

A pilot quantitative study of topographic correlation between reticular pseudodrusen and the choroidal vasculature using en face optical coherence tomography.

PubMed

Grewal, Dilraj S; Chou, Jonathan; Rollins, Stuart D; Fawzi, Amani A

2014-01-01

To analyze the topographic correlation between reticular pseudodrusen (RPD) visualized on infrared reflectance (IR) and choroidal vasculature using en-face volumetric spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT). A masked observer marked individual RPD on IR images using ImageJ (NIH, Bethesda, MD). Using the macular volume scan (Cirrus, Carl Zeiss Meditec Inc, Dublin, CA), the RPE slab function was used to generate a C-scan of the most superficial choroidal vasculature. An independent masked grader created a topographic binary map of the choroidal vasculature by thresholding the en-face image, which was overlaid onto the IR map of RPD. For each IR image, ImageJ was used to generate a random set of dots as "control lesions". 17 eyes of 11 patients (78±13.7 years) with RPD were analyzed. The average number of RPD lesions identified on IR images was 414±71.5, of which 49.6±4.3% were located overlying the choroidal vasculature, compared to 45.4±4.0% in controls (p = 0.014). 50.4±4.3% of lesions overlay the choroidal stroma, of which 76.5±3.1% were ≤3 pixels from the choroidal vessels. The percentage of RPD lesions located within ≤3 pixels from the choroidal vasculature was significantly greater than the percentage located ≥7 pixels away. (p<0.0001). Compared to controls (71.6±3.8%), RPD were more likely to be located ≤3 pixels away from choroidal vessels (p = 0.014). In contrast, control lesions were more likely to be ≥7 pixels away from choroidal vessels than RPD (9.1±1.9% vs. 4.8±1.2%, respectively, p = 0.002). Our analysis shows that RPD lesions follow the underlying choroidal vasculature. Approximately half the RPD directly overlay the choroidal vessels and the majority of the remaining lesions were ≤3 pixels (≤30 microns) from the vessel edge, supporting the hypothesis that RPD maybe related to pathologic changes at the choroidal level.

Bilateral choroidal osteomas associated with fatal systemic illness.

PubMed

Kline, L B; Skalka, H W; Davidson, J D; Wilmes, F J

1982-02-01

An 11-year-old black boy complained of intermittent occipital headaches with nausea and projectile vomiting. Previous skin and lung biopsy specimens were interpreted as histiocytosis X. Cranial computed tomographic scanning disclosed a mass lesion in the region of the choroid plexus of the left lateral ventricle. This was surgically removed but proved nondiagnostic despite extensive histologic examination. An ophthalmologic evaluation showed discrete, elevated, yellow-white choroidal tumors in both maculas. The ophthalmoscopic appearance, as well as ultrasonography and computed tomography, led to the diagnosis of choroidal osteomas.

Presumed choroidal metastasis of Merkel cell carcinoma

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Small, K.W.; Rosenwasser, G.O.; Alexander, E. III

1990-05-01

Merkel cell carcinoma is a rare skin tumor of neural crest origin and is part of the amine precursor uptake and decarboxylase system. It typically occurs on the face of elderly people. Distant metastasis is almost uniformly fatal. Choroidal metastasis, to our knowledge, has not been described. We report a patient with Merkel cell carcinoma who had a synchronous solid choroidal tumor and a biopsy-proven brain metastasis. Our 56-year-old patient presented with a rapidly growing, violaceous preauricular skin tumor. Computed tomography of the head disclosed incidental brain and choroidal tumors. Light and electron microscopy of biopsy specimens of both themore » skin and the brain lesions showed Merkel cell carcinoma. Ophthalmoscopy, fluorescein angiography, and A and B echography revealed a solid choroidal mass. The brain and skin tumors responded well to irradiation. A radioactive episcleral plaque was applied subsequently to the choroidal tumor. All tumors regressed, and the patient was doing well 28 months later. To our knowledge this is the first case of presumed choroidal metastasis of Merkel cell carcinoma.« less

Effects of Human Recombinant PEDF Protein and PEDF-Derived Peptide 34-mer on Choroidal Neovascularization

PubMed Central

Amaral, Juan

2010-01-01

Purpose. Pigment epithelium-derived factor (PEDF) is a serpin with antiangiogenic properties. Previously, the authors showed that PEDF injected into the subconjunctiva reaches the choroid. Here, they examined the effects of PEDF polypeptide fragments on vessel sprouting and on choroidal neovascularization (CNV) after subconjunctival administration. Methods. Recombinant human PEDF (rhuPEDF) was cleaved at its serpin-exposed loop by limited chymotrypsin proteolysis. Synthetic PEDF peptides 34-mer (Asp44-Asn77) and 44-mer (Val78-Thr121) were used. Ex vivo chick aortic vessel sprouting assays were performed. CNV was induced in rats by laser injury of Bruch's membrane. Daily subconjunctival injections (0.01–10 pmol/d protein) were performed for 5 days starting at day of injury or at the seventh day after injury. New vessel volumes were quantified using optical sections of choroid/RPE flat-mounts labeled with isolectin-Ib4. PEDF distribution was evaluated by immunofluorescence of choroid/RPE/retina cross-sections. Results. Full-length rhuPEDF, cleaved rhuPEDF, or peptide 34-mer exhibited ex vivo antiangiogenic activity, but peptide 44-mer was inefficient. PEDF immunostaining around CNV lesions diminished after laser injury. Subconjunctival administration of rhuPEDF or 34-mer at 0.1 pmol/d decreased CNV lesion volumes by 52% and 47%, respectively, whereas those of 44-mer were similar to vehicle injections. Doses of 0.1 and 1 pmol/d rhuPEDF decreased fully developed CNV complex volumes by 45% and 50%, respectively, compared with vehicle injections. Conclusions. A functional region for the inhibition of vessel sprouting and CNV resides within the 34-mer region of PEDF. Furthermore, subconjunctival administration of optimal range dosages of rhuPEDF or 34-mer can suppress and regress rat CNV lesions, demonstrating that these agents reach the choroid/RPE complex as functionally active molecules. PMID:19850839

Successful treatment of toxoplasmosis-associated choroidal neovascular lesions with bevacizumab and antiparasitic therapy.

PubMed

Lin, Chun-Ju; Chen, San-Ni; Hwang, Jiunn-Feng; Hu, Pei-Shin

2011-01-01

To report the effects of oral trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole and intravitreal bevacizumab injection in the treatment of ocular toxoplasmosis-associated choroidal neovascular lesions (CNV). This was a noncomparative, nonrandomized, consecutive case series. All eyes with ocular toxoplasmosis-associated CNV received one intravitreal bevacizumab injection under the coverage of oral trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole. The changes in best-corrected visual acuity were recorded. Serial fundus photography, fluorescein angiography, optical coherence tomography, and indocyanine green angiography were performed to measure the treatment efficacy. Three eyes of two patients with a history of ocular toxoplasmosis had active CNV demonstrated by fluorescein angiography and optical coherence tomography. Each was treated with oral trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole and one intravitreal bevacizumab injection. Best-corrected visual acuity, fundus photographs, fluorescein angiography, optical coherence tomography, and indocyanine green angiography all showed favorable results. No ocular or systemic complications were noted. In all three eyes, the CNV subsided and vision improved. Oral trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole is an effective and less expensive antibiotic against Toxoplasma gondii. Intravitreal bevacizumab injection appears to be a well-tolerated treatment for toxoplasmosis-associated CNV and has the potential as an adjuvant therapy to improve final vision. More cases and further studies are required.

Adaptive Optics of Small Choroidal Melanoma.

PubMed

Rodrigues, Murilo W; Say, Emil A; Shields, Carol L; Jorge, Rodrigo

2017-04-01

The authors report the use of an adaptive optics (AO) system in an asymptomatic patient with small choroidal melanoma. A noninvasive, novel assessment that detected potential photoreceptor abnormalities in the retina overlying the choroidal lesion and adjacent retina is presented. These findings may help current clinical evaluation to monitor structural damage to the outer retina and possibly justify earlier intervention in borderline cases. Future research is warranted to recognize full potential of this imaging modality. [Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina. 2017;48:354-357.]. Copyright 2017, SLACK Incorporated.

Varix of the vortex vein ampulla simulating choroidal melanoma: report of four cases.

PubMed

Gündüz, K; Shields, C L; Shields, J A

1998-01-01

Varix of the vortex vein ampulla is a condition that can cause diagnostic confusion with choroidal melanoma. A case series review was performed from the Ocular Oncology Service, Wills Eye Hospital. In all four cases, the patients were referred with the diagnosis of a small choroidal melanoma. The lesions were located in the nasal quadrant of the fundus near the equator. One patient had two lesions in the same quadrant. In all cases, the fundus lesion became more prominent when the eye gazed in the direction of the lesion and diminished in primary gaze. The mass measured up to 6.0 mm in base diameter and 2.5 mm in thickness in proper gaze. B-scan ultrasonography showed acoustic solidity and gaze-evoked dynamic enlargement of the lesion. Indocyanine green angiography demonstrated early pooling of dye and gaze-evoked fluctuation of the hyperfluorescence in the lesion. Color Doppler imaging, performed in one patient, showed a vascular lesion of venous origin that filled when the eye was placed in the direction of the lesion. Varix of the vortex vein is a condition that should be considered in the differential diagnosis of equatorial small choroidal melanoma. The dynamic nature of the lesion is characteristic and diagnostic.

Choroid plexus papillomas: advances in molecular biology and understanding of tumorigenesis.

PubMed

Safaee, Michael; Oh, Michael C; Bloch, Orin; Sun, Matthew Z; Kaur, Gurvinder; Auguste, Kurtis I; Tihan, Tarik; Parsa, Andrew T

2013-03-01

Choroid plexus papillomas are rare, benign tumors originating from the choroid plexus. Although generally found within the ventricular system, they can arise ectopically in the brain parenchyma or disseminate throughout the neuraxis. We sought to review recent advances in our understanding of the molecular biology and oncogenic pathways associated with this disease. A comprehensive PubMed literature review was conducted to identify manuscripts discussing the clinical, molecular, and genetic features of choroid plexus papillomas. Articles concerning diagnosis, treatment, and long-term patient outcomes were also reviewed. The introduction of atypical choroid plexus papilloma as a distinct entity has increased the need for accurate histopathologic diagnosis. Advances in immunohistochemical staining have improved our ability to differentiate choroid plexus papillomas from other intracranial tumors or metastatic lesions using combinations of key markers and mitotic indices. Recent findings have implicated Notch3 signaling, the transcription factor TWIST1, platelet-derived growth factor receptor, and the tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand pathway in choroid plexus papilloma tumorigenesis. A combination of commonly occurring chromosomal duplications and deletions has also been identified. Surgical resection remains the standard of care, although chemotherapy and radiotherapy may be considered for recurrent or metastatic lesions. While generally considered benign, these tumors possess a complex biology that sheds insight into other choroid plexus tumors, particularly malignant choroid plexus carcinomas. Improving our understanding of the molecular biology, genetics, and oncogenic pathways associated with this tumor will allow for the development of targeted therapies and improved outcomes for patients with this disease.

SOLITARY IDIOPATHIC CHOROIDITIS IN THE SETTING OF EXTENSIVE ANIMAL EXPOSURE.

PubMed

Kumar, Vivek; Khoo, Chloe T L; Shields, Carol L

2016-01-01

To describe solitary idiopathic choroiditis in the setting of extensive animal exposure. A 56-year-old asymptomatic female equestrian with an extensive history of exposure to horses and dogs and a trapper of wild animals and rodents was discovered to have an amelanotic choroidal mass in the macular region and referred for suspicious atypical nevus. Funduscopy revealed a deep yellow mass with overlying retinal pigment epithelial thinning and without visible subretinal fluid or lipofuscin. Mild hyperautofluorescence represented unmasking of scleral autofluorescence. Ultrasonography showed a 1.8-mm-thick echodense lesion. Enhanced depth imaging-optical coherence tomography disclosed a dense, elevated scleral mass with "volcanic" configuration, demonstrating choroidal compression and trace overlying subretinal fluid. These features were consistent with solitary idiopathic choroiditis/scleritis. Systemic evaluation for standard cat-related bartonellosis, tuberculosis, sarcoidosis, and syphilis were negative. Horse-, dog-, and rodent-related bartonellosis testing was not available. Observation was advised, and the findings remained stable at 6 months. Solitary idiopathic choroiditis is best imaged on enhanced depth imaging-optical coherence tomography as a scleral lesion with "volcanic" configuration and often secondary to previous Bartonella infection. Serologic positivity for cat-related Bartonella decays over time, and testing for horse-, dog-, or rodent-related Bartonella is not commonly used.

Why choroid vessels appear dark in clinical OCT images

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kirby, Mitchell A.; Li, Chenxi; Choi, Woo June; Gregori, Giovanni; Rosenfeld, Philip; Wang, Ruikang

2018-02-01

With the onset of clinically available spectral domain (SD-OCT) and swept source (SS-OCT) systems, clinicians are now easily able to recognize sub retinal microstructure and vascularization in the choroidal and scleral regions. As the bloodrich choroid supplies nutrients to the upper retinal layers, the ability to monitor choroid function accurately is of vital importance for clinical assessment of retinal health. However, the physical appearance of the choroid blood vessels (darker under a healthy Retinal Pigmented Epithelium (RPE) compared to regions displaying an RPE atrophic lesion) has led to confusion within the OCT ophthalmic community. The differences in appearance between each region in the OCT image may be interpreted as different vascular patterns when the vascular networks are in fact very similar. To explain this circumstance, we simulate light scattering phenomena in the RPE and Choroid complexes using the finite difference time domain (FDTD) method. The simulation results are then used to describe and validate imaging features in a controlled multi-layered tissue phantom designed to replicate human RPE, choroid, and whole blood microstructure. Essentially, the results indicate that the strength of the OCT signal from choroidal vasculature is dependent on the health and function of the RPE, and may not necessarily directly reflect the health and function of the choroidal vasculature.

Fundus autofluorescence, optical coherence tomography, and electroretinogram findings in choroidal sclerosis.

PubMed

Hwang, John C; Kim, David Y; Chou, Chai Lin; Tsang, Stephen H

2010-01-01

The purpose of this study was to describe fundus autofluorescence (FAF), optical coherence tomography, and electroretinogram findings in choroidal sclerosis. This is a retrospective case series. Eight eyes of four patients with choroidal sclerosis were evaluated with FAF, optical coherence tomography, and electroretinogram testing. In all eight eyes, FAF imaging showed hypofluorescent placoid lesions corresponding to areas of chorioretinal atrophy seen on stereo biomicroscopy. Prominent hyperfluorescent linear markings underlying regions of atrophic disease were observed in all eyes, likely representative of normal choroidal vessel autofluorescence. In two eyes, FAF showed punctate hypofluorescent lesions in the fovea that were not visualized on biomicroscopy. In one eye, FAF identified a central island of preserved retinal pigment epithelium that was not realized on ophthalmoscopic examination. Optical coherence imaging was significant for loss of choroidal fine tubular structures, retinal pigment epithelium, and outer nuclear layer in regions of chorioretinal atrophy. Full-field electroretinogram testing showed generalized rod-cone dysfunction in all patients with a lower B- to A-wave ratio in two patients. Fundus autofluorescence and optical coherence tomography are nonin-vasive diagnostic adjuncts that can aid in the diagnosis of choroidal sclerosis. Fundus autofluorescence may be a more sensitive marker of disease extent and progression than clinical examination alone. Electroretinogram testing can result in an electronegative maximal response.

Clinical profile, treatment, and visual outcome of ampiginous choroiditis.

PubMed

Jyotirmay, Biswas; Jafferji, Shafiq S; Sudharshan, Sridharan; Kalpana, Badami

2010-01-01

To report the clinical profile and management of patients diagnosed to have ampiginous choroiditis in a tertiary care referral centre in India. Retrospective cohort study. Twenty-six eyes of 16 patients were included in the study, which was diagnosed as choroiditis, serpiginous choroiditis, and acute posterior multifocal placoid pigment epitheliopathy (APMPPE) or ampiginous choroiditis. Those who were initially diagnosed as having other forms of choroiditis were later classified as having ampiginous choroiditis clinically. Systemic steroids and immunosuppressives were the mainstay of therapy. There was a male preponderance (7:3). Age at presentation ranged from 22 years to 57 years with a (median 34 years); 81% had bilateral involvement and 35% had recurrences. Vision improved or maintained in 24 eyes, whereas it deteriorated in 2 eyes due to subretinal fibrosis and macula involvement, respectively. Resolution of lesions and improvement or stability of vision can occur with administration of timely steroids and immunosuppressive therapy. Regular follow-up is necessary to monitor the disease progression, recurrences, and involvement of the other eye. Ampiginous choroiditis is a separate disease entity due to its distinct clinical features. It is a disease with multiple relapses, which can be effectively controlled with a combination of immunosuppressive therapy, and a good visual acuity can be maintained on long-term follow-up.

Suppression of Experimental Choroidal Neovascularization by Curcumin in Mice

PubMed Central

Xie, Ping; Zhang, WeiWei; Yuan, Songtao; Chen, Zhiqiang; Yang, Qin; Yuan, DongQing; Wang, Feng; Liu, QingHuai

2012-01-01

Purpose To investigate the effects of curcumin on the development of experimental choroidal neovascularization (CNV) with underlying cellular and molecular mechanisms. Methods C57BL/6N mice were pretreated with intraperitoneal injections of curcumin daily for 3 days prior to laser-induced CNV, and the drug treatments were continued until the end of the study. The CNV area was analyzed by fluorescein-labeled dextran angiography of retinal pigment epithelium (RPE)-choroid flat mounts on day 7 and 14, and CNV leakage was evaluated by fluorescein angiography (FA) on day 14 after laser photocoagulation. The infiltration of F4/80 positive macrophages and GR-1 positive granulocytes were evaluated by immunohistochemistry on RPE-choroid flat mounts on day 3. Their expression in RPE-choroid complex was quantified by real-time PCR (F4/80) and Western blotting (GR-1) on day 3. RPE-choroid levels of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, monocyte chemotactic protein (MCP)-1, and intercellular adhesion molecule (ICAM)-1 were examined by ELISA on day 3. Double immunostaining of F4/80 and VEGF was performed on cryo-sections of CNV lesions on day 3. The expression of nuclear factor (NF)-κB and hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF)−1α in the RPE-choroid was determined by Western blotting. Results Curcumin-treated mice had significantly less CNV area (P<0.05) and CNV leakage (P<0.001) than vehicle-treated mice. Curcumin treatment led to significant inhibition of F4/80 positive macrophages (P<0.05) and GR-1 positive granulocytes infiltration (P<0.05). VEGF mainly expressed in F4/80 positive macrophages in laser injury sites, which was suppressed by curcumin treatment (P<0.01). Curcumin inhibited the RPE-choroid levels of TNF-α (P<0.05), MCP-1 (P<0.05) and ICAM-1 (P<0.05), and suppressed the activation of NF-κB in nuclear extracts (P<0.05) and the activation of HIF−1α (P<0.05). Conclusion Curcumin treatment led to the suppression of CNV development

A case of primary choroidal malignant melanoma in a cat.

PubMed

Bourguet, Aurélie; Piccicuto, Virginie; Donzel, Elise; Carlus, Marine; Chahory, Sabine

2015-07-01

This report describes the clinical presentation, diagnosis, histological lesions, and prognosis of a primary choroidal malignant melanoma in a 15-year-old cat. The animal was presented for unilateral blindness. On ocular examination, a raised pigmented mass protruding from the posterior pole into the vitreous body was observed by diffuse transillumination and indirect ophthalmoscopy. Ocular ultrasound and computer tomography (CT) scan confirmed localization of the tumor to the posterior segment. The diagnosis of primary choroidal melanoma was confirmed by histopathology after enucleation. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of a feline malignant melanoma with a primary choroidal localization without iris involvement. © 2014 American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists.

Prevalence of choroidal nevus and retinal pigment epithelial alterations in vitiligo patients.

PubMed

Fleissig, Efrat; Pavlovksy, Mor; Loewenstein, Anat; Zur, Dinah; Newman, Hadas; Keren, Shay; Goldenberg, Dafna; Bar-Ilan, Efrat; Goldstein, Michaella

2018-05-01

To investigate ocular manifestations in patients with vitiligo by multimodal imaging, including optical coherence tomography (OCT), color fundus photography, and fundus autofluorescence (FAF). In this prospective, observational clinical study, vitiligo patients underwent ophthalmologic and dermatologic clinical assessment and imaging by spectral-domain OCT, FAF, and color fundus imaging. Ocular echography was performed as indicated. Statistical analysis was performed using paired T test and Pearson correlation. A total of 61 eyes of 31 vitiligo patients were examined. Ocular findings consisted of choroidal nevi (n = 10, 32%), of which four (40%) were bilateral; two patients (6.5%) had a prominent choroidal pattern, two (6.5%) had hypopigmentary retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) lesions, and one (3.2%) had peripapillary atrophy of the RPE. Choroidal nevi were demonstrated only in eyes of patients with generalized vitiligo and were more common with upper body involvement (p = 0.02) and more prevalent in women (p = 0.02). Hypopigmentary lesions were detected in two patients and demonstrated on OCT as RPE atrophy and as photoreceptor/RPE changes. In this case series, vitiligo patients had a higher rate of choroidal nevi than previously reported. The hypopigmentary vitiliginous fundus lesions were depicted on OCT as photoreceptor and RPE atrophy. These findings may suggest the advisability of regular ocular monitoring for vitiligo patients.

Choroidal metastases: Origin, features, and therapy

PubMed Central

Arepalli, Sruthi; Kaliki, Swathi; Shields, Carol L

2015-01-01

The choroid is the most common ocular site for metastatic disease, owing to abundant vascular supply. The primary cancers that most commonly lead to choroidal metastases include breast cancer (40-47%) and lung cancer (21-29%). Bilateral, multifocal metastases are most often secondary to breast cancer, whereas unilateral, unifocal metastasis are more commonly found with lung cancer. The treatment of choroidal metastasis depends on the systemic status of the patient and number, location, and laterality of the choroidal tumors. Treatment options include observation in patients with poor systemic status or those with resolved or asymptomatic disease; systemic chemotherapy, immunotherapy, hormone therapy, or whole eye radiotherapy if the metastases are active, multifocal and bilateral; plaque radiotherapy, transpupillary radiotherapy, or photodynamic therapy for active, solitary metastasis; and enucleation for those with blind painful eye. A database search was performed on PubMed, using the terms “choroidal metastasis,” or “choroidal metastases,” in combination with terms such as “treatment,” “features,” or “diagnosis.” Relevant articles were extracted and reviewed. PMID:25827542

NEAR-INFRARED AUTOFLUORESCENCE IN BILATERAL DIFFUSE UVEAL MELANOCYTIC PROLIFERATION ASSOCIATED WITH ESOPHAGEAL CARCINOMA AND CHOROIDAL METASTASIS.

PubMed

Golshahi, Azadeh; Bornfeld, Norbert; Weinitz, Silke; Kellner, Ulrich

2016-01-01

To investigate the advantage of near-infrared autofluorescence (787 nm) for the detection of melanocytic lesions in a patient with bilateral diffuse uveal melanocytic proliferation in association with esophageal carcinoma complicated by most likely unilateral choroidal metastasis. In this retrospective case report, a 55-year-old woman referred for the evaluation of sudden visual loss underwent normal ophthalmological evaluation and, in addition, was examined with near-infrared reflectance, near-infrared autofluorescence, fundus autofluorescence (Heidelberg Retina Angiograph II [HRA2; Heidelberg Engineering]), spectral domain optical coherence tomography (Spectralis OCT; Heidelberg Engineering), and multifocal electroretinography (RetiScan; Roland Consult). The patient had been diagnosed with esophageal carcinoma 3 months before the onset of visual symptoms. The visual acuity was 20/40 in the right eye and 20/20 in the left eye. Bilateral patchy melanocytic proliferation was detected on ophthalmoscopy. The extent of lesions was best detected with near-infrared reflectance and near-infrared autofluorescence, whereas fundus autofluorescence and spectral domain optical coherence tomography did not reveal alterations of the outer retina or retinal pigment epithelium in this early stage of bilateral diffuse uveal melanocytic proliferation. The right eye showed in addition to the findings on the left eye choroidal folds in the fovea and an elevated lesion inferotemporal of the fovea suspicious of a choroidal metastasis. In the B-scan ultrasonography, a homogenous lesion was seen. Spectral domain optical coherence tomography demonstrated a mild accumulation of subretinal fluid adjacent to and over the choroidal metastasis. Transretinal biopsy of this elevated lesion revealed a low differentiated carcinoma of squamous epithelium, compatible with choroidal metastasis of the esophageal carcinoma. The choroidal metastasis increased within 3 months after the first visit. The

Choroid Plexus Papilloma Expansion Over 7 Years in Aicardi Syndrome

PubMed Central

Frye, Richard E.; Polling, Jon S.; Ma, Louis C. K.

2008-01-01

Choroid plexus papillomas have been reported in Aicardi syndrome. Management of these tumors is controversial because their natural progression in Aicardi syndrome has only been rarely documented. This report describes the progression of such a tumor over 7 years in a girl with Aicardi syndrome. A magnetic resonance imaging study at 2 months of age demonstrated a right ventricular mass that was consistent with a unilateral choroid plexus papilloma. The mass enlarged over the next 7 years without causing any clinically apparent symptoms, ventricular enlargement, hydrocephalus, or mass effect. The tumor was removed without change in behavior or development. The know cases of Aicardi syndrome associated with choroid plexus papillomas are reviewed. The heterogeneous nature of this lesion is highlighted. PMID:17621535

Choroidal metastasis from carcinoma of breast detected on F18-FDG PET CT scan: A case report and review of literature.

PubMed

Solav, Shrikant; Bhandari, Ritu; Sowani, Anuradha; Saxena, Sameer

2010-10-01

Intraocular choroidal metastasis is a very rare cause of blindness. Choroidal hemangioma and melanoma are other causes that may mimic the condition. Carcinoma of breast is the most common primary malignancy that accounts for choroidal metastasis in females and carcinoma of lung is the most common cause in males. Other primary neoplasms which can uncommonly metastasize to the choroid are testis, gastrointestinal tract, kidney, thyroid, pancreas, and prostate. Metastatic neoplasm to the eye outnumbers the primary tumors such as retinoblastomas and malignant melanoma. Sonography is usually the initial investigation after fundus examination to look for the architecture of the lesion. However, it lacks in specificity. We present a case of carcinoma of breast that had visual disturbances and wholebody F18-fluorodeoxyglucose, positron emission tomography-computerized tomography (FDG PET CT) revealed a choroidal lesion in addition to cerebral, pulmonary, and skeletal metastases. Choroidal metastasis from carcinoma of lung has been reported previously on FDG PET. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case report of carcinoma of breast demonstrating choroid metastasis on F18-FDG PET CT scan.

[Clinical features and treatment of choroidal metastasis].

PubMed

Wang, Guang-lu; Wang, Ming-yang; Wei, Wen-bin

2009-03-01

To assess the clinical features and management of choroidal metastasis. Fundus examination was performed in 49 patients (66 eyes) with choroidal metastasis. Fundus fluorescein angiography (FFA) was performed in 44 cases, combined with indocyanine green angiography (ICGA) examination in 12 cases. B-scan ultrasound examination was performed in 8 cases. Transpupillary thermotherapy (TTT) was performed in 24 eyes, combined with photo-dynamic therapy in one eye. Plaque radio-therapy was used in one eye. The parameters of treatment for TTT were 1.2 - 3 mm spot size, 450 - 1000 mV, 60 s; 2 sessions of TTT in 2 eyes and 3 sessions in 3 eyes. Fourteen cases were male and 35 cases were female. Both eyes were affected in 17 cases (34.7%). Age ranged from 23 - 74 years old with an average of 47 years. The visual acuity was 0.05 or less in 13 eyes; 0.06 - 0.2 in 22 eyes and 0.3 or more in 31 eyes. Primary tumours were found in 40 cases (81.6%) (surgical excision in 25 cases), consisting of breast carcinoma in 16 cases (32.7%), lung carcinoma in 14 cases (28.6%), hepatoma and cholangiocarcinoma in 3 cases, colon and stomach carcinomas in 3 cases, gynecologic appendix carcinoma (including 1 case of ovarian mucous cyst adenocarcinoma) in 2 cases, nasopharyngeal adenocarcinoma in 1 case, vertebra tumor in 1 case, undetected in 5 cases (10.2%) and under detection in 4 cases (8.2%). The fundus had 1 lesion in 58 eyes (58/66 = 87.8%), 2 lesions in 4 eyes (4/66 = 6.0%), 3 or more lesions in 2 eyes (including 7 lesions in 1 eye). According to the location and development status of the lesions, they could be divided into solitary type, 39 eyes (39/66 = 59.1%); diffuse type, 19 eyes (19/66 = 28.8%); and early type, 8 eyes (8/66 = 12.1%). FFA examination: early stage lesions showed hypofluorescence and later stage lesions showed moderate to strong hyperfluorescence. In 8 cases of solitary lesions, the size of the lesion measured by B-scan averaged 11.5 mm x 10.5 mm x 3.6 mm with the

Characteristic appearances of fundus autofluorescence in treatment-naive and active polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy: a retrospective study of 170 patients.

PubMed

Zhao, Xinyu; Xia, Song; Chen, Youxin

2018-06-01

To investigate the characteristic appearances of fundus autofluorescence (FAF) in patients with treatment-naive and active polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy (PCV). Cases with the diagnosis of treatment-naive and active PCV from November 2012 to May 2017 at Peking Union Medical College Hospital were retrospectively reviewed. All patients underwent comprehensive ophthalmologic examination. Autofluorescence (AF) findings were described at the retinal sites of the corresponding lesions identified and diagnosed using indocyanine green angiography and spectral-domain optical coherence tomography. One hundred seventy patients with 192 affected eyes were included. The logMAR BCVA of the patients were 0.53 ± 0.28. The six AF patterns of 243 polypoidal lesions were confluent hypo-AF with hyper-AF ring (49.8%), confluent hypo-AF (22.6%), hyper-AF with hypo-AF ring (3.7%), granular hypo-AF (7.0%), blocked hypo-AF due to hemorrhage (8.6%), and polyps without apparent AF changes (8.2%). For 146 branching vascular networks (BVNs), 97.3% were granular hypo-AF, and others were blocked hypo-AF due to hemorrhage. In eyes with treatment-naive and active PCV, the polypoidal lesions and BVNs induce characteristic FAF changes. FAF images provide reliable adjunct reference for the diagnosis of PCV.

Histopathologically proven mucinous cystadenocarcinoma metastatic to the choroid.

PubMed

Henderson, Robert H; Cohen, Victoria M; Rath, Pamela P; Luthert, Philip; Hungerford, John L

2010-01-01

To report the first case of conventional transcleral choroidal biopsy in the diagnosis of ovarian carcinoma metastatic to the choroid and to summarize the published cases of ovarian carcinoma metastatic to the choroid. Case report and Medline literature review. This is the tenth case reported in the literature and the only case that underwent conventional transcleral choroidal biopsy. Transcleral choroidal biopsy allowed the diagnosis of metastatic mucinous cystadenocarcinoma of the ovary. Choroidal metastases are not associated with central nervous system involvement; however, investigations may reveal distal boney or pulmonary metastases. Ovarian carcinoma rarely metastases to the choroid and unlike breast carcinoma, concurrent central nervous system disease has not been reported. When systemic investigations fail to reveal active intraperitoneal disease or distal metastases, the clinician should consider referral to an ocular oncology center for a choroidal biopsy.

Transport across the choroid plexus epithelium.

PubMed

Praetorius, Jeppe; Damkier, Helle Hasager

2017-06-01

The choroid plexus epithelium is a secretory epithelium par excellence. However, this is perhaps not the most prominent reason for the massive interest in this modest-sized tissue residing inside the brain ventricles. Most likely, the dominant reason for extensive studies of the choroid plexus is the identification of this epithelium as the source of the majority of intraventricular cerebrospinal fluid. This finding has direct relevance for studies of diseases and conditions with deranged central fluid volume or ionic balance. While the concept is supported by the vast majority of the literature, the implication of the choroid plexus in secretion of the cerebrospinal fluid was recently challenged once again. Three newer and promising areas of current choroid plexus-related investigations are as follows: 1 ) the choroid plexus epithelium as the source of mediators necessary for central nervous system development, 2 ) the choroid plexus as a route for microorganisms and immune cells into the central nervous system, and 3 ) the choroid plexus as a potential route for drug delivery into the central nervous system, bypassing the blood-brain barrier. Thus, the purpose of this review is to highlight current active areas of research in the choroid plexus physiology and a few matters of continuous controversy. Copyright © 2017 the American Physiological Society.

Multimodal imaging of bilateral diffuse uveal melanocytic proliferation associated with an iris mass lesion.

PubMed

Naysan, Jonathan; Pang, Claudine E; Klein, Robert W; Freund, K Bailey

2016-01-01

Bilateral diffuse uveal melanocytic proliferation (BDUMP) is a rare, paraneoplastic syndrome characterized by bilateral painless visual loss and proliferation of choroidal melanocytes in association with an underlying systemic malignancy. We report a case of bilateral diffuse uveal melanocytic proliferation associated with an underlying gynecological malignancy that also features the infrequent finding of an iris mass lesion, using multimodal imaging including ultra-widefield imaging, spectral domain and swept-source optical coherence tomography. A 59-year-old white female with a prior history of gynecological malignancy in remission presented with progressive bilateral visual loss over several weeks. The patient was noted to have a focal iris mass lesion in her right eye. Ultra-widefield color fundus photography showed a characteristic bilateral 'giraffe pattern' of pigmentary changes extending into the periphery as well as multiple discrete deeply pigmented lesions. Ultra-widefield autofluorescence was useful for visualizing the full extent of involvement. Indocyanine green angiography helped to demarcate the discrete pigmented choroidal lesions. Swept-source OCT clearly delineated the alternating zones of retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) thickening and RPE loss, as well as the prominent choroidal infiltration and thickening. BDUMP is an important diagnosis to consider in the presence of multiple discrete melanocytic choroidal lesions, diffuse choroidal thickening, characteristic RPE changes, iris mass lesions and exudative retinal detachment. Ultra-widefield imaging may demonstrate more extensive lesions than that detected on clinical examination or standard field imaging. Imaging with SS-OCT shows choroidal and RPE characteristics that correlate well with known histopathology of this entity.

Relationship between white matter hyperintensities and retinal nerve fiber layer, choroid, and ganglion cell layer thickness in migraine patients.

PubMed

Iyigundogdu, Ilkin; Derle, Eda; Asena, Leyla; Kural, Feride; Kibaroglu, Seda; Ocal, Ruhsen; Akkoyun, Imren; Can, Ufuk

2018-02-01

Aim To compare the relationship between white matter hyperintensities (WMH) on brain magnetic resonance imaging and retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL), choroid, and ganglion cell layer (GCL) thicknesses in migraine patients and healthy subjects. We also assessed the role of cerebral hypoperfusion in the formation of these WMH lesions. Methods We enrolled 35 migraine patients without WMH, 37 migraine patients with WMH, and 37 healthy control subjects examined in the Neurology outpatient clinic of our tertiary center from May to December 2015. RFNL, choroid, and GCL thicknesses were measured by optic coherence tomography. Results There were no differences in the RFNL, choroid, or GCL thicknesses between migraine patients with and without WMH ( p > 0.05). Choroid layer thicknesses were significantly lower in migraine patients compared to control subjects ( p < 0.05), while there were no differences in RFNL and GCL thicknesses ( p > 0.05). Conclusions The 'only cerebral hypoperfusion' theory was insufficient to explain the pathophysiology of WMH lesions in migraine patients. In addition, the thinning of the choroid thicknesses in migraine patients suggests a potential causative role for cerebral hypoperfusion and decreased perfusion pressure of the choroid layer.

Malignant melanoma of the choroid in a naevus of Ota.

PubMed

Singh, M; Kaur, B; Annuar, N M

1988-02-01

A rare case of choroidal malignant melanoma in a naevus of Ota is described. This is the first reported case from Asia outside the Japanese population. This case illustrates the need for close observation of all pigmented lesions of the eye.

IDIOPATHIC MULTIFOCAL CHOROIDITIS PRESENTING WITH A TRANSIENT PERIPAPILLARY WHITE RING.

PubMed

Gattoussi, Sarra; Ghadiali, Quraish; Dolz-Marco, Rosa; Freund, K Bailey

2017-11-22

We describe with multimodal imaging the presentation and follow-up for a patient with idiopathic multifocal choroiditis and a transient peripapillary white ring. Case report. A 39-year-old Asian woman was initially seen for an evaluation of lattice degeneration in 2015. Her medical history included Graves disease and psoriasis. Best-corrected visual acuity was 20/25 in her right eye and 20/25 in her left eye. Ultra-widefield fundus autofluorescence imaging showed a curvilinear hyperautofluorescent line in her right eye. One year later, the patient returned complaining of floaters in her right eye for 1 month. Her visual acuity was unchanged. Funduscopic examination showed new inflammatory yellowish lesions in the right eye corresponding to hyperreflective sub-retinal pigment epithelium lesions on structural spectral domain optical coherence tomography. Fluorescein angiography showed corresponding late staining of these active lesions. Late-phase indocyanine green angiography showed multiple nummular hypocyanescent dots. Ultra-widefield fundus autofluorescence showed large areas of hyperautofluorescence. The patient was started on a 60-mg oral prednisone taper and demonstrated subsequent regression of the inflammatory lesions. Ten months later, the patient returned emergently with complaints of floaters in both eyes for 2 days and a new temporal scotoma in her left eye. Funduscopic examination demonstrated a white ring around the optic nerve of the left eye corresponding to a hyperautofluorescent lesion. Ultra-widefield fundus autofluorescence showed new areas of hyperautofluorescence in both eyes. Structural spectral domain optical coherence tomography showed new sub-retinal pigment epithelium inflammatory lesions and a disruption of the ellipsoid zone in both eyes. The patient was again treated with a 60-mg oral prednisone taper and demonstrated subsequent restoration of the ellipsoid zone. To our knowledge, this is the first report of a transient annular white

Choroidal OCT

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Esmaeelpour, Marieh; Drexler, Wolfgang

Novel imaging devices, imaging strategies and automated image analysis with optical coherence tomography have improved our understanding of the choroid in health and pathology. Non-invasive in-vivo high resolution choroidal imaging has had its highest impact in the investigation of macular diseases such as diabetes macular edema and age-related macular degeneration. Choroidal thickness may provide a clinically feasible measure of disease stage and treatment success. It will even support disease diagnosis and phenotyping as is demonstrated in this chapter. Utilizing color coded thickness mapping of the choroid and its Sattler's and Haller's layer may further strengthen the sensitivity of the investigation findings.

Ocular Lesions in Red-Tailed Hawks ( Buteo jamaicensis) With Naturally Acquired West Nile Disease.

PubMed

Wünschmann, A; Armién, A G; Khatri, M; Martinez, L C; Willette, M; Glaser, A; Alvarez, J; Redig, P

2017-03-01

Ocular lesions are common in red-tailed hawks with West Nile (WN) disease. These lesions consist of pectenitis, choroidal or retinal inflammation, or retinal necrosis, but detailed investigation of the ocular lesions is lacking. Postmortem examination of the eyes of 16 red-tailed hawks with naturally acquired WN disease and 3 red-tailed hawks without WN disease was performed using histopathology, immunohistochemistry for West Nile virus (WNV) antigen, glial fibrillary acid protein, cleaved caspase-3, and the terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP nick-end labeling method. Retinal lesions were classified as type I or type II lesions. Type I lesions were characterized by lymphoplasmacytic infiltrates in the subjacent choroid with degeneration limited to the outer retina (type Ia lesion) or with degeneration and necrosis of the outer retina or outer and inner retina (type Ib lesion) while retinal collapse, atrophy, and scarring were hallmarks of type II lesions. Type II retinal lesions were associated with a more pronounced choroiditis. Although not statistically significant, WNV antigen tended to be present in larger quantity in type Ib lesions. Type I lesions are considered acute while type II lesions are chronic. The development of retinal lesions was associated with the presence of an inflammatory infiltrate in the choroid. A breakdown of the blood-retina barrier is suspected to be the main route of infection of the retina. Within the retina, virus appeared to spread via both neuronal and Müller cell processes.

Malignant melanoma of the choroid in a naevus of Ota.

PubMed Central

Singh, M.; Kaur, B.; Annuar, N. M.

1988-01-01

A rare case of choroidal malignant melanoma in a naevus of Ota is described. This is the first reported case from Asia outside the Japanese population. This case illustrates the need for close observation of all pigmented lesions of the eye. Images PMID:3349013

Ultra-Wide Field Imaging in Paradoxical Worsening of Tubercular Multifocal Serpiginoid Choroiditis after the Initiation of Anti-Tubercular Therapy.

PubMed

Aggarwal, Kanika; Agarwal, Aniruddha; Deokar, Ankit; Singh, Ramandeep; Bansal, Reema; Sharma, Aman; Sharma, Kusum; Dogra, Mangat R; Gupta, Vishali

2017-10-11

To evaluate role of ultra-wide field (UWF) versus conventional imaging in the follow-up and paradoxical worsening (PW) of tubercular (TB) multifocal serpiginoid choroiditis (MSC). Prospective observational study of patients with TB MSC undergoing UWF imaging, autofluorescence and fluorescein angiography was performed. A circle simulating central 75° field representing conventional imaging was drawn on UWF images. The information yielded by the two modalities, progression of choroiditis lesions and PW was compared. 44 eyes (29 patients, mean age: 30.7 ± 9 years; 23 males) were included. UWF imaging showed additional lesions in 39/44 eyes (88.6%). Overall, 16/44 eyes (36.4%) showed PW; 3/16 eyes (18.7%) showed only peripheral PW, while 10/16 eyes showed both central and peripheral PW. Management was altered in 11 patients (37.93%) based on UWF imaging. UWF is more useful than conventional imaging in identifying additional choroiditis lesions, PW and altering the course of therapy in TB MSC.

Blockage of PI3K/mTOR Pathways Inhibits Laser-Induced Choroidal Neovascularization and Improves Outcomes Relative to VEGF-A Suppression Alone.

PubMed

Ma, Jie; Sun, Yu; López, Francisco J; Adamson, Peter; Kurali, Edit; Lashkari, Kameran

2016-06-01

Choroidal neovascularization (CNV) is a major cause of visual loss with age-related macular degeneration (AMD). We evaluated whether blockade of phosphatidyl-inositol-3-kinase (PI3K) and the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), by impairing VEGF-A and other growth factor receptors like platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), would reduce laser-induced CNV in mice. Choroidal neovascularization lesions were induced in C57BL/6 mice. Two groups of mice received oral GSK2126458 (3 mg/kg) or vehicle for 14 days following laser, whereas three groups were treated with GSK2126458 (6 μg/eye), aflibercept (2 μL/eye), or vehicle intravitreally on days 0 and 7 after laser. Vascular leakage was measured by fluorescein angiography (FA) on day 14. Choroidal neovascularization membranes were evaluated on choroidal flat mounts following FITC-dextran perfusion, as well as ED1 and isolectin B4 (IB4) immunohistochemistry. Oral and intravitreal (IVT) GSK2126458 reduced leakage and area of CNV lesions. Greater probability of leaking lesions (∼60%; P < 0.05) was observed in both vehicle groups. Fluorescein isothiocyanate-dextran-labeled total CNV burden area (total lesion area/eye) was reduced ∼67% (P < 0.05) and 35% (P = 0.0528) after oral and IVT GSK2126458 administration. GSK2126458 treatment reduced lesion size by ∼80% (P < 0.05) and 50% (P < 0.05) for oral and IVT control groups. Aflibercept did not alter lesion size (∼27% reduction). Phosphatidyl-inositol-3-kinase/mTOR is involved in laser-induced CNV angiogenic processes. GSK2126458 effectively reduces CNV size and leakage. Choroidal neovascularization size following IVT GSK2126458 was smaller than after oral administration. Therefore, inhibition of PI3K/mTOR pathways may be more effective due to blockade of action of multiple growth factors.

miR-539-5p inhibits experimental choroidal neovascularization by targeting CXCR7.

PubMed

Feng, Yifan; Wang, Jing; Yuan, Yuanzhi; Zhang, Xi; Shen, Minqian; Yuan, Fei

2018-03-01

Stromal cell-derived factor-1 (SDF-1) has been previously confirmed to participate in the formation of choroidal neovascularization (CNV) via its receptor, CXC chemokine receptor (CXCR) 4; CXCR7 is a recently identified receptor for SDF-1. The molecular mechanisms and therapeutic value of CXCR7 in CNV remain undefined. In this study, experimental CNV was induced by laser photocoagulation in Brown-Norway pigmented rats, and aberrant CXCR7 overexpression was detected in the retinal pigment epithelial/choroid/sclera tissues of laser-injured eyes. Blockade of CXCR7 activation via CXCR7 knockdown or neutralizing Ab administration inhibited SDF-1-induced cell survival and the tubular formation of human retinal microvascular endothelial cells (HRMECs) in vitro and reduced CNV leakage and lesion size in vivo. By using microRNA array screening and bioinformatic analyses, we identified miR-539-5p as a regulator of CXCR7. Transfection of HRMECs and choroid-retinal endothelial (RF/6A) cells with the miR-539-5p mimic inhibited their survival and tube formation, whereas CXCR7 overexpression rescued the suppressive effect of miR-539-5p. The antiangiogenic activities of the miR-539-5p mimic were additionally demonstrated in vivo by intravitreal injection. ERK1/2 and AKT signaling downstream of CXCR7 is involved in the miR-539-5p regulation of endothelial cell behaviors. These findings suggest that the manipulation of miR-539-5p/CXCR7 levels may have important therapeutic implications in CNV-associated diseases.-Feng, Y., Wang, J., Yuan, Y., Zhang, X., Shen, M., Yuan, F. miR-539-5p inhibits experimental choroidal neovascularization by targeting CXCR7.

Choroidal metastasis of mixed carcinoma of the parotid gland.

PubMed

Pinilla, I; Abecia, E; Oliván, J M; Honrubia, F M

1997-08-01

A case of mixed carcinoma of the parotid gland (an epidermoid carcinoma located in a pleomorphic adenoma) metastatic to the choroid is presented. The histopathology of the tumor is discussed. A 65-year-old man was admitted complaining of blurred vision in his right eye for 1 day. He underwent parotidectomy for mixed carcinoma of the parotid gland (an epidermoid carcinoma located in a pleomorphic adenoma that was completely excised) 6 months before. Funduscopic examination showed a nasal retinal detachment, with gray-whitish, minimally elevated nodular choroidal lesions. Fluorescein angiography and contact B-scan ultrasonography confirmed the presence of an underlying mass. The right eye was enucleated and an epidermoid infiltrating carcinoma was identified. Metastatic tumors are the most common intraocular malignancies, and the choroid is by far the most common location for intraocular metastases. There are few cases reported of parotid tumors metastatic to the orbit. To the best of our knowledge, no histological examination of an ocular metastatic mixed carcinoma of the parotid gland has yet been reported.

Progression of choroid plexus papilloma.

PubMed

Dhillon, Rana S; Wang, Yi Yuen; McKelvie, Penny A; O'Brien, Brendan

2013-12-01

Choroid plexus papillomas are rare neoplasms that arise from choroid plexus epithelium. The World Health Organization classification describes three histological grades. Grade I is choroid plexus papilloma, grade II is atypical choroid plexus papilloma and grade III is choroid plexus carcinoma. Progression between grades is rare but documented. We present two adult cases, a 53-year-old female and a 70-year-old male, who demonstrated clear interval histological progression from grade I choroid plexus papilloma to higher grades. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Intravitreal Stanniocalcin-1 Enhances New Blood Vessel Growth in a Rat Model of Laser-Induced Choroidal Neovascularization

PubMed Central

Zhao, Min; Xie, Wankun; Tsai, Shu-Huai; Hein, Travis W.; Rocke, Brent A.; Kuo, Lih; Rosa, Robert H.

2018-01-01

Purpose The purpose of this study was to investigate the impact of stanniocalcin-1 (STC-1), a photoreceptor-protective glycoprotein, on the development of choroidal neovascularization (CNV) in relation to VEGF and its main receptor (VEGFR2) expression after laser injury. Methods In rats, CNV was induced by laser photocoagulation in both eyes, followed by intravitreal injection of STC-1 in the right eye and vehicle or denatured STC-1 injection in the left eye as control. Two weeks after laser injury, fundus autofluorescence (FAF) imaging and fundus fluorescein angiography (FFA) were performed. Fluorescein leakage from CNV was graded using a defined scale system. The size of CNV was quantified with spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT), fluorescein-labeled choroid-sclera flat mounts, and hematoxylin-eosin staining. Protein expressions were evaluated by Western blot. Results Photocoagulation produced a well-circumscribed area of CNV. With STC-1 treatment, CNV lesions assessed by FAF were increased by 50% in both intensity and area. The CNV lesions were also increased with SD-OCT, flat-mount, and histologic analyses. FFA disclosed enhanced fluorescein leakage in CNV lesions in STC-1 treated eyes. The STC-1 protein was detected in the choroidal tissue and its level was increased with CNV lesions in correlation with VEGF and VEGFR2 expressions. Intravitreal administration of STC-1 significantly increased choroidal expression of both VEGF and VEGFR2 proteins. Conclusions Chorodial tissue expresses STC-1, which seemingly acts as a stress response protein by enhancing pathological new blood vessel growth in laser-induced CNV. It is likely that STC-1 promotes CNV development via VEGF signaling. PMID:29490350

Neuroprotectin D1 Attenuates Laser-induced Choroidal Neovascularization in Mouse

PubMed Central

Sheets, Kristopher G.; Zhou, Yongdong; Ertel, Monica K.; Knott, Eric J.; Regan, Cornelius E.; Elison, Jasmine R.; Gordon, William C.; Gjorstrup, Per

2010-01-01

Purpose To examine the effects of neuroprotectin D1 (NPD1), a stereospecific derivative of docosahexaenoic acid, on choroidal neovascularization (CNV) in a laser-induced mouse model. Specifically, this was assessed by clinically grading laser-induced lesions, measuring leakage area, and volumetrically quantifying vascular endothelial cell proliferation. Methods C57Bl/6 mice were treated with vehicle control or NPD1, and choroidal neovascularization was induced by laser rupture of Bruch's membrane; treatment was administered throughout the first week of recovery. One and two weeks after CNV induction, fundus fluorescein angiography was performed. Angiograms were clinically graded to assess leakage severity, while leakage area was measured by image analysis of angiograms. Proliferation of vascular endothelial cells was evaluated volumetrically by three-dimensional laser confocal immunofluorescent microscopy of cytoskeletal, nuclear, and endothelial cell markers. Results At seven days after CNV induction, NPD1-treated mice had 60% fewer clinically relevant lesions than controls, dropping to 80% fewer by 14 days. NPD1 mice exhibited 25% smaller leakage area than controls at 7 days and 44% smaller area at 14 days. Volumetric immunofluorescence revealed 46% less vascular endothelial cell volume in 7-day NPD1-treated mice than in 7-day controls, and by 14 days NPD1 treatment was 68% lower than controls. Furthermore, comparison of 7- and 14-day volumes of NPD1-treated mice revealed a 50% reduction at 14 days. Conclusions NPD1 significantly inhibits choroidal neovascularization. There are at least two possible mechanisms that could explain the neuroprotective action of NPD1. Ultimately, nuclear factor-κB could be inhibited with a reduction in cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) to reduce vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression, and/or activation of the resolution phase of the inflammatory response/survival pathways could be upregulated. Moreover, NPD1 continues to be

Characteristics of choroidal neovascularization in the complications of age-related macular degeneration prevention trial.

PubMed

Maguire, Maureen G; Alexander, Judith; Fine, Stuart L

2008-09-01

To describe the characteristics of incident choroidal neovascularization (CNV) in observed and treated eyes in the Complications of Age-related Macular Degeneration Prevention Trial (CAPT). Cross-sectional descriptive study within a multicenter, randomized clinical trial. Patients who developed CNV during CAPT follow-up. Inclusion criteria for CAPT specified bilateral large drusen (>or=10 drusen at least 125 micro), visual acuity >or=20/40 in each eye, and age >or=50. Exclusion criteria included CNV and geographic atrophy >1 Macular Photocoagulation Study (MPS) disc area or within 500 micro of the foveal center. One eye of each person was selected randomly for low-intensity laser treatment and the contralateral eye was observed. Fluorescein angiography was performed at baseline, annually for >or=5 years, and whenever there were symptoms of CNV. Trained readers at the CAPT Photograph Reading Center assessed color stereo photographs and angiogram negatives to identify CNV. Choroidal neovascularization was classified by type (predominantly classic CNV, minimally classic CNV, occult only CNV, or scar), location, and area. Visual acuity was measured by certified examiners. Symmetry of characteristics between eyes of bilaterally affected patients was examined. Choroidal neovascularization developed in 282 eyes of 225 patients. At the time of detection, 192 (68%) of the lesions were occult only, 153 (54%) were subfoveal, and 157 (56%) were or=20/40 in 123 (69%) of 179 eyes with visual acuity measured at the time of detection. Choroidal neovascularization developed in both eyes in 57 patients (25%) during CAPT follow-up. Lesions in eyes of bilaterally affected patients were no more similar to each other than affected eyes in 2 different patients. When patients are monitored closely, many CNV lesions can be detected outside of the fovea and when they are relatively small. Early detection may lead to improved long-term visual acuity.

Attenuation of Choroidal Neovascularization by Histone Deacetylase Inhibitor

PubMed Central

Chan, Nymph; He, Shikun; Spee, Christine K.; Ishikawa, Keijiro; Hinton, David R.

2015-01-01

Choroidal neovascularization (CNV) is a blinding complication of age-related macular degeneration that manifests as the growth of immature choroidal blood vessels through Bruch’s membrane, where they can leak fluid or hemorrhage under the retina. Here, we demonstrate that the histone deacetylase inhibitor (HDACi) trichostatin A (TSA) can down-regulate the pro-angiogenic hypoxia-inducible factor-1α and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), and up-regulate the anti-angiogenic and neuro-protective pigment epithelium derived factor in human retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells. Most strikingly, TSA markedly down-regulates the expression of VEGF receptor-2 in human vascular endothelial cells and, thus, can knock down pro-angiogenic cell signaling. Additionally, TSA suppresses CNV-associated wound healing response and RPE epithelial-mesenchymal transdifferentiation. In the laser-induced model of CNV using C57Bl/6 mice, systemic administration of TSA significantly reduces fluorescein leakage and the size of CNV lesions at post—laser days 7 and 14 as well as the immunohistochemical expression of VEGF, VEGFR2, and smooth muscle actin in CNV lesions at post-laser day 7. This report suggests that TSA, and possibly HDACi’s in general, should be further evaluated for their therapeutic potential for the treatment of CNV. PMID:25807249

Choroidal vasculature characteristics based choroid segmentation for enhanced depth imaging optical coherence tomography images

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Chen, Qiang; Niu, Sijie; Yuan, Songtao

Purpose: In clinical research, it is important to measure choroidal thickness when eyes are affected by various diseases. The main purpose is to automatically segment choroid for enhanced depth imaging optical coherence tomography (EDI-OCT) images with five B-scans averaging. Methods: The authors present an automated choroid segmentation method based on choroidal vasculature characteristics for EDI-OCT images with five B-scans averaging. By considering the large vascular of the Haller’s layer neighbor with the choroid-sclera junction (CSJ), the authors measured the intensity ascending distance and a maximum intensity image in the axial direction from a smoothed and normalized EDI-OCT image. Then, basedmore » on generated choroidal vessel image, the authors constructed the CSJ cost and constrain the CSJ search neighborhood. Finally, graph search with smooth constraints was utilized to obtain the CSJ boundary. Results: Experimental results with 49 images from 10 eyes in 8 normal persons and 270 images from 57 eyes in 44 patients with several stages of diabetic retinopathy and age-related macular degeneration demonstrate that the proposed method can accurately segment the choroid of EDI-OCT images with five B-scans averaging. The mean choroid thickness difference and overlap ratio between the authors’ proposed method and manual segmentation drawn by experts were −11.43 μm and 86.29%, respectively. Conclusions: Good performance was achieved for normal and pathologic eyes, which proves that the authors’ method is effective for the automated choroid segmentation of the EDI-OCT images with five B-scans averaging.« less

The acute effect of pseudoephedrine on choroidal thickness.

PubMed

Ovet, G; Alpfidan, I; Sakarya, Y; Sakarya, R; Ozcimen, M; Göktaş, S; Erdoğan, E

2016-01-01

To investigate the acute effects of pseudoephedrine (PE) on choroidal thickness in healthy young patients. Fifty patients with nasal and sinus congestion who were prescribed 60 mg oral PE at the otolaryngology department were recruited for this study. The enhanced depth imaging (EDI) optic coherence tomography (OCT) (Spectralis OCT; Heidelberg Engineering, Heidelberg, Germany) choroidal thickness measurements were performed at baseline and 1, 3 and 6 hours at 7 points. The right eyes of 50 healthy subjects (22 women and 28 men) were included in this study. The mean choroidal thickness at fovea was 293.12 μm, 279.80 μm, 295.80 μm, and 294.52 μm at baseline, 1, 3 and 6 hours respectively. A significant reduction in choroidal thickness versus baseline was observed at all points at 1 hour. The choroidal thickness decreased 1 hour after oral administration of PE and returned to baseline thickness at 3 hours. We suppose that this transient decrease might be associated with vasoconstriction due to activation of sympathetic alpha adrenoceptors.

Choroidal Thinning Associated With Hydroxychloroquine Retinopathy.

PubMed

Ahn, Seong Joon; Ryu, So Jung; Joung, Joo Young; Lee, Byung Ro

2017-11-01

To investigate choroidal thickness in patients using hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) and compare choroidal thickness between eyes with and without HCQ retinopathy. Retrospective case series. Setting: Institutional. We included 124 patients with systemic lupus erythematosus or rheumatoid arthritis who were treated with HCQ. The patients were divided into an HCQ retinopathy group and a control group, according to the presence or absence of HCQ retinopathy. Total choroidal thickness and choriocapillaris-equivalent thickness were measured manually by 2 independent investigators using swept-source optical coherence tomography (SS-OCT; DRI-OCT, Topcon Inc, Tokyo, Japan). These measurements were made at the fovea and at nasal and temporal locations 0.5, 1.5, and 3 mm from the fovea. Medium-to-large vessel layer thickness was calculated accordingly. The thicknesses were compared between the HCQ retinopathy and control groups. We performed correlation analyses between choroidal thicknesses and details regarding HCQ use. Total choroidal thickness and choriocapillaris-equivalent thickness. Choroidal thicknesses were significantly decreased (P < .05) in the HCQ retinopathy group compared to the control group, except at the temporal choroid 1.5 mm from the fovea. Choriocapillaris-equivalent thicknesses were significantly different in all choroidal locations between the groups. In contrast, the medium-to-large vessel layer thickness was only significantly different at a few locations. The cumulative dose/body weight was significantly correlated with subfoveal choroidal and choriocapillaris-equivalent thicknesses (both P = .001). The association between presence of HCQ retinopathy and choroidal thicknesses was also statistically significant after adjusting for age, diagnosis for HCQ use, refractive errors, and duration of HCQ use (P = .001 and P = .003 for subfoveal choroidal and choriocapillaris-equivalent thickness, respectively). These results all suggest that HCQ retinopathy is

Bevacizumab in choroidal neovascularization secondary to Indian tick typhus: A rare case report.

PubMed

Ijeri, Raghavendra; Beladiya, Gautam; Bhomaj, Sharad

2016-10-01

Tick typhus causes hemorrhagic lesions over the skin. Retina also shows hemorrhages and exudates. Many cases have been reported in western literature about this condition. To our best of knowledge, this is the first case report of tick typhus in India which was also associated with inflammatory choroidal neovascularization.

A Proinflammatory Function of Toll-Like Receptor 2 in the Retinal Pigment Epithelium as a Novel Target for Reducing Choroidal Neovascularization in Age-Related Macular Degeneration.

PubMed

Feng, Lili; Ju, Meihua; Lee, Kei Ying V; Mackey, Ashley; Evangelista, Mariasilvia; Iwata, Daiju; Adamson, Peter; Lashkari, Kameran; Foxton, Richard; Shima, David; Ng, Yin Shan

2017-10-01

Current treatments for choroidal neovascularization, a major cause of blindness for patients with age-related macular degeneration, treat symptoms but not the underlying causes of the disease. Inflammation has been strongly implicated in the pathogenesis of choroidal neovascularization. We examined the inflammatory role of Toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2) in age-related macular degeneration. TLR2 was robustly expressed by the retinal pigment epithelium in mouse and human eyes, both normal and with macular degeneration/choroidal neovascularization. Nuclear localization of NF-κB, a major downstream target of TLR2 signaling, was detected in the retinal pigment epithelium of human eyes, particularly in eyes with advanced stages of age-related macular degeneration. TLR2 antagonism effectively suppressed initiation and growth of spontaneous choroidal neovascularization in a mouse model, and the combination of anti-TLR2 and antivascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 yielded an additive therapeutic effect on both area and number of spontaneous choroidal neovascularization lesions. Finally, in primary human fetal retinal pigment epithelium cells, ligand binding to TLR2 induced robust expression of proinflammatory cytokines, and end products of lipid oxidation had a synergistic effect on TLR2 activation. Our data illustrate a functional role for TLR2 in the pathogenesis of choroidal neovascularization, likely by promoting inflammation of the retinal pigment epithelium, and validate TLR2 as a novel therapeutic target for reducing choroidal neovascularization. Copyright © 2017 American Society for Investigative Pathology. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Psammoma bodies - friends or foes of the aging choroid plexus.

PubMed

Jovanović, Ivan; Ugrenović, Sladjana; Vasović, Ljiljana; Petrović, Dragan; Cekić, Sonja

2010-06-01

Psammoma bodies are structures classified in the group of dystrophic calcifications, which occur in some kind of tumors and in choroid plexus during the aging process. Despite early discovery of their presence in choroid plexus stroma, mechanisms responsible for their formation remained unclear. Their presence in some kind of tumors was even more extensively studied, but significant breakthrough in the field of their etiology was not attained, too. However, till today correlation between their presence in tumors and aging is not established. Also, there are not any data about structural differences between ones found in tumors and ones found in choroid plexus. This might points to the assumption that besides the aging, some other causes might be involved in their formation in choroid plexus. Furthermore, it is contradictory that forms, like psammoma bodies, present in such malignant formations as tumors, represent quite benign phenomenon in choroid plexus. Literature data and the results of our previous researches revealed that there might be connections between, these, on the first sight quite different processes. Firstly, psammoma bodies are present in stroma of tumors with predominantly papillomatous morphology, which is present in choroid plexus, too. Initial forms of psammoma bodies might be formed in fibrovascular core of choroid plexus villi, similarly like in tumors papillae of papillary thyroid cancer. Their further growth leads to the progressive destruction of both tumors papillae and choroidal villi. Choroid plexus stroma is characterized by the fenestrated blood vessels presence, which are similar to newly formed vessels in tumors. This makes it vulnerable to the noxious agents from circulation. It can contain lymphocytes, macrophages, dendritic cells and myofibroblasts in cases with psammoma bodies, similarly to tumors stroma which is in activated, proinflammatory state. So, all these facts can suggest that similar processes can lead to psammoma

Idiopathic multifocal choroiditis/punctate inner choroidopathy with acute photoreceptor loss or dysfunction out of proportion to clinically visible lesions

PubMed Central

Munk, Marion R.; Jung, Jesse J.; Biggee, Kristin; Tucker, William R.; Sen, H. Nida; Schmidt-Erfurth, Ursula; Fawzi, Amani A.; Jampol, Lee M.

2014-01-01

Purpose To report acute/subacute vision loss and paracentral scotomata in patients with idiopathic multifocal choroiditis/punctate inner choroidopathy (MFC/PIC) due to large zones of acute photoreceptor attenuation surrounding the chorioretinal lesions. Methods Multimodal-imaging case-series Results Six females and 2 males were included (mean age 31.5±5.8 years). Vision ranged from 20/20-1 to hand motion (mean 20/364). SD-OCT demonstrated extensive attenuation of the external limiting membrane (ELM), ellipsoid and interdigitation zones, adjacent to the visible MFC/PIC lesions. The corresponding areas were hyperautofluorescent on fundus-autofluorescence (FAF), and were associated with corresponding visual field defects. Full-field ERG (available in 3 cases) showed markedly decreased cone/rod response and multifocal ERG revealed reduced amplitudes and increased implicit times in 2 cases. Three patients received no treatment, the remaining were treated with oral corticosteroids (n=4), oral acyclovir/valacyclovir (n=2), intravitreal/posterior subtenon triamcinolone-acetate (n=3) and anti-VEGF (n=2). Visual recovery occurred in only 3 cases, of whom 2 were treated. Varying morphological recovery was found in 6 cases, associated with decrease in hyperautofluorescence on FAF. Conclusions MFC/PIC can present with transient or permanent central photoreceptor attenuation/loss. This presentation is likely a variant of MFC/PIC with chorioretinal atrophy. Associated changes are best evaluated using multimodal imaging. PMID:25322466

Atypical choroid plexus papilloma: spontaneous resolution of diffuse leptomeningeal contrast enhancement after primary tumor removal in 2 pediatric cases.

PubMed

Scala, Marcello; Morana, Giovanni; Milanaccio, Claudia; Pavanello, Marco; Nozza, Paolo; Garrè, Maria Luisa

2017-09-01

Atypical choroid plexus papillomas can metastasize in the form of leptomeningeal seeding. Postoperative chemotherapy is the recommended first-line treatment when gross-total removal is not achieved or in cases of disseminated disease. Here the authors report on 2 children with atypical choroid plexus papillomas and MRI findings of diffuse leptomeningeal enhancement at diagnosis, later presenting with spontaneous resolution of the leptomeningeal involvement after removal of the primary lesions. Observations in this report expand our knowledge about the natural history and biological behavior of these tumors and highlight the role of close neuroimaging surveillance in the management of atypical choroid plexus papillomas in cases with MRI evidence of diffuse leptomeningeal enhancement at presentation.

Low power vs standard power transpupillary thermotherapy in patients with age-related macular degeneration and subfoveal choroidal neovascularization ineligible for photodynamic therapy.

PubMed

Hogan, A C; Kilmartin, D J

2006-06-01

To assess the effect of standard power vs low power transpupillary thermotherapy (TTT) in patients with active subfoveal choroidal neovascularization secondary to age-related macular degeneration ineligible for photodynamic therapy (PDT) by original treatment of age-related macular degeneration with photodynamic therapy (TAP) study group recommendations. Retrospective review of 79 patients with active predominantly occult subfoveal choroidal neovascularization or predominantly classic subfoveal choroidal neovascularization but Snellen visual acuity <20/200. All patients were treated with TTT administered via a Mainster wide field fundus contact lens with a retinal power/diameter coefficient of 248 mW/mm in the standard power (n=27) and 181 mW/mm in the low power group (n=52). The primary outcome was stabilization (<1 Snellen line change) or improvement (two or more Snellen lines) in visual acuity. Clinical and fluorescein angiographic resolution of overlying exudation was documented. At 24 month follow-up, 17 patients (63%) in the standard power and 36 patients (69%) in the low power group achieved stable or improved vision. Improved vision (mean three lines) was observed in 22% of the standard power and 23% of the low power group. Overlying exudation was reduced clinically with minimal or no leakage on fluorescein angiogram in 85% of standard power and 90% of low power group. Subgroup analysis in the low power group demonstrated a visual benefit in patients with subfoveal lesions, which had any classic component. Low power TTT is as effective as standard power in stabilizing or improving vision and reducing overlying exudation in patients with active subfoveal choroidal neovascularization ineligible for PDT.

Choroidal thickness in traumatic optic neuropathy.

PubMed

Lee, Ju-Yeun; Eo, Doo-Ri; Park, Kyung-Ah; Oh, Sei Yeul

2017-12-01

To examine the choroidal thickness in patients with indirect traumatic optic neuropathy (TON) Methods: Patients with unilateral traumatic optic neuropathy over a period of 4 years were included in this study. Horizontal and vertical enhanced-depth imaging (EDI) from spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) scans of the fovea were obtained in patients with unilateral TON within 2 weeks of injury. The main outcome measure was the choroidal thickness at nine locations. The choroidal thickness was compared between affected and unaffected eyes in the TON group, and the mean difference in the choroidal thickness in both eyes was compared between TON and control groups. A total of 16 patients and 20 control subjects were included. The choroidal thickness at horizontal, vertical and average subfoveal, inner temporal, and outer inferior locations was significantly thicker (13-23%) in affected eyes than in unaffected fellow eyes (p = 0.042, 0.046, 0.024, 0.013, 0.018, and 0.027, respectively). The mean difference value between choroidal thickness measurements in both eyes was significantly larger in the TON group than in the control group at the horizontal, vertical and average subfoveal, inner temporal, inner nasal, inner superior, inner inferior, and outer superior locations (p = 0.001, 0.011, <0.001, 0.001, 0.033, 0.014, 0.011, and 0.014, respectively). The choroidal thickness at subfoveal locations showed no statistical difference between TON and control eyes (p > 0.05). Eyes affected by TON showed a regionally thicker choroid than unaffected fellow eye. This thick choroid might be due to impaired blood circulation and vascular remodeling of the optic nerve head and choroid. These results help to better understand the pathophysiology of TON.

Mobile Laser Indirect Ophthalmoscope: For the Induction of Choroidal Neovascularization in a Mouse Model.

PubMed

Weinberger, Dov; Bor-Shavit, Elite; Barliya, Tilda; Dahbash, Mor; Kinrot, Opher; Gaton, Dan D; Nisgav, Yael; Livnat, Tami

2017-11-01

This study aims to evaluate and standardize the reliability of a mobile laser indirect ophthalmoscope in the induction of choroidal neovascularization (CNV) in a mouse model. A diode laser indirect ophthalmoscope was used to induce CNV in pigmented male C57BL/6J mice. Standardization of spot size and laser intensity was determined using different aspheric lenses with increasing laser intensities applied around the optic disc. Development of CNV was evaluated 1, 5, and 14 days post laser application using fluorescein angiography (FA), histology, and choroidal flat mounts stained for the endothelial marker CD31 and FITC-dextran. Correlation between the number of laser hits to the number and size of developed CNV lesions was determined using flat mount choroid staining. The ability of intravitreally injected anti-human and anti-mouse VEGF antibodies to inhibit CNV induced by the mobile laser was evaluated. Laser parameters were standardized on 350 mW for 100 msec, using the 90 diopter lens to accomplish the highest incidence of Bruch's membrane rupture. CNV lesions' formation was validated on days 5 and 14 post laser injury, though FA showed leakage on as early as day 1. The number of laser hits was significantly correlated with the CNV area. CNV growth was successfully inhibited by both anti-human and mouse VEGF antibodies. The mobile laser indirect ophthalmoscope can serve as a feasible and a reliable alternative method for the CNV induction in a mouse model.

Focal activation of primary visual cortex following supra-choroidal electrical stimulation of the retina: Intrinsic signal imaging and linear model analysis.

PubMed

Cloherty, Shaun L; Hietanen, Markus A; Suaning, Gregg J; Ibbotson, Michael R

2010-01-01

We performed optical intrinsic signal imaging of cat primary visual cortex (Area 17 and 18) while delivering bipolar electrical stimulation to the retina by way of a supra-choroidal electrode array. Using a general linear model (GLM) analysis we identified statistically significant (p < 0.01) activation in a localized region of cortex following supra-threshold electrical stimulation at a single retinal locus. (1) demonstrate that intrinsic signal imaging combined with linear model analysis provides a powerful tool for assessing cortical responses to prosthetic stimulation, and (2) confirm that supra-choroidal electrical stimulation can achieve localized activation of the cortex consistent with focal activation of the retina.

[Choroidal neovascularization followed in a patient with "Multiple Evanescent White Dot Syndrome" (MEWDS) -- a case report].

PubMed

Löw, U; Palmowski, A M; Weich, C-M; Ruprecht, K W

2004-12-01

Since the description of the "multiple evanescent white dot syndrome" (MEWDS) by Jampol et al, choroiditis has been in the focus of interest. But the classical type of MEWDS was an exceptional case in clinical routine. A 48-year-old female presented to our hospital with a sudden unilateral visual acuity decrease and an extension of the blind spot. Ophthalmoscopy and fluorescein angiography revealed typical multiple grey-white chorioretinal patches of the same stage with lesion areas of about 100 - 200 microm compatible with the diagnose of MEWDS. Although visual acuity increased continuously the patient developed a classical choroidal neovascularization within 4 weeks. She was treated with PDT and visual acuity as well as the ophthalmoscopic diagnosis remained stable. In spite of visual improvement in MEWDS, regular control is recommended. In addition we propose to consider the diagnosis of MEWDS if an enlargement of the blind spot and CNV without lesions of the retinal pigment epithelium are diagnosed.

Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography of Retinal Microvascular Changes Overlying Choroidal Nodules in Neurofibromatosis Type 1

PubMed Central

Cassiman, Catherine; Casteels, Ingele; Stalmans, Peter; Legius, Eric; Jacob, Julie

2017-01-01

Purpose To report 3 cases of neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) with choroidal nodules associated with retinal microvascular changes imaged with optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA). Methods Small case series in 3 NF1 patients. OCTA examinations were performed by a trained examiner (J.J.) after pupillary dilation. A standard scan, centered over the macula measuring 6 × 6 mm and 3 × 3 mm was obtained according to the findings on standard color photography. Additional scans were obtained in the zones with microvascular abnormalities. The segmentation provided by the machine software was used. Results Corkscrew retinal vessels were observed in association with “placoid”-type choroidal nodules as shown by near-infrared reflectance imaging. In all cases, multiple lesions were found. They were second- or third-order tortuous vessels originating from the superior or inferior temporal veins. OCTA demonstrated that the tortuous venules were located in the superficial capillary plexus, and no abnormalities were found in the deep capillary plexus. Discussion Corkscrew retinal vessels are part of a spectrum of retinal microvascular alterations seen in association, sometimes overlying choroidal nodules in patients with NF1 and are visualized in the superficial capillary plexus on OCTA. We demonstrated with OCTA that they are not associated with flow loss or ischemia in the superficial and deep capillary plexus. The link between the underlying nodule remains unclear. Since neovascularization was described in choroidal ganglioneuroma, we hypothesize that corresponding secretory substances from Schwann cells, ganglion cells, or melanocytes in choroidal nodules might alter the retinal vasculature. Conclusion We report on 3 cases of NF1 with choroidal nodules in association with retinal microvascular changes imaged with OCTA. OCTA demonstrated preservation of the blood flow in the deep and superficial capillary plexus of the retina. We hypothesize that angiogenic

DETECTION OF NONEXUDATIVE CHOROIDAL NEOVASCULARIZATION IN AGE-RELATED MACULAR DEGENERATION WITH OPTICAL COHERENCE TOMOGRAPHY ANGIOGRAPHY.

PubMed

Palejwala, Neal V; Jia, Yali; Gao, Simon S; Liu, Liang; Flaxel, Christina J; Hwang, Thomas S; Lauer, Andreas K; Wilson, David J; Huang, David; Bailey, Steven T

2015-11-01

To evaluate eyes with age-related macular degeneration and high-risk characteristics for choroidal neovascularization (CNV) with optical coherence tomographic (OCT) angiography to determine whether earlier detection of CNV is possible. Eyes with drusen, pigmentary changes, and with CNV in the fellow eye were scanned with a 70-kHz spectral domain OCT system (Optovue RTVue-XR Avanti). The split-spectrum amplitude-decorrelation angiography (SSADA) algorithm was used to distinguish blood flow from static tissue. Two masked graders reviewed scans for CNV, defined as flow in the outer retinal/sub-RPE slab. Choroidal neovascularization flow area repeatability and between-grader reproducibility were calculated. Of 32 eyes, 2 (6%) were found to have Type 1 CNV with OCT angiography. The lesions were not associated with leakage on fluorescein angiography or fluid on OCT. One case was followed for 8 months without treatment, and the CNV flow area enlarged slightly without fluid buildup on OCT or vision loss. Between-grader reproducibility of the CNV flow area was 9.4% (coefficient of variation) and within-visit repeatability was 5.2% (pooled coefficient of variation). Optical coherence tomographic angiography can detect the presence of nonexudative CNV, lesions difficult to identify with fluorescein angiography and OCT. Further study is needed to understand the significance and natural history of these lesions.

Bright light induces choroidal thickening in chickens.

PubMed

Lan, Weizhong; Feldkaemper, Marita; Schaeffel, Frank

2013-11-01

Bright light is a potent inhibitor of myopia development in animal models. Because development of refractive errors has been linked to changes in choroidal thickness, we have studied in chickens whether bright light may exert its effects on myopia also through changes in choroidal thickness. Three-day-old chickens were exposed to "bright light" (15,000 lux; n = 14) from 10 AM to 4 PM but kept under "normal light" (500 lux) during the remaining time of the light phase for 5 days (total duration of light phase 8 AM to 6 PM). A control group (n = 14) was kept under normal light during the entire light phase. Choroidal thickness was measured in alert, hand-held animals with optical coherence tomography at 10 AM, 4 PM, and 8 PM every day. Complete data sets were available for 12 chicks in bright light group and nine in normal light group. The striking inter-individual variability in choroidal thickness (coefficient of variance: 23%) made it necessary to normalize changes to the individual baseline thickness of the choroid. During the 6 hours of exposure to bright light, choroidal thickness decreased by -5.2 ± 4.0% (mean ± SEM). By contrast, in the group kept under normal light, choroidal thickness increased by +15.4 ± 4.7% (difference between both groups p = 0.003). After an additional 4 hours, choroidal thickness increased also in the "bright light group" by +17.8 ± 3.5%, while there was little further change (+0.6 ± 4.0%) in the "normal light group" (difference p = 0.004). Finally, the choroid was thicker in the "bright light group" (+7.6 ± 26.0%) than in the "normal light group" (day 5: -18.6 ± 26.9%; difference p = 0.036). Bright light stimulates choroidal thickening in chickens, although the response is smaller than with experimentally imposed myopic defocus, and it occurs with some time delay. It nevertheless suggests that choroidal thickening is also involved in myopia inhibition by bright light.

Stereotactic Fractionated Radiotherapy in the Treatment of Juxtapapillary Choroidal Melanoma: The McGill University Experience

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Al-Wassia, Rolina; Dal Pra, Alan; Shun, Kitty

2011-11-15

Purpose: To report our experience with linear accelerator-based stereotactic fractionated radiotherapy in the treatment of juxtapapillary choroidal melanoma. Methods and Materials: We performed a retrospective review of 50 consecutive patients diagnosed with juxtapapillary choroidal melanoma and treated with linear accelerator-based stereotactic fractionated radiotherapy between April 2003 and December 2009. Patients with small to medium sized lesions (Collaborative Ocular Melanoma Study classification) located within 2 mm of the optic disc were included. The prescribed radiation dose was 60 Gy in 10 fractions. The primary endpoints included local control, enucleation-free survival, and complication rates. Results: The median follow-up was 29 months (range,more » 1-77 months). There were 31 males and 29 females, with a median age of 69 years (range, 30-92 years). Eighty-four percent of the patients had medium sized lesions, and 16% of patients had small sized lesions. There were four cases of local progression (8%) and three enucleations (6%). Actuarial local control rates at 2 and 5 years were 93% and 86%, respectively. Actuarial enucleation-free survival rates at 2 and 5 years were 94% and 84%, respectively. Actuarial complication rates at 2 and 5 years were 33% and 88%, respectively, for radiation-induced retinopathy; 9.3% and 46.9%, respectively, for dry eye; 12% and 53%, respectively, for cataract; 30% and 90%, respectively, for visual loss [Snellen acuity (decimal equivalent), <0.1]; 11% and 54%, respectively, for optic neuropathy; and 18% and 38%, respectively, for neovascular glaucoma. Conclusions: Linear accelerator-based stereotactic fractionated radiotherapy using 60 Gy in 10 fractions is safe and has an acceptable toxicity profile. It has been shown to be an effective noninvasive treatment for juxtapapillary choroidal melanomas.« less

Transforming Growth Factor-Beta Inhibition Reduces Progression of Early Choroidal Neovascularization Lesions in Rats: P17 and P144 Peptides

PubMed Central

Zarranz-Ventura, Javier; Fernández-Robredo, Patricia; Recalde, Sergio; Salinas-Alamán, Angel; Borrás-Cuesta, Francisco; Dotor, Javier; García-Layana, Alfredo

2013-01-01

The purpose of this study was to assess the effects of transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) inhibitor peptides (P17 & P144) on early laser-induced choroidal neovascularization (LI-CNV) lesions in rats, two weeks after laser CNV induction. Seventy-one Long Evans rats underwent diode laser application in an established LI-CNV model. Baseline fluorescein angiography (FA) was performed 14 days following laser procedure, and treatments were administered 16 days post-laser application via different administration routes. Intravenous groups included control (IV-Control), P17 (IV-17), and P144 (IV-144) groups, whereas intravitreal groups included P17 (IVT-17), P144 (IVT-144), and a mixture of both peptides (IVT-17+144) (with fellow eyes receiving vehicle alone). CNV evolution was assessed using FA performed weekly for four weeks after treatment. Following sacrifice, VEGF, TGF-β, COX-2, IGF-1, PAI-1, IL-6, MMP-2, MMP-9, and TNF-α gene expression was assessed using RT-PCR. VEGF and p-SMAD2 protein levels were also assessed by western-blot, while MMP-2 activity was assessed with gelatin zymography. Regarding the FA analysis, the mean CNV area was lower from the 3rd week in IVT-17 and IVT-144 groups, and also from the 2nd week in IVT-17+144. Biochemical analysis revealed that gene expression was lower for VEGF and COX-2 genes in IV-17 and IV-144 groups, VEGF gene in IVT-17+144 group and MMP-2 gene in IVT-17 and IVT-144 groups. VEGF protein expression was also decreased in IV-17, IV-144, IVT-17 and IVT-144, whereas pSMAD-2 levels were lower in IV-17, IV-144 and IVT-17+144 groups. Zymogram analysis revealed decreased MMP-2 activity in IV-17, IV-144, IVT-17 and IVT-144 groups. These data suggest that the use of TGF-β inhibitor peptides (P17 & P144) decrease the development of early CNV lesions by targeting different mediators than those typically affected using current anti-angiogenic therapies. Its potential role in the treatment of early CNV appears promising as a single

Structural changes of the choroid in sarcoid- and tuberculosis-related granulomatous uveitis

PubMed Central

Mehta, H; Sim, D A; Keane, P A; Zarranz-Ventura, J; Gallagher, K; Egan, C A; Westcott, M; Lee, R W J; Tufail, A; Pavesio, C E

2015-01-01

Aim The aim of this study is to characterise the choroidal features of patients diagnosed with sarcoid- and tuberculosis (TB)-associated granulomatous uveitis using spectral domain optical coherence tomography (OCT). Methods Twenty-seven patients (27 eyes) diagnosed with sarcoid- (13 eyes) and TB (14 eyes)-related uveitis were included in this retrospective, cross-sectional study. Over a six-month period, patients diagnosed with sarcoid and TB granulomatous uveitis were scanned using enhanced depth imaging OCT. Clinical and demographical characteristics were recorded, including the method of diagnosis, disease activity, site of inflammation (anterior or posterior), treatments, and visual acuity (VA). Manual segmentation of the choroidal layers was performed using custom image analysis software. Results The main outcome measure was OCT-derived thickness measurements of the choroid and choroidal sublayers (Haller's large vessel and Sattler's medium vessel layers) at the macula region. The ratio of Haller's large vessel to Sattler's medium vessel layer was significantly different at the total macula circle in eyes diagnosed with TB uveitis (1.47 (=140.71/95.72 μm)) compared with sarcoid uveitis (1.07 (=137.70/128.69 μm)) (P=0.001). A thinner choroid was observed in eyes with a VA ≥0.3 LogMAR (Snellen 6/12; 198.1 μm (interquartile range (IQR)=147.0–253.4 μm) compared with those with VA <0.3 LogMAR (292.4 μm (IQR=240.1–347.6 μm)) at the total macula circle (P=0.004). At the foveal central subfield, the median choroidal thickness was 336.8 μm (IQR=272.3–375.4 μm) in active compared with 239.3 μm (IQR=195.3–330.9 μm) in quiescent disease (P=0.04). Conclusion A disproportionately enlarged Sattler's layer may indicate a diagnosis of sarcoid-related uveitis, and choroidal thickening may be a feature of active granulomatous uveitis. PMID:26021867

[Polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy with spontaneous regression of subfoveal changes--case report].

PubMed

Lachowicz, Ewelina; Kubasik-Kładna, Katarzyna; Mozolewska-Piotrowska, Katarzyna; Karczewicz, Danuta

2012-01-01

To report a patient with polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy (PCV) with spontaneous regression of subfoveal changes during follow-up. The seventy six years old men was referred to the treatment of exudative type of age related macular degeneration (AMD) in the RE. The routine ophthalmological examination, the optical coherence tomography (OCT), fluorescein angiography (FA), and indocyanine green angiography (ICGA) were performed. Decreasing of visual acuity of the RE and abnormal result of the Amsler test, hemorrhagic and exudative changes near inferior-temporalis vascular arcade were observed. Intraretinal fluid in the OCT was noted. FA revealed parapapillaris changes suggesting CNV. ICGA showed the presence of branching vascular network extending from choroidal vasculature (BVN) and polypoidal and aneurysmal vascular terminal lesion (PL) localized under retinal pigment epithelium (RPE). Based on the results PCV was diagnosed and the patient was referred to laserotherapy. Due to the regression of the eye fundus changes during the period of observation, confirmed by control OCT and FA the treatment was not implemented.

Novel CCR3 Antagonists Are Effective Mono- and Combination Inhibitors of Choroidal Neovascular Growth and Vascular Permeability.

PubMed

Nagai, Nori; Ju, Meihua; Izumi-Nagai, Kanako; Robbie, Scott J; Bainbridge, James W; Gale, David C; Pierre, Esaie; Krauss, Achim H P; Adamson, Peter; Shima, David T; Ng, Yin-Shan

2015-09-01

Choroidal neovascularization (CNV) is a defining feature of wet age-related macular degeneration. We examined the functional role of CCR3 in the development of CNV in mice and primates. CCR3 was associated with spontaneous CNV lesions in the newly described JR5558 mice, whereas CCR3 ligands localized to CNV-associated macrophages and the retinal pigment epithelium/choroid complex. Intravitreal injection of neutralizing antibodies against vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2, CCR3, CC chemokine ligand 11/eotaxin-1, and CC chemokine ligand 24/eotaxin-2 all reduced CNV area and lesion number in these mice. Systemic administration of the CCR3 antagonists GW766994X and GW782415X reduced spontaneous CNV in JR5558 mice and laser-induced CNV in mouse and primate models in a dose-dependent fashion. Combination treatment with antivascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 antibody and GW766994X yielded additive reductions in CNV area and hyperpermeability in mice. Interestingly, topical GW766994X and intravitreal anti-CCR3 antibody yielded strong systemic effects, reducing CNV in the untreated, contralateral eye. Contrarily, ocular administration of GW782415X in primates failed to substantially elevate plasma drug levels or to reduce the development of grade IV CNV lesions. These findings suggest that CCR3 signaling may be an attractive therapeutic target for CNV, utilizing a pathway that is at least partly distinct from that of vascular endothelial growth factor receptor. The findings also demonstrate that systemic exposure to CCR3 antagonists may be crucial for CNV-targeted activity. Copyright © 2015 American Society for Investigative Pathology. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Activation of the Small GTPase Rap1 Inhibits Choroidal Neovascularization by Regulating Cell Junctions and ROS Generation in Rats.

PubMed

Li, Jiajia; Zhang, Rong; Wang, Caixia; Wang, Xin; Xu, Man; Ma, Jingxue; Shang, Qingli

2018-03-30

Choroidal neovascularization (CNV) is a common vision-threatening complication associated with many  fundus diseases. The retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cell junction barrier has critical functions in preventing CNV, and oxidative stress can cause compromise of barrier integrity and induce angiogenesis. Rap1, a small guanosine triphosphatase (GTPase), is involved in regulating endothelial and epithelial cell junctions. In this work, we explored the function and mechanism of Rap1 in CNV in vivo. A laser-induced rat CNV model was developed. Rap1 was activated through intravitreal injection of the Rap1 activator 8CPT-2'-O-Me-cAMP (8CPT). At 14 days after laser treatment, CNV size in RPE/choroid flat mounts was measured by fluorescein isothiocyanate-dextran staining. Expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and cell junction proteins in RPE/choroid tissues were analyzed by western blots and quantitative real-time PCR assays. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) in RPE cells were detectedbydichloro-dihydro-fluorescein diacetate assays. The antioxidant apocynin was intraperitoneally injected into rats. Activating Rap1 by 8CPT significantly reduced CNV size and VEGF expression in the rat CNV model. Rap1 activation enhanced protein and mRNA levels of ZO-1 and occludin, two tight junction proteins in the RPE barrier. In addition, reducing ROS generation by injection of apocynin, a NADPH oxidase inhibitor, inhibited CNV formation. Rap1 activation reduced ROS generation and expression of NADPH oxidase 4. Rap1 activation inhibits CNV through regulating barrier integrity and ROS generation of RPE in vivo, and selectively activating Rap1 may be a way to reduce vision loss from CNV.

The Choroidal Eye Oximeter - An instrument for measuring oxygen saturation of choroidal blood in vivo

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Laing, R. A.; Danisch, L. A.; Young, L. R.

1975-01-01

The Choroidal Eye Oximeter is an electro-optical instrument that noninvasively measures the oxygen saturation of choroidal blood in the back of the human eye by a spectrophotometric method. Since choroidal blood is characteristic of blood which is supplied to the brain, the Choroidal Eye Oximeter can be used to monitor the amount of oxygen which is supplied to the brain under varying external conditions. The instrument consists of two basic systems: the optical system and the electronic system. The optical system produces a suitable bi-chromatic beam of light, reflects this beam from the fundus of the subject's eye, and onto a low-noise photodetector. The electronic system amplifies the weak composite signal from the photodetector, computes the average oxygen saturation from the area of the fundus that was sampled, and displays the value of the computed oxygen saturation on a panel meter.

Evaluation of white matter hyperintensities and retinal fiber layer, ganglion cell layer, inner-plexiform layer, and choroidal layer in migraine patients.

PubMed

Tak, Ali Zeynel Abidin; Sengul, Yıldızhan; Bilak, Şemsettin

2018-03-01

The aim of our study is to assess retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL), the ganglion cell layer (GCL), inner-plexiform layer (IPL), and choroidal layer in migraine patients with white matter lesion (WML) or without WML, using spectral domain optical coherence tomography (OCT). To our study, 77 migraine patients who are diagnosed with migraine in accordance to the International Classification of Headache Disorders (ICHD)-3 beta and 43 healthy control are included. In accordance to cranial MRI, migraine patients are divided into two groups as those who have white matter lesions (39 patients), and those who do not have a lesion (38 patients). OCT was performed for participants. The average age of participants was comparable. The RNFL average thickness parameter in the migraine group was significantly lower than in the control group (p < 0.01). However, no significant difference was detected among those migraine patients who have WML, and those who do not have. No significant difference is detected among all groups in terms of IPL, GCL, and choroidal layer measuring scales. The proofs showing that affected retinal nerve fiber layer are increased in migraine patients. However, it is not known whether this may affect other layers of retina, or whether there is a correlation between affected retinal structures and white matter lesions. In our study, we found thinner RNFL in migraine patients when we compared with controls but IPL, GCL, and choroid layer values were similar between each patient groups and controls. Also, all parameters were similar between patients with WML and without WML. Studies in this regard are required.

Atrial Natriuretic Peptide Reduces Vascular Leakage and Choroidal Neovascularization

PubMed Central

Lara-Castillo, Nuria; Zandi, Souska; Nakao, Shintaro; Ito, Yasuhiro; Noda, Kousuke; She, Haicheng; Ahmed, Muna; Frimmel, Sonja; Ablonczy, Zsolt; Hafezi-Moghadam, Ali

2009-01-01

Atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) is a hormone with diuretic, natriuretic, and vasodilatory properties. ANP blocks vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) production and signaling in vitro; however, its role in vascular leakage and angiogenesis is unknown. In vitro, retinal barrier permeability (transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER)) was measured in cultured retinal endothelial (HuREC) and retinal epithelial (ARPE-19) cells with VEGF (10 ng/ml), ANP (1 pM to 1 μmol/L), and/or isatin, an ANP receptor antagonist. In vivo, blood-retinal barrier (BRB) leakage was studied using the Evans Blue dye technique in rats treated with intravitreal injections of ANP, VEGF, or vehicle. Choroidal neovascularization was generated by laser injury, and 7 days later, lesion size and leakage was quantitated. ANP significantly reversed VEGF-induced BRB TEER reduction in both HuREC and ARPE-19 cells, modeling the inner and the outer BRB, respectively. Isatin, a specific ANP receptor antagonist, reversed ANP’s effect. ANP reduced the response of ARPE-19 cells to VEGF apically but not basolaterally, suggesting polarized expression of the ANP receptors in these cells. ANP’s TEER response was concentration but not time dependent. In vivo, ANP significantly reduced VEGF-induced BRB leakage and the size of laser-induced choroidal neovascularization lesions. In sum, ANP is an effective inhibitor of VEGF-induced vascular leakage and angiogenesis in vivo. These results may lead to new treatments for ocular diseases where VEGF plays a central role, such as age-related macular degeneration or diabetic retinopathy. PMID:19910509

Intraventricular mass lesions at magnetic resonance imaging: iconographic essay - part 1*

PubMed Central

de Castro, Felipe Damásio; Reis, Fabiano; Guerra, José Guilherme Giocondo

2014-01-01

The present essay is illustrated with magnetic resonance images obtained at the authors' institution over the past 15 years and discusses the main imaging findings of intraventricular tumor-like lesions (ependymoma, pilocytic astrocytoma, central neurocytoma, ganglioglioma, choroid plexus papilloma, primitive neuroectodermal tumors, meningioma, epidermoid tumor). Such lesions represent a subgroup of intracranial lesions with unique characteristics and some image patterns that may facilitate the differential diagnosis. PMID:25741075

Choroidal Nevi in USAF Aviators

DTIC Science & Technology

1990-12-01

in macula , although none were situated directly under the fovea. Only 5 (4.4%) nevi were located forward of the equator. The distribution of choroidal...melanomas (1). The fact that none of the choroidal nevi followed in this study underwent growth or malignant degeneration , which would have prompted a

Clearance of amyloid-β peptide across the choroid plexus in Alzheimer's disease.

PubMed

Alvira-Botero, Ximena; Carro, Eva M

2010-12-01

Aging and several neurodegenerative diseases bring about changes in the anatomy and physiology of the choroid plexus. The identification of specific membrane receptors that bind and internalize extracellular ligands has revolutionized the traditional roles of this tissue. Amyloid beta peptide (Aβ), the major constituent of the amyloid core of senile plaques in patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD) is known to contribute to disease neuropathology and progression. Recent emphasis on comorbidity of AD and a deficient clearance of Aβ across the blood-brain barrier and blood-cerebrospinal fluid barrier have highlighted the importance of brain Aβ clearance in AD. The megalin receptor has also been implicated in the pathogenesis of AD. Faulty Aβ clearance from the brain across the choroid plexus epithelium by megalin appears to mediate focal Aβ accumulation in AD. Patients with AD have reduced levels of megalin at the choroid plexus, which in turn seem to increase brain levels of Aβ through a decreased efflux of brain Aβ. Therapies that increase megalin expression at the choroid plexus could potentially control accumulation of brain Aβ. This review covers in depth the anatomy and function of the choroid plexus, focusing on the brain barrier at the choroid plexus, as it actively participates in Aβ clearance. In addition, we describe the role of the choroid plexus in brain functions, aging and AD, as well as the role of megalin in the process of Aβ clearance. Finally, we present current data on the use of choroid plexus cells to repair the damaged brain.

Transconjunctival drainage of serous and hemorrhagic choroidal detachment.

PubMed

Rezende, Flávio A; Kickinger, Mônica C; Li, Gisèle; Prado, Renata F; Regis, Luiz Gustavo T

2012-02-01

To describe a novel surgical technique for drainage of bullous serous and hemorrhagic choroidal detachments. A prospective, consecutive case series of 6 eyes with serous and/or hemorrhagic choroidal detachments secondary to intraocular surgery was documented to evaluate the feasibility of using the 25-gauge and 20-gauge transconjunctival trocar/cannula systems to drain choroidal detachments. Two eyes had expulsive hemorrhagic choroidal detachments and 4 eyes had serous choroidal detachments after glaucoma surgeries. A 25-gauge infusion line was placed in the anterior chamber. A 20-gauge (in eyes with hemorrhagic choroidal detachments) or a 25-gauge (in eyes with serous detachments) trocar/cannula system was inserted into the suprachoroidal space 7.0 mm from limbus. After drainage, the cannulas were removed and no sutures were placed. Pars plana vitrectomy was performed only in eyes with concomitant pathology that demanded the additional procedure. The primary outcome measure was presence of choroidal detachment at 1 week, 2 weeks, and 1 month postoperatively. Secondary outcome measures were visual acuity at 6 months and intraocular pressure at 1 week and 1, 3, and 6 months postoperatively. Drainage of hemorrhagic choroidal detachments resulted in resolution of the detachments by 1 month postoperatively. In eyes with serous detachments, resolution was achieved by 1 week postdrainage. In both groups, intraocular pressure increased to at least 10 mmHg by postoperative Week 1. The visual acuity improved in all eyes. No complications related to the transconjunctival technique were noted. Transconjunctival drainage of serous and hemorrhagic choroidal detachments seems to be a feasible and simple surgical option with minimal scleral and conjunctival damage. Pars plana vitrectomy may not be necessary when draining choroidal detachments in this manner.

Distribution and characterisation of rat choroidal mast cells.

PubMed Central

Steptoe, R J; McMenamin, P G; McMenamin, C

1994-01-01

Despite the implication that choroidal mast cells are involved in the onset of experimental autoimmune uveoretinitis (EAU), a widely used animal model of uveoretinitis, little is known of these cells. In the present study the distribution, total number, regional density, and phenotype of choroidal mast cells were examined in Lewis, Wistar Furth, PVG/c, and brown Norway rats. Choroidal mast cells were predominantly associated with arteries and arterioles of more than 30 microns diameter which lie in the outer (sclerad) choroid. The density of mast cells was greatest in the posterior choroid with density diminishing anteriorly. The choroid of male Lewis rats contained significantly greater number of mast cells than that of females (p < 0.01). Histochemical (Alcian blue/safranin) and immunohistochemical (anti-rat mast cell protease I and II monoclonal antibodies) studies revealed choroidal mast cells were of the connective tissue type. However, granule proteinase content appeared less than that of well characterised connective tissue mast cell populations such as those in mesentery and skin. Lewis rats exhibited the highest density of choroidal mast cells (23.6 (SD 1.2)/mm2), Wistar Furth approximately half that of Lewis (13.5 (0.7)/mm2) while PVG/c and brown Norway rats had very low densities (3.06(0.3); 1.95(0.2/mm2 respectively). These studies provide valuable choroidal mast cell data for rats which may have implications for our understanding of experimental models of intraocular inflammation and clinical uveitis. Images PMID:8148338

Curvilinear pigmentary lesions in a rod-cone dystrophy.

PubMed

Tamaki, Y; Sawa, M; Yannuzzi, L A

2005-01-01

To report a peculiar curvilinear pigmentary lesion in the peripheral fundus in a rod-cone dystrophy. Observational case report. Fundus examination of a 57-year-old woman who was known to have a generalized rod-cone dystrophy since she was 8 years old. The peripheral fundus examination revealed a curvilinear lesion which resembles a well-known finding associated with a presumed ocular histoplasmosis syndrome or multifocal choroiditis. The differential diagnosis of a peculiar curvilinear pigmentary lesion in the peripheral fundus may be expanded to include a generalized rod-cone dystrophy.

Laser targeted photo-occlusion of rat choroidal neovascularization without collateral damage.

PubMed

Nishiwaki, Hirokazu; Zeimer, Ran; Goldberg, Morton F; D'Anna, Salvatore A; Vinores, Stanley A; Grebe, Rhonda

2002-02-01

Laser targeted photo-occlusion (LTO) is a novel method being developed to treat choroidal neovascular membranes (CNV) in age-related and other macular degenerations. A photosensitive agent, encapsulated in heat-sensitive liposomes, is administered intravenously. A low power laser warms the targeted tissue and releases a bolus of photosensitizer. The photosensitizer is activated after it clears from the normal choriocapillaris but not from the CNV. Forty-five experimental CNV were induced in seven rats. Five weeks after LTO, complete occlusion was observed by laser targeted angiography (LTA) in 76% of treated CNV, and partial occlusion was found in the remaining 24%. The tissues outside the CNV but within the area treated by LTO showed no flow alteration and no dye leakage. All untreated CNV were patent on LTA at 5 weeks. Light microscopy and electron microscopy confirmed the results in treated and control lesions. Moreover, treated areas next to lesions showed normal photoreceptors, retinal pigment epithelium (RPE), Bruch's membrane and choriocapillaris. These results indicate that LTO may improve current photodynamic therapy by alleviating the need for repeated treatments and by avoiding the long-term risks associated with damage to the RPE and occlusion of normal choriocapillaries.

Evaluation of photopoint photosensitizer mv6401, indium chloride methyl pyropheophorbide, as a photodynamic therapy agent in primate choriocapillaris and laser-induced choroidal neovascularization.

PubMed

Ciulla, Thomas A; Criswell, Mark H; Danis, Ronald P; Snyder, Wendy J; Small, Ward

2004-08-01

To assess the potential of a new photosensitizer, indium chloride methyl pyropheophorbide (PhotoPoint MV6401), for ocular photodynamic therapy (PDT) in normal choriocapillaris vessels and experimentally induced choroidal neovascularization in New-World monkeys (Saimiri sciureus). PhotoPoint MV6401 (Miravant Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Santa Barbara, CA) was activated at 664 nm using a DD3-0665 (Miravant Systems, Inc., Santa Barbara, CA) 0.5 W diode laser. The efficacy of MV6401 was evaluated by indirect ophthalmoscopy, fundus photography, fluorescein angiography, and histology. The drug and light doses were 0.10 micromoles/kg to 0.3 micromoles/kg and 10 J/cm to 40 J/cm, respectively, and post-injection activation times ranged from +10 minutes to +120 minutes. Best closure of normal choriocapillaris was achieved at a dosage level of 0.15 micromoles/kg in primates. Histology demonstrated that increased post-injection activation times (+60 minutes to +90 minutes) and low laser light doses (10 J/cm to 20 J/cm) in the primate model resulted in selective closure of the choriocapillaris and medium sized choroidal vessels with minimal effect to the retina. Histology from neovascular lesions PDT-treated with MV6401 revealed significant diminution of vascularity, correlating with diminution of leakage observed on angiography. PhotoPoint MV6401, indium chloride methyl pyropheophorbide, is a potent photosensitizer that demonstrates both efficacy and selectivity in primate choriocapillaris and laser-induced choroidal neovascularization occlusion. Maximum selectivity was achieved using a post infusion interval of +60 to +90 minutes.

Bilateral polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy coexisting with exudative and atrophic age-related macular degeneration.

PubMed

Aronés-Santivañez, J R; Dyrda, A; Alarcón Valero, I

2016-12-01

To present the case of simultaneous presentation of polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy (PCV) and aged-related macular degeneration (AMD). An 83-year-old woman presented with decreased vision in the left eye (LE). In the examination there was an orange peripapillary lesion surrounded by lipid exudates and another subfoveal greyish lesion in the LE. Disciform scarring was observed in the right eye. Fluorescein angiography showed a classic neovascular membrane in in the LE fovea. Indocyanine angiography (ICGA) showed a polyp-like peri-papillary aneurysmal dilation in both eyes. The patient was treated with photodynamic therapy and anti-VEFG injections with stabilisation of the lesions. PCV and AMD can co-exist in unusual cases. When PCV is suspected, ICGA is mandatory for diagnosis. Copyright © 2016. Publicado por Elsevier España, S.L.U.

EVEREST study report 3: diagnostic challenges of polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy. Lessons learnt from screening failures in the EVEREST study.

PubMed

Tan, Colin S; Ngo, Wei Kiong; Lim, Louis W; Tan, Nikolle W; Lim, Tock H

2016-10-01

To describe screening failures in the EVEREST study by examining the imaging characteristics that enabled differentiation of polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy (PCV) from cases that were subsequently diagnosed not to be PCV. Post-hoc analysis of 34 patients with PCV reported as screening failures from EVEREST study. Standardised confocal scanning laser indocyanine green angiography (ICGA) images were graded by the Central Reading Centre to confirm PCV diagnosis based on the presence of early focal sub-retinal hyperfluorescence on ICGA and at least one of the following six diagnostic criteria: (1) nodular appearance of polyp(s) on stereoscopic examination, (2) hypofluorescent halo around nodule(s), (3) presence of a branching vascular network, (4) pulsation of polyp(s) on dynamic ICGA, (5) orange sub-retinal nodules on colour fundus photography, or (6) massive sub-macular haemorrhage (≥4 disc areas in size). Additional detailed image grading was performed with stereo-imaging and dynamic early-phase ICGA. Of the 95 screened PCV cases, 34 were excluded: (1) cases not suitable for recruitment as per the study protocol (n = 14), (2) equivocal lesions on ICGA characterised by small hyperfluorescent dots (n = 9), and (3) cases that were definitely not PCV (non-PCV, n = 11), identified by definitive diagnoses which included one case each of micro-aneurysm, retinal angiomatous proliferation, retino-choroidal anastomosis, small type-2 choroidal neovascularisation, retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) window defect and disciform scar; two cases of lesions where the choroidal vessel changed its course; and three cases of late-onset RPE staining. Standardised image grading techniques used in EVEREST study enabled effective differentiation of non-PCV from actual PCV.

CHOROIDAL THICKENING IN PATIENTS WITH CUTICULAR DRUSEN COMBINED WITH VITELLIFORM MACULAR DETACHMENT.

PubMed

Mrejen-Uretsky, Sarah; Ayrault, Sandrine; Nghiem-Buffet, Sylvia; Quentel, Gabriel; Cohen, Salomon Y

2016-06-01

To analyze the subfoveal choroidal thickness (SFCT) in patients with cuticular drusen. Retrospective, monocentric, study of consecutive patients examined with enhanced depth imaging spectral domain optical coherence tomography (EDI SD-OCT, Cirrus, Zeiss) between 2009 and 2014 in a tertiary care center. Measurements of the height of the subfoveal vitelliform detachment and SFCT were manually performed. Thirteen patients, 3 men and 10 women, aged from 35 to 73 (mean: 53.6 years) were selected. For the 24 eyes without macular atrophy at first visit, SFCT ranged from 195 to 559 µm (mean ± SD = 317.5 ± 93). The SFCT was significantly thicker in 12 eyes with vitelliform macular detachment at presentation (369 ± 96, median = 368.5) than in 12 eyes without (266 ± 58, median = 257.5) (P = 0.007), whereas the 2 groups did not differ in age (P = 0.35) or refractive error (P = 0.56). No correlation was observed between SFCT and the height of the foveal detachment. For 10 eyes followed up longer than 24 months (mean: 38.9 months), the SFCT significantly decreased over time, from 375 ± 96 (median = 368.5) to 303 ± 138 (median = 319) µm (P = 0.022). Eyes with cuticular drusen combined with vitelliform macular detachment present with choroidal thickening, suggesting that the choroidal vasculature may play a role in the occurrence of macular detachments in patients with cuticular drusen. The life cycle of these vitelliform lesions evolves from translucent subretinal fluid to the accumulation of yellowish material eventually resolving and leading to atrophy with marked and rapid thinning of the choroid.

Choroidal Infiltration by Retinoblastoma: Predictive Clinical Features and Outcome.

PubMed

Kaliki, Swathi; Tahiliani, Prerana; Iram, Sadiya; Ali, Mohammed Hasnat; Mishra, Dilip K; Reddy, Vijay Anand P

2016-11-01

To identify the clinical features predictive of choroidal infiltration by retinoblastoma on histopathology and to report the outcome in these patients. Retrospective study. Of the 403 patients who underwent primary enucleation for retinoblastoma, 113 patients had choroidal tumor infiltration and 290 patients had no choroidal tumor infiltration. There was a higher incidence of metastasis and related death in the choroidal tumor infiltration group compared to the no choroidal tumor infiltration group (4% vs 1%; P = .02). On multivariate analysis, the clinical features predictive of histopathologic massive choroidal infiltration included prolonged duration of symptoms for more than 6 months (hazard ratio [HR] = 3.04; P = .001) and secondary glaucoma (HR = 2.24; P = .005). In this study, the patients with retinoblastoma with prolonged duration of symptoms (> 6 months) had a three-fold greater risk and those with secondary glaucoma at presentation had a two-fold greater risk of massive choroidal tumor infiltration. [J Pediatr Ophthalmol Strabismus. 2016;53(6):349-356.]. Copyright 2016, SLACK Incorporated.

Second cancers discovered by (18)FDG PET/CT imaging for choroidal melanoma.

PubMed

Chin, Kimberly; Finger, Paul T; Kurli, Madhavi; Tena, Lawrence B; Reddy, Shantan

2007-08-01

Positron-emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) is a unique imaging tool that aids in the detection of cancerous lesions. It is currently and widely used for cancer staging (both initial and follow-up). Here we report our findings of second primary cancers incidentally discovered during PET/CT staging of patients with choroidal melanomas. We performed a retrospective case review of 139 patients with uveal melanoma who were subsequently evaluated by whole-body [18-fluorine-labeled] 2-deoxy-2-fluoro-D-glucose ((18)FDG) PET/CT imaging. In this series, 93 were scanned before treatment and 46 during the course of their follow-up systemic examinations. Their mean follow-up was 50.9 months. Six patients (4.3%) had second primary cancers revealed by PET/CT imaging. Three patients (50%) were synchronous (found at initial staging), and the remaining 3 patients (50%) were metachronous (found at follow-up staging). Second primary cancers were found in the lung, breast, uterus, colon, and thyroid. Although whole-body PET/CT scans were ordered as part of the staging process of patients with diagnosed choroidal melanoma, both synchronous and metachronous second primary cancers were found. PET/CT has become an indispensable tool for staging, diagnosis, and treatment planning for choroidal melanoma. The possibility of detecting second primary cancers should also be considered valuable.

Effect of ultrasound radiation force on the choroid.

PubMed

Silverman, Ronald H; Urs, Raksha; Lloyd, Harriet O

2013-01-10

While visualization of the retina and choroid has made great progress, functional imaging techniques have been lacking. Our aim was to utilize acoustic radiation force impulse (ARFI) response to probe functional properties of these tissues. A single element 18-MHz ultrasound transducer was focused upon the retina of the rabbit eye. The procedure was performed with the eye proptosed and with the eye seated normally in the orbit. The transducer was excited to emit ARFI over a 10-ms period with a 25% duty cycle. Phase resolved pulse/echo data were acquired before, during, and following ARFI. In the proptosed eye, ARFI exposure produced tissue displacements ranging from 0 to 10 μm, and an immediate increase in choroidal echo amplitude to over 6 dB, decaying to baseline after about 1 second. In the normally seated eye, ultrasound phase shifts consistent with flow were observed in the choroid, but enhanced backscatter following ARFI rarely occurred. ARFI-induced displacements of about 10 μm were observed at the choroidal margins. Larger displacements occurred within the choroid and in orbital tissues. We hypothesize that elevated intraocular pressure occurring during proptosis induced choroidal ischemia and that acoustic radiation force produced a transient local decompression and reperfusion. With the eye normally seated, choroidal flow was observed and little alteration in backscatter resulted from exposure. Clinical application of this technique may provide new insights into diseases characterized by altered choroidal hemodynamics, including maculopathies, diabetic retinopathy, and glaucoma.

A Novel Platelet-Activating Factor Receptor Antagonist Inhibits Choroidal Neovascularization and Subretinal Fibrosis

PubMed Central

Zhang, Han; Yang, Yang; Takeda, Atsunobu; Yoshimura, Takeru; Oshima, Yuji; Sonoda, Koh-Hei; Ishibashi, Tatsuro

2013-01-01

Choroidal neovascularization (CNV) is a critical pathogenesis in age-related macular degeneration (AMD), the most common cause of blindness in developed countries. To date, the precise molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying CNV have not been elucidated. Platelet-activating factor (PAF) has been previously implicated in angiogenesis; however, the roles of PAF and its receptor (PAF-R) in CNV have not been addressed. The present study reveals several important findings concerning the relationship of the PAF-R signaling with CNV. PAF-R was detected in a mouse model of laser-induced CNV and was upregulated during CNV development. Experimental CNV was suppressed by administering WEB2086, a novel PAF-R antagonist. WEB2086-dependent suppression of CNV occurred via the inhibition of macrophage infiltration and the expression of proangiogenic (vascular endothelial growth factor) and proinflammatory molecules (monocyte chemotactic protein-1 and IL-6) in the retinal pigment epithelium–choroid complex. Additionally, WEB2086-induced PAF-R blockage suppresses experimentally induced subretinal fibrosis, which resembles the fibrotic subretinal scarring observed in neovascular AMD. As optimal treatment modalities for neovascular AMD would target the multiple mechanisms of AMD-associated vision loss, including neovascularization, inflammation and fibrosis, our results suggest PAF-R as an attractive molecular target in the treatment of AMD. PMID:23826375

Tumoral and Choroidal Vascularization

PubMed Central

Jost, Maud; Maillard, Catherine; Lecomte, Julie; Lambert, Vincent; Tjwa, Marc; Blaise, Pierre; Alvarez Gonzalez, Maria-Luz; Bajou, Khalid; Blacher, Silvia; Motte, Patrick; Humblet, Chantal; Defresne, Marie Paule; Thiry, Marc; Frankenne, Francis; Gothot, André; Carmeliet, Peter; Rakic, Jean-Marie; Foidart, Jean-Michel; Noël, Agnès

2007-01-01

An adequate balance between serine proteases and their plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) is critical for pathological angiogenesis. PAI-1 deficiency in mice is associated with impaired choroidal neovascularization (CNV) and tumoral angiogenesis. In the present work, we demonstrate unexpected differences in the contribution of bone marrow (BM)-derived cells in these two processes regulated by PAI-1. PAI-1−/− mice grafted with BM-derived from wild-type mice were able to support laser-induced CNV formation but not skin carcinoma vascularization. Engraftment of irradiated wild-type mice with PAI-1−/− BM prevented CNV formation, demonstrating the crucial role of PAI-1 delivered by BM-derived cells. In contrast, the transient infiltration of tumor transplants by local PAI-1-producing host cells rather than by BM cells was sufficient to rescue tumor growth and angiogenesis in PAI-1-deficient mice. These data identify PAI-1 as a molecular determinant of a local permissive soil for tumor angiogenesis. Altogether, the present study demonstrates that different cellular mechanisms contribute to PAI-1-regulated tumoral and CNV. PAI-1 contributes to BM-dependent choroidal vascularization and to BM-independent tumor growth and angiogenesis. PMID:17717143

Autofluorescence of choroidal nevus in 64 cases.

PubMed

Shields, Carol L; Pirondini, Cesare; Bianciotto, Carlos; Materin, Miguel A; Harmon, Sarah A; Shields, Jerry A

2008-10-01

To describe the autofluorescence features of choroidal nevi. Noncomparative case series. Sixty-four consecutive patients. Correlation of fundus photography with autofluorescence photography. Autofluorescence features of choroidal nevus and overlying retinal pigment epithelium (RPE). The mean patient age was 62 years. The choroidal nevus was a mean of 5 mm from the optic disk and foveola. The mean tumor basal dimension was 5.0 mm and mean tumor thickness was 1.0 mm. The choroidal nevus showed hypoautofluorescence in 56%, isoautofluorescence in 19%, and hyperautofluorescence in 25%. The autofluorescence features appeared unaffected by tumor thickness, but increasing tumor base and disrupted overlying RPE appeared to produce slightly brighter autofluorescence. Nevi located in the macular region showed darker hypoautofluorescence than those outside the macular region. Overlying RPE hyperplasia, atrophy, and fibrous metaplasia were generally hypoautofluorescent. Drusen, subretinal fluid, and orange pigment were generally hyperautofluorescent. The brightest hyperautofluorescence was found with orange pigment. Choroidal nevus shows little intrinsic autofluorescence. Overlying RPE alterations show dramatic autofluorescence ranging from dark hypoautofluorescence of RPE atrophy to bright hyperautofluorescence of orange pigment.

Quantitative Analysis of En Face Spectral-Domain Optical Coherence Tomography Imaging in Polypoidal Choroidal Vasculopathy.

PubMed

Simonett, Joseph M; Chan, Errol W; Chou, Jonathan; Skondra, Dimitra; Colon, Daniel; Chee, Caroline K; Lingam, Gopal; Fawzi, Amani A

2017-02-01

Spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) imaging can be used to visualize polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy (PCV) lesions in the en face plane. Here, the authors describe a novel lesion quantification technique and compare PCV lesion area measurements and morphology before and after anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) treatment. Volumetric SD-OCT scans in eyes with PCV before and after induction anti-VEGF therapy were retrospectively analyzed. En face SD-OCT images were generated and a pixel intensity thresholding process was used to quantify total lesion area. Thirteen eyes with PCV were analyzed. En face SD-OCT PCV lesion area quantification showed good intergrader reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient = 0.944). Total PCV lesion area was significantly reduced after anti-VEGF therapy (2.22 mm 2 vs. 2.73 mm 2 ; P = .02). The overall geographic pattern of the branching vascular network was typically preserved. PCV lesion area analysis using en face SD-OCT is a reproducible tool that can quantify treatment related changes. [Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina. 2017;48:126-133.]. Copyright 2017, SLACK Incorporated.

Choroidal Round Hyporeflectivities in Geographic Atrophy.

PubMed

Corbelli, Eleonora; Sacconi, Riccardo; De Vitis, Luigi Antonio; Carnevali, Adriano; Rabiolo, Alessandro; Querques, Lea; Bandello, Francesco; Querques, Giuseppe

2016-01-01

In geographic atrophy (GA), choroidal vessels typically appear on structural optical coherence tomography (OCT) as hyperreflective round areas with highly reflective borders. We observed that some GA eyes show choroidal round hyporeflectivities with highly reflective borders beneath the atrophy, and futher investigated the charcteristcs by comparing structural OCT, indocyanine green angiography (ICGA) and OCT angiography (OCT-A). Round hyporeflectivities were individuated from a pool of patients with GA secondary to non-neovascular age-related macular degeneration consecutively presenting between October 2015 and March 2016 at the Medical Retina & Imaging Unit of the University Vita-Salute San Raffaele. Patients underwent a complete ophthalmologic examination including ICGA, structural OCT and OCT-A. The correspondence between choroidal round hyporeflectivities beneath GA on structural OCT and ICGA and OCT-A imaging were analyzed. Fifty eyes of 26 consecutive patients (17 females and 9 males; mean age 76.8±6.2 years) with GA were included. Twenty-nine round hyporeflectivities have been found by OCT in choroidal layers in 21 eyes of 21 patients (42.0%; estimated prevalence of 57.7%). All 29 round hyporeflectivities showed constantly a hyperreflective border and a backscattering on structural OCT, and appeared as hypofluorescent in late phase ICGA and as dark foci with non detectable flow in the choroidal segmentation of OCT-A. Interestingly, the GA area was greater in eyes with compared to eyes without round hyporeflectivities (9.30±5.74 and 5.57±4.48mm2, respectively; p = 0.01). Our results suggest that most round hyporeflectivities beneath GA may represent non-perfused or hypo-perfused choroidal vessels with non-detectable flow.

A pilot study to image the vascular network of small melanocytic choroidal tumors with speckle noise-free 1050-nm swept source optical coherence tomography (OCT choroidal angiography).

PubMed

Maloca, Peter; Gyger, Cyrill; Hasler, Pascal W

2016-06-01

To visualize and measure the vascular network of melanocytic choroidal tumors with speckle noise-free swept source optical coherence tomography (SS-OCT choroidal angiography). Melanocytic choroidal tumors from 24 eyes were imaged with 1050-nm optical coherence tomography (Topcon DRI OCT-1 Atlantis). A semi-automated algorithm was developed to remove speckle noise and to extract and measure the volume of the choroidal vessels from the obtained OCT data. In all cases, analysis of the choroidal vessels could be performed with SS-OCT without the need for pupillary dilation. The proposed method allows speckle noise-free, structure-guided visualization and measurement of the larger choroidal vessels in three dimensions. The obtained data suggest that speckle noise-free OCT may be more effective at identifying choroidal structures than traditional OCT methods. The measured volume of the extracted choroidal vessels of Haller's layer and Sattler's layer in the examined tumorous eyes was on average 0.982463955 mm(3) /982463956 μm(3) (range of 0.209764406 mm(3) /209764405.9 μm(3)to 1.78105544 mm(3) /1781055440 μm(3)). Full thickness obstruction of the choroidal vasculature by the tumor was found in 18 cases (72 %). In seven cases (18 %), choroidal vessel architecture did not show pronounced morphological abnormalities (18 %). Speckle noise-free OCT may serve as a new illustrative imaging technology and enhance visualization of the choroidal vessels without the need for dye injection. OCT can be used to identify and evaluate the choroidal vessels of melanocytic choroidal tumors, and may represent a potentially useful tool for imaging and monitoring of choroidal nevi and melanoma.

BILATERAL CHOROIDAL EXCAVATION IN JUVENILE LOCALIZED SCLERODERMA.

PubMed

Franklin, Mackenzie L; Day, Shelley

2018-01-01

To describe a case of bilateral choroidal excavation in a patient with juvenile localized scleroderma. Case report. An asymptomatic 12-year-old boy with localized scleroderma presented for examination and was found to have bilateral areas of choroidal excavation temporal to the fovea. Previous reports of ocular complications of localized scleroderma have primarily described adnexal and anterior segment changes. This is the second report of choroidal changes in a patient with localized scleroderma, and the first in a pediatric patient.

Choroidal thickness evaluation in paediatric patients with adenotonsillar hypertrophy.

PubMed

Yenigun, A; Elbay, A; Hafiz, A M; Ozturan, O

2017-09-01

To investigate choroidal thickness using enhanced-depth imaging optical coherence tomography in paediatric patients with adenotonsillar hypertrophy, with comparison to healthy children, three months after adenotonsillectomy. The patients were assigned to three groups: an adenotonsillar hypertrophy group, an adenotonsillectomy group and a healthy control group. In all groups, subfoveal, temporal and nasal choroidal thickness measurements were taken. In the subfoveal, temporal and nasal regions, choroidal tissue was found to be significantly thinner in adenotonsillar hypertrophy children than healthy children (p = 0.012, p = 0.027 and p = 0.020). The subfoveal and temporal choroidal thickness measurements of adenotonsillar hypertrophy group cases were significantly decreased compared to those in the adenotonsillectomy group (p = 0.038 and p = 0.048). There was a significant association between decreased choroidal thickness and adenotonsillar hypertrophy. Adenotonsillar hypertrophy may play an important role in decreased choroidal thickness.

Focal Choroidal Excavation in Best Vitelliform Macular Dystrophy: Case Report

PubMed Central

Esfahani, Mohammad Riazi; Esfahani, Hamid Riazi; Mahmoudi, Alireza; Johari, Mohammad Karim

2015-01-01

Focal choroidal excavation (FCE) was first reported as a choroidal posteriorly excavated zone without any scleral change. Choroidal excavation also divided into conforming and nonconforming type. Numerous reports demonstrated association between FCE and other disease such as choroidal neovascularization and central serous choroidoretinopathy. Here, we report a rare case of FCE in a patient with Best disease. The patient was diagnosed by spectoral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT). To the best of our knowledge, our patient is the second report of choroidal excavation in Best vitelliform macular dystrophy. PMID:26155505

Imaging of cerebellopontine angle lesions: an update. Part 2: intra-axial lesions, skull base lesions that may invade the CPA region, and non-enhancing extra-axial lesions.

PubMed

Bonneville, Fabrice; Savatovsky, Julien; Chiras, Jacques

2007-11-01

Computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance (MR) imaging reliably demonstrate typical features of vestibular schwannomas or meningiomas in the vast majority of mass lesions responsible for cerebellopontine angle (CPA) syndrome. However, a large variety of unusual lesions can also be encountered in the CPA. Covering the entire spectrum of lesions potentially found in the CPA, these articles explain the pertinent neuroimaging features that radiologists need to know to make clinically relevant diagnoses in these cases, including data from diffusion- and perfusion-weighted imaging or MR spectroscopy, when available. A diagnostic algorithm based on the lesion's site of origin, shape and margins, density, signal intensity and contrast material uptake is also proposed. Non-enhancing extra-axial CPA masses are cystic (epidermoid cyst, arachnoid cyst, neurenteric cyst) or contain fat (dermoid cyst, lipoma). Tumours can also extend into the CPA by extension from the skull base (paraganglioma, chondromatous tumours, chordoma, cholesterol granuloma, endolymphatic sac tumour). Finally, brain stem or ventricular tumours can present with a significant exophytic component in the CPA that may be difficult to differentiate from an extra-axial lesion (lymphoma, hemangioblastoma, choroid plexus papilloma, ependymoma, glioma, medulloblastoma, dysembryoplastic neuroepithelial tumour).

Systemic human CR2-targeted complement alternative pathway inhibitor ameliorates mouse laser-induced choroidal neovascularization.

PubMed

Rohrer, Bärbel; Coughlin, Beth; Bandyopadhyay, Mausumi; Holers, V Michael

2012-08-01

Genetic associations and the presence of complement components within pathological structures of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) have generated the hypothesis that AMD is caused by chronic local complement activation. Since the majority of activity in the common terminal pathway results from engagement of the amplification loop, the alternative pathway has been proposed as a logical therapeutic target. We recently generated a factor H (fH)-based complement inhibitor (CR2-fH) with the capacity to be "targeted" to sites of complement C3 activation. We asked whether the human therapeutic (TT30) is effective in a mouse model of AMD. Choroidal neovascularization (CNV) was induced by argon laser photocoagulation of Bruch's membrane. Every other day, mice received intravenous injections of TT30 or vehicles, and after 6 days, the presence or absence of CNV and CNV-related changes were evaluated. Area of CNV, photoreceptor cell function, gene expression for complement components and cytokines, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) protein levels, and TT30 bioavailability were determined. CNV development, which has previously been shown to require local complement activation, could be reduced by intravenous TT30 delivery. Specific inhibition of the alternative pathway not only reduced angiogenesis in CNV, but also ameliorated changes in several associated disease-related biomarkers, including diminished retinal function and molecular events known to be involved in AMD such as VEGF production. After intravenous injection, TT30 localized to CNV lesion sites in the retinal pigmented epithelium-choroid. Systemic administration of TT30 was found to reduce CNV pathology. These data may open new avenues for novel systemic AMD treatment strategies.

Indocyanine green angiographic evidence of choroiditis in scleroderma.

PubMed

Abdellatief, Amro; Balasubramaniam, Saranya C; Grube, Thomas J; Gonzalez Santiago, Tania M; Osborn, Thomas G; Pulido, Jose S

2015-01-01

The purpose of this case report was to demonstrate evidence of indocyanine green angiography leakage consistent with choroiditis in a patient with scleroderma. In this case report, the patient underwent a variety of tests and examinations, including systemic evaluation, full ocular examination, skin biopsy, indocyanine green, and fluorescein angiography testing. A 52-year-old man had blurred vision centrally in both eyes. Vision was 20/25 and 20/20. Posterior examination showed cotton-wool spots in both eyes. The patient met European League against Rheumatism (EULAR) criteria for scleroderma. Fluorescein angiography confirmed the presence of leakage from the retinal vessels. More importantly, indocyanine green angiography revealed choroidal vessel leakage in both eyes. This provided evidence of choroiditis before vessel obliteration. Previous studies have shown evidence of choriocapillaris obliteration. Choroidal vessel leakage, however, has not been reported in patients with scleroderma. The results of this case demonstrate the usefulness of indocyanine green angiography in detecting the presence of choroiditis in scleroderma.

Validity of Automated Choroidal Segmentation in SS-OCT and SD-OCT.

PubMed

Zhang, Li; Buitendijk, Gabriëlle H S; Lee, Kyungmoo; Sonka, Milan; Springelkamp, Henriët; Hofman, Albert; Vingerling, Johannes R; Mullins, Robert F; Klaver, Caroline C W; Abràmoff, Michael D

2015-05-01

To evaluate the validity of a novel fully automated three-dimensional (3D) method capable of segmenting the choroid from two different optical coherence tomography scanners: swept-source OCT (SS-OCT) and spectral-domain OCT (SD-OCT). One hundred eight subjects were imaged using SS-OCT and SD-OCT. A 3D method was used to segment the choroid and quantify the choroidal thickness along each A-scan. The segmented choroidal posterior boundary was evaluated by comparing to manual segmentation. Differences were assessed to test the agreement between segmentation results of the same subject. Choroidal thickness was defined as the Euclidian distance between Bruch's membrane and the choroidal posterior boundary, and reproducibility was analyzed using automatically and manually determined choroidal thicknesses. For SS-OCT, the average choroidal thickness of the entire 6- by 6-mm2 macular region was 219.5 μm (95% confidence interval [CI], 204.9-234.2 μm), and for SD-OCT it was 209.5 μm (95% CI, 197.9-221.0 μm). The agreement between automated and manual segmentations was high: Average relative difference was less than 5 μm, and average absolute difference was less than 15 μm. Reproducibility of choroidal thickness between repeated SS-OCT scans was high (coefficient of variation [CV] of 3.3%, intraclass correlation coefficient [ICC] of 0.98), and differences between SS-OCT and SD-OCT results were small (CV of 11.0%, ICC of 0.73). We have developed a fully automated 3D method for segmenting the choroid and quantifying choroidal thickness along each A-scan. The method yielded high validity. Our method can be used reliably to study local choroidal changes and may improve the diagnosis and management of patients with ocular diseases in which the choroid is affected.

Expression of regulatory proteins in choroid plexus changes in early stages of Alzheimer disease.

PubMed

Krzyzanowska, Agnieszka; García-Consuegra, Inés; Pascual, Consuelo; Antequera, Desiree; Ferrer, Isidro; Carro, Eva

2015-04-01

Recent studies indicate that the choroid plexus has important physiologic and pathologic roles in Alzheimer disease (AD). To obtain additional insight on choroid plexus function, we performed a proteomic analysis of choroid plexus samples from patients with AD stages I to II (n = 16), III to IV (n = 16), and V to VI (n = 11) and 7 age-matched control subjects. We used 2-dimensional differential gel electrophoresis coupled with mass spectrometry to generate a complete picture of changes in choroid plexus protein expression occurring in AD patients. We identified 6 proteins: 14-3-3 β/α, 14-3-3 ε, moesin, proteasome activator complex subunit 1, annexin V, and aldehyde dehydrogenase, which were significantly regulated in AD patient samples (p < 0.05, >1.5-fold variation in expression vs control samples). These proteins are implicated in major physiologic functions including mitochondrial dysfunction and apoptosis regulation. These findings contribute additional significance to the emerging importance of molecular and functional changes of choroid plexus function in the pathophysiology of AD.

Circumscribed choroidal hemangioma: A case report and literature review.

PubMed

Berry, Morgan; Lucas, Linda J H

Choroidal hemangioma is a rare congenital ocular tumor that can present as either circumscribed or diffuse. Circumscribed choroidal hemangioma (CCH) typically manifests as a red-orange mass within the posterior pole and appears similar to other ocular conditions, such as choroidal melanoma and choroidal metastasis. Proper diagnosis is crucial and is aided by the use of ancillary testing. CCH itself is benign but can cause secondary complications such as subretinal fluid accumulation and subsequent retinal detachment. If these conditions should arise, several treatment options are available. Published by Elsevier España, S.L.U.

OPTICAL COHERENCE TOMOGRAPHY ANGIOGRAPHY SHOWS INNER CHOROIDAL ISCHEMIA IN ACUTE POSTERIOR MULTIFOCAL PLACOID PIGMENT EPITHELIOPATHY.

PubMed

Dolz-Marco, Rosa; Sarraf, David; Giovinazzo, Vincent; Freund, K Bailey

2017-01-01

To describe multimodal imaging findings of an evolving case of acute posterior multifocal placoid pigment epitheliopathy occurring in a young healthy male. Case report of a patient with acute posterior multifocal placoid pigment epitheliopathy including comprehensive systemic and ocular examinations. Ultra-widefield autofluorescence, fluorescein angiography, indocyanine green angiography, and serial optical coherence tomography angiography were performed. A 34-year-old male presented with acute vision loss in his left eye for 2 weeks. His best-corrected visual acuity was 20/20 in his right eye and 20/200 in his left eye. Dilated funduscopic examination revealed multiple creamy white deep retinal lesions showing macular involvement of the left eye with a diffuse area of pigmentary changes. The presence of multiple areas of hypoperfusion of the inner choroid were demonstrated with fluorescein and indocyanine green angiography. Serial optical coherence tomography angiography showed multiple evolving areas of decreased flow at the level of the inner choroid. Although the pathogenesis of acute posterior multifocal placoid pigment epitheliopathy remains unknown, there is growing evidence of a primary choroidal involvement with secondary damage to the overlying retinal pigment epithelium and the outer retinal layers. Optical coherence tomography angiography may provide valuable information for the diagnosis and follow-up of this condition avoiding invasive angiographic procedures.

Vascular tumors of the choroid and retina

PubMed Central

Shanmugam, P Mahesh; Ramanjulu, Rajesh

2015-01-01

Vascular tumors of the retina and choroid can be seen occasionally. In the following article, the key clinical and diagnostic features of the major retinal and choroidal vascular tumors, their systemic associations, and the literature pertaining to the most currently available treatment strategies are reviewed. PMID:25827544

Retinal sensitivity and choroidal thickness in high myopia.

PubMed

Zaben, Ahmad; Zapata, Miguel Á; Garcia-Arumi, Jose

2015-03-01

To estimate the association between choroidal thickness in the macular area and retinal sensitivity in eyes with high myopia. This investigation was a transversal study of patients with high myopia, all of whom had their retinal sensitivity measured with macular integrity assessment microperimetry. The choroidal thicknesses in the macular area were then measured by optical coherence tomography, and statistical correlations between their functionality and the anatomical structuralism, as assessed by both types of measurements, were analyzed. Ninety-six eyes from 77 patients with high myopia were studied. The patients had a mean age ± standard deviation of 38.9 ± 13.2 years, with spherical equivalent values ranging from -6.00 diopter to -20.00 diopter (8.74 ± 2.73 diopter). The mean central choroidal thickness was 159.00 ± 50.57. The mean choroidal thickness was directly correlated with sensitivity (r = 0.306; P = 0.004) and visual acuity but indirectly correlated with the spherical equivalent values and patient age. The mean sensitivity was not significantly correlated with the macular foveal thickness (r = -0.174; P = 0.101) or with the overall macular thickness (r = 0.103; P = 0.334); furthermore, the mean sensitivity was significantly correlated with visual acuity (r = 0.431; P < 0.001) and the spherical equivalent values (r = -0.306; P = 0.003). Retinal sensitivity in highly myopic eyes is directly correlated with choroidal thickness and does not seem to be associated with retinal thickness. Thus, in patients with high myopia, accurate measurements of choroidal thickness may provide more accurate information about this pathologic condition because choroidal thickness correlates to a greater degree with the functional parameters, patient age, and spherical equivalent values.

Relapse of choroidal neovascularization in Bietti's crystalline retinopathy following anti-vascular endothelial growth factor therapy: A case report.

PubMed

Hua, Rui; Chen, Kang; Hu, Yuedong; Wang, Xinling; Chen, Lei

2015-11-01

Choroidal neovascularization secondary to retinitis pigmentosa is rarely observed in clinical practice. The present study describes a case of atypical retinitis pigmentosa, crystalline retinal pigmentary degeneration, complicated by choroidal neovascularization (CNV) in a 26-year-old man presenting with blurred vision in the right eye. Heidelberg multimodality imaging was performed to achieve a confirmed diagnosis. Bevacizumab was injected once intravitreally. The 3-month follow-up included visualization of the lesion's regression with spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT). However, at 3 months after the injection, the CNV reoccurred. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first time that a case of CNV secondary to retinitis pigmentosa, in which the diagnosis was confirmed via multimodality imaging and the therapeutic efficacy was evaluated by SD-OCT, has been reported in China.

Choroidal melanoma in a dog.

PubMed

Miwa, Yasutsugu; Matsunaga, Satoru; Kato, Kumiko; Ogawa, Hiroyuki; Nakayama, Hiroyuki; Tsujimoto, Saori; Sasaki, Nobuo

2005-08-01

A 7-year-old intact female golden Retriever was referred for evaluation of an intraorbital mass of the left eye. Based on ophthalmoscopy, ultrasonography and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), the tentative diagnosis was made as an intraocular neoplasia, especially choroidal melanoma. The orbital exenteration of the affected eye was performed. The mass was histologically diagnosed as malignant choroidal melanoma. No signs of recurrence and metastasis were detected by thoracic radiographs, blood examinations and MR images, and the dog was clinically healthy for 23 months after operation.

A Quantitative and Standardized Method for the Evaluation of Choroidal Neovascularization Using MICRON III Fluorescein Angiograms in Rats

PubMed Central

Wigg, Jonathan P.; Zhang, Hong; Yang, Dong

2015-01-01

Introduction In-vivo imaging of choroidal neovascularization (CNV) has been increasingly recognized as a valuable tool in the investigation of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) in both clinical and basic research applications. Arguably the most widely utilised model replicating AMD is laser generated CNV by rupture of Bruch’s membrane in rodents. Heretofore CNV evaluation via in-vivo imaging techniques has been hamstrung by a lack of appropriate rodent fundus camera and a non-standardised analysis method. The aim of this study was to establish a simple, quantifiable method of fluorescein fundus angiogram (FFA) image analysis for CNV lesions. Methods Laser was applied to 32 Brown Norway Rats; FFA images were taken using a rodent specific fundus camera (Micron III, Phoenix Laboratories) over 3 weeks and compared to conventional ex-vivo CNV assessment. FFA images acquired with fluorescein administered by intraperitoneal injection and intravenous injection were compared and shown to greatly influence lesion properties. Utilising commonly used software packages, FFA images were assessed for CNV and chorioretinal burns lesion area by manually outlining the maximum border of each lesion and normalising against the optic nerve head. Net fluorescence above background and derived value of area corrected lesion intensity were calculated. Results CNV lesions of rats treated with anti-VEGF antibody were significantly smaller in normalised lesion area (p<0.001) and fluorescent intensity (p<0.001) than the PBS treated control two weeks post laser. The calculated area corrected lesion intensity was significantly smaller (p<0.001) in anti-VEGF treated animals at 2 and 3 weeks post laser. The results obtained using FFA correlated with, and were confirmed by conventional lesion area measurements from isolectin stained choroidal flatmounts, where lesions of anti-VEGF treated rats were significantly smaller at 2 weeks (p = 0.049) and 3 weeks (p<0.001) post laser. Conclusion The

Outer Retinal and Choroidal Evaluation in Multiple Evanescent White Dot Syndrome (MEWDS): An Enhanced Depth Imaging Optical Coherence Tomography Study.

PubMed

Fiore, Tito; Iaccheri, Barbara; Cerquaglia, Alessio; Lupidi, Marco; Torroni, Giovanni; Fruttini, Daniela; Cagini, Carlo

2018-01-01

To perform an analysis of optical coherence tomography (OCT) abnormalities in patients with MEWDS, during the acute and recovery stages, using enhanced depth imaging-OCT (EDI-OCT). A retrospective case series of five patients with MEWDS was included. EDI-OCT imaging was evaluated to detect retinal and choroidal features. In the acute phase, focal impairment of the ellipsoid zone and external limiting membrane, hyperreflective dots in the inner choroid, and full-thickness increase of the choroidal profile were observed in the affected eye; disappearance of these findings and restoration of the choroidal thickness (p = 0.046) was appreciated in the recovery phase. No OCT abnormalities were assessed in the unaffected eye. EDI-OCT revealed transient outer retinal layer changes and inner choroidal hyperreflective dots. A transient increased thickness of the whole choroid was also identified. This might confirm a short-lasting inflammatory involvement of the whole choroidal tissue in the active phase of MEWDS.

Choroidal metastasis from early rectal cancer: Case report and literature review

PubMed Central

Tei, Mitsuyoshi; Wakasugi, Masaki; Akamatsu, Hiroki

2014-01-01

INTRODUCTION Choroidal metastasis from colorectal cancer is rare, and there have been no reported cases of such metastasis from early colorectal cancer. We report a case of choroidal metastasis from early rectal cancer. PRESENTATION OF CASE A 61 year-old-man experienced myodesopsia in the left eye 2 years and 6 months after primary rectal surgery for early cancer, and was diagnosed with left choroidal metastasis and multiple lung metastases. Radiotherapy was initiated for the left eye and systemic chemotherapy is initiated for the multiple lung metastases. The patient is living 2 years and 3 months after the diagnosis of choroidal metastasis without signs of recurrence in the left eye, and continues to receive systemic chemotherapy for multiple lung metastases. DISCUSSION Current literatures have few recommendations regarding the appropriate treatment of choroidal metastasis from colorectal cancer, but an aggressive multi-disciplinary approach may be effective in local regression. CONCLUSION This is the first report of choroidal metastasis from early rectal cancer. We consider it important to enforce systemic chemotherapy in addition to radiotherapy for choroidal metastasis from colorectal cancer. PMID:25460493

Comparison of clinical features and 3-month treatment response among three different choroidal thickness groups in polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy.

PubMed

Kong, Mingui; Kim, Sung Min; Ham, Don-Il

2017-01-01

Eyes with polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy (PCV) were recently reported to have various choroidal thickness, and choroidal thickness might be associated with visual outcome in the treatment of many retinal disorders. The range of subfoveal choroidal thickness (SFCT), clinical features, and 3-month treatment response among three groups having different range of SFCT were investigated in PCV eyes. In 78 treatment-naïve eyes with PCV, SFCT was measured using optical coherence tomography. Eyes were classified into thin, medium, and thick groups, using mean and one standard deviation of SFCT. Clinical features and imaging findings were compared among the three groups. Some eyes were treated with three consecutive monthly injection of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) as an initial treatment. They were also classified into three thickness groups, and the short-term post-treatment improvement in visual acuity and central retinal thickness were compared among groups. The mean SFCT was 271.9 ± 135.6 μm. Twelve, 53, and 13 eyes were classified into thin (<136.3 μm), medium (136.3-407.5 μm), and thick (>407.5 μm) groups, respectively. The thin group showed older age, lower visual acuity, and a higher prevalence of fundus tessellation than the other two groups (P <0.05). In multiple linear regression analyses, baseline BCVA was correlated with baseline SFCT. Forty-six eyes completed three consecutive anti-VEGF treatments. The thin group showed no visual improvement after treatment (P = 0.141), unlike the other two groups showing visual improvement (P<0.05). Eyes with PCV have a broad range of SFCT, and PCV eyes with a thin choroid manifest worse visual function than eyes with a medium or thick choroid.

ASSOCIATION OF DRUSEN VOLUME WITH CHOROIDAL PARAMETERS IN NONNEOVASCULAR AGE-RELATED MACULAR DEGENERATION.

PubMed

Balasubramanian, Siva; Lei, Jianqin; Nittala, Muneeswar G; Velaga, Swetha B; Haines, Jonathan; Pericak-Vance, Margaret A; Stambolian, Dwight; Sadda, SriniVas R

2017-10-01

The choroid is thought to be relevant to the pathogenesis of nonneovascular age-related macular degeneration, but its role has not yet been fully defined. In this study, we evaluate the relationship between the extent of macular drusen and specific choroidal parameters, including thickness and intensity. Spectral domain optical coherence tomography images were collected from two distinct, independent cohorts with nonneovascular age-related macular degeneration: Amish (53 eyes of 34 subjects) and non-Amish (40 eyes from 26 subjects). All spectral domain optical coherence tomography scans were obtained using the Cirrus HD-OCT with a 512 × 128 macular cube (6 × 6 mm) protocol. The Cirrus advanced retinal pigment epithelium analysis tool was used to automatically compute drusen volume within 3 mm (DV3) and 5 mm (DV5) circles centered on the fovea. The inner and outer borders of the choroid were manually segmented, and the mean choroidal thickness and choroidal intensity (i.e., brightness) were calculated. The choroidal intensity was normalized against the vitreous and nerve fiber layer reflectivity. The correlation between DV and these choroidal parameters was assessed using Pearson and linear regression analysis. A significant positive correlation was observed between normalized choroidal intensity and DV5 in the Amish (r = 0.42, P = 0.002) and non-Amish (r = 0.33, P = 0.03) cohorts. Also, DV3 showed a significant positive correlation with normalized choroidal intensity in both the groups (Amish: r = 0.30, P = 0.02; non-Amish: r = 0.32, P = 0.04). Choroidal thickness was negatively correlated with normalized choroidal intensity in both Amish (r = -0.71, P = 0.001) and non-Amish (r = -0.43, P = 0.01) groups. Normalized choroidal intensity was the most significant constant predictor of DV in both the Amish and non-Amish groups. Choroidal intensity, but not choroidal thickness, seems to be associated with drusen volume in Amish and non-Amish populations. These

Methylation profiling of choroid plexus tumors reveals 3 clinically distinct subgroups.

PubMed

Thomas, Christian; Sill, Martin; Ruland, Vincent; Witten, Anika; Hartung, Stefan; Kordes, Uwe; Jeibmann, Astrid; Beschorner, Rudi; Keyvani, Kathy; Bergmann, Markus; Mittelbronn, Michel; Pietsch, Torsten; Felsberg, Jörg; Monoranu, Camelia M; Varlet, Pascale; Hauser, Peter; Olar, Adriana; Grundy, Richard G; Wolff, Johannes E; Korshunov, Andrey; Jones, David T; Bewerunge-Hudler, Melanie; Hovestadt, Volker; von Deimling, Andreas; Pfister, Stefan M; Paulus, Werner; Capper, David; Hasselblatt, Martin

2016-06-01

Choroid plexus tumors are intraventricular neoplasms derived from the choroid plexus epithelium. A better knowledge of molecular factors involved in choroid plexus tumor biology may aid in identifying patients at risk for recurrence. Methylation profiles were examined in 29 choroid plexus papillomas (CPPs, WHO grade I), 32 atypical choroid plexus papillomas (aCPPs, WHO grade II), and 31 choroid plexus carcinomas (CPCs, WHO grade III) by Illumina Infinium HumanMethylation450 Bead Chip Array. Unsupervised hierarchical clustering identified 3 subgroups: methylation cluster 1 (pediatric CPP and aCPP of mainly supratentorial location), methylation cluster 2 (adult CPP and aCPP of mainly infratentorial location), and methylation cluster 3 (pediatric CPP, aCPP, and CPC of supratentorial location). In methylation cluster 3, progression-free survival (PFS) accounted for a mean of 72 months (CI, 55-89 mo), whereas only 1 of 42 tumors of methylation clusters 1 and 2 progressed (P< .001). On stratification of outcome data according to WHO grade, all CPCs clustered within cluster 3 and were associated with shorter overall survival (mean, 105 mo [CI, 81-128 mo]) and PFS (mean, 55 mo [CI, 36-73 mo]). The aCPP of methylation cluster 3 also progressed frequently (mean, 69 mo [CI, 44-93 mo]), whereas no tumor progression was observed in aCPP of methylation clusters 1 and 2 (P< .05). Only 1 of 29 CPPs recurred. Methylation profiling of choroid plexus tumors reveals 3 distinct subgroups (ie, pediatric low-risk choroid plexus tumors [cluster 1], adult low-risk choroid plexus tumors [cluster 2], and pediatric high-risk choroid plexus tumors [cluster 3]) and may provide useful prognostic information in addition to histopathology. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the Society for Neuro-Oncology 2016. This work is written by (a) US Government employee(s) and is in the public domain in the US.

Intravitreal dobesilate in the treatment of choroidal neovascularisation associated with age-related macular degeneration: report of two cases

PubMed Central

Cuevas, Pedro; Outeiriño, Luis; Azanza, Carlos; Giménez-Gallego, Guillermo

2012-01-01

This case report presents the effectiveness of intravitreal administration of dobesilate, a synthetic fibroblast growth factor inhibitor, in two patients showing neovascular age-related macular degeneration of the classic, and of the occult choroidal neovascularisation types, respectively. Our study demonstrates that the treatment induces the regression of both forms of this pathology, as assessed by spectral optical coherence tomography. Improvement of the lesions was accompanied of visual acuity improvement. PMID:22948997

Pediatric genetic macular and choroidal diseases

PubMed Central

Bergman, Mica Y.; Nallasamy, Sudha

2014-01-01

Genetic diseases of the macula and choroid have various inheritance patterns and varying degrees of impact on vision. Herein, we review the literature including most recent advances in the understanding of the genetics of these diseases. Although many of these disorders have limited treatment options, knowledge of inheritance patterns can aid in early detection and with close monitoring can help the ophthalmologist preserve as much vision as possible (for example with early treatment of choroidal neovascularization). PMID:27625881

Choroid plexus adenoma in a child: expanding the clinical and pathological spectrum.

PubMed

Prendergast, Nicole; Goldstein, Jeffrey D; Beier, Alexandra D

2018-04-01

Primary choroid plexus tumors encompass a variety of tumors, with choroid plexus papilloma and carcinoma being the most common. Also in the differential diagnosis is the rare benign choroid plexus adenoma. As these tumors are infrequently described, the histological profile continues to evolve. The authors present a case with unusual characteristics that will broaden the pathological spectrum for choroid plexus adenomas.

Choroidal metastasis from early rectal cancer: Case report and literature review.

PubMed

Tei, Mitsuyoshi; Wakasugi, Masaki; Akamatsu, Hiroki

2014-01-01

Choroidal metastasis from colorectal cancer is rare, and there have been no reported cases of such metastasis from early colorectal cancer. We report a case of choroidal metastasis from early rectal cancer. A 61 year-old-man experienced myodesopsia in the left eye 2 years and 6 months after primary rectal surgery for early cancer, and was diagnosed with left choroidal metastasis and multiple lung metastases. Radiotherapy was initiated for the left eye and systemic chemotherapy is initiated for the multiple lung metastases. The patient is living 2 years and 3 months after the diagnosis of choroidal metastasis without signs of recurrence in the left eye, and continues to receive systemic chemotherapy for multiple lung metastases. Current literatures have few recommendations regarding the appropriate treatment of choroidal metastasis from colorectal cancer, but an aggressive multi-disciplinary approach may be effective in local regression. This is the first report of choroidal metastasis from early rectal cancer. We consider it important to enforce systemic chemotherapy in addition to radiotherapy for choroidal metastasis from colorectal cancer. Copyright © 2014 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.. All rights reserved.

Fluorocoxib A enables targeted detection of cyclooxygenase-2 in laser-induced choroidal neovascularization

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Uddin, Md. Jashim; Moore, Chauca E.; Crews, Brenda C.; Daniel, Cristina K.; Ghebreselasie, Kebreab; McIntyre, J. Oliver; Marnett, Lawrence J.; Jayagopal, Ashwath

2016-09-01

Ocular angiogenesis is a blinding complication of age-related macular degeneration and other retinal vascular diseases. Clinical imaging approaches to detect inflammation prior to the onset of neovascularization in these diseases may enable early detection and timely therapeutic intervention. We demonstrate the feasibility of a previously developed cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) targeted molecular imaging probe, fluorocoxib A, for imaging retinal inflammation in a mouse model of laser-induced choroidal neovascularization. This imaging probe exhibited focal accumulation within laser-induced neovascular lesions, with minimal detection in proximal healthy tissue. The selectivity of the probe for COX-2 was validated in vitro and by in vivo retinal imaging with nontargeted 5-carboxy-X-rhodamine dye, and by blockade of the COX-2 active site with nonfluorescent celecoxib prior to injection of fluorocoxib A. Fluorocoxib A can be utilized for imaging COX-2 expression in vivo for further validation as an imaging biomarker in retinal diseases.

Altered gravity downregulates aquaporin-1 protein expression in choroid plexus.

PubMed

Masseguin, C; Corcoran, M; Carcenac, C; Daunton, N G; Güell, A; Verkman, A S; Gabrion, J

2000-03-01

Aquaporin-1 (AQP1) is a water channel expressed abundantly at the apical pole of choroidal epithelial cells. The protein expression was quantified by immunocytochemistry and confocal microscopy in adult rats adapted to altered gravity. AQP1 expression was decreased by 64% at the apical pole of choroidal cells in rats dissected 5.5-8 h after a 14-day spaceflight. AQP1 was significantly overexpressed in rats readapted for 2 days to Earth's gravity after an 11-day flight (48% overshoot, when compared with the value measured in control rats). In a ground-based model that simulates some effects of weightlessness and alters choroidal structures and functions, apical AQP1 expression was reduced by 44% in choroid plexus from rats suspended head down for 14 days and by 69% in rats suspended for 28 days. Apical AQP1 was rapidly enhanced in choroid plexus of rats dissected 6 h after a 14-day suspension (57% overshoot, in comparison with control rats) and restored to the control level when rats were dissected 2 days after the end of a 14-day suspension. Decreases in the apical expression of choroidal AQP1 were also noted in rats adapted to hypergravity in the NASA 24-ft centrifuge: AQP1 expression was reduced by 47% and 85% in rats adapted for 14 days to 2 G and 3 G, respectively. AQP1 is downregulated in the apical membrane of choroidal cells in response to altered gravity and is rapidly restored after readaptation to normal gravity. This suggests that water transport, which is partly involved in the choroidal production of cerebrospinal fluid, might be decreased during spaceflight and after chronic hypergravity.

Choroidal thickness in Chinese patients with non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy.

PubMed

Jiang, Libin; Chen, Lanlan; Qiu, Xiujuan; Jiang, Ran; Wang, Yaxing; Xu, Liang; Lai, Timothy Y Y

2016-08-31

Non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NA-AION) is one of the most common types of ischemic optic neuropathy. Several recent studies suggested that abnormalities of choroidal thickness might be associated with NA-AION. The main objective of this case-control study was to evaluate whether choroidal thickness is an ocular risk factor for the development of NA-AION by evaluating the peripapillary and subfoveal choroidal thicknesses in affected Chinese patients. Forty-four Chinese patients with unilateral NA-AION were recruited and compared with 60 eyes of 60 normal age and refractive-error matched control subjects. Peripapillary and subfoveal choroidal thicknesses were measured by enhanced depth imaging optical coherence tomography. Choroidal thicknesses of eyes with NA-AION and unaffected fellow eyes were compared with normal controls. Choroidal thicknesses of NA-AION eyes with or without optic disc edema were also compared. The correlation between choroidal thickness and retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness, logMAR best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), and the mean deviation (MD) of Humphrey static perimetry in NA-AION eyes were analyzed. The peripapillary choroidal thicknesses at the nasal, nasal inferior and temporal inferior segments in NA-AION eyes with optic disc edema were significantly thicker compared with that of normal subjects (P < 0.05). There was no significant difference in the choroidal thicknesses between the unaffected fellow eyes of NA-AION patients and normal eyes of healthy controls; or between the NA-AION eyes with resolved optic disc edema and normal eyes (all P > 0.05). No significant correlation between choroidal thickness and RNFL thickness, logMAR BCVA and perimetry MD was found in eyes affected by NA-AION (all P > 0.05). Increase in peripapillary choroid thickness in some segments was found in NA-ION eyes with optic disc edema. However, our findings do not support the hypothesis that choroidal thickness is

Optical Assessment of Caries Lesion Structure and Activity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lee, Robert Chulsung

New, more sophisticated diagnostic tools are needed for the detection and characterization of caries lesions in the early stages of development. It is not sufficient to simply detect caries lesions, methods are needed to assess the activity of the lesion and determine if chemical or surgical intervention is needed. Previous studies have demonstrated that polarization sensitive optical coherence tomography (PS-OCT) can be used to nondestructively image the subsurface lesion structure and measure the thickness of the highly mineralized surface zone. Other studies have demonstrated that the rate of dehydration can be correlated with the lesion activity and that the rate can be measured using optical methods. The main objective of this work was to test the hypothesis that optical methods can be used to assess lesion activity on tooth coronal and root surfaces. Simulated caries models were used to develop and validate an algorithm for detecting and measuring the highly mineralized surface layer using PS-OCT. This work confirmed that the algorithm was capable of estimating the thickness of the highly mineralized surface layer with high accuracy. Near-infrared (NIR) reflectance and thermal imaging methods were used to assess activity of caries lesions by measuring the state of lesion hydration. NIR reflectance imaging performed the best for artificial enamel and natural coronal caries lesion samples, particularly at wavelengths coincident with the water absorption band at 1460-nm. However, thermal imaging performed the best for artificial dentin and natural root caries lesion samples. These novel optical methods outperformed the conventional methods (ICDAS II) in accurately assessing lesion activity of natural coronal and root caries lesions. Infrared-based imaging methods have shown potential for in-vivo applications to objectively assess caries lesion activity in a single examination. It is likely that if future clinical trials are a success, this novel imaging

[Choroid plexus tumors].

PubMed

Pianetti, G; Fonseca, L F

1998-06-01

This analysis comprises 15 children under 16 years of age, with choroid plexus tumors, seen in the Service of Paediatric Neurosurgery, Hospital das Clínicas and Hospital São Francisco de Assis in Belo Horizonte, Brazil, between 1981 and 1996. The patients were aged between 4 months and 16 years (average of 3 years and a half); 10 were less than 2 years, 9 were female; 14 children had clinical evidence of intracranial hypertension. All the children underwent CT scan and the choroid plexus tumors were clearly demonstrated in 14 of then. In 8 children the tumors were located in one lateral ventricle, 5 in the fourth ventricle and 2 had the tumors in more than one ventricle, 11 children required ventriculo-peritoneal shunt; 14 cases were operated on, 13 with total excision; 2 children died, respectively 7 days and one year after the surgery. Pathological examination revealed papillomas in 12 cases and carcinoma in two cases.

Stress-induced stimulation of choline transport in cultured choroid plexus epithelium exposed to low concentrations of cadmium.

PubMed

Young, Robin K; Villalobos, Alice R A

2014-03-01

The choroid plexus epithelium forms the blood-cerebrospinal fluid barrier and accumulates essential minerals and heavy metals. Choroid plexus is cited as being a "sink" for heavy metals and excess minerals, serving to minimize accumulation of these potentially toxic agents in the brain. An understanding of how low doses of contaminant metals might alter transport of other solutes in the choroid plexus is limited. Using primary cultures of epithelial cells isolated from neonatal rat choroid plexus, our objective was to characterize modulation of apical uptake of the model organic cation choline elicited by low concentrations of the contaminant metal cadmium (CdCl₂). At 50-1,000 nM, cadmium did not directly decrease or increase 30-min apical uptake of 10 μM [(3)H]choline. However, extended exposure to 250-500 nM cadmium increased [(3)H]choline uptake by as much as 75% without marked cytotoxicity. In addition, cadmium induced heat shock protein 70 and heme oxygenase-1 protein expression and markedly induced metallothionein gene expression. The antioxidant N-acetylcysteine attenuated stimulation of choline uptake and induction of stress proteins. Conversely, an inhibitor of glutathione synthesis l-buthionine-sulfoximine (BSO) enhanced stimulation of choline uptake and induction of stress proteins. Cadmium also activated ERK1/2 MAP kinase. The MEK1 inhibitor PD98059 diminished ERK1/2 activation and attenuated stimulation of choline uptake. Furthermore, inhibition of ERK1/2 activation abated stimulation of choline uptake in cells exposed to cadmium with BSO. These data indicate that in the choroid plexus, exposure to low concentrations of cadmium may induce oxidative stress and consequently stimulate apical choline transport through activation of ERK1/2 MAP kinase.

Measurement of Choroidal Perfusion and Thickness Following Systemic Sildenafil (Viagra®)

PubMed Central

Kim, David Y.; Silverman, Ronald H.; Chan, R.V. Paul; Khanifar, Aziz A.; Rondeau, Mark; Lloyd, Harriet; Schlegel, Peter; Coleman, D. Jackson

2011-01-01

Objective To demonstrate anatomic and physiologic changes in the human choroid following systemic sildenafil citrate (ViagraR) using enhanced depth imaging spectral domain-optical coherence tomography (EDI-OCT) and swept-scan high frequency digital ultrasound. Methods Seven healthy male subjects (mean age 32.7 years) were evaluated at baseline and two hours after ingesting 50 mg of sildenafil. Swept-scan high frequency digital ultrasound and EDI-OCT were utilized to measure choroidal perfusion and thickness, respectively. Results were read by masked observers. The Wilcoxon signed-rank test and t-test were used to analyze differences in choroidal flow and thickness at baseline and two hours after ingestion of sildenafil. Results Two hours following sildenafil, increased choroidal perfusion was observed in 11 of 12 eyes measured by swept-scan high frequency digital ultrasound. The mean increase was 3.46 (±2.00) times baseline with a range of 0.47 to 7.80 times baseline (p=0.004). Increased choroidal thickness was observed in 12 of 12 eyes measured with EDI-OCT. The average choroidal thickness increased by 11.6% temporal to the fovea, 9.3% nasal to the fovea, and 10.7% underneath the fovea (p<0.001 for all values). Conclusions Choroidal perfusion and thickness both increase in response to systemic sildenafil. These changes could secondarily affect retinal function, explain previously reported clinical symptoms, and potentially be a useful adjunct for treatment of ocular diseases that would benefit from increased choroidal blood flow. PMID:22974308

The advantages of intermediate-tier, inter-optometric referral of low risk pigmented lesions.

PubMed

Ly, Angelica; Nivison-Smith, Lisa; Hennessy, Michael; Kalloniatis, Michael

2017-11-01

Pigmented ocular lesions are commonly encountered by eye-care professionals, and range from benign to sight or life-threatening. After identifying a lesion, the primary care professional must establish the likely diagnosis and decide either to reassure, to monitor or to refer. The increasing use of ocular imaging technologies has contributed to an increase in the detection rate of pigmented lesions and a higher number of referrals, which may challenge existing pathways of health-care delivery. Specialist services may be over-burdened by referring all patients with pigmented lesions for an opinion, while inter-optometric referrals are underutilised. The aim of this study was to describe the referral patterns of pigmented lesions to an optometry led intermediate-tier collaborative care clinic. We performed a retrospective review of patient records using the list of patients examined at Centre for Eye Health (CFEH) for an initial or follow up pigmented lesion assessment between the 1/7/2013 and the 30/6/2016. Analysis was performed on: patient demographic characteristics, the referrer's tentative diagnosis, CFEH diagnosis and recommended management plan. Across 182 patient records, the primary lesion prompting referral was usually located in the posterior segment: choroidal naevus (105/182, 58%), congenital hypertrophy of the retinal pigment epithelium (CHRPE; 11/182, 6%), chorioretinal scarring (10/182, 5%) or not specified (52/182, 29%). Referrals described a specific request for ocular imaging in 25 instances (14%). The number of cases with a non-specific diagnosis was reduced after intermediate-tier care assessment (from 29% to 10%), while the number of diagnoses with less common conditions rose (from 2% to 21%). There was a 2% false positive referral rate to intermediate-tier care and a first visit discharge rate of 35%. A minority required on-referral to an ophthalmologist (22/182, 12%), either for unrelated incidental ocular findings, or suspicious choroidal

Choroid plexus papilloma in a beluga whale (Delphinapterus leucas).

PubMed

Thomas, Christian; Mergl, June; Gehring, Erica; Paulus, Werner; Martineau, Daniel; Hasselblatt, Martin

2016-07-01

We report herein a choroid plexus papilloma in a beluga whale (Delphinapterus leucas). This case was positive for choroid plexus tumor marker Kir7.1 on immunohistochemistry. These results and the high conservation of Kir7.1 across species at the amino acid sequence level strongly suggest that antibodies directed against Kir7.1 not only can be employed for the diagnosis of choroid plexus tumors in cetaceans, but are also likely to be diagnostically useful in other animal species. © 2016 The Author(s).

MACULAR CHOROIDAL VOLUME CHANGES AFTER INTRAVITREAL BEVACIZUMAB FOR EXUDATIVE AGE-RELATED MACULAR DEGENERATION.

PubMed

Palkovits, Stefan; Seidel, Gerald; Pertl, Laura; Malle, Eva M; Hausberger, Silke; Makk, Johanna; Singer, Christoph; Osterholt, Julia; Herzog, Sereina A; Haas, Anton; Weger, Martin

2017-12-01

To evaluate the effect of intravitreal bevacizumab on the macular choroidal volume and the subfoveal choroidal thickness in treatment naïve eyes with exudative age-related macular degeneration. The macular choroidal volume and the subfoveal choroidal thickness were measured using enhanced depth imaging optical coherence tomography. After a screening examination, each patient received 3 monthly intravitreal injections of 1.25 mg bevacizumab. One month after the third injection was a final assessment. Forty-seven patients with a mean age of 80 ± 6.4 years were included. The macular choroidal volume decreased significantly from median 4.1 mm (interquartile range 3.4-5.9) to median 3.9 mm (interquartile range 3.1-5.6) between the baseline and final examination (difference -0.46 mm, 95% confidence interval: -0.57 to 0.35, P < 0.001). Similarly, subfoveal choroidal thickness had decreased from 157.0 μm (interquartile range 116.0-244.5) at baseline to 139.0 μm (interquartile range 102.5-212.0) at the final examination (P < 0.001). Both parameters macular choroidal volume at baseline and subfoveal choroidal thickness at baseline were not associated with the response to treatment. The macular choroidal volume and the subfoveal choroidal thickness decreased significantly after 3 monthly bevacizumab injections for exudative age-related macular degeneration.

[Choroidal neovascularization secondary to angioid streaks: A familial case report].

PubMed

Benitez-Herreros, J; Camara-Gonzalez, C; Lopez-Guajardo, L; Beckford-Torngren, C; Pareja-Esteban, J

2014-05-01

We report a familial case of 2 brothers that suffered choroidal neovascularization (CNV) secondary to angioid streaks. They were both treated with a monthly intravitreal injection of ranibizumab (Lucentis(®)) for 3 months. Visual acuity was stabilized and fluorescein angiography revealed complete resolution of CNV. Neither recurrent CNV lesion nor new hemorrhages were reported during the follow-up period. The use of intravitreal ranibizumab for the treatment of CNV in patients with angioid streaks has shown favorable results. However, further studies with a longer follow-up and larger number of patients are necessary to more precisely determine the results of this therapy. Copyright © 2012 Sociedad Española de Oftalmología. Published by Elsevier Espana. All rights reserved.

Association between choroidal pigmentation and posterior uveal melanoma in a white population

PubMed Central

Harbour, J W; Brantley, M A; Hollingsworth, H; Gordon, M

2004-01-01

Background/aims: It is well known that light skin pigmentation is a risk factor for cutaneous melanoma. The aim of this study was to investigate the analogous association between choroidal pigmentation and posterior uveal melanoma. Methods: Cross sectional study of 65 consecutive patients diagnosed with posterior uveal melanoma (melanoma group) and 218 consecutive patients referred for general retinal evaluation (control group). All patients were white. A clinical grading system for estimating choroidal pigmentation was developed and histologically validated in seven patients. Results: Melanoma patients with light iris colour were significantly more likely to have darker choroidal pigmentation than controls (p = 0.005). Darker choroidal pigmentation was associated histologically with increased density of choroidal melanocytes (p = 0.005). Conclusions: Increased choroidal pigmentation, as a result of an increase in the density of pigmented choroidal melanocytes, is not protective but may actually be a risk factor for the development of posterior uveal melanoma in white patients. This finding may have implications for understanding the pathogenesis of uveal melanoma. PMID:14693770

En Face Optical Coherence Tomography for Visualization of the Choroid.

PubMed

Savastano, Maria Cristina; Rispoli, Marco; Savastano, Alfonso; Lumbroso, Bruno

2015-05-01

To assess posterior pole choroid patterns in healthy eyes using en face optical coherence tomography (OCT). This observational study included 154 healthy eyes of 77 patients who underwent en face OCT. The mean age of the patients was 31.2 years (standard deviation: 13 years); 40 patients were women, and 37 patients were men. En face imaging of the choroidal vasculature was assessed using an OCT Optovue RTVue (Optovue, Fremont, CA). To generate an appropriate choroid image, the best detectable vessels in Haller's layer below the retinal pigment epithelium surface parallel plane were selected. Images of diverse choroidal vessel patterns at the posterior pole were observed and recorded with en face OCT. Five different patterns of Haller's layer with different occurrences were assessed. Pattern 1 (temporal herringbone) represented 49.2%, pattern 2 (branched from below) and pattern 3 (laterally diagonal) represented 14.2%, pattern 4 (doubled arcuate) was observed in 11.9%, and pattern 5 (reticular feature) was observed in 10.5% of the reference plane. In vivo assessment of human choroid microvasculature in healthy eyes using en face OCT demonstrated five different patterns. The choroid vasculature pattern may play a role in the origin and development of neuroretinal pathologies, with potential importance in chorioretinal diseases and circulatory abnormalities. Copyright 2015, SLACK Incorporated.

Choroid Sprouting Assay: An Ex Vivo Model of Microvascular Angiogenesis

PubMed Central

Shao, Zhuo; Friedlander, Mollie; Hurst, Christian G.; Cui, Zhenghao; Pei, Dorothy T.; Evans, Lucy P.; Juan, Aimee M.; Tahir, Houda; Duhamel, François; Chen, Jing; Sapieha, Przemyslaw; Chemtob, Sylvain; Joyal, Jean-Sébastien; Smith, Lois E. H.

2013-01-01

Angiogenesis of the microvasculature is central to the etiology of many diseases including proliferative retinopathy, age-related macular degeneration and cancer. A mouse model of microvascular angiogenesis would be very valuable and enable access to a wide range of genetically manipulated tissues that closely approximate small blood vessel growth in vivo. Vascular endothelial cells cultured in vitro are widely used, however, isolating pure vascular murine endothelial cells is technically challenging. A microvascular mouse explant model that is robust, quantitative and can be reproduced without difficulty would overcome these limitations. Here we characterized and optimized for reproducibility an organotypic microvascular angiogenesis mouse and rat model from the choroid, a microvascular bed in the posterior of eye. The choroidal tissues from C57BL/6J and 129S6/SvEvTac mice and Sprague Dawley rats were isolated and incubated in Matrigel. Vascular sprouting was comparable between choroid samples obtained from different animals of the same genetic background. The sprouting area, normalized to controls, was highly reproducible between independent experiments. We developed a semi-automated macro in ImageJ software to allow for more efficient quantification of sprouting area. Isolated choroid explants responded to manipulation of the external environment while maintaining the local interactions of endothelial cells with neighboring cells, including pericytes and macrophages as evidenced by immunohistochemistry and fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS) analysis. This reproducible ex vivo angiogenesis assay can be used to evaluate angiogenic potential of pharmacologic compounds on microvessels and can take advantage of genetically manipulated mouse tissue for microvascular disease research. PMID:23922736

Differential responses of choroidal melanocytes and uveal melanoma cells to low oxygen conditions

PubMed Central

Weidmann, Cindy; Pomerleau, Jade; Trudel-Vandal, Laurence

2017-01-01

Purpose Tissue culture is traditionally performed at atmospheric oxygen concentration (21%), which induces hyperoxic stress, as endogenous physiologic oxygen tension found in tissues varies between 2% and 9%. This discrepancy may lead to misinterpretation of results and may explain why effects observed in vitro cannot always be reproduced in vivo and vice versa. Only a few studies have been conducted in low physiologic oxygen conditions to understand the development and differentiation of cells from the eye. Methods The aim of this study was to investigate the growth and gene expression profile of melanocytes from the choroid permanently exposed to 21% (hyperoxic) or 3% (physiologic) oxygen with proliferation assays and DNA microarray. The cellular behavior of the melanocytes was then compared to that of cancer cells. Results The gross morphology and melanin content of choroidal melanocytes changed slightly when they were exposed to 3% O2, and the doubling time was statistically significantly faster. There was an increase in the percentage of choroidal melanocytes in the active phases of the cell cycle as observed by using the proliferation marker Ki67. The caveolin-1 senescence marker was not increased in choroidal melanocytes or uveal melanoma cells grown in hyperoxia. In comparison, the morphology of the uveal melanoma cells was similar between the two oxygen levels, and the doubling time was slower at 3% O2. Surprisingly, gene expression profiling of the choroidal melanocytes did not reveal a large list of transcripts considerably dysregulated between the two oxygen concentrations; only the lactate transporter monocarboxylate transporter (MCT4) was statistically significantly upregulated at 3% O2. Conclusions This study showed that the oxygen concentration must be tightly controlled in experimental settings, because it influences the subsequent cellular behavior of human choroidal melanocytes. PMID:28356703

Choroidal Haller's and Sattler's Layers Thickness in Normal Indian Eyes.

PubMed

Roy, Rupak; Saurabh, Kumar; Vyas, Chinmayi; Deshmukh, Kaustubh; Sharma, Preeti; Chandrasekharan, Dhileesh P; Bansal, Aditya

2018-01-01

This study aims to study normative choroidal thickness (CT) and Haller's and Sattler's layers thickness in normal Indian eyes. The choroidal imaging of 73 eyes of 43 healthy Indian individuals was done using enhanced depth imaging feature of spectralis optical coherence tomography. Rraster scan protocol centered at fovea was used for imaging separately by two observers. CT was defined as the length of the perpendicular line drown from the outer border of hypereflective RPE-Bruch's complex to inner margin of choroidoscleral junction. Choroidal vessel layer thickness was measured after defining a largest choroidal vessel lumen within 750 μ on either side of the subfoveal CT vector. A perpendicular line was drawn to the innermost border of this lumen, and the distance between the perpendicular line and innermost border of choroidoscleral junction gave large choroidal vessel layer thickness (LCVLT, Haller's layer). Medium choroidal vessel layer thickness (MCVLT, Sattler's layer) was measured as the distance between same perpendicular line and outer border of hypereflective RPE-Bruch's complex. The mean age of individuals was 28.23 ± 15.29 years (range 14-59 years). Overall, the mean subfoveal CT was 331.6 ± 63.9 μ. Mean LCVLT was 227.08 ± 51.24 μ and the mean MCVLT was 95.65 ± 23.62 μ. CT was maximum subfoveally with gradual reduction in the thickness as the distance from the fovea increased. This is the first study describing the choroidal sublayer thickness, i.e., Haller's and Sattler's layer thickness along with CT in healthy Indian population.

Choroidal Haller's and Sattler's Layers Thickness in Normal Indian Eyes

PubMed Central

Roy, Rupak; Saurabh, Kumar; Vyas, Chinmayi; Deshmukh, Kaustubh; Sharma, Preeti; Chandrasekharan, Dhileesh P.; Bansal, Aditya

2018-01-01

AIM: This study aims to study normative choroidal thickness (CT) and Haller's and Sattler's layers thickness in normal Indian eyes. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The choroidal imaging of 73 eyes of 43 healthy Indian individuals was done using enhanced depth imaging feature of spectralis optical coherence tomography. Rraster scan protocol centered at fovea was used for imaging separately by two observers. CT was defined as the length of the perpendicular line drown from the outer border of hypereflective RPE-Bruch's complex to inner margin of choroidoscleral junction. Choroidal vessel layer thickness was measured after defining a largest choroidal vessel lumen within 750 μ on either side of the subfoveal CT vector. A perpendicular line was drawn to the innermost border of this lumen, and the distance between the perpendicular line and innermost border of choroidoscleral junction gave large choroidal vessel layer thickness (LCVLT, Haller's layer). Medium choroidal vessel layer thickness (MCVLT, Sattler's layer) was measured as the distance between same perpendicular line and outer border of hypereflective RPE-Bruch's complex. RESULTS: The mean age of individuals was 28.23 ± 15.29 years (range 14–59 years). Overall, the mean subfoveal CT was 331.6 ± 63.9 μ. Mean LCVLT was 227.08 ± 51.24 μ and the mean MCVLT was 95.65 ± 23.62 μ. CT was maximum subfoveally with gradual reduction in the thickness as the distance from the fovea increased. CONCLUSION: This is the first study describing the choroidal sublayer thickness, i.e., Haller's and Sattler's layer thickness along with CT in healthy Indian population. PMID:29899646

Gelsolin Restores Aβ-Induced Alterations in Choroid Plexus Epithelium

PubMed Central

Vargas, Teo; Antequera, Desiree; Ugalde, Cristina; Spuch, Carlos; Carro, Eva

2010-01-01

Histologically, Alzheimer's disease (AD) is characterized by senile plaques and cerebrovascular amyloid deposits. In previous studies we demonstrated that in AD patients, amyloid-β (Aβ) peptide also accumulates in choroid plexus, and that this process is associated with mitochondrial dysfunction and epithelial cell death. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying Aβ accumulation at the choroid plexus epithelium remain unclear. Aβ clearance, from the brain to the blood, involves Aβ carrier proteins that bind to megalin, including gelsolin, a protein produced specifically by the choroid plexus epithelial cells. In this study, we show that treatment with gelsolin reduces Aβ-induced cytoskeletal disruption of blood-cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) barrier at the choroid plexus. Additionally, our results demonstrate that gelsolin plays an important role in decreasing Aβ-induced cytotoxicity by inhibiting nitric oxide production and apoptotic mitochondrial changes. Taken together, these findings make gelsolin an appealing tool for the prophylactic treatment of AD. PMID:20369065

Stress-induced stimulation of choline transport in cultured choroid plexus epithelium exposed to low concentrations of cadmium

PubMed Central

Young, Robin K.

2013-01-01

The choroid plexus epithelium forms the blood-cerebrospinal fluid barrier and accumulates essential minerals and heavy metals. Choroid plexus is cited as being a “sink” for heavy metals and excess minerals, serving to minimize accumulation of these potentially toxic agents in the brain. An understanding of how low doses of contaminant metals might alter transport of other solutes in the choroid plexus is limited. Using primary cultures of epithelial cells isolated from neonatal rat choroid plexus, our objective was to characterize modulation of apical uptake of the model organic cation choline elicited by low concentrations of the contaminant metal cadmium (CdCl2). At 50–1,000 nM, cadmium did not directly decrease or increase 30-min apical uptake of 10 μM [3H]choline. However, extended exposure to 250–500 nM cadmium increased [3H]choline uptake by as much as 75% without marked cytotoxicity. In addition, cadmium induced heat shock protein 70 and heme oxygenase-1 protein expression and markedly induced metallothionein gene expression. The antioxidant N-acetylcysteine attenuated stimulation of choline uptake and induction of stress proteins. Conversely, an inhibitor of glutathione synthesis l-buthionine-sulfoximine (BSO) enhanced stimulation of choline uptake and induction of stress proteins. Cadmium also activated ERK1/2 MAP kinase. The MEK1 inhibitor PD98059 diminished ERK1/2 activation and attenuated stimulation of choline uptake. Furthermore, inhibition of ERK1/2 activation abated stimulation of choline uptake in cells exposed to cadmium with BSO. These data indicate that in the choroid plexus, exposure to low concentrations of cadmium may induce oxidative stress and consequently stimulate apical choline transport through activation of ERK1/2 MAP kinase. PMID:24401988

TNF-α mediates choroidal neovascularization by upregulating VEGF expression in RPE through ROS-dependent β-catenin activation.

PubMed

Wang, Haibo; Han, Xiaokun; Wittchen, Erika S; Hartnett, M Elizabeth

2016-01-01

�-catenin transcriptional inhibitors, XAV939 or JW67, or transfection with p22phox siRNA and compared to appropriate controls. Compared to the non-lasered control, TNF-α and VEGF protein were increased in the RPE/choroids in a murine laser-induced CNV model (p<0.05). An intravitreal neutralizing antibody to mouse TNF-α reduced CNV volume, and VEGF protein in the RPE/choroids (p<0.01) and oxidized phospholipids within CNV compared to IgG control (p<0.05). In cultured RPE cells and compared to controls, TNF-α induced ROS generation and increased activation of NOX4, an isoform of NADPH oxidase; both were prevented by pretreatment with the apocynin or VAS2870 or knockdown of p22phox, a subunit of NADPH oxidase. TNF-α treatment increased VEGF expression (p<0.001) and the formation of a transcriptional complex of β-catenin and T-cell transcriptional factor; both were prevented by pretreatment with apocynin or knockdown of p22phox. Inhibition of β-catenin by XAV939, but not the nuclear factor kappa B inhibitor, Bay 11-7082, prevented TNF-α-induced VEGF upregulation. Our results support the thinking that TNF-α contributes to CNV by upregulating VEGF production in RPE cells through ROS-dependent activation of β-catenin signaling. These results provide mechanisms of crosstalk between inflammatory mediator, TNF-α, and ROS in RPE cells.

En-face optical coherence tomography in the diagnosis and management of age-related macular degeneration and polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy.

PubMed

Lau, Tiffany; Wong, Ian Y; Iu, Lawrence; Chhablani, Jay; Yong, Tao; Hideki, Koizumi; Lee, Jacky; Wong, Raymond

2015-05-01

Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is a noninvasive imaging modality providing high-resolution images of the central retina that has completely transformed the field of ophthalmology. While traditional OCT has produced longitudinal cross-sectional images, advancements in data processing have led to the development of en-face OCT, which produces transverse images of retinal and choroidal layers at any specified depth. This offers additional benefit on top of longitudinal cross-sections because it provides an extensive overview of pathological structures in a single image. The aim of this review was to discuss the utility of en-face OCT in the diagnosis and management of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy (PCV). En-face imaging of the inner segment/outer segment junction of retinal photoreceptors has been shown to be a useful indicator of visual acuity and a predictor of the extent of progression of geographic atrophy. En-face OCT has also enabled high-resolution analysis and quantification of pathological structures such as reticular pseudodrusen (RPD) and choroidal neovascularization, which have the potential to become useful markers for disease monitoring. En-face Doppler OCT enables subtle changes in the choroidal vasculature to be detected in eyes with RPD and AMD, which has significantly advanced our understanding of their pathogenesis. En-face Doppler OCT has also been shown to be useful for detecting the polypoid lesions and branching vascular networks diagnostic of PCV. It may therefore serve as a noninvasive alternative to fluorescein and indocyanine green angiography for the diagnosis of PCV and other forms of the exudative macular disease.

Choroid plexus glutathione peroxidases are instrumental in protecting the brain fluid environment from hydroperoxides during postnatal development.

PubMed

Saudrais, Elodie; Strazielle, Nathalie; Ghersi-Egea, Jean-Francois

2018-06-27

Hydrogen peroxide, released at low physiological concentration, is involved in different cell signaling pathways during brain development. When released at supraphysiological concentrations in brain fluids following an inflammatory, hypoxic or toxic stress, it can initiate lipid peroxidation, protein and nucleic acid damage and contribute to long-term neurological impairment associated with perinatal diseases. We found high glutathione peroxidase and glutathione reductase enzymatic activities in both lateral and fourth ventricle choroid plexus tissue isolated from developing rats, in comparison to the cerebral cortex and liver. Consistent with these, a high protein expression of glutathione peroxidases 1 and 4 was observed in choroid plexus epithelial cells, which form the blood-cerebrospinal fluid barrier. Live choroid plexuses isolated from newborn rats were highly efficient in detoxifying H2O2 from mock cerebrospinal fluid, illustrating the capacity of the choroid plexuses to control H2O2 concentration in the ventricular system of the brain. We used a differentiated cellular model of the blood-cerebrospinal fluid barrier coupled to kinetic and inhibition analyses to show that glutathione peroxidases are more potent than catalase to detoxify extracellular H2O2 at concentrations up to 250 µM. The choroidal cells also formed an enzymatic barrier preventing blood-borne hydroperoxides to reach the cerebrospinal fluid. These data point out the choroid plexuses as key structures in the control of hydroperoxide levels in the cerebral fluid environment during development, at a time when the protective glial cell network is still immature. Glutathione peroxidases are the main effectors of this choroidal hydroperoxide inactivation.

Three-dimensional choroidal segmentation in spectral OCT volumes using optic disc prior information

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hu, Zhihong; Girkin, Christopher A.; Hariri, Amirhossein; Sadda, SriniVas R.

2016-03-01

Recently, much attention has been focused on determining the role of the peripapillary choroid - the layer between the outer retinal pigment epithelium (RPE)/Bruchs membrane (BM) and choroid-sclera (C-S) junction, whether primary or secondary in the pathogenesis of glaucoma. However, the automated choroidal segmentation in spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) images of optic nerve head (ONH) has not been reported probably due to the fact that the presence of the BM opening (BMO, corresponding to the optic disc) can deflect the choroidal segmentation from its correct position. The purpose of this study is to develop a 3D graph-based approach to identify the 3D choroidal layer in ONH-centered SD-OCT images using the BMO prior information. More specifically, an initial 3D choroidal segmentation was first performed using the 3D graph search algorithm. Note that varying surface interaction constraints based on the choroidal morphological model were applied. To assist the choroidal segmentation, two other surfaces of internal limiting membrane and innerouter segment junction were also segmented. Based on the segmented layer between the RPE/BM and C-S junction, a 2D projection map was created. The BMO in the projection map was detected by a 2D graph search. The pre-defined BMO information was then incorporated into the surface interaction constraints of the 3D graph search to obtain more accurate choroidal segmentation. Twenty SD-OCT images from 20 healthy subjects were used. The mean differences of the choroidal borders between the algorithm and manual segmentation were at a sub-voxel level, indicating a high level segmentation accuracy.

Automated choroid segmentation of three-dimensional SD-OCT images by incorporating EDI-OCT images.

PubMed

Chen, Qiang; Niu, Sijie; Fang, Wangyi; Shuai, Yuanlu; Fan, Wen; Yuan, Songtao; Liu, Qinghuai

2018-05-01

The measurement of choroidal volume is more related with eye diseases than choroidal thickness, because the choroidal volume can reflect the diseases comprehensively. The purpose is to automatically segment choroid for three-dimensional (3D) spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) images. We present a novel choroid segmentation strategy for SD-OCT images by incorporating the enhanced depth imaging OCT (EDI-OCT) images. The down boundary of the choroid, namely choroid-sclera junction (CSJ), is almost invisible in SD-OCT images, while visible in EDI-OCT images. During the SD-OCT imaging, the EDI-OCT images can be generated for the same eye. Thus, we present an EDI-OCT-driven choroid segmentation method for SD-OCT images, where the choroid segmentation results of the EDI-OCT images are used to estimate the average choroidal thickness and to improve the construction of the CSJ feature space of the SD-OCT images. We also present a whole registration method between EDI-OCT and SD-OCT images based on retinal thickness and Bruch's Membrane (BM) position. The CSJ surface is obtained with a 3D graph search in the CSJ feature space. Experimental results with 768 images (6 cubes, 128 B-scan images for each cube) from 2 healthy persons, 2 age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and 2 diabetic retinopathy (DR) patients, and 210 B-scan images from other 8 healthy persons and 21 patients demonstrate that our method can achieve high segmentation accuracy. The mean choroid volume difference and overlap ratio for 6 cubes between our proposed method and outlines drawn by experts were -1.96µm3 and 88.56%, respectively. Our method is effective for the 3D choroid segmentation of SD-OCT images because the segmentation accuracy and stability are compared with the manual segmentation. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Transmigration of macrophages across the choroid plexus epithelium in response to the feline immunodeficiency virus

PubMed Central

Meeker, Rick B.; Bragg, D. C.; Poulton, Winona; Hudson, Lola

2013-01-01

Although lentiviruses such as human, feline and simian immunodeficiency viruses (HIV, FIV, SIV) rapidly gain access to cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), the mechanisms that control this entry are not well understood. One possibility is that the virus may be carried into the brain by immune cells that traffic across the blood–CSF barrier in the choroid plexus. Since few studies have directly examined macrophage trafficking across the blood–CSF barrier, we established transwell and explant cultures of feline choroid plexus epithelium and measured trafficking in the presence or absence of FIV. Macrophages in co-culture with the epithelium showed significant proliferation and robust trafficking that was dependent on the presence of epithelium. Macrophage migration to the apical surface of the epithelium was particularly robust in the choroid plexus explants where 3-fold increases were seen over the first 24 h. Addition of FIV to the cultures greatly increased the number of surface macrophages without influencing replication. The epithelium in the transwell cultures was also permissive to PBMC trafficking, which increased from 17 to 26% of total cells after exposure to FIV. Thus, the choroid plexus epithelium supports trafficking of both macrophages and PBMCs. FIV significantly enhanced translocation of macrophages and T cells indicating that the choroid plexus epithelium is likely to be an active site of immune cell trafficking in response to infection. PMID:22281685

The effect of ultraviolet radiation on choroidal melanocytes and melanoma cell lines: cell survival and matrix metalloproteinase production.

PubMed

Lai, Kenneth; Di Girolamo, Nick; Conway, Robert M; Jager, Martine J; Madigan, Michele C

2007-05-01

Ultraviolet radiation (UVR) can induce DNA damage and regulate the expression of factors important for tumour growth and metastasis, including matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). Epidemiological studies suggest that chronic UVR exposure, especially during early adulthood, may be a risk factor in patients with choroidal melanoma. However, the effects of UV(R)-B on human choroidal melanocyte survival and growth are unknown. In this study, we investigated if UV(R)-B affected the in vitro survival, growth and MMP production of choroidal melanocytes and melanoma cells. Cultures of primary choroidal melanocytes and melanoma cell lines (OCM-1 and OCM-8) were exposed to UV(R)-B (0-30 mJ/cm(2)). The cell morphology and growth were examined, and cell viability was assessed using an MTT assay. Gelatin zymography was used to assess the enzymatic activity for MMP-2 and -9 in conditioned media following UV(R)-B treatment. UV(R)-B > or =20 mJ/cm(2) was cytotoxic for choroidal melanocytes. Cytotoxic doses of 5 to 10 mJ/cm(2) were found for OCM-8 and OCM-1 melanoma cell lines. Low levels of UV(R)-B (2.5 and 3.5 mJ/cm(2)) significantly reduced melanoma cell viability after 48 h, although melanocyte viability was not affected by doses of UV(R)-B <10 mJ/cm(2). Conditioned media from melanoma cells and melanocytes displayed pro-MMP-2 activity independent of UV(R)-B. Control and UV(R)-B-treated OCM-1 cells secreted active MMP-2 up to 72 h. Pro-MMP-9 activity was seen from 36 h for control and UV(R)-B-treated OCM-1 and OCM-8 cells. Melanocytes appeared more resistant to physiological doses of UV(R)-B than melanoma cells; the potential of melanocytes to initially survive DNA damage following UV(R)-B exposure may be relevant to the subsequent transformation of melanocytes to melanomas. Although UV(R)-B did not induce the production and/or activation of MMP-2 and -9 in melanocytes or melanoma cells, we are currently investigating whether DNA damage-response genes such as p53 and p21 can be

Choroidal metastasis in disseminated lung cancer: frequency and risk factors.

PubMed

Kreusel, Klaus-Martin; Wiegel, Thomas; Stange, Marit; Bornfeld, Norbert; Hinkelbein, Wolfgang; Foerster, Michael H

2002-09-01

To determine frequency, risk factors, and benefit of a prospective screening for intraocular metastasis in patients with metastatic lung cancer. Consecutive observational case series. An ophthalmologic screening was performed on 84 consecutive patients suffering from metastatic lung cancer. Medical history and disease stage were evaluated in regard to the risk for intraocular metastasis. In six patients (7.1%) choroidal metastasis (CM) was detected. Choroidal metastasis was present only when at least two other organ system were affected by metastasis (P =.03). The choroid was the sixth common site of organ metastasis. Mean remaining life span in patients with CM was 1.9 (0.2-5.9) months. Choroidal metastasis is common in advanced metastatic lung cancer. However, due to the short survival of affected individuals, a systematic screening of at-risk patients for CM seems to be of limited benefit.

T-Lymphocytes Traffic into the Brain across the Blood-CSF Barrier: Evidence Using a Reconstituted Choroid Plexus Epithelium

PubMed Central

Strazielle, Nathalie; Creidy, Rita; Malcus, Christophe; Boucraut, José; Ghersi-Egea, Jean-François

2016-01-01

An emerging concept of normal brain immune surveillance proposes that recently and moderately activated central memory T lymphocytes enter the central nervous system (CNS) directly into the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) via the choroid plexus. Within the CSF space, T cells inspect the CNS environment for cognate antigens. This gate of entry into the CNS could also prevail at the initial stage of neuroinflammatory processes. To actually demonstrate T cell migration across the choroidal epithelium forming the blood-CSF barrier, an in vitro model of the rat blood-CSF barrier was established in an “inverse” configuration that enables cell transmigration studies in the basolateral to apical, i.e. blood/stroma to CSF direction. Structural barrier features were evaluated by immunocytochemical analysis of tight junction proteins, functional barrier properties were assessed by measuring the monolayer permeability to sucrose and the active efflux transport of organic anions. The migratory behaviour of activated T cells across the choroidal epithelium was analysed in the presence and absence of chemokines. The migration pathway was examined by confocal microscopy. The inverse rat BCSFB model reproduces the continuous distribution of tight junction proteins at cell margins, the restricted paracellular permeability, and polarized active transport mechanisms, which all contribute to the barrier phenotype in vivo. Using this model, we present experimental evidence of T cell migration across the choroidal epithelium. Cell migration appears to occur via a paracellular route without disrupting the restrictive barrier properties of the epithelial interface. Apical chemokine addition strongly stimulates T cell migration across the choroidal epithelium. The present data provide evidence for the controlled migration of T cells across the blood-CSF barrier into brain. They further indicate that this recruitment route is sensitive to CSF-borne chemokines, extending the relevance of this

T-Lymphocytes Traffic into the Brain across the Blood-CSF Barrier: Evidence Using a Reconstituted Choroid Plexus Epithelium.

PubMed

Strazielle, Nathalie; Creidy, Rita; Malcus, Christophe; Boucraut, José; Ghersi-Egea, Jean-François

2016-01-01

An emerging concept of normal brain immune surveillance proposes that recently and moderately activated central memory T lymphocytes enter the central nervous system (CNS) directly into the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) via the choroid plexus. Within the CSF space, T cells inspect the CNS environment for cognate antigens. This gate of entry into the CNS could also prevail at the initial stage of neuroinflammatory processes. To actually demonstrate T cell migration across the choroidal epithelium forming the blood-CSF barrier, an in vitro model of the rat blood-CSF barrier was established in an "inverse" configuration that enables cell transmigration studies in the basolateral to apical, i.e. blood/stroma to CSF direction. Structural barrier features were evaluated by immunocytochemical analysis of tight junction proteins, functional barrier properties were assessed by measuring the monolayer permeability to sucrose and the active efflux transport of organic anions. The migratory behaviour of activated T cells across the choroidal epithelium was analysed in the presence and absence of chemokines. The migration pathway was examined by confocal microscopy. The inverse rat BCSFB model reproduces the continuous distribution of tight junction proteins at cell margins, the restricted paracellular permeability, and polarized active transport mechanisms, which all contribute to the barrier phenotype in vivo. Using this model, we present experimental evidence of T cell migration across the choroidal epithelium. Cell migration appears to occur via a paracellular route without disrupting the restrictive barrier properties of the epithelial interface. Apical chemokine addition strongly stimulates T cell migration across the choroidal epithelium. The present data provide evidence for the controlled migration of T cells across the blood-CSF barrier into brain. They further indicate that this recruitment route is sensitive to CSF-borne chemokines, extending the relevance of this

Fulminant hepatic failure due to metastatic choroidal melanoma

PubMed Central

Escobar-Valdivia, Emmanuel; Monreal-Robles, Roberto; Delgado-García, Guillermo; Hernández-Velazquez, Badir

2017-01-01

Background: Acute liver failure (ALF) as a consequence of metastatic disease is extremely uncommon. The liver is the most commonly affected organ by metastatic disease, but only a few cases of ALF in the setting of metastatic choroidal melanoma have been reported. Case Presentation: We describe the case of a 47-year-old man with right upper quadrant pain, progressive jaundice, and unintentional weight loss. He also reported that he had experienced reduced left visual acuity which progressed to blindness over 2 months. On physical examination, we found a pigmented scleral lesion in the left eye. He had a coagulopathy and, during his hospital stay, he also developed encephalopathy. The diagnosis of ALF was therefore established and was later attributed to metastatic uveal melanoma. In addition, we briefly review the relevant literature. Conclusion: Liver metastasis should be kept in mind when assessing abnormal liver function tests in patients with uveal malignant melanoma. PMID:28503286

c-FLIP and the NOXA/Mcl-1 axis participate in the synergistic effect of pemetrexed plus cisplatin in human choroidal melanoma cells.

PubMed

Zhao, Xiaofei; Kong, Feng; Wang, Lei; Zhang, Han

2017-01-01

Choroidal melanoma is the most common primary malignant intraocular tumor, and very few effective therapies are available to treat it. Our study aimed to understand whether pemetrexed plus cisplatin exerts a beneficial synergistic effect in human choroidal melanoma cells and to delineate the underlying molecular mechanism. To accomplish these aims, we treated choroidal melanoma cells with pemetrexed and cisplatin and assessed cell survival with SRB and MTT assays. Proteins were detected using western blotting analysis. NOXA and CHOP were knocked down with siRNA. We found that pemetrexed or cisplatin alone inhibited survival and induced apoptosis in human choroidal melanoma cells. Furthermore, the expression levels of c-FLIP, an anti-apoptotic protein in the extrinsic apoptosis pathway, and Mcl-1, an anti-apoptotic protein in the intrinsic apoptosis pathway, were decreased by pemetrexed or cisplatin respectively, while the expression of a pro-apoptotic protein in the intrinsic apoptosis pathway, NOXA, was up-regulated. Moreover, pemetrexed or cisplatin alone increased the protein expression of the endoplasmic reticulum stress markers IRE1α, Bip and CHOP. Silencing CHOP expression reduced NOXA expression. These findings suggest that the pemetrexed or cisplatin induced intrinsic apoptosis via activation of the ER stress response. Importantly, combining the two compounds more strongly induced apoptosis. Following the cotreatment, CHOP and NOXA expression increased, while c-FLIP and Mcl-1 expression decreased, and these effects were more pronounced than when using either compound alone. This result suggests that pemetrexed and cisplatin synergistically activate ER stress response-induced apoptosis in choroidal melanoma cells. To summarize, the c-FLIP and NOXA/Mcl-1 axis participated in the synergistic effect of pemetrexed plus cisplatin in human choroidal melanoma cells. Intrinsic apoptosis was induced via activation of the ER stress response. Our study provides

Aging reduces the neuroprotective capacity, VEGF secretion, and metabolic activity of rat choroid plexus epithelial cells.

PubMed

Emerich, Dwaine F; Schneider, Patricia; Bintz, Briannan; Hudak, Jebecka; Thanos, Christopher G

2007-01-01

Delivery of neurotrophic molecules to the brain has potential for preventing neuronal loss in neurodegenerative disorders. Choroid plexus (CP) epithelial cells secrete numerous neurotrophic factors, and encapsulated CP transplants are neuroprotective in models of stroke and Huntington's disease (HD). To date, all studies examining the neuroprotective potential of CP transplants have used cells isolated from young donor animals. Because the aging process significantly impacts the cytoarchitecture and function of the CP the following studies determined whether age-related impairments occur in its neuroprotective capacity. CP was isolated from either young (3-4 months) or aged (24 months) rats. In vitro, young CP epithelial cells secreted more VEGF and were metabolically more active than aged CP epithelial cells. Additionally, conditioned medium from cultured aged CP was less potent than young CP at enhancing the survival of serum-deprived neurons. Finally, encapsulated CP was tested in an animal model of HD. Cell-loaded or empty alginate capsules (control group) were transplanted unilaterally into the rat striatum. Seven days later, the animals received an injection of quinolinic acid (QA; 225 nmol) adjacent to the implant site. Animals were tested for motor function 28 days later. In the control group, QA lesions severely impaired function of the contralateral forelimb. Implants of young CP were potently neuroprotective as rats receiving CP transplants were not significantly impaired when tested for motor function. In contrast, implants of CP from aged rats were only modestly effective and were much less potent than young CP transplants. These data are the first to directly link aging with diminished neuroprotective capacity of CP epithelial cells.

Choroidal Thickness Changes in the Acute Attack Period in Patients with Familial Mediterranean Fever.

PubMed

Gundogan, Fatih C; Akay, Fahrettin; Uzun, Salih; Ozge, Gokhan; Toyran, Sami; Genç, Halil

2016-01-01

The aim of this study was to evaluate choroidal thickness changes during acute attacks of familial Mediterranean fever (FMF). Fifty patients with FMF and 50 healthy controls were included. Choroidal thickness of each participant was measured at the foveola and horizontal nasal and temporal quadrants at 500-µm intervals to 1,500 µm from the foveola using spectral-domain optical coherence tomography. White blood cell count, erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) and serum levels of fibrinogen and C-reactive protein (CRP) were evaluated. The clinical findings (peritonitis, arthritis and pleuritis) were noted. Choroidal thickness was significantly thicker at all measurement points in FMF patients compared to healthy controls during an acute attack (p < 0.05). There were positive correlations between the choroidal thickness and ESR, fibrinogen and, particularly, CRP levels. Clinical findings did not change the choroidal thickness significantly (p > 0.05). Increased choroidal thickness in the acute phase of FMF is possibly related to the inflammatory edematous changes in the choroid. © 2015 S. Karger AG, Basel.

Is the morphology and activity of the occlusal carious lesion related to the lesion progression stage?

PubMed

Neves, Aline Almeida; Vargas, Daniel Otero Amaral; Santos, Thais Maria Pires; Lopes, Ricardo Tadeu; Sousa, Frederico Barbosa

2016-12-01

To investigate the relationship between degree of dentin demineralization with both lesion activity and morphology of the occlusal carious cavity. Occlusal sites (n=138) were identified by visual examination (Nyvad's scores 0-6) in 67 extracted teeth which were scanned in a high energy micro-CT. After 3D reconstruction, each stack was resliced in the mesio-distal direction and tooth mineral density (MD) was measured along a path from enamel to the deepest part of dentin in the slice showing the most severe carious involvement. Each site was classified in "open" or "closed" (if cavitated) depending on the morphology of the surrounding enamel walls as measured using micro-CT and as active or inactive in enamel or dentin by a clinical scoring system. Lesions showing dentin cavitation presented higher demineralization degree compared to non-cavitated, or enamel cavitated lesions. Inactive lesions presented lower demineralization degree compared to active lesions, although with a low effect size. According to the morphological aspect of the carious cavity, open enamel lesions showed lower dentin demineralization degree than closed lesion environments. Active lesions showed higher dentin demineralization degree than inactive ones, while lesions showing closed cavitation resulted in higher dentin demineralization degree only for enamel lesions. Including those parameters in treatment decisions may help to improve prognosis and increase effectiveness of the caries diagnostic systems in the clinical setting. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Malignant uveal melanoma and similar lesions studied by computed tomography

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Mafee, M.F.; Peyman, G.A.; McKusick, M.A.

1985-08-01

Forty-four patients with intraocular disease were studied by computed tomography (CT); in 19 cases malignant uveal melanoma was considered the likely diagnosis. CT proved to be accurate in determining the location and size of uveal melanomas, demonstrating scleral invasion, and differentiating melanoma from choroidal detachment or angioma, toxocariasis, and senile macular degeneration. On CT, uveal melanomas appeared as hyperdense lesions with slight to moderate contrast enhancement. Tumors thinner than 2 mm could not be seen. Using dynamic CT, the authors noted moderate peak amplitude, normal or delayed tissue transit time, and persistently elevated washout phase (downslope), indicating increased permeability asmore » the result of an impaired tumor blood barrier. Histological types of uveal melanoma could not be differentiated on the basis of circulatory patterns. Dynamic CT may be useful in distinguishing uveal melanoma from choroidal hemangioma or hematoma.« less

Macular Choroidal Small-Vessel Layer, Sattler's Layer and Haller's Layer Thicknesses: The Beijing Eye Study.

PubMed

Zhao, Jing; Wang, Ya Xing; Zhang, Qi; Wei, Wen Bin; Xu, Liang; Jonas, Jost B

2018-03-13

To study macular choroidal layer thickness, 3187 study participants from the population-based Beijing Eye Study underwent spectral-domain optical coherence tomography with enhanced depth imaging for thickness measurements of the macular small-vessel layer, including the choriocapillaris, medium-sized choroidal vessel layer (Sattler's layer) and large choroidal vessel layer (Haller's layer). In multivariate analysis, greater thickness of all three choroidal layers was associated (all P < 0.05) with higher prevalence of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) (except for geographic atrophy), while it was not significantly (all P > 0.05) associated with the prevalence of open-angle glaucoma or diabetic retinopathy. There was a tendency (0.07 > P > 0.02) toward thinner choroidal layers in chronic angle-closure glaucoma. The ratio of small-vessel layer thickness to total choroidal thickness increased (P < 0.001; multivariate analysis) with older age and longer axial length, while the ratios of Sattler's layer and Haller's layer thickness to total choroidal thickness decreased. A higher ratio of small-vessel layer thickness to total choroidal thickness was significantly associated with a lower prevalence of AMD (early type, intermediate type, late geographic type). Axial elongation-associated and aging-associated choroidal thinning affected Haller's and Sattler's layers more markedly than the small-vessel layer. Non-exudative and exudative AMD, except for geographic atrophy, was associated with slightly increased choroidal thickness.

Interocular symmetry in macular choroidal thickness in children.

PubMed

Al-Haddad, Christiane; El Chaar, Lama; Antonios, Rafic; El-Dairi, Mays; Noureddin, Baha'

2014-01-01

Objective. To report interocular differences in choroidal thickness in children using spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) and correlate findings with biometric data. Methods. This observational cross-sectional study included 91 (182 eyes) healthy children aged 6 to 17 years with no ocular abnormality except refractive error. After a comprehensive eye exam and axial length measurement, high definition macular scans were performed using SD-OCT. Two observers manually measured the choroidal thickness at the foveal center and at 1500 µm nasally, temporally, inferiorly, and superiorly. Interocular differences were computed; correlations with age, gender, refractive error, and axial length were performed. Results. Mean age was 10.40 ± 3.17 years; mean axial length and refractive error values were similar between fellow eyes. There was excellent correlation between the two observers' measurements. No significant interocular differences were observed at any location. There was only a trend for right eyes to have higher values in all thicknesses, except the superior thickness. Most of the choroidal thickness measurements correlated positively with spherical equivalent but not with axial length, age, or gender. Conclusion. Choroidal thickness measurements in children as performed using SD-OCT revealed a high level of interobserver agreement and consistent interocular symmetry. Values correlated positively with spherical equivalent refraction.

Does the treatment of amblyopia normalise subfoveal choroidal thickness in amblyopic children?

PubMed

Öner, Veysi; Bulut, Asker

2017-03-01

Recent studies have found a choroidal thickening in amblyopic eyes and suggested that there might be a relationship between the choroid and amblyopia. The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of a six-month treatment of amblyopia on choroidal thickness in anisometropic hyperopic amblyopic children. Thirty-two anisometropic hyperopic children with unilateral amblyopia were included in this prospective study. Subfoveal choroidal thickness was measured as the distance between the retinal pigment epithelium and the chorioscleral edge, by using spectral domain enhanced depth imaging optical coherence tomography. The treatment of amblyopia was performed based on the full correction of the refractive error with eyeglasses, a refractive adaptation phase and occlusion by patching the fellow eye. The mean visual acuity of the amblyopic eyes significantly increased from 0.35 ± 0.3 to 0.16 ± 0.2 logMAR after the treatment (p < 0.001). The mean initial choroidal thickness was significantly higher in the amblyopic eyes than in the fellow eyes (p = 0.019). There were no significant differences between the pre- and post-treatment mean choroidal thickness in the amblyopic eyes (p = 0.428) and in the fellow eyes (p = 0.343). The mean choroidal thickness was still higher in the amblyopic eyes than in the fellow eyes after the treatment (p = 0.006). Although a six-month treatment of amblyopia increased the visual acuity of the anisometropic hyperopic amblyopic eyes, it could not significantly change choroidal thickness. Our results were in accordance with the conventional explanation, which suggests visual cortex and lateral geniculate nucleus abnormalities in the pathophysiology of amblyopia. © 2016 Optometry Australia.

Neurogenic effects of β-amyloid in the choroid plexus epithelial cells in Alzheimer's disease.

PubMed

Bolos, Marta; Spuch, Carlos; Ordoñez-Gutierrez, Lara; Wandosell, Francisco; Ferrer, Isidro; Carro, Eva

2013-08-01

β-amyloid (Aβ) can promote neurogenesis, both in vitro and in vivo, by inducing neural progenitor cells to differentiate into neurons. The choroid plexus in Alzheimer's disease (AD) is burdened with amyloid deposits and hosts neuronal progenitor cells. However, neurogenesis in this brain tissue is not firmly established. To investigate this issue further, we examined the effect of Aβ on the neuronal differentiation of choroid plexus epithelial cells in several experimental models of AD. Here we show that Aβ regulates neurogenesis in vitro in cultured choroid plexus epithelial cells as well as in vivo in the choroid plexus of APP/Ps1 mice. Treatment with oligomeric Aβ increased proliferation and differentiation of neuronal progenitor cells in cultured choroid plexus epithelial cells, but decreased survival of newly born neurons. These Aβ-induced neurogenic effects were also observed in choroid plexus of APP/PS1 mice, and detected also in autopsy tissue from AD patients. Analysis of signaling pathways revealed that pre-treating the choroid plexus epithelial cells with specific inhibitors of TyrK or MAPK diminished Aβ-induced neuronal proliferation. Taken together, our results support a role of Aβ in proliferation and differentiation in the choroid plexus epithelial cells in Alzheimer's disease.

Stroke Lesions in a Large Upper Limb Rehabilitation Trial Cohort Rarely Match Lesions in Common Preclinical Models

PubMed Central

Edwardson, Matthew A.; Wang, Ximing; Liu, Brent; Ding, Li; Lane, Christianne J.; Park, Caron; Nelsen, Monica A.; Jones, Theresa A; Wolf, Steven L; Winstein, Carolee J; Dromerick, Alexander W.

2017-01-01

Background Stroke patients with mild-moderate upper extremity (UE) motor impairments and minimal sensory and cognitive deficits provide a useful model to study recovery and improve rehabilitation. Laboratory-based investigators use lesioning techniques for similar goals. Objective Determine whether stroke lesions in an UE rehabilitation trial cohort match lesions from the preclinical stroke recovery models used to drive translational research. Methods Clinical neuroimages from 297 participants enrolled in the Interdisciplinary Comprehensive Arm Rehabilitation Evaluation (ICARE) study were reviewed. Images were characterized based on lesion type (ischemic or hemorrhagic), volume, vascular territory, depth (cortical gray matter, cortical white matter, subcortical), old strokes, and leukoaraiosis. Lesions were compared with those of preclinical stroke models commonly used to study upper limb recovery. Results Among the ischemic stroke participants, median infarct volume was 1.8 mL, with most lesions confined to subcortical structures (61%) including the anterior choroidal artery territory (30%) and the pons (23%). Of ICARE participants, <1 % had lesions resembling proximal MCA or surface vessel occlusion models. Preclinical models of subcortical white matter injury best resembled the ICARE population (33%). Intracranial hemorrhage participants had small (median 12.5 mL) lesions that best matched the capsular hematoma preclinical model. Conclusions ICARE subjects are not representative of all stroke patients, but they represent a clinically and scientifically important subgroup. Compared to lesions in general stroke populations and widely-studied animal models of recovery, ICARE participants had smaller, more subcortically-based strokes. Improved preclinical-clinical translational efforts may require better alignment of lesions between preclinical and human stroke recovery models. PMID:28337932

Automatic segmentation of the choroid in enhanced depth imaging optical coherence tomography images.

PubMed

Tian, Jing; Marziliano, Pina; Baskaran, Mani; Tun, Tin Aung; Aung, Tin

2013-03-01

Enhanced Depth Imaging (EDI) optical coherence tomography (OCT) provides high-definition cross-sectional images of the choroid in vivo, and hence is used in many clinical studies. However, the quantification of the choroid depends on the manual labelings of two boundaries, Bruch's membrane and the choroidal-scleral interface. This labeling process is tedious and subjective of inter-observer differences, hence, automatic segmentation of the choroid layer is highly desirable. In this paper, we present a fast and accurate algorithm that could segment the choroid automatically. Bruch's membrane is detected by searching the pixel with the biggest gradient value above the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and the choroidal-scleral interface is delineated by finding the shortest path of the graph formed by valley pixels using Dijkstra's algorithm. The experiments comparing automatic segmentation results with the manual labelings are conducted on 45 EDI-OCT images and the average of Dice's Coefficient is 90.5%, which shows good consistency of the algorithm with the manual labelings. The processing time for each image is about 1.25 seconds.

Molecular Pathogenesis of Retinal and Choroidal Vascular Diseases

PubMed Central

Campochiaro, Peter A.

2015-01-01

There are two major types of ocular neovascularization that affect the retina, retinal neovascularization (NV) and subretinal or choroidal NV. Retinal NV occurs in a group of diseases referred to as ischemic retinopathies in which damage to retinal vessels results in retinal ischemia. Most prevalent of these are diabetic retinopathy and retinal vein occlusions. Subretinal and choroidal NV occur in diseases of the outer retina and Bruch’s membrane, the most prevalent of which is age-related macular degeneration. Numerous studies in mouse models have helped to elucidate the molecular pathogenesis underlying retinal, subretinal, and choroidal NV. There is considerable overlap because the precipitating event in each is stabilization of hypoxia inducible factor-1 (HIF-1) which leads to upregulation of several hypoxia-regulated gene products, including vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), angiopoietin 2, vascular endothelial-protein tyrosine phosphatase (VE-PTP), and several others. Stimulation of VEGF signaling and suppression of Tie2 by angiopoietin 2 and VE-PTP are critical for sprouting of retinal, subretinal, and choroidal NV, with perturbation of Bruch’s membrane also needed for the latter. Additional HIF-1-regulated gene products cause further stimulation of the NV. It is difficult to model macular edema in animals and therefore proof-of-concept clinical trials were done and demonstrated that VEGF plays a central role and that suppression of Tie2 is also important. Neutralization of VEGF is currently the first line therapy for all of the above disease processes, but new treatments directed at some of the other molecular targets, particularly stabilization of Tie2, are likely to provide additional benefit for subretinal/choroidal NV and macular edema. In addition, the chronicity of these diseases as well as the implication of VEGF as a cause of retinal nonperfusion and progression of background diabetic retinopathy make sustained delivery approaches for

Subthreshold transpupillary thermotherapy reduces experimental choroidal neovascularization in the mouse without collateral damage to the neural retina.

PubMed

Ming, Yue; Algvere, Peep V; Odergren, Anne; Berglin, Lennart; van der Ploeg, Ingeborg; Seregard, Stefan; Kvanta, Anders

2004-06-01

Transpupillary thermotherapy (TTT) is currently being evaluated for treatment of choroidal neovascularization (CNV) in age-related macular degeneration. To optimize TTT for CNV, the effect was analyzed of invisible (subthreshold) or visible (threshold) doses of TTT on the normal mouse retina and on experimental CNV. TTT was delivered to the normal retina of 42 mice with a diode laser at increasing power settings (50, 60, 70, or 80 mW), to obtain thermal lesions ranging from invisible (subthreshold) to visible (threshold) burns. CNV was induced in 53 mice by krypton laser photocoagulation of the fundus, after which the CNV lesions were treated with TTT (50, 60, or 80 mW). Eyes were enucleated 7 days after TTT and prepared for histology, and the CNV complex was evaluated on hematoxylin-eosin stained serial sections by measuring the maximum height of the CNV lesions. Ultrastructural changes were examined by transmission electron microscopy. Increasing the TTT laser power yielded gradually more visible effects. At 50 mW, which induced subthreshold burns, no damage was seen in the neural retina, retinal pigment epithelium (RPE), or choroid at any time point. By contrast, eyes treated with higher power exhibited progressively more damage to the neural retina, including a complete disruption of the outer nuclear layer. When TTT was applied to the laser-induced CNV lesions, the height of lesions was significantly reduced (P < 0.001) in response to all three power settings at 7 days after treatment. The mean relative thickness of the CNV lesion was 3.29 +/- 0.89 in untreated mice, whereas in TTT-treated mice it was 1.69 +/- 0.35, 1.69 +/- 0.41 and 1.70 +/- 0.17 at power settings of 50, 60, and 80 mW, respectively. The overlying neural retina showed no apparent damage with the 50- or 60-mW settings, whereas outer nuclear layer disruption occurred with a power of 80 mW. Electron microscopy confirmed the presence of vascular occlusion at 1 day and a fibrotic scar at 7 days

Lenticular changes in congenital iridolenticular choroidal coloboma.

PubMed

Mohamed, Ashik; Chaurasia, Sunita; Ramappa, Muralidhar; Sangwan, Virender S; Jalali, Subhadra

2014-10-01

To evaluate the lenticular changes associated with congenital iridolenticular choroidal coloboma. Retrospective, observational case series. setting: Tertiary eye care center in south India. study population: Total of 145 eyes of 98 patients. observation procedure: Medical records of all patients with the diagnosis of congenital iridolenticular choroidal coloboma between January 2011 and December 2012 were reviewed retrospectively for demographic profile, extent of coloboma, and associated lenticular changes. Median age of patients at the time of initial visit was 23 years (interquartile range, 13-38 years). The male-to-female ratio was ∼ 1:1. Forty-eight percent had bilateral involvement. Lens showed cataract changes in 68 eyes (48.9%). The most common type of cataract was nuclear sclerosis, which was noted in 51% of cases. A distinct type of cataract, called "coloboma cataract" (characterized by linear opacity in the region of the coloboma), was observed in 29% of cases. Other associated findings were phacodonesis in 3 eyes, dislocation in 3 eyes, and subluxation in 5 eyes. Disc and/or macular involvement in 57 eyes (39.3%) did not influence the type or density of cataract (P > .05). Congenital iridolenticular choroidal coloboma is associated with early cataractous changes. The most common type of cataract is nuclear sclerosis. The type and density of cataract do not seem to be related to the extent of the choroidal coloboma. We suggest a distinct description with the nomenclature "coloboma cataract" to be considered in the clinical grading of cataracts in patients with this condition. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Molecular detection of bacteria associated to caries activity in dentinal lesions.

PubMed

Neves, Beatriz Gonçalves; Stipp, Rafael Nóbrega; da Silva Bezerra, Daniela; de Figueiredo Guedes, Sarah Florindo; Rodrigues, Lidiany Karla Azevedo

2017-07-01

This study aimed at identifying and quantifying Actinomyces naeslundii, Bifidobacterium spp., Streptococcus mitis group, Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus casei group, Streptococcus gordonii, and Streptococcus mutans in active and inactive carious dentine lesions of children with early childhood caries by using quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Fifty-six dentin lesion samples, classified as active (n = 39) or inactive (n = 17), were collected from children aged from 2 to 5 years old. Dentinal-cavitated lesions were evaluated by Nyvad criteria for the assessment of caries lesion activity. Relative quantification revealed that Bifidobacterium spp. and the L. casei group were significantly more abundant in active dentin lesions (p < 0.05). Concentrations of A. naeslundii, S. mitis group, and S. gordonii were not significantly different when comparing dentin lesion activity. The relative proportion of S. mutans was significantly greater in inactive than in active lesions (p < 0.05). Bifidobacterium spp. and L. casei group demonstrated a positive correlation (p = 0.001) in active lesions. The positive detection of L. acidophilus (odds ratio = 15.1) and S. gordonii (odds ratio = 7.7) was significantly associated to the active lesions. The data indicate that higher detection levels of Bifidobacterium spp. and the L. casei group may be linked to dentin lesion activity. Additionally, the presence of L. acidophilus and S. gordonii was associated with lesion activity. Considering that information about the oral microbiota related to dentin caries activity status is relevant, this study provides insights to better understand the differences in the microbiotas between active and arrested dentin cavities.

Cellular and physiological mechanisms underlying blood flow regulation in the retina choroid in health disease

PubMed Central

Kur, Joanna; Newman, Eric A.; Chan-Ling, Tailoi

2012-01-01

We review the cellular and physiological mechanisms responsible for the regulation of blood flow in the retina and choroid in health and disease. Due to the intrinsic light sensitivity of the retina and the direct visual accessibility of fundus blood vessels, the eye offers unique opportunities for the non-invasive investigation of mechanisms of blood flow regulation. The ability of the retinal vasculature to regulate its blood flow is contrasted with the far more restricted ability of the choroidal circulation to regulate its blood flow by virtue of the absence of glial cells, the markedly reduced pericyte ensheathment of the choroidal vasculature, and the lack of intermediate filaments in choroidal pericytes. We review the cellular and molecular components of the neurovascular unit in the retina and choroid, techniques for monitoring retinal and choroidal blood flow, responses of the retinal and choroidal circulation to light stimulation, the role of capillaries, astrocytes and pericytes in regulating blood flow, putative signaling mechanisms mediating neurovascular coupling in the retina, and changes that occur in the retinal and choroidal circulation during diabetic retinopathy, age-related macular degeneration, glaucoma, and Alzheimer's disease. We close by discussing issues that remain to be explored. PMID:22580107

Role of NO in choroidal blood flow regulation during isometric exercise in healthy humans.

PubMed

Luksch, Alexandra; Polska, Elzbieta; Imhof, Andrea; Schering, Joanne; Fuchsjäger-Mayrl, Gabriele; Wolzt, Michael; Schmetterer, Leopold

2003-02-01

Nitric oxide (NO) is an important regulator of basal choroidal blood flow. Animal experiments indicate that NO is also involved in choroidal blood flow regulation during changes in ocular perfusion pressure and inhibition of NO synthase (NOS) has been reported to shift choroidal pressure-flow curves to the right. The hypothesis for the study was that inhibition of NOS may influence choroidal blood flow during isometric exercise. To test this hypothesis, a randomized, double-masked, placebo-controlled, three-way crossover study was performed in 12 healthy male volunteers. Subjects received on different study days intravenous infusions of N(G)-monomethyl-L-arginine (L-NMMA), phenylephrine, or placebo. During these infusion periods, subjects were asked to squat for 6 minutes. Choroidal blood flow was assessed with laser Doppler flowmetry, and ocular perfusion pressure (OPP) was calculated from mean arterial pressure and intraocular pressure. L-NMMA and phenylephrine increased resting OPP by 10% and 13%, respectively, but only L-NMMA reduced resting choroidal blood flow (-17%, P < 0.001). The relative increase in OPP during isometric exercise was comparable with all drugs administered. Isometric exercise increased choroidal blood flow during administration of placebo and phenylephrine, but not during administration of L-NMMA (P < 0.001 vs. placebo). These data indicate that NO plays an important role in the regulation of choroidal blood flow during isometric exercise.

Development of the lateral ventricular choroid plexus in a marsupial, Monodelphis domestica

PubMed Central

2010-01-01

Background Choroid plexus epithelial cells are the site of blood/cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) barrier and regulate molecular transfer between the two compartments. Their mitotic activity in the adult is low. During development, the pattern of growth and timing of acquisition of functional properties of plexus epithelium are not known. Methods Numbers and size of choroid plexus epithelial cells and their nuclei were counted and measured in the lateral ventricular plexus from the first day of its appearance until adulthood. Newborn Monodelphis pups were injected with 5-bromo-2-deoxyuridine (BrdU) at postnatal day 3 (P3), P4 and P5. Additional animals were injected at P63, P64 and P65. BrdU-immunopositive nuclei were counted and their position mapped in the plexus structure at different ages after injections. Double-labelling immunocytochemistry with antibodies to plasma protein identified post-mitotic cells involved in protein transfer. Results Numbers of choroid plexus epithelial cells increased 10-fold between the time of birth and adulthood. In newborn pups each consecutive injection of BrdU labelled 20-40 of epithelial cells counted. After 3 injections, numbers of BrdU positive cells remained constant for at least 2 months. BrdU injections at an older age (P63, P64, P65) resulted in a smaller number of labelled plexus cells. Numbers of plexus cells immunopositive for both BrdU and plasma protein increased with age indicating that protein transferring properties are acquired post mitotically. Labelled nuclei were only detected on the dorsal arm of the plexus as it grows from the neuroependyma, moving along the structure in a 'conveyor belt' like fashion. Conclusions The present study established that lateral ventricular choroid plexus epithelial cells are born on the dorsal side of the structure only. Cells born in the first few days after choroid plexus differentiation from the neuroependyma remain present even two months later. Protein-transferring properties are

Development of the lateral ventricular choroid plexus in a marsupial, Monodelphis domestica.

PubMed

Liddelow, Shane A; Dziegielewska, Katarzyna M; Vandeberg, John L; Saunders, Norman R

2010-10-05

Choroid plexus epithelial cells are the site of blood/cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) barrier and regulate molecular transfer between the two compartments. Their mitotic activity in the adult is low. During development, the pattern of growth and timing of acquisition of functional properties of plexus epithelium are not known. Numbers and size of choroid plexus epithelial cells and their nuclei were counted and measured in the lateral ventricular plexus from the first day of its appearance until adulthood. Newborn Monodelphis pups were injected with 5-bromo-2-deoxyuridine (BrdU) at postnatal day 3 (P3), P4 and P5. Additional animals were injected at P63, P64 and P65. BrdU-immunopositive nuclei were counted and their position mapped in the plexus structure at different ages after injections. Double-labelling immunocytochemistry with antibodies to plasma protein identified post-mitotic cells involved in protein transfer. Numbers of choroid plexus epithelial cells increased 10-fold between the time of birth and adulthood. In newborn pups each consecutive injection of BrdU labelled 20-40 of epithelial cells counted. After 3 injections, numbers of BrdU positive cells remained constant for at least 2 months. BrdU injections at an older age (P63, P64, P65) resulted in a smaller number of labelled plexus cells. Numbers of plexus cells immunopositive for both BrdU and plasma protein increased with age indicating that protein transferring properties are acquired post mitotically. Labelled nuclei were only detected on the dorsal arm of the plexus as it grows from the neuroependyma, moving along the structure in a 'conveyor belt' like fashion. The present study established that lateral ventricular choroid plexus epithelial cells are born on the dorsal side of the structure only. Cells born in the first few days after choroid plexus differentiation from the neuroependyma remain present even two months later. Protein-transferring properties are acquired post-mitotically and relatively

[Central aleolar choroidal dystrophy in sibilings coexisting with alopecia].

PubMed

Brydak-Godowska, Joanna; Dróbecka-Brydak, Ewa; Paćkowska, Maria; Kecik, Dariusz

2007-01-01

Central areolar choroidal dystrophy is localized in macular region and is characterized by atrophy of pigment epithelium, photoreceptors and choriocapillaris. This paper presents the history of two sibilings at the age of 23 and 30, with central aleolar choroidal dystrophy coexisting with alopecia. The results of erg, eog and fluorescein angiography are presented. The results of therapy for glaucoma associated with the Sturge-Weber syndrome are often disappointing.

Segmentation of the macular choroid in OCT images acquired at 830nm and 1060nm

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lee, Sieun; Beg, Mirza F.; Sarunic, Marinko V.

2013-06-01

Retinal imaging with optical coherence tomography (OCT) has rapidly advanced in ophthalmic applications with the broad availability of Fourier domain (FD) technology in commercial systems. The high sensitivity afforded by FD-OCT has enabled imaging of the choroid, a layer of blood vessels serving the outer retina. Improved visualization of the choroid and the choroid-sclera boundary has been investigated using techniques such as enhanced depth imaging (EDI), and also with OCT systems operating in the 1060-nm wavelength range. We report on a comparison of imaging the macular choroid with commercial and prototype OCT systems, and present automated 3D segmentation of the choroid-scleral layer using a graph cut algorithm. The thickness of the choroid is an important measurement to investigate for possible correlation with severity, or possibly early diagnosis, of diseases such as age-related macular degeneration.

Objective evaluation of choroidal melanin contents with polarization-sensitive optical coherence tomography

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Miura, Masahiro; Makita, Shuichi; Yasuno, Yoshiaki; Ikuno, Yasushi; Uematsu, Sato; Iwasaki, Takuya; Goto, Hiroshi

2018-02-01

We non-invasively evaluated choroidal melanin contents in human eyes with PS-OCT. We calculated the percentage area of low DOPU in the choroidal interstitial stroma for Vogt-Koyanagi- Harada disease with sunset glow fundus, without sunset glow fundus, control group and tessellated fundus with high myopia. The mean percentage area of low DOPU in the sunset group was significantly lower than the other groups. PS-OCT provides an in vivo objective evaluation of choroidal melanin loss in vivo human eyes.

Choroidal abnormalities in café-au-lait syndromes: a new differential diagnostic tool?

PubMed

Cassiman, C; Casteels, I; Jacob, J; Plasschaert, E; Brems, H; Dubron, K; Keer, K V; Legius, E

2017-04-01

The best known café-au-lait syndrome is neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1). Legius syndrome (LS) is another, rarer syndrome with café-au-lait macules (CALMs). In young patients their clinical picture is often indistinguishable. We investigated the presence of choroidal abnormalities in syndromes with CALMs as a candidate tool for a more efficient diagnosis. Thirty-four patients with NF1 (14 with a truncating mutation, 14 with a non-truncating mutation and 6 with unknown mutation) and 11 patients with LS. All patients underwent an ophthalmological examination. Infrared images were performed. Choroidal nodules were diagnosed in 65% of the NF1 group. About 71% of NF1 patients with a truncating mutation and 50% of patients with a non-truncating mutation were found to have nodules. Choroidal nodules were seen in 18% of the LS patients, never more than one nodule/eye was detected in this group. Choroidal nodules are more abundantly present in NF1 genotypes with truncating mutations. In contrast, the number of choroidal nodules in LS is comparable with their presence in healthy individuals. Especially at an early age, when the clinical picture is incomplete, the detection of choroidal nodules is of diagnostic value, and helps in an appropriate genetic counselling and follow-up. These results support the suggestion to include choroidal nodules to the diagnostic criteria for NF1. © 2016 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Changes in Retinal and Choroidal Vascular Blood Flow after Oral Sildenafil: An Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography Study.

PubMed

Berrones, David; Salcedo-Villanueva, Guillermo; Morales-Cantón, Virgilio; Velez-Montoya, Raul

2017-01-01

To describe changes in the retina and choroidal flow by optical coherence tomography angiography (OCT-A) after a single dose of oral sildenafil. A case-control study. Patients in the study group received 50 mg of oral sildenafil. Patients in the control group received a sham pill. Retinal and choroidal images were obtained at baseline (before pill ingestion) and 1 hour after ingestion. Central macular and choroidal thickness, choroidal and outer retina flow, and the retinal and choroidal vascular density were compared using a Mann-Whitney U test. Twenty eyes were enrolled into the study group and 10 eyes in the control group. There was a significant difference in central choroidal thickness and outer retina blood flow between groups after 1 hour of sildenafil ingestion ( p < 0.01). There were no differences in central macular thickness, choroidal flow, and retinal vascular density among groups. A single dose of oral sildenafil increases choroidal thickness, probably due to sildenafil-induced vasodilation.

Changes in Retinal and Choroidal Vascular Blood Flow after Oral Sildenafil: An Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography Study

PubMed Central

Berrones, David; Morales-Cantón, Virgilio

2017-01-01

Purpose To describe changes in the retina and choroidal flow by optical coherence tomography angiography (OCT-A) after a single dose of oral sildenafil. Method A case-control study. Patients in the study group received 50 mg of oral sildenafil. Patients in the control group received a sham pill. Retinal and choroidal images were obtained at baseline (before pill ingestion) and 1 hour after ingestion. Central macular and choroidal thickness, choroidal and outer retina flow, and the retinal and choroidal vascular density were compared using a Mann-Whitney U test. Results Twenty eyes were enrolled into the study group and 10 eyes in the control group. There was a significant difference in central choroidal thickness and outer retina blood flow between groups after 1 hour of sildenafil ingestion (p < 0.01). There were no differences in central macular thickness, choroidal flow, and retinal vascular density among groups. Conclusions A single dose of oral sildenafil increases choroidal thickness, probably due to sildenafil-induced vasodilation. PMID:29129998

Elevated serum IGF-1 level enhances retinal and choroidal thickness in untreated acromegaly patients.

PubMed

Zhang, Xia; Ma, Jin; Wang, Yuhan; Li, Lüe; Gao, Lu; Guo, Xiaopeng; Xing, Bing; Zhong, Yong

2018-03-01

1) To compare the retinal, choroidal, Haller's layer, and Sattler's/choriocapillaris thicknesses of untreated acromegaly patients without chiasm compression or diabetes mellitus and healthy controls. 2) To evaluate the correlations of retinal and choroidal thicknesses with serum growth hormone (GH) and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF) burden. This prospective, case-control study included 27 untreated acromegaly patients and 27 sex-matched and age-matched controls. Subfoveal choroidal, Haller's layer and Sattler's/choriocapillaris thicknesses were determined by enhanced-depth imaging optical coherence tomography (EDI-OCT). Foveal and macular retinal thicknesses were determined with SD-OCT. GH and IGF-1 burdens were defined as the product of disease duration and treatment-naïve serum GH and IGF-1 levels. Compared with healthy controls, patients with acromegaly exhibited significantly increased foveal retinal (p = 0.003), subfoveal choroidal (p < 0.001), and Haller's layer (p < 0.001) thicknesses, with no differences in Sattler's/choriocapillaris layer thickness. Multiple point measurements in the posterior pole area showed equally increased nasal and temporal parts of the choroid. The retinal thickness maps of the two groups did not significantly differ. Correlation analysis indicated that choroidal thickness was significantly correlated with disease duration (p = 0.01), serum IGF-1 level (p = 0.03) and IGF-1 burden (p = 0.009). No significant correlations were detected between choroidal thickness and GH burden (p = 0.44). Retinal thickness was not significantly correlated with any factor. The choroidal thickness of acromegaly patients was greater than that of healthy controls and was significantly correlated with disease duration, IGF-1 level and IGF-1 burden, indicating that excessive serum IGF-1 and its exposure time have a combined effect on choroidal thickness.

Compensation for spectacle lenses involves changes in proteoglycan synthesis in both the sclera and choroid.

PubMed

Nickla, D L; Wildsoet, C; Wallman, J

1997-04-01

It has been demonstrated that chick eye growth compensates for defocus imposed by spectacle lenses: the eye elongates in response to hyperopic defocus imposed by negative lenses and slows its elongation in response to myopic defocus imposed by positive lenses. We ask whether the synthesis of scleral extracellular matrix, specifically glycosaminoglycans, changes in parallel with the changes in ocular elongation. In addition, there is a choroidal component to compensation for spectacle lenses; the choroid thickens in response to myopic defocus and thins in response to hyperopic defocus. We ask whether choroidal glycosaminoglycan synthesis changes in parallel with changes in choroidal thickness. Chicks wore either a +15 diopter (D) or -15 D spectacle lens over one eye, or they wore one lens of each power over each eye for 5 days. At the end of this period, we measured refractive errors and ocular dimensions by refractometry and A-scan ultrasonography, respectively. Pieces of the scleras and choroids from these eyes were put into culture and the synthesis of glycosaminoglycans was assessed by measuring the incorporation of radioactive inorganic sulfur. We here report that the compensatory modulation of the length of the eye involves changes in the synthesis of glycosaminoglycans in the sclera, with synthesis increasing in eyes wearing -15 D spectacles lenses and decreasing in eyes wearing +15 D lenses. In addition, changes in the synthesis of glycosaminoglycans in the choroid are correlated with changes in choroidal thickness: eyes wearing +15 D lenses develop thicker choroids and these choroids synthesize more glycosaminoglycans than choroids from eyes wearing -15 D lenses. Changes in scleral glycosaminoglycan synthesis accompany lens-induced changes in the length of the eye. Furthermore, changes in the thickness of the choroid are also associated with changes in the synthesis of glycosaminoglycans. These results are consistent with the regulation of the growth of the

Anterior choroidal artery patency and clinical follow-up after coverage with the pipeline embolization device.

PubMed

Raz, E; Shapiro, M; Becske, T; Zumofen, D W; Tanweer, O; Potts, M B; Riina, H A; Nelson, P K

2015-05-01

Endoluminal reconstruction with the Pipeline Embolization Device is an effective treatment option for select intracranial aneurysms. However, concerns for the patency of eloquent branch arteries covered by the Pipeline Embolization Device have been raised. We aimed to examine the patency of the anterior choroidal artery and clinical sequelae after ICA aneurysm treatment. We prospectively analyzed all patients among our first 157 patients with ICA aneurysms treated by the Pipeline Embolization Device who required placement of at least 1 device across the ostium of the anterior choroidal artery. The primary outcome measure was angiographic patency of the anterior choroidal artery at last follow-up. Age, sex, type of aneurysm, neurologic examination data, number of Pipeline Embolization Devices used, relationship of the anterior choroidal artery to the aneurysm, and completeness of aneurysm occlusion on follow-up angiograms were also analyzed. Twenty-nine aneurysms requiring placement of at least 1 Pipeline Embolization Device (median = 1, range = 1-3) across the anterior choroidal artery ostium were identified. At angiographic follow-up (mean = 15.1 months; range = 12-39 months), the anterior choroidal artery remained patent, with antegrade flow in 28/29 aneurysms (96.5%), while 24/29 (82.7%) of the target aneurysms were angiographically occluded by 1-year follow-up angiography. Anterior choroidal artery occlusion, with retrograde reconstitution of the vessel, was noted in a single case. A significant correlation between the origin of the anterior choroidal artery from the aneurysm dome and failure of the aneurysms to occlude following treatment was found. After placement of 36 Pipeline Embolization Devices across 29 anterior choroidal arteries (median = 1 device, range = 1-3 devices), 1 of 29 anterior choroidal arteries was found occluded on angiographic follow-up. The vessel occlusion did not result in persistent clinical sequelae. Coverage of the anterior

Subfoveal Choroidal Thickness and Axial Length in Preschool Children with Hyperopic Anisometropic Amblyopia.

PubMed

Mori, Takafumi; Sugano, Yukinori; Maruko, Ichiro; Sekiryu, Tetsuju

2015-09-01

To investigate the relationship between subfoveal choroidal thickness and axial length in Japanese preschool children with hyperopic anisometropic amblyopia. Twenty-four children between the age of 3 and 6 years exhibiting hyperopic anisometropic amblyopia were examined. Differences in spherical equivalent between the two eyes were over 1.5 D in all children. Twenty-four eyes in 12 children without anisometropia and amblyopia were examined as age-matched normal controls. Subfoveal choroidal thickness was measured by using enhanced depth imaging optical coherence tomography. Axial length was measured with noncontact optical biometer. The spherical equivalent ranged from +3.50 to +7.25 D in amblyopic eyes and from +0.75 to +3.50 D in fellow eyes. The subfoveal choroidal thickness was significantly greater in the amblyopic eyes than that in the fellow eyes (407.3 ± 54.2 μm versus 357.7 ± 54.3 μm, Paired t-test, p < 0.05). The axial length in the amblyopic eyes was significantly shorter than that in the fellow eyes (21.16 ± 0.64 mm versus 22.08 ± 0.72 mm, Paired t-test, p < 0.05). The mean choroidal thickness of the fellow eyes in hyperopic anisometropic amblyopia was greater than that in age matched normal children, although this difference did not reach statistical significance (326.0 ± 62.1 μm, p = 0.07). The subfoveal choroidal thickness in amblyopic children was negatively correlated with their axial length (r = -0.50, p < 0.01). The subfoveal choroidal thickness of amblyopic children abnormally increased and the thicker subfoveal choroid is mildly correlated with their shorter axial length. The anomalous subfoveal choroidal thicknesses in our amblyopic children may reflect a delay in emmetropization.

Selective Blockade of Cytoskeletal Actin Remodeling Reduces Experimental Choroidal Neovascularization

PubMed Central

Caballero, Sergio; Yang, Ru; Chaqour, Brahim

2011-01-01

Purpose. The efficacy of the peptide Ac-EEED on reducing cell adhesion and proliferation in vitro and choroidal neovascularization (CNV) in vivo was examined. Methods. The peptide chimera containing the Ac-EEED sequence was chemically linked to the N terminus of the XMTM delivery peptide from the Erns viral surface protein. Ac-EEED or scrambled control peptide (SCRAM) was added to cultures of vascular smooth muscle cells, pericytes, endothelial cells, and fibroblasts, and adhesion, growth, and matrix production was assessed. Ac-EEED or SCRAM was injected into the vitreous of mice undergoing laser rupture of Bruch's membrane to induce CNV and lesion volume, neovascularization and lesion fibrosis were assessed. Results. Ac-EEED–induced changes in the morphology of the actin cytoskeleton by inhibiting polymerization of G-actin and disrupting the formation of stress fibers. Pretreatment with Ac-EEED resulted in endothelial cells becoming less responsive to the mitogenic and pro-adhesive effects of VEGF. Ac-EEED treatment in fibroblasts reduced TGF-β–induced fibrosis as assessed by decreased levels of connective tissue growth factor, cysteine-rich 61, collagen I (COL1A2), and collagen III (COL3A1). CNV lesion size and fibrosis were reduced in a concentration-dependent manner by up to 60%. Conclusions. In vitro studies showed that Ac-EEED affects a broad range of mechanical properties associated with cytoskeletal actin to reduce growth factor effects. The utilization of Ac-EEED in vivo may offer a novel therapeutic strategy by both suppressed neovessel growth and curtailing fibrosis typically associated with the involutional stage of CNV. PMID:21178140

Iron oxide magnetic nanoparticles highlight early involvement of the choroid plexus in central nervous system inflammation

PubMed Central

Millward, Jason M.; Schnorr, Jörg; Taupitz, Matthias; Wagner, Susanne; Wuerfel, Jens T.; Infante-Duarte, Carmen

2013-01-01

Neuroinflammation during multiple sclerosis involves immune cell infiltration and disruption of the BBB (blood–brain barrier). Both processes can be visualized by MRI (magnetic resonance imaging), in multiple sclerosis patients and in the animal model EAE (experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis). We previously showed that VSOPs (very small superparamagnetic iron oxide particles) reveal CNS (central nervous system) lesions in EAE which are not detectable by conventional contrast agents in MRI. We hypothesized that VSOP may help detect early, subtle inflammatory events that would otherwise remain imperceptible. To investigate the capacity of VSOP to reveal early events in CNS inflammation, we induced EAE in SJL mice using encephalitogenic T-cells, and administered VSOP prior to onset of clinical symptoms. In parallel, we administered VSOP to mice at peak disease, and to unmanipulated controls. We examined the distribution of VSOP in the CNS by MRI and histology. Prior to disease onset, in asymptomatic mice, VSOP accumulated in the choroid plexus and in spinal cord meninges in the absence of overt inflammation. However, VSOP was undetectable in the CNS of non-immunized control mice. At peak disease, VSOP was broadly distributed; we observed particles in perivascular inflammatory lesions with apparently preserved glia limitans. Moreover, at peak disease, VSOP was prominent in the choroid plexus and was seen in elongated endothelial structures, co-localized with phagocytes, and diffusely disseminated in the parenchyma, suggesting multiple entry mechanisms of VSOP into the CNS. Thus, using VSOP we were able to discriminate between inflammatory events occurring in established EAE and, importantly, we identified CNS alterations that appear to precede immune cell infiltration and clinical onset. PMID:23452162

Molecular pathogenesis of retinal and choroidal vascular diseases.

PubMed

Campochiaro, Peter A

2015-11-01

There are two major types of ocular neovascularization that affect the retina, retinal neovascularization (NV) and subretinal or choroidal NV. Retinal NV occurs in a group of diseases referred to as ischemic retinopathies in which damage to retinal vessels results in retinal ischemia. Most prevalent of these are diabetic retinopathy and retinal vein occlusions. Subretinal and choroidal NV occur in diseases of the outer retina and Bruch's membrane, the most prevalent of which is age-related macular degeneration. Numerous studies in mouse models have helped to elucidate the molecular pathogenesis underlying retinal, subretinal, and choroidal NV. There is considerable overlap because the precipitating event in each is stabilization of hypoxia inducible factor-1 (HIF-1) which leads to upregulation of several hypoxia-regulated gene products, including vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), angiopoietin 2, vascular endothelial-protein tyrosine phosphatase (VE-PTP), and several others. Stimulation of VEGF signaling and suppression of Tie2 by angiopoietin 2 and VE-PTP are critical for sprouting of retinal, subretinal, and choroidal NV, with perturbation of Bruch's membrane also needed for the latter. Additional HIF-1-regulated gene products cause further stimulation of the NV. It is difficult to model macular edema in animals and therefore proof-of-concept clinical trials were done and demonstrated that VEGF plays a central role and that suppression of Tie2 is also important. Neutralization of VEGF is currently the first line therapy for all of the above disease processes, but new treatments directed at some of the other molecular targets, particularly stabilization of Tie2, are likely to provide additional benefit for subretinal/choroidal NV and macular edema. In addition, the chronicity of these diseases as well as the implication of VEGF as a cause of retinal nonperfusion and progression of background diabetic retinopathy make sustained delivery approaches for VEGF

Choroidal Thickness in Turkish Children with Anisometric Amblyopia.

PubMed

Karaca, Emine Esra; Çubuk, Mehmet Özgür; Akçam, Hanife Tuba; Uzun, Feyzahan; Yüksel, Erdem

2017-01-01

To assess macular choroidal thickness (CT) and axial length measurements in children with anisometropic amblyopia and to compare the measurements with that of fellow non-amblyopic eyes and age-sex matched controls. Forty patients with anisometropic amblyopia and 40 age-/sex-matched controls were evaluated in this study. Eyes were classified into three groups as follows: amblyopic eyes (n = 40), fellow non-amblyopic eyes, and healthy eyes (n = 40). All subjects underwent complete ophthalmic examination and macular choroidal thickness measurements by enhanced depth imaging method of the Spectralis optical coherence tomography system. CT was measured at the fovea and at 1000-μm intervals from the foveal center in both temporal and nasal directions. The statistical assessment was performed with the assistance of one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Pearson's correlation test. The mean subfoveal CT was 389.35, 349.07, and 315.8 μm in the amblyopic, fellow non-amblyopic and healthy eyes, respectively. Choroid was thickest in subfoveal and thinnest in nasal regions among all groups. Both amblyopic and fellow non-amblopic eyes were more hyperopic than healthy eyes. While the subfoveal and nasal CT in amblyopic eyes and fellow eyes were significantly higher than healthy eyes, the temporal CT in amblyopic eyes was significantly higher than in healthy eyes. There was a significant positive correlation between the CT of the subfoveal, nasal, and temporal regions and the refractive state (r = 0.432 p = 0.001; r = 0.324 p = 0.001; r = 0.215 p = 0.01, respectively). The macular choroidal thickness-not only in amblyopic eyes but also in non-amblyopic fellow eyes-was significantly thicker than in the healthy subjects. The thick choroid in amblyopic and non-amblyopic fellow eyes may indicate bilateral delay of emmetropization, which probably means amblyopia affecting the visual feedback of both eyes.

Defining the proteome of human iris, ciliary body, retinal pigment epithelium, and choroid.

PubMed

Zhang, Pingbo; Kirby, David; Dufresne, Craig; Chen, Yan; Turner, Randi; Ferri, Sara; Edward, Deepak P; Van Eyk, Jennifer E; Semba, Richard D

2016-04-01

The iris is a fine structure that controls the amount of light that enters the eye. The ciliary body controls the shape of the lens and produces aqueous humor. The retinal pigment epithelium and choroid (RPE/choroid) are essential in supporting the retina and absorbing light energy that enters the eye. Proteins were extracted from iris, ciliary body, and RPE/choroid tissues of eyes from five individuals and fractionated using SDS-PAGE. After in-gel digestion, peptides were analyzed using LC-MS/MS on an Orbitrap Elite mass spectrometer. In iris, ciliary body, and RPE/choroid, we identified 2959, 2867, and 2755 nonredundant proteins with peptide and protein false-positive rates of <0.1% and <1%, respectively. Forty-three unambiguous protein isoforms were identified in iris, ciliary body, and RPE/choroid. Four "missing proteins" were identified in ciliary body based on ≥2 proteotypic peptides. The mass spectrometric proteome database of the human iris, ciliary body, and RPE/choroid may serve as a valuable resource for future investigations of the eye in health and disease. The MS proteomics data have been deposited to the ProteomeXchange Consortium via the PRIDE partner repository with the dataset identifiers PXD001424 and PXD002194. © 2016 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Choroidal Thickness Analysis in Patients with Usher Syndrome Type 2 Using EDI OCT.

PubMed

Colombo, L; Sala, B; Montesano, G; Pierrottet, C; De Cillà, S; Maltese, P; Bertelli, M; Rossetti, L

2015-01-01

To portray Usher Syndrome type 2, analyzing choroidal thickness and comparing data reported in published literature on RP and healthy subjects. Methods. 20 eyes of 10 patients with clinical signs and genetic diagnosis of Usher Syndrome type 2. Each patient underwent a complete ophthalmologic examination including Best Corrected Visual Acuity (BCVA), intraocular pressure (IOP), axial length (AL), automated visual field (VF), and EDI OCT. Both retinal and choroidal measures were measured. Statistical analysis was performed to correlate choroidal thickness with age, BCVA, IOP, AL, VF, and RT. Comparison with data about healthy people and nonsyndromic RP patients was performed. Results. Mean subfoveal choroidal thickness (SFCT) was 248.21 ± 79.88 microns. SFCT was statistically significant correlated with age (correlation coefficient -0.7248179, p < 0.01). No statistically significant correlation was found between SFCT and BCVA, IOP, AL, VF, and RT. SFCT was reduced if compared to healthy subjects (p < 0.01). No difference was found when compared to choroidal thickness from nonsyndromic RP patients (p = 0.2138). Conclusions. Our study demonstrated in vivo choroidal thickness reduction in patients with Usher Syndrome type 2. These data are important for the comprehension of mechanisms of disease and for the evaluation of therapeutic approaches.

Factors Affecting Choroidal Vascular Density in Normal Eyes: Quantification Using En Face Swept-Source Optical Coherence Tomography.

PubMed

Fujiwara, Atsushi; Morizane, Yuki; Hosokawa, Mio; Kimura, Shuhei; Kumase, Fumiaki; Shiode, Yusuke; Doi, Shinichiro; Hirano, Masayuki; Toshima, Shinji; Hosogi, Mika; Shiraga, Fumio

2016-10-01

To quantify the vascular density of the choroid of normal eyes and to identify the influencing factors using en face images obtained with swept-source optical coherence tomography (SS OCT). Prospective cross-sectional study. One hundred and sixty-three eyes of 163 healthy volunteers (83 female; mean age 42.2 ± 22.6 years) with a corrected visual acuity of ≥1.0 were investigated. En face SS OCT images of the choroid were used for quantitative assessment of the vascular density in the large choroid vessel layer. Relationships between vascular density of the choroid and age, sex, refractive error (RE), axial length (AL), and subfoveal choroidal thickness (SCT) were also investigated. There was a significant negative relationship between vascular density of the choroid and subject age (P < .001). Analysis according to age showed a significant correlation in the group aged >30 years (P < .001), but not in the group aged ≤30 years (P = .225). SCT had a significant positive relationship with vascular density of the choroid (P < .001). However, a significant correlation was not observed between sex, RE, or AL and vascular density of the choroid (P = .981, P = .292, and P = .216, respectively). Multivariable regression analysis with vascular density of the choroid as the dependent variable and age, sex, RE, AL, and SCT as independent variables showed that age and SCT are important determinants of vascular density of the choroid (P < .001). Age and SCT affect vascular density of the choroid. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Role of Angiography in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus-Induced Choroiditis.

PubMed

Lee, Kenneth Rohan; Peng, Lai Yin; Iqbal, Tajunisah Begum; Subrayan, Visvaraja

2017-03-31

To report a case of systemic lupus erythematosus-induced choroidal vasculitis. A 34-year-old woman with a long-standing history of systemic lupus erythematosus had a sudden painless loss of vision in the right eye over 12 hours. Ocular examination revealed a visual acuity of counting fingers of 1 foot on the right eye and 20/20 on the left. There was a relative afferent pupillary defect on the right side with a pink, distinct optic disk margin. Optical coherence tomography of the macula and fundus fluorescein angiogram for the eyes were normal. The MRI brain and orbit with the cerebral MRA did not show signs of optic neuritis or occipital vasculitic changes. However, the indocyanine green angiography revealed patches of ill-defined areas of choroidal hypofluorescence in the early- to mid-phase in the macula region. ICGA becomes the crucial tool in unmasking the presence of choroidal vasculitis.

Choroidal metastasis of a minor salivary gland adenoid cystic carcinoma: A case report.

PubMed

Portilla Blanco, R R; Roberts Martínez-Aguirre, I; Pontón Méndez, P; Zarzosa Martín, M E; Pérez-Salvador García, E

2018-03-21

A 61-year-old man with a lower lip minor salivary gland adenoid cystic carcinoma, suffered from a unilateral progressive visual acuity loss due to choroidal metastasis. Adenoid cystic carcinoma is a rare primary tumour with significant metastatic potential. Our patient presented with a unilateral choroidal metastasis. According to the current literature, 8 cases of choroidal metastasis of salivary gland adenoid cystic carcinoma have been reported. This is the second case reported of choroidal metastasis with origin in a minor salivary gland, and the first one with origin in the minor salivary glands of the lower lip. Copyright © 2018 Sociedad Española de Oftalmología. Publicado por Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.

Choroidal thickness measurement in children using optical coherence tomography.

PubMed

Bidaut-Garnier, Mélanie; Schwartz, Claire; Puyraveau, Marc; Montard, Michel; Delbosc, Bernard; Saleh, Maher

2014-04-01

To measure choroidal thickness (CT) in children of various ages by using spectral optical coherence tomography with enhanced depth imaging and to investigate the association between subfoveal CT and ocular axial length, age, gender, weight, and height in children. Healthy children were prospectively included between May and August 2012. Optical coherence tomography with the enhanced depth imaging system (Spectralis, Heidelberg, Germany) was used for choroidal imaging at nine defined points of the macula of both eyes. Axial length was measured using IOLMaster (Carl Zeiss Meditec, Dublin, CA). Height, weight, and refraction were recorded. Interobserver agreement in readings was also assessed by the Bland-Altman Method. Three hundred and forty-eight eyes from 174 children aged 3.5 years to 14.9 years were imaged. The mean subfoveal CT in right eyes was 341.96 ± 74.7 µm. Choroidal thickness increased with age (r = 0.24, P = 0.017), height, and weight but not with gender (P > 0.05). It was also inversely correlated to the axial length (r = 0.24, P = 0.001). The nasal choroid appeared thinner than in the temporal area (analysis of variance, P < 0.0001). In children, CT increases with age and is inversely correlated to axial length. There is a significant variation of CT between children of the same age.

Effect of optical correction on subfoveal choroidal thickness in children with anisohypermetropic amblyopia.

PubMed

Nishi, Tomo; Ueda, Tetsuo; Mizusawa, Yuutaro; Semba, Kentaro; Shinomiya, Kayo; Mitamura, Yoshinori; Sakamoto, Taiji; Ogata, Nahoko

2017-01-01

The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of optical correction on the best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and subfoveal choroidal thickness (CT) in the eyes of children with anisohypermetropic amblyopia. Twenty-four anisohypermetropic amblyopic eyes and their fellow eyes of 24 patients and twenty-three eyes of 23 age-matched control children were studied. After one year of optical correction, the BCVA in the anisohypermetropic amblyopic eyes was significantly improved. Before the treatment, the mean subfoveal CT in the amblyopic eyes was 351.9 ± 59.4 μm which was significantly thicker than that of control eyes at 302.4 ± 63.2 μm. After the treatment, the amount of change in the subfoveal CT in the amblyopic and fellow eyes was greater than that in the control eyes. The amblyopic and fellow eyes with thicker choroids had a greater thinning of the choroid whereas eyes with thinner choroids had a greater thickening of the choroid. We conclude that wearing corrective lenses improves the visual acuity, and induces changes of the subfoveal CT in eyes with anisohypermetropic amblyopia.

Effects of intravitreal injection of ranibizumab on choroidal structure and blood flow in eyes with diabetic macular edema.

PubMed

Okamoto, Masahiro; Yamashita, Mariko; Ogata, Nahoko

2018-05-01

To determine the effects of an intravitreal injection of ranibizumab (IVR) on the choroidal structure and blood flow in eyes with diabetic macular edema (DME). Twenty-eight consecutive patients with DME who received an IVR and 20 non-diabetic, age-matched controls were followed for 1 month. The eyes with DME were divided into those with prior panretinal photocoagulation (PRP, n = 16) and those without prior PRP (no-PRP, n = 12). The enhanced depth imaging optical coherence tomography (EDI-OCT) scans and Niblack's image binarization were performed to determine the choroidal structure. The choroidal blood flow was determined by laser speckle flowgraphy. The subfoveal choroidal thickness at the baseline was significantly thicker in the no-PRP group than in the PRP-treated group. After IVR, the best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and central retinal thickness in eyes with DME were significantly improved compared to the baseline values. There were significant differences in the choroidal thickness, total choroidal area, and choroidal vascularity index between the groups after IVR. Choroidal vascular index and choroidal blood flow were significantly reduced only in the no-PRP group and not in the PRP-treated group. In addition, the correlation between the central retinal thickness and the choroidal blood flow was significant in the no-PRP group (r = 0.47, P < 0.05). A single IVR will reduce the central retinal thickness and improve the BCVA in eyes with DME in both the no-PRP and PRP-treated group. IVR affected the choroidal vasculature and blood flow significantly, and a significant correlation was found between the central retinal thickness and the choroidal blood flow in eyes without PRP.

Role of endothelin-1 in choroidal blood flow regulation during isometric exercise in healthy humans.

PubMed

Fuchsjäger-Mayrl, Gabriele; Luksch, Alexandra; Malec, Magdalena; Polska, Elzbieta; Wolzt, Michael; Schmetterer, Leopold

2003-02-01

There is evidence that the choroid has some autoregulatory capacity in response to changes in ocular perfusion pressure (OPP). The mediators of this response are hitherto unidentified. The hypothesis for the current study was that endothelin (ET)-1 and/or angiotensin (ANF)-II may be involved in choroidal vasoconstriction during an increase in OPP. To test this hypothesis a randomized, double-masked, placebo-controlled, three way crossover study was performed in 12 healthy male volunteers. Subjects received on different study days intravenous infusions of the specific ET(A) receptor antagonist BQ-123, the angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor enalapril or placebo. During these infusion periods subjects were asked to squat for 6 minutes. Choroidal blood flow was measured using a confocal laser Doppler flowmeter and ocular perfusion pressure (OPP) was calculated from mean arterial pressure and intraocular pressure. BQ-123 and enalapril had no effect on basal blood pressure, pulse rate, intraocular pressure, or choroidal blood flow. During isometric exercise, a pronounced increase in mean arterial pressure paralleled by an increase in OPP was observed. Although choroidal blood flow slightly increased during squatting, the increase was much less pronounced than the increase in OPP, indicating some regulatory potential of the choroid. Enalapril did not alter the choroidal pressure-flow relationship during isometric exercise, but BQ-123 induced a significant leftward shift of the pressure-flow curve (P < 0.001). The present data indicate that ET-1, but not ANG II, plays a role in choroidal blood flow regulation during isometric exercise in healthy humans. Hence, impaired choroidal autoregulation in patients with ocular vascular diseases may arise from an altered endothelin system. Further studies in such patients are warranted to verify this hypothesis.

Brain iron homeostasis, the choroid plexus, and localization of iron transport proteins.

PubMed

Rouault, Tracey A; Zhang, De-Liang; Jeong, Suh Young

2009-12-01

Maintenance of appropriate iron homeostasis in the brain is important, but the mechanisms involved in brain iron uptake are incompletely understood. Here, we have analyzed where messenger RNAs that encode iron transport proteins are expressed in the brain, using the Allen Brain atlas, and we conclude that several important iron transporters are highly expressed in the choroid plexus. Based on recent estimates of the surface area of the choroid plexus and on MRI imaging studies of manganese uptake in the brain, we propose that the choroid plexus may have a much greater role than has been previously appreciated in brain iron transport.

Mobile, Multi-modal, Label-Free Imaging Probe Analysis of Choroidal Oximetry and Retinal Hypoxia

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-10-01

eyes and image choroidal vessels/capillaries using CARS intravital microscopy Subtask 3: Measure oxy-hemoglobin levels in PBI test and control eyes...AWARD NUMBER: W81XWH-14-1-0537 TITLE: Mobile, Multi-modal, Label-Free Imaging Probe Analysis of Choroidal Oximetry and Retinal Hypoxia...4. TITLE AND SUBTITLE Mobile, Multimodal, Label-Free Imaging Probe Analysis of Choroidal Oximetry and Retinal Hypoxia 5a. CONTRACT NUMBER W81XWH

Influence of Scleral Buckling Surgery with Encircling Band on Subfoveal Choroidal Thickness in Long-Term Observations

PubMed Central

Laudańska-Olszewska, Iwona; Gozdek, Piotr; Maroszyński, Mariusz; Amon, Michael

2013-01-01

Purpose. The aim of this study is the presentation of subfoveal choroidal thickness with enhanced depth imaging spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (EDI-OCT) several months after scleral buckling with encircling band surgery. Methods. 48 patients who underwent scleral buckling with encircling band surgery for unilateral rhegmatogenous retinal detachment were included in the retrospective observational study. The mean time from scleral buckling surgery to the final EDI-OCT examination was 22±6.7 months. We compare choroidal thickness between operated and fellow eyes. Results. In all patients, the macula was detached before the surgery. The subfoveal choroidal thickness in 48 treated eyes was 260.9±45.8 µm (range 155–383 µm) and in the fellow eyes was 217.5±36.7 µm (range 98–326 µm). The subfoveal choroidal thickness of eyes after scleral buckling surgery in long-term EDI-OCT examination was significantly thicker (P<0.001) than in fellow eyes. Conclusions. The subfoveal choroid in eyes undergoing encircling band surgery was significantly thicker than in fellow eyes. We suspect that this may be the result of reduced choroidal blood flow. It also seems that the width and size of the material used in scleral buckling surgery may affect a change in the choroid circulation and increase subfoveal choroidal thickness. PMID:23841077

Twelve hour reproducibility of choroidal blood flow parameters in healthy subjects.

PubMed

Polska, E; Polak, K; Luksch, A; Fuchsjager-Mayrl, G; Petternel, V; Findl, O; Schmetterer, L

2004-04-01

To investigate the reproducibility and potential diurnal variation of choroidal blood flow parameters in healthy subjects over a period of 12 hours. The choroidal blood flow parameters of 16 healthy non-smoking subjects were measured at five time points during the day (8:00, 11:00, 14:00, 17:00, and 20:00). Outcome parameters were pulsatile ocular blood flow as assessed by pneumotonometry, fundus pulsation amplitude as assessed by laser interferometry, blood velocities in the opthalmic and posterior ciliary arteries as assessed by colour Doppler imaging, and choroidal blood flow, volume, and velocity as assessed by fundus camera based laser Doppler flowmetry. The coefficient of variation and the maximum change from baseline in an individual were calculated for each outcome parameter. None of the techniques used found a diurnal variation in choroidal blood flow. Coefficients of variation were within 2.9% and 13.6% for all outcome parameters. The maximum change from baseline in an individual was much higher, ranging from 11.2% to 58.8%. These data indicate that in healthy subjects the selected techniques provide adequate reproducibility to be used in clinical studies. Variability may, however, be considerably higher in older subjects or subjects with ocular disease. The higher individual differences in flow parameter readings limit the use of the techniques in clinical practice. To overcome problems with measurement validity, a clinical trial should include as many choroidal blood flow outcome parameters as possible to check for consistency.

Automated choroid segmentation based on gradual intensity distance in HD-OCT images.

PubMed

Chen, Qiang; Fan, Wen; Niu, Sijie; Shi, Jiajia; Shen, Honglie; Yuan, Songtao

2015-04-06

The choroid is an important structure of the eye and plays a vital role in the pathology of retinal diseases. This paper presents an automated choroid segmentation method for high-definition optical coherence tomography (HD-OCT) images, including Bruch's membrane (BM) segmentation and choroidal-scleral interface (CSI) segmentation. An improved retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) complex removal algorithm is presented to segment BM by considering the structure characteristics of retinal layers. By analyzing the characteristics of CSI boundaries, we present a novel algorithm to generate a gradual intensity distance image. Then an improved 2-D graph search method with curve smooth constraints is used to obtain the CSI segmentation. Experimental results with 212 HD-OCT images from 110 eyes in 66 patients demonstrate that the proposed method can achieve high segmentation accuracy. The mean choroid thickness difference and overlap ratio between our proposed method and outlines drawn by experts was 6.72µm and 85.04%, respectively.

[Indocyanine green infrared fluorescence angiography and vascular cast--preparation in experimental choroidal circulatory disturbance].

PubMed

Matsunaga, H; Andoh, A; Matsubara, T; Fukushima, I; Takahashi, K; Ohkuma, H; Uyama, M

1996-03-01

We performed experiments in 20 monkey eyes in order to clarify basic problems about interpretation of indocyanine green fluorescence angiography (ICG angiography). We severed the temporal group of posterior ciliary arteries to produce choroidal circulatory disturbance. ICG angiography was performed immediately, and 2 days, 4 days, and 2 weeks later. Following each ICG angiography, the eye was studied by plastic vascular cast technique with scanning electron microscopy. Immediately after occlusion, ICG angiography showed filling defect in the temporal choroidal hemisphere during the early phase. In the later phase, this area was gradually filled by the dye from choroidal arteries in the nasal hemisphere and the anterior ciliary arteries. Vascular cast preparations showed filling defect in the temporal choroidal hemisphere, corresponding with the early ICG angiogaphic findings. Both filling delay in ICG angiography and filling defect in vascular casts improved daily after occlusion. Two weeks after occlusion, The area of choroidal infarct temporal to the macula turned into chorioretinal atrophy. This area showed hypofluorescence in the early-phase ICG angiography and filling defect of the choriocapillaris in plastic casts. The early-phase ICG angiographic findings thus corresponded well with observations of vascular casts. We conclude that ICG angiography correctly reflects the actual circulatory disturbances in the choroid.

Enhanced Depth SD-OCT Images Reveal Characteristic Choroidal Changes in Patients With Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada Disease.

PubMed

Li, Mei; Liu, Qiuhui; Luo, Yan; Li, Yonghao; Lin, Shaofen; Lian, Ping; Yang, Qiufen; Li, Xiaofang; Liu, Xialin; Sadda, SriniVas; Lu, Lin

2016-11-01

To identify characteristic choroidal changes of patients with Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada (VKH) disease at different stages. Fifty-four patients with VKH in the acute uveitic or convalescent stages, 24 patients with central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC), and 54 normal participants were enrolled in this prospective, observational study. Enhanced depth imaging spectral-domain optical coherence tomography scans were captured for all subjects to allow for comparison of choroidal morphological findings. Numerous round or oval hyperreflective profiles with hyporeflective cores, corresponding to choroidal vessels, were observed in the choroid of control participants and patients with CSC; whereas the numbers of these profiles were markedly decreased in the choroid of VKH patients in both the acute uveitic and convalescent stages. A reduction in vascular profiles in the choroid is observed in VKH and may aid in the differentiation with disorders such as CSC. [Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina. 2016;47:1004-1012.]. Copyright 2016, SLACK Incorporated.

A specific, nonproliferative role for E2F-5 in choroid plexus function revealed by gene targeting

PubMed Central

Lindeman, Geoffrey J.; Dagnino, Lina; Gaubatz, Stefan; Xu, Yuhui; Bronson, Roderick T.; Warren, Henry B.; Livingston, David M.

1998-01-01

Homozygous E2F-5 knockout embryos and mice have been generated. Although embryonic development appeared normal, newborn mice developed nonobstructive hydrocephalus, suggesting excessive cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) production. Although the CSF-producing choroid plexus displayed normal cellular organization, it contained abundant electron-lucent epithelial cells, consistent with excessive CSF secretory activity. Moreover, E2F-5 CNS expression in normal animals was largely confined to the choroid plexus. Cell cycle kinetics were not perturbed in homozygous knockout embryo fibroblasts. Thus, E2F-5 is not essential for cell proliferation. Rather, it affects the secretory behavior of a differentiated neural tissue. PMID:9553039

Waardenburg syndrome: iris and choroidal hypopigmentation: findings on anterior and posterior segment imaging.

PubMed

Shields, Carol L; Nickerson, Stephanie J; Al-Dahmash, Saad; Shields, Jerry A

2013-09-01

Waardenburg syndrome typically manifests with congenital iris pigmentary abnormalities, but careful inspection can reveal additional posterior uveal pigmentary abnormalities. To demonstrate iris and choroidal hypopigmentation in patients with Waardenburg syndrome. Retrospective review of 7 patients referred for evaluation of presumed ocular melanocytosis. To describe the clinical and imaging features of the anterior and posterior uvea. In all patients, the diagnosis of Waardenburg syndrome was established. The nonocular features included white forelock in 4 of 7 (57%), tubular nose in 5 of 6 (83%), and small nasal alae in 5 of 6 (83%) patients. In 2 patients, a hearing deficit was documented on audiology testing. Family history of Waardenburg syndrome was elicited in 5 of 7 (71%) patients. Ocular features (7 patients) included telecanthus in 5 (71%), synophrys in 2 (29%), iris hypopigmentation in 5 (71%), and choroidal hypopigmentation in 5 (71%) patients. No patient had muscle contractures or Hirschsprung disease. Visual acuity was 20/20 to 20/50 in all patients. Iris hypopigmentation in 8 eyes was sector in 6 (75%) and diffuse (complete) in 2 (25%). Choroidal hypopigmentation in 9 eyes (100%) showed a sector pattern in 6 (67%) and a diffuse pattern in 3 (33%). Anterior segment optical coherence tomography revealed the hypopigmented iris to be thinner and with shallower crypts than the normal iris. Posterior segment optical coherence tomography showed a normal retina in all patients, but the subfoveal choroid in the hypopigmented region was slightly thinner (mean, 197 μm) compared with the opposite normal choroid (243 μm). Fundus autofluorescence demonstrated mild hyperautofluorescence (scleral unmasking) in hypopigmented choroid and no lipofuscin abnormality. Waardenburg syndrome manifests hypopigmentation of the iris and choroid with imaging features showing a slight reduction in the thickness of the affected tissue.

Bevacizumab inhibits proliferation of choroidal endothelial cells by regulation of the cell cycle.

PubMed

Rusovici, Raluca; Patel, Chirag J; Chalam, Kakarla V

2013-01-01

The purpose of this study was to evaluate cell cycle changes in choroidal endothelial cells treated with varying doses of bevacizumab in the presence of a range of concentrations of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). Bevacizumab, a drug widely used in the treatment of neovascular age-related macular degeneration, choroidal neovascularization, and proliferative diabetic retinopathy, neutralizes all isoforms of VEGF. However, the effect of intravitreal administration of bevacizumab on the choroidal endothelial cell cycle has not been established. Monkey choroidal endothelial (RF/6A) cells were treated with VEGF 50 ng/mL and escalating doses of bevacizumab 0.1-2 mg/mL for 72 hours. Cell cycle changes in response to bevacizumab were analyzed by flow cytometry and propidium iodide staining. Cell proliferation was measured using the WST-1 assay. Morphological changes were recorded by bright field cell microscopy. Bevacizumab inhibited proliferation of choroidal endothelial cells by stabilization of the cell cycle in G0/G1 phase. Cell cycle analysis of VEGF-enriched choroidal endothelial cells revealed a predominant increase in the G2/M population (21.84%, P, 0.01) and a decrease in the G0/G1 phase population (55.08%, P, 0.01). Addition of escalating doses of bevacizumab stabilized VEGF-enriched cells in the G0/G1 phase (55.08%, 54.49%, 56.3%, and 64% [P, 0.01]) and arrested proliferation by inhibiting the G2/M phase (21.84%, 21.46%, 20.59%, 20.94%, and 16.1% [P, 0.01]). The increase in G0/G1 subpopulation in VEGF-enriched and bevacizumab-treated cells compared with VEGF-enriched cells alone was dose-dependent. Bevacizumab arrests proliferation of VEGF-enriched choroidal endothelial cells by stabilizing the cell cycle in the G0/G1 phase and inhibiting the G2/M phase in a dose-dependent fashion.

ZIKA virus infection causes persistent chorioretinal lesions.

PubMed

Manangeeswaran, Mohanraj; Kielczewski, Jennifer L; Sen, H Nida; Xu, Biying C; Ireland, Derek D C; McWilliams, Ian L; Chan, Chi-Chao; Caspi, Rachel R; Verthelyi, Daniela

2018-05-25

Zika-infected patients can have eye involvement ranging from mild conjunctivitis to severe chorioretinal lesions, however the possible long-term sequelae of infection and timeline to recovery remain unknown. Here we describe the partial recovery of chorioretinal lesions in an immunocompetent patient diagnosed with bilateral posterior uveitis associated with Zika infection and show that some lesions resolved with focal atrophy evident as pigmentary changes on funduscopy. To better understand the progression of the lesions and correlate the changes in fundus imaging with local viral load, immune responses, and retinal damage, we developed a symptomatic mouse model of ocular Zika virus infection. Imaging of the fundus revealed multiple hypopigmentary patches indicative of chorioretinal degeneration as well as thinning of the retina that mirror the lesions in patients. Microscopically, the virus primarily infected the optic nerve, retinal ganglion cells, and inner nuclear layer cells, showing thinning of the outer plexiform layer. During acute infection, the eyes showed retinal layer disorganization, retinitis, vitritis, and focal choroiditis, with mild cellular infiltration and increased expression of tumor necrosis factor, interferon-γ, granzyme B, and perforin. Focal areas of gliosis and retinal degeneration persisted 60 dpi. The model recapitulates features of ZIKA infections in patients and should help elucidate the mechanisms underlying the damage to the eyes and aid in the development of effective therapeutics.

Uniform cell-autonomous tumorigenesis of the choroid plexus by papovavirus large T antigens.

PubMed Central

Chen, J D; Van Dyke, T

1991-01-01

The simian virus 40 (SV40) large tumor antigen (T antigen) under its natural regulatory elements induces choroid plexus papillomas in transgenic mice. Because these tumors develop focally after several months, it has been suggested that secondary cellular alterations are required to induce a tumor in this tissue. In contrast to SV40, the related lymphotropic papovavirus early region induces rapid nonfocal choroid plexus neoplasia in transgenic mice. Here, using hybrid gene constructs, we showed that T antigen from either virus in in fact sufficient to induce these tumors. Their abilities to induce proliferative abnormalities in other tissues, such as kidney and thymus, were also indistinguishable. Differences in the rate of choroid plexus tumorigenesis reflected differences in the control regions of the two viruses, rather than differences in T antigen per se. Under SV40 regulation, expression was limited to a fraction of the choroid plexus cells prior to the formation of focal tumors. When SV40 T antigen was placed under lymphotropic papovavirus control, in contrast, expression was generally uniform in the choroid plexus and rapid expansion of the tissue ensued. We found a direct relationship between T-antigen expression, morphological transformation, and proliferation of the choroid plexus epithelial cells. Analysis of mosaic transgenic mice indicated further that T antigen exerts its mitogenic effect cell autonomously. These studies form the foundation for elucidating the role of various T-antigen subactivities in tumorigenesis. Images PMID:1658622

Comparison of choroidal thickness using swept-source and spectral-domain optical coherence tomography in normal Indian eyes.

PubMed

Narendran, Siddharth; Manayath, George; Venkatapathy, Narendran

2018-01-01

Choroidal thickness measurements are reported to differ between spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) and swept-source OCT (SS-OCT). The aim of this study was to assess the comparability of choroidal thickness measurements using SS-OCT and SD-OCT devices among normal participants. This was a prospective study of 31 (62 eyes) normal participants. Choroidal imaging was performed sequentially with the Spectralis OCT (SD-OCT) and the deep range imaging OCT (DRI OCT-1) (SS-OCT) using standardized imaging protocols. The subfoveal choroidal thickness (SFChT) was measured manually by two masked retinal specialists. Paired t -tests and intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) were used to compare the measurements. The mean SFChT was 319.5 μm and 325.3 μm for DRI OCT-1 and Spectralis OCT, respectively ( P = 0.001), with a mean difference of 5.9 with ICC of 0.97. The mean difference in choroidal thickness between the OCT devices was larger among eyes with choroidal thickness > 350 μm compared with eyes with thinner choroids (8.0 μm vs. 4.7 μm). SFChT measurements are comparable between DRI OCT-1 and Spectralis OCT. The variability between the devices increases in thicker choroids.

Choroidal neovascular membrane.

PubMed

Bhatt, N S; Diamond, J G; Jalali, S; Das, T

1998-06-01

Choroidal neovascular membrane in the macular area is one of the leading causes of severe visual loss. Usually a manifestation in elderly population, it is often associated with age-related macular degeneration. The current mainstay of management is early diagnosis, usually by fundus examination, aided by angiography and photocoagulation in selected cases. Various other modalities of treatment including surgery are being considered as alternate options, but with limited success. The purpose of this review is to briefly outline the current concepts and the management strategy from a clinician's viewpoint.

Active induction of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis by MOG35-55 peptide immunization is associated with differential responses in separate compartments of the choroid plexus

PubMed Central

2012-01-01

Background There is increasing awareness that, aside from producing cerebrospinal fluid, the choroid plexus (CP) might be a key regulator of immune activity in the central nervous system (CNS) during neuroinflammation. Specifically, the CP has recently been posited to control entry of sentinel T cells into the uninflamed CNS during the early stages of neuroinflammatory diseases, like multiple sclerosis (MS) and its animal model experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE). As the CP is compartmentalized into a stromal core containing fenestrated capillaries devoid of typical blood–brain barrier properties, surrounded by a tight junction-expressing choroidal epithelium, each of these compartments might mount unique responses that instigate the neuroinflammatory process. Methods To discern responses of the respective CP stromal capillary and choroidal epithelial tissues during evolving neuroinflammation, we investigated morphology and in situ expression of 93 immune-related genes during early stages of EAE induced by immunization with myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein peptide (MOG35-55). Specifically, 3-D immunofluorescent imaging was employed to gauge morphological changes, and laser capture microdissection was coupled to an Immune Panel TaqMan Low Density Array to detail alterations in gene expression patterns at these separate CP sites on days 9 and 15 post-immunization (p.i.). To resolve CP effects due to autoimmunity against MOG peptide, from those due to complete Freund’s adjuvant (CFA) and pertussis toxin (PTX) included in the immunization, analysis was performed on MOG-CFA/PTX-treated, CFA/PTX-treated, and naïve cohorts. Results The CP became swollen and displayed significant molecular changes in response to MOG-CFA/PTX immunization. Both stromal capillary and choroidal epithelial tissues mounted vigorous, yet different, changes in expression of numerous genes over the time course analyzed - including those encoding adhesion molecules, cytokines

Choroidal thickness changes determined by EDI-OCT on acute anterior uveitis in patients with HLA-B27-positive ankylosing spondylitis.

PubMed

Basarir, Berna; Celik, Ugur; Altan, Cigdem; Celik, Nimet Burcu

2018-02-01

To evaluate the choroidal thickness on acute anterior uveitis in patients with HLA-B27-positive ankylosing spondylitis. In this study, 32 eyes of 16 HLA-B27 positive AS patients with anterior uveitis and age-matched 19 eyes for control group were analyzed between January 2014 and April 2015. Assessment criteria were uveitis activity, visual acuity, flare existence, subfoveal choroidal thickness and central macular thickness measurements. The mean subfoveal choroidal thicknesses in affected eye group (Group 1), unaffected eye group (Group 2) and control group (Group 3) were 348.31 ± 72.7, 301.12 ± 49.2 and 318.0 ± 74.3, respectively, in active periods. (p = 0.04 between Group 1 and Group 2, p = 0.234 between Group 1 and Group 3) The mean central macular thicknesses of Group 1, Group 2 and Group 3 were 268.50 ± 16.5, 267.31 ± 16.3 and 249.7 ± 30.5, respectively, in active periods. (p = 0.84 between Group 1 and Group 2, p = 0.029 between Group 1 and Group 3). However, in convalescence period, the mean subfoveal choroidal thicknesses of Group 1, Group 2 and Group 3 were 322.40 ± 48.5, 300.75 ± 47.7 and 318.0 ± 74.3, respectively. (p = 0.22 between Group 1 and Group 2, p = 0.854 between Group 1 and Group 3) The mean central macular thicknesses of Group 1, Group 2 and Group 3 were 269.75 ± 21.9, 256.62 ± 21.5 and 249.7 ± 30.5, respectively. (p = 0.09 between Group 1 and Group 2, p = 0.03 between Group 1 and Group 3). In HLA-B27 positive ankylosing spondylitis patients with anterior uveitis, the choroidal thicknesses of the affected eyes were found as thicker than fellow unaffected one or control eyes in active period. The central macular thicknesses are not affected on both active and convalescent period.

Factors associated with early detection of choroidal neovascularization in age-related macular degeneration in the clinic setting.

PubMed

Lichtinger, Alejandro; Caraza, Mauricio; Galbinur, Tural; Chowers, Itay

2012-06-01

Delayed diagnosis of choroidal neovas cularization (CNV) in age-related macular degeneration (AMD) adversely affects visual outcome. To identify factors associated with early detection of CNV in the clinic setting. Demographic and clinical data and lesion characteristics were retrospectively collected from 76 consecutive AMD patients who had a history of CNV in one eye and presented with CNV in the second eye. These data were evaluated for association with visual acuity (VA) at the time of presentation. Better VA was associated with a history of CNV in the fellow eye (P < 0.0001), adherence to follow-up every 4 months (P = 0.015), younger age (P = 0.03), smaller lesion (P < 0.0001), and non-subfoveal location (P = 0.048). VA of the fellow eye did not correlate with VA at presentation with CNV. These data suggest that patients' experience of CNV, regardless of VA, facilitates early diagnosis in the fellow eye. Adherence to follow-up in the routine clinic setting also facilitates early detection of CNV.

SCLERAL AND CHOROIDAL THICKNESS IN SECONDARY HIGH AXIAL MYOPIA.

PubMed

Shen, Ling; You, Qi Sheng; Xu, Xiaolin; Gao, Fei; Zhang, Zhibao; Li, Bin; Jonas, Jost B

2016-08-01

To assess differences in scleral and choroidal thickness between eyes with secondary high axial myopia caused by congenital glaucoma, eyes with primary high axial myopia, and nonhighly myopic eyes. The study consisted of 301 Chinese individuals with a mean age of 23.9 ± 22.6 years and mean axial length of 24.8 ± 4.2 mm. It included the "secondary highly myopic group" (SHMG) because of congenital glaucoma (n = 20 eyes; axial length >26.0 mm), the "primary highly myopic group" (PHMG) (n = 73; axial length >26.0 mm), and the remaining nonhighly myopic group (NHMG). The secondary highly myopic group versus the primary highly myopic group had significantly thinner sclera in the pars plana region (343 ± 71 μm versus 398 ± 83 μm; P = 0.006), whereas scleral thickness in other regions did not differ significantly between both highly myopic groups and was significantly thinner in both highly myopic groups than in the NHMG. Mean total scleral volume did not differ significantly (P > 0.20) between any group (SHMG: 659 ± 106 μm; PHMG: 667 ± 128 μm; NHMG: 626 ± 135 μm). Choroidal thickness was significantly thinner in both highly myopic groups than in the NHMG, with no significant differences between both highly myopic groups. Choroidal volume did not differ significantly (P > 0.40) between any of the groups (SHMG: 43 ± 12 μm; PHMG: 43 ± 13 μm; NHMG: 46 ± 17 μm). In secondary high axial myopia, the sclera gets thinner anterior and posterior to the equator; whereas in primary high axial myopia, scleral thinning is predominantly found posterior to the equator. Because volume of sclera and choroid did not differ between any group, scleral and choroidal thinning in myopia may be due to a rearrangement of tissue and not due to the new formation of tissue.

Characterization of punctate inner choroidopathy using enhanced depth imaging optical coherence tomography.

PubMed

Zarranz-Ventura, Javier; Sim, Dawn A; Keane, Pearse A; Patel, Praveen J; Westcott, Mark C; Lee, Richard W; Tufail, Adnan; Pavesio, Carlos E

2014-09-01

patients with clinically inactive PIC, one fifth of the lesions analyzed revealed RPE elevation with underlying hyporeflective space, described before as a sign of activity and suggesting subclinical inflammation. Retinal thickness seems to be associated with disease type and duration of disease in non-highly myopic eyes. Improved visualization of the inner choroid using EDI-OCT may allow noninvasive assessment of inflammatory status. Copyright © 2014 American Academy of Ophthalmology. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Quantitative polarization and flow evaluation of choroid and sclera by multifunctional Jones matrix optical coherence tomography

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sugiyama, S.; Hong, Y.-J.; Kasaragod, D.; Makita, S.; Miura, M.; Ikuno, Y.; Yasuno, Y.

2016-03-01

Quantitative evaluation of optical properties of choroid and sclera are performed by multifunctional optical coherence tomography. Five normal eyes, five glaucoma eyes and one choroidal atrophy eye are examined. The refractive error was found to be correlated with choroidal birefringence, polarization uniformity, and flow in addition to scleral birefringence among normal eyes. The significant differences were observed between the normal and the glaucoma eyes, as for choroidal polarization uniformity, flow and scleral birefringence. An automatic segmentation algorithm of retinal pigment epithelium and chorioscleral interface based on multifunctional signals is also presented.

Twelve hour reproducibility of choroidal blood flow parameters in healthy subjects

PubMed Central

Polska, E; Polak, K; Luksch, A; Fuchsjager-Mayrl, G; Petternel, V; Findl, O; Schmetterer, L

2004-01-01

Aims/background: To investigate the reproducibility and potential diurnal variation of choroidal blood flow parameters in healthy subjects over a period of 12 hours. Methods: The choroidal blood flow parameters of 16 healthy non-smoking subjects were measured at five time points during the day (8:00, 11:00, 14:00, 17:00, and 20:00). Outcome parameters were pulsatile ocular blood flow as assessed by pneumotonometry, fundus pulsation amplitude as assessed by laser interferometry, blood velocities in the opthalmic and posterior ciliary arteries as assessed by colour Doppler imaging, and choroidal blood flow, volume, and velocity as assessed by fundus camera based laser Doppler flowmetry. The coefficient of variation and the maximum change from baseline in an individual were calculated for each outcome parameter. Results: None of the techniques used found a diurnal variation in choroidal blood flow. Coefficients of variation were within 2.9% and 13.6% for all outcome parameters. The maximum change from baseline in an individual was much higher, ranging from 11.2% to 58.8%. Conclusions: These data indicate that in healthy subjects the selected techniques provide adequate reproducibility to be used in clinical studies. Variability may, however, be considerably higher in older subjects or subjects with ocular disease. The higher individual differences in flow parameter readings limit the use of the techniques in clinical practice. To overcome problems with measurement validity, a clinical trial should include as many choroidal blood flow outcome parameters as possible to check for consistency. PMID:15031172

Choroidal haemangioma and photodynamic therapy. Anatomical and functional response of patients with choroidal hemangioma treated with photodynamic therapy.

PubMed

Subirà, O; Brosa, H; Lorenzo-Parra, D; Arias-Barquet, L; Català-Mora, J; Cobos, E; Garcia-Bru, P; Rubio-Caso, M J; Caminal-Mitjana, J M

2017-06-01

To study the effectiveness and limitations of photodynamic therapy (PDT) as treatment of choice in patients with symptomatic circumscribed choroidal haemangioma. A retrospective study was conducted on 16 patients (13 men and 3 women, with mean age of 54.88 years) with circumscribed choroidal haemangioma, who attended our centre and were treated with PDT in the last 7 years. All patients had circumscribed choroidal haemangioma, which caused a decrease in visual acuity (VA) secondary to the presence of intraretinal microcystic oedema or neurosensory detachment. The mean initial VA was 0.23, and the final mean VA after performing PDT was 0.38 (all the VA were measured in decimal scale). It should be noted that patients needed a mean of 1.69 PDT sessions. Three of the patients needed rescue treatment with trans-pupillary thermotherapy, intravitreal injection of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (ranibizumab, aflibercept) or a dexamethasone intravitreal implant (Ozurdex ® ). The indication for a change of treatment was the persistence of intraretinal microcystic oedema and/or neurosensory detachment (or incomplete resolution) after 3 PDT sessions. As overall results, 62.5% of patients evolved into anatomical and functional (increase in AV or stability) resolution. PDT is a straight forward and fast procedure, with a good anatomical and functional response, causing minimal damage to adjacent vessels. Copyright © 2016 Sociedad Española de Oftalmología. Publicado por Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.

The p75 neurotrophin receptor localization in blood-CSF barrier: expression in choroid plexus epithelium.

PubMed

Spuch, Carlos; Carro, Eva

2011-05-11

The presence of neurotrophins and their receptors Trk family has been reported in the choroid plexus. High levels of Nerve Growth Factor (NGF), Neurotrophin-4 (NT-4) and TrkB receptor were detected, while nothing was know about p75 neurotrophin receptor (p75NTR) in the choroid plexus epithelial cells. In neurons, p75NTR receptor has a dual function: promoting survival together with TrkA in response to NGF, and inducing apoptotic signaling through p75NTR. We postulated that p75NTR may also affect the survival pathways in the choroid plexus and also undergoes regulated proteolysis with metalloproteases. Here, we demonstrated the presence of p75NTR receptor in the choroid plexus epithelial cells. The p75NTR receptor would be involved in cell death mechanisms and in the damaged induced by amyloid beta (Aβ) in the choroid plexus and finally, we propose an essential role of p75NTR in the Aβ transcytosis through out choroid plexus barrier. The presence analysis reveals the new localization of p75NTR in the choroid plexus and, the distribution mainly in the cytoplasm and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) side of the epithelial cells. We propose that p75NTR receptor plays a role in the survival pathways and Aβ-induced cell death. These data suggest that p75NTR dysfunction play an important role in the pathogenesis of brain diseases. The importance and novelty of this expression expands a new role of p75NTR.

Choroidal Thickness in 3001 Chinese Children Aged 6 to 19 Years Using Swept-Source OCT

PubMed Central

Xiong, Shuyu; He, Xiangui; Deng, Junjie; Lv, Minzhi; Jin, Jiali; Sun, Sifei; Yao, Chunxia; Zhu, Jianfeng; Zou, Haidong; Xu, Xun

2017-01-01

The purpose of the cross-sectional study is to describe the values and distribution of choroidal thickness and to explore its related factors, especially age, in Chinese children. A total of 3001 Chinese school children aged 6 to 19 years underwent comprehensive ophthalmic examinations, including axial length and cycloplegic refraction. Choroidal thickness was measured by swept-source optical coherence tomography (SS-OCT). There was a greater difference in the more central regions between the myopes and emmetropes. Multiple regression analysis was performed to determine the associated factors of choroidal thickness. The results demonstrated that age was independently positively related to choroidal thickness for emmetropes (β = 3.859, p < 0.001), and mild myopes with spherical equivalent greater than −2.00 D (−1.25 D < spherical equivalent ≤ −0.50 D: β = 3.476, p = 0.006; −2.00 D < spherical equivalent ≤ −1.25 D: β = 3.232, p = 0.020). However, no significant relationship between age and choroidal thickness was found in children with spherical equivalent ≤ −2.00 D, suggesting that the protective effect of physiologic choroidal growth with age against rapid axial elongation disappeared while axial elongation becomes the dominant determinant of choroidal thickness among children with myopia worse than −2.00 D. PMID:28327553

Successful Treatment with Alectinib for Choroidal Metastasis in Anaplastic Lymphoma Kinase Rearranged Non-small Cell Lung Cancer

PubMed Central

Funazo, Tomoko; Morita, Kyohei; Ikegami, Naoya; Konishi, Chisato; Nakao, Satoshi; Ariyasu, Ryo; Taki, Masato; Nakagawa, Kazuhiko; Hwang, Moon Hee; Yoshimura, Chie; Wakayama, Toshiaki; Nishizaka, Yasuo

2017-01-01

Choroidal metastasis is rare in cancer patients and it may cause visual disturbances that reduce their quality of life. In non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), targeted therapy against actionable driver mutations has gradually replaced radiotherapy as the treatment of choice for choroidal metastasis. Recently, there have been several case reports of choroidal metastasis in patients with anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK)-rearranged NSCLC. We herein report the case of a 40-year-old Japanese woman diagnosed with choroidal metastasis of an ALK-rearranged NSCLC who received alectinib as the first-line chemotherapy. Alectinib may be the best treatment for choroidal metastasis in patients harboring an ALK translocation because of its favorable side effect profile involving visual disturbances. PMID:28794371

Successful Treatment with Alectinib for Choroidal Metastasis in Anaplastic Lymphoma Kinase Rearranged Non-small Cell Lung Cancer.

PubMed

Funazo, Tomoko; Morita, Kyohei; Ikegami, Naoya; Konishi, Chisato; Nakao, Satoshi; Ariyasu, Ryo; Taki, Masato; Nakagawa, Kazuhiko; Hwang, Moon Hee; Yoshimura, Chie; Wakayama, Toshiaki; Nishizaka, Yasuo

2017-09-01

Choroidal metastasis is rare in cancer patients and it may cause visual disturbances that reduce their quality of life. In non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), targeted therapy against actionable driver mutations has gradually replaced radiotherapy as the treatment of choice for choroidal metastasis. Recently, there have been several case reports of choroidal metastasis in patients with anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK)-rearranged NSCLC. We herein report the case of a 40-year-old Japanese woman diagnosed with choroidal metastasis of an ALK-rearranged NSCLC who received alectinib as the first-line chemotherapy. Alectinib may be the best treatment for choroidal metastasis in patients harboring an ALK translocation because of its favorable side effect profile involving visual disturbances.

Detection of new-onset choroidal neovascularization.

PubMed

Do, Diana V

2013-05-01

To highlight the most common methods that are used to detect new-onset choroidal neovascularization (CNV) as a result of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Numerous modalities are available to try to detect CNV. Amsler grid testing, preferential hyperacuity perimetry (PHP), optical coherence tomography (OCT), and fluorescein angiography are tools that may be used to detect CNV. The Age-Related Macular Degeneration: Detection of Onset of new Choroidal neovascularization Study (AMD DOC Study) evaluated the sensitivity of time domain OCT, relative to fluorescein angiography, in detecting new-onset neovascular AMD within a 2-year period. The sensitivity of each modality for detecting CNV was OCT 0.40 [(95% confidence interval (95% CI) (0.16-0.68), supervised Amsler grid 0.42 (95% CI 0.15-0.72), and PHP 0.50 (95% CI 0.23-0.77)]. Numerous modalities are available to try to detect CNV. The prospective AMD DOC Study demonstrated that fluorescein angiography still remains the best method to detect new-onset CNV.

Encapsulated living choroid plexus cells: potential long-term treatments for central nervous system disease and trauma.

PubMed

Skinner, S J M; Geaney, M S; Lin, H; Muzina, M; Anal, A K; Elliott, R B; Tan, P L J

2009-12-01

In neurodegenerative disease and in acute brain injury, there is often local up-regulation of neurotrophin production close to the site of the lesion. Treatment by direct injection of neurotrophins and growth factors close to these lesion sites has repeatedly been demonstrated to improve recovery. It has therefore been proposed that transplanting viable neurotrophin-producing cells close to the trauma lesion, or site of degenerative disease, might provide a novel means for continuous delivery of these molecules directly to the site of injury or to a degenerative region. The aim of this paper is to summarize recent published information and present new experimental data that indicate that long-lasting therapeutic implants of choroid plexus (CP) neuroepithelium may be used to treat brain disease. CP produces and secretes numerous biologically active neurotrophic factors (NT). New gene microarray and proteomics data presented here indicate that many other anti-oxidant, anti-toxin and neuronal support proteins are also produced and secreted by CP cells. In the healthy brain, these circulate in the cerebrospinal fluid through the brain and spinal cord, maintaining neuronal networks and associated cells. Recent publications describe how transplanted CP cells and tissue, either free or in an immunoprotected encapsulated form, can effectively deliver therapeutic molecules when placed near the lesion or site of degenerative disease in animal models. Using simple techniques, CP neuroepithelial cell clusters in suspension culture were very durable, remaining viable for 6 months or more in vitro. The cell culture conditions had little effect on the wide range and activity of genes expressed and proteins secreted. Recently, completed experiments show that implanting CP within alginate-poly-ornithine capsules effectively protected these xenogeneic cells from the host immune system and allowed their survival for 6 months or more in the brains of rats, causing no adverse effects

Encapsulated living choroid plexus cells: potential long-term treatments for central nervous system disease and trauma

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Skinner, S. J. M.; Geaney, M. S.; Lin, H.; Muzina, M.; Anal, A. K.; Elliott, R. B.; Tan, P. L. J.

2009-12-01

In neurodegenerative disease and in acute brain injury, there is often local up-regulation of neurotrophin production close to the site of the lesion. Treatment by direct injection of neurotrophins and growth factors close to these lesion sites has repeatedly been demonstrated to improve recovery. It has therefore been proposed that transplanting viable neurotrophin-producing cells close to the trauma lesion, or site of degenerative disease, might provide a novel means for continuous delivery of these molecules directly to the site of injury or to a degenerative region. The aim of this paper is to summarize recent published information and present new experimental data that indicate that long-lasting therapeutic implants of choroid plexus (CP) neuroepithelium may be used to treat brain disease. CP produces and secretes numerous biologically active neurotrophic factors (NT). New gene microarray and proteomics data presented here indicate that many other anti-oxidant, anti-toxin and neuronal support proteins are also produced and secreted by CP cells. In the healthy brain, these circulate in the cerebrospinal fluid through the brain and spinal cord, maintaining neuronal networks and associated cells. Recent publications describe how transplanted CP cells and tissue, either free or in an immunoprotected encapsulated form, can effectively deliver therapeutic molecules when placed near the lesion or site of degenerative disease in animal models. Using simple techniques, CP neuroepithelial cell clusters in suspension culture were very durable, remaining viable for 6 months or more in vitro. The cell culture conditions had little effect on the wide range and activity of genes expressed and proteins secreted. Recently, completed experiments show that implanting CP within alginate-poly-ornithine capsules effectively protected these xenogeneic cells from the host immune system and allowed their survival for 6 months or more in the brains of rats, causing no adverse effects

Supra choroidal buckling in managing myopic vitreoretinal interface disorders: 1-year data.

PubMed

El Rayes, Ehab N

2014-01-01

To evaluate the efficacy of supra choroidal buckling procedure using a supra choroidal catheter, as a new approach in treating myopic vitreomacular interface disorders specially in difficult cases of myopic traction maculopathy with or without macular hole retinal detachment in posterior staphyloma depending on the concept of indenting the choroid only, from a 1-year data study. A newly developed supra choroidal catheter was used to deliver stabilized, cross-linked, long-acting hyaluronic acid as a filler in the supra choroidal space in the area of the staphyloma forming a choroidal indenting effect. Before the injection, pars plana vitrectomy was performed without internal limiting membrane peeling to avoid the risk of break of the roof of foveal detachment in case of foveoschisis. This indentation was used to treat 11 patients with myopic foveoschisis and 12 patients with myopic macular hole retinal detachment, 5 of whom had failed primary repair by vitrectomy before inclusion in this trial. Clinical and optical coherence tomographic evaluations of these patients were performed over 1-year follow-up. Retinal layer restoration was achieved in all 11 eyes with myopic foveoschisis. This was gradual over a period of 2 to 6 weeks postoperatively. No recurrence over the 12-month follow-up was observed. Visual acuity improved by 1 line or more in 9 eyes (81.8%). Of the 12 eyes, 10 with macular hole detachment (83%) showed closure of the holes in association with the resolution of the detachment; 2 eyes showed resolution of the detachment and flatting of the edge of the holes but with incomplete closure on optical coherence tomography. Eight eyes (66.6%) showed improvement in visual acuity by 1 or more lines with no recurrence of retinal detachment over the 12-month follow-up period. The indentation effect was sufficient over the 12-month follow-up period. The indentation effect achieved by supra choroidal approach can be used as a method of managing myopic foveoschisis

Overexpression of the anti-apoptotic protein BAG3 in human choroidal melanoma: A case report.

PubMed

Yunoki, Tatsuya; Tabuchi, Yoshiaki; Kondo, Takashi; Ishii, Yoko; Hayashi, Atsushi

2017-06-01

Bcl-2-associated athanogene 3 (BAG3), a co-chaperone of heat shock protein 70 (HSP70), exerts anti-apoptotic effects in various malignant tumors. However, relationships between choroidal melanoma and BAG3 are poorly studied. This study investigated the expression of BAG3 in a case of human choroidal melanoma. Funduscopy, computed tomography, and single-photon emission computed tomography with the intravenous injection of N-isopropyl-p-[ 123 I] iodoamphetamine strongly indicated choroidal melanoma in a 68-year-old woman. Accordingly, we carried out an enucleation and pathological diagnosis. Proteins and total RNA were extracted from normal retinochoroidal and tumor tissues. Proteins were also extracted from ocular nevus tissues of other patients. We examined the expression of BAG3 protein and mRNA using Western blotting and the real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction, respectively. Immunohistochemical stains were positive for melan-A, HMB-45, and S-100. Histopathology confirmed a choroidal melanoma. The expression of BAG3 protein and mRNA in the choroidal melanoma tissue was upregulated with respect to both normal retinochoroidal tissue and ocular nevus tissues from other patients. Because BAG3 may inhibit apoptosis of choroidal melanoma and facilitate its survival, overexpression of this gene product may be a prognostic marker and therapeutic target.

Automated estimation of choroidal thickness distribution and volume based on OCT images of posterior visual section.

PubMed

Vupparaboina, Kiran Kumar; Nizampatnam, Srinath; Chhablani, Jay; Richhariya, Ashutosh; Jana, Soumya

2015-12-01

A variety of vision ailments are indicated by anomalies in the choroid layer of the posterior visual section. Consequently, choroidal thickness and volume measurements, usually performed by experts based on optical coherence tomography (OCT) images, have assumed diagnostic significance. Now, to save precious expert time, it has become imperative to develop automated methods. To this end, one requires choroid outer boundary (COB) detection as a crucial step, where difficulty arises as the COB divides the choroidal granularity and the scleral uniformity only notionally, without marked brightness variation. In this backdrop, we measure the structural dissimilarity between choroid and sclera by structural similarity (SSIM) index, and hence estimate the COB by thresholding. Subsequently, smooth COB estimates, mimicking manual delineation, are obtained using tensor voting. On five datasets, each consisting of 97 adult OCT B-scans, automated and manual segmentation results agree visually. We also demonstrate close statistical match (greater than 99.6% correlation) between choroidal thickness distributions obtained algorithmically and manually. Further, quantitative superiority of our method is established over existing results by respective factors of 27.67% and 76.04% in two quotient measures defined relative to observer repeatability. Finally, automated choroidal volume estimation, being attempted for the first time, also yields results in close agreement with that of manual methods. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Potential, Current, and Ionic Fluxes across the Isolated Retinal Pigment Epithelium and Choroid

PubMed Central

Lasansky, Arnaldo; de Fisch, Felisa W.

1966-01-01

A flux chamber was utilized for in vitro studies of a membrane formed by the retinal pigment epithelium and choroid of the eye of the toad (Bufo arenarum and Bufo marinus). A transmembrane potential of 20 to 30 mv was found, the pigment epithelium surface positive with respect to the choroidal surface. Unidirectional fluxes of chloride, sodium, potassium, and calcium were determined in the absence of an electrochemical potential difference. A net transfer of chloride from pigment epithelium to choroid accounted for a major fraction of the mean short-circuit current. A small net flux of sodium from choroid to pigment epithelium was detected in Bufo marinus. In both species of toads, however, about one-third of the mean short-circuit current remained unaccounted for. Manometric determinations of bicarbonate suggested an uptake of this ion at the epithelial surface of the membrane but did not provide evidence of a relationship between this process and the short-circuit current. PMID:5961357

[Macular choroidal blood flow in concurrent age-related macular degeneration and primary open-angle glaucoma].

PubMed

Panova, I E; Ermak, E M; Shaimova, T A; Shaimova, V A

2016-01-01

Ocular circulation disorders are an important factor in the development of primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) and age-related macular degeneration (AMD). To date, however, there have been no studies on choroidal blood flow peculiarities in case of concurrent AMD and POAG. to determine distinctive features of choroidal blood flow characteristic of concurrent AMD and POAG and to assess their role in disease pathogenesis. Macular choroidal blood flow, including blood supply, was assessed in 54 patients (102 eyes) by means of Doppler ultrasound. Three groups were formed: group 1 - 38 eyes with both AMD and POAG; group 2 - 41 eyes with AMD and no signs of optic nerve pathology; and group 3 - 23 eyes with POAG and no signs of AMD. Groups 1 and 2 were subdivided into two subgroups each: А - atrophic AMD and B - macular drusen. The mean patient age was 78.7±8.4 years. The following parameters of choroidal blood flow were of interest: peak systolic velocity (Vps), end diastolic velocity (Ved), time-averaged maximum velocity (Vtamax), and resistance index (RI). Groups 1, 3, and 2A had an evident choroidal hypoperfusion in the macular area (decreased Vtamax) with uncompensated perfusion deficit, despite autoregulation efforts (decreased Vps, Ved, decreased or normal RI). Group 2B demonstrated a significantly higher rate of choroidal hyperperfusion (increased Vps, Ved, Vtamax, and RI). Concurrent AMD and POAG are notable for choroidal hypoperfusion in the macular area that leads to inadequate trophism of the neurosensory retina and can aggravate the course of AMD contributing to progression of its atrophic form.

Transcriptome Analysis Reveals Markers of Aberrantly Activated Innate Immunity in Vitiligo Lesional and Non-Lesional Skin

PubMed Central

Huang, Yuanshen; Wang, Yang; Yu, Jie; Gao, Min; Levings, Megan; Wei, Shencai; Zhang, Shengquan; Xu, Aie; Su, Mingwan; Dutz, Jan; Zhang, Xuejun; Zhou, Youwen

2012-01-01

Background Vitiligo is characterized by the death of melanocytes in the skin. This is associated with the presence of T cell infiltrates in the lesional borders. However, at present, there is no detailed and systematic characterization on whether additional cellular or molecular changes are present inside vitiligo lesions. Further, it is unknown if the normal appearing non-lesional skin of vitiligo patients is in fact normal. The purpose of this study is to systematically characterize the molecular and cellular characteristics of the lesional and non-lesional skin of vitiligo patients. Methods and Materials Paired lesional and non-lesional skin biopsies from twenty-three vitiligo patients and normal skin biopsies from sixteen healthy volunteers were obtained with informed consent. The following aspects were analyzed: (1) transcriptome changes present in vitiligo skin using DNA microarrays and qRT-PCR; (2) abnormal cellular infiltrates in vitiligo skin explant cultures using flow cytometry; and (3) distribution of the abnormal cellular infiltrates in vitiligo skin using immunofluorescence microscopy. Results Compared with normal skin, vitiligo lesional skin contained 17 genes (mostly melanocyte-specific genes) whose expression was decreased or absent. In contrast, the relative expression of 13 genes was up-regulated. The up-regulated genes point to aberrant activity of the innate immune system, especially natural killer cells in vitiligo. Strikingly, the markers of heightened innate immune responses were also found to be up-regulated in the non-lesional skin of vitiligo patients. Conclusions and Clinical Implications As the first systematic transcriptome characterization of the skin in vitiligo patients, this study revealed previously unknown molecular markers that strongly suggest aberrant innate immune activation in the microenvironment of vitiligo skin. Since these changes involve both lesional and non-lesional skin, our results suggest that therapies targeting

Endoscopic monoportal removal of a choroid plexus papilloma in the posterior third ventricle in a child.

PubMed

Sufianov, Albert A; Gaibov, Saidi S K; Sufianov, Rinat A

2015-07-01

Currently, only a few reports describe the minimally invasive removal of choroid plexus papillomas (CPPs) and, to the best of the authors' knowledge, no reports detail the resection of such a papilloma through an endoscopic approach in infants. The authors here describe the endoscopic removal of a third ventricle CPP in a child. A 5-month-old male infant presented with progressive macrocephaly, vomiting, and convulsions. A lesion in the posterior third ventricle was detected on brain MRI. Because of the patient's very young age, neuroendoscopy was used as the least invasive technique. The tumor was completely resected through a monoportal neuroendoscopic approach. Histologically, the tumor was classified as a WHO Grade I CPP. After surgery, the patient's condition improved, with no complications during his recovery. Ten-month follow-up neuroimaging revealed no evidence of tumor recurrence or progressive hydrocephaly. In view of the successful neuroendoscopic excision of this posterior third ventricle CPP, the authors believe that this method seems promising in the treatment of young children with intraventricular lesions.

The choroid plexus: a comprehensive review of its history, anatomy, function, histology, embryology, and surgical considerations.

PubMed

Mortazavi, Martin M; Griessenauer, Christoph J; Adeeb, Nimer; Deep, Aman; Bavarsad Shahripour, Reza; Shahripour, Reza Bavarsad; Loukas, Marios; Tubbs, Richard Isaiah; Tubbs, R Shane

2014-02-01

The role of the choroid plexus in cerebrospinal fluid production has been identified for more than a century. Over the years, more intensive studies of this structure has lead to a better understanding of the functions, including brain immunity, protection, absorption, and many others. Here, we review the macro- and microanatomical structure of the choroid plexus in addition to its function and embryology. The literature was searched for articles and textbooks for data related to the history, anatomy, physiology, histology, embryology, potential functions, and surgical implications of the choroid plexus. All were gathered and summarized comprehensively. We summarize the literature regarding the choroid plexus and its surgical implications.

Evaluation of choroidal thickness in psoriasis using optical coherence tomography.

PubMed

Türkcü, Fatih Mehmet; Şahin, Alparslan; Yüksel, Harun; Akkurt, Meltem; Uçmak, Derya; Çınar, Yasin; Yıldırım, Adnan; Çaça, İhsan

2016-12-01

The purpose of this study was to evaluate choroidal thickness (CT) in patients with psoriasis using enhanced depth imaging optical coherence tomography (EDI-OCT) and to determine its relationship with psoriasis activity indices. In this prospective study, EDI-OCT images were obtained in consecutive patients with psoriasis and in age-gender-matched healthy individuals. Comprehensive ophthalmic examination and EDI-OCT evaluation were performed. CT was measured in the subfoveal area. Correlation analyses were performed to identify the relationship of the CT with disease duration and clinical disease activity score. In total, 65 individuals were evaluated in this study, 35 with psoriasis and 30 controls. The mean disease duration of the patients with psoriasis was 15.7 ± 8.8 years (0.3-34 years). There was no difference between groups with respect to age and gender (p = 0.695 and p = 0.628, respectively). Five of the 35 patients with psoriasis had anterior uveitis. None of the patients with psoriasis had signs of posterior uveitis. CT was significantly higher in the psoriasis group than that of control subjects (p < 0.001). The mean central foveal thickness was comparable between groups (p = 0.672). There was also no significant correlation between EDI-OCT, disease activity score, and disease duration (p < 0.05). Choroidal thickness is increased in psoriasis patients. Large serial and comparative studies are necessary to evaluate EDI-OCT, an examination that may be helpful in understanding the effects of psoriasis on the eye and its pathophysiology.

Effects of a human VEGF antibody (Bevacizumab) on deprivation myopia and choroidal thickness in the chicken.

PubMed

Mathis, Ute; Ziemssen, Focke; Schaeffel, Frank

2014-10-01

Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is a dimeric glycoprotein which is responsible for neovascularization and fenestrations of the choriocapillaris. In neovascular maculopathies secondary to age-related degeneration (nAMD) or pathologic myopia (PM-CNV), its inhibition by humanized antibodies is currently the most successful therapy. The choroid has an important role in maintaining retinal health and its thickness declines with age and with myopia. Since choroidal thickness depends on its perfusion rate, one would expect that anti-VEGF agents can also change choroidal thickness. We have tested the hypothesis in the chicken model, using a humanized antibody, Bevacizumab, and also studied the distribution of VEGF-A in the chicken fundal layers by immunohistochemical techniques. Even though it was raised against human VEGF, Bevacizumab had several long lasting effects in the chicken eye (1) after a single unilateral intravitreal injection of 0.5 mg, it partially suppressed the development of deprivation myopia, similarly in both eyes, (2) it completely suppressed choroidal thickening that normally occurs when eyes recover from induced myopia over a time period of about 10 days, (3) it had little effect on the choroidal thickness in eyes that had normal visual experience, (4) VEGF-A was absent in sclera, but highly expressed in the walls of choroidal blood vessels and presumed nerve fiber bundles, as well as in retinal photoreceptors and cells of the inner and outer nuclear layer. One day after the injection of Bevacizumab, the immunoreactivity against VEGF-A had largely disappeared. In conclusion, Bevacizumab is similary effective in human and chicken tissue, has similar time constants (few days), has almost symmetrical effects on myopia in both eyes even after monocular application, and fully suppresses choroidal thickening that normally occurs during recovery from deprivation myopia. The mechanisms by which Bevacizumab acts on the choroidal thickness are

Choroidal microcirculation in patients with rotary cardiac assist device.

PubMed

Polska, Elzbieta; Schima, Heinrich; Wieselthaler, Georg; Schmetterer, Leopold

2007-06-01

In recent years, fully implanted rotary blood pumps have been used for long-term cardiac assist in patients with end-stage heart failure. With these pumps, the pulsatility of arterial blood flow and arterial pressure pulse is considerably reduced. Effects on end-organ perfusion, particularly microcirculation, have been assessed. The ocular choroid offers a unique opportunity to study the pulsatile component of blood flow by measurement of fundus pulsation amplitude (FPA) as well as the microcirculation by laser Doppler flowmetry. Both techniques were applied in three male patients with rotary pumps (MicroMed DeBakey VAD), in whom pump velocity was adjusted to four levels of flow between individual minimal need and maximal support. In addition, blood flow velocities in the ophthalmic artery (peak, end-diastolic and mean flow velocity--PSV, EDV and MFV, respectively) were measured using color Doppler imaging. Systolic blood pressure increased by 6 to 22 mm Hg with increasing support. At maximal support FPA was reduced by -60% to -52% as compared with minimal pump support. Blood flow in the choroidal microvasculature, however, did not show relevant changes. A reduction in PSV (-31%, range -47% to -21%) and a pronounced rise in EDV (+93%, range +28% to +147%) was observed, whereas MFV was independent of pump flow. Our data indicate that mean choroidal blood flow is maintained when pump support is varied within therapeutic values, whereas the ratio of pulsatile to non-pulsatile choroidal flow changes. This study shows that, in patients with ventricular assist devices, a normal perfusion rate in the ocular microcirculation is maintained over a wide range of support conditions.

Association of ABO blood groups and Rh factor with retinal and choroidal thickness.

PubMed

Teberik, Kuddusi; Eski, Mehmet Tahir

2018-06-01

To evaluate if ABO blood group and Rh factor have an effect on retinal and choroidal thickness. This study was designed prospectively. Retinal nerve fiber layer, retinal, and choroidal thicknesses were measured with spectral-domain optical coherence tomography. Retinal and choroidal thickness measurements (one subfoveal, three temporal, and three nasal) were obtained at 500-μm intervals up to 1500 μm with the caliper system. In this study, 109 male and 151 female, 260 individuals in total were included. There were 125 subjects in group A, 29 in group B, 34 in group AB, and 72 in group O. Rh factor was positive in 194 subjects and negative in 66. There was no significant difference between the groups regarding age (p = 0.667). The groups did not show any statistical difference in retinal nerve fiber layer thickness. There was significant difference found for mean retinal thickness at temporal 1000 μm when four groups were compared (p = 0.037). No statistically significant difference was detected for the remaining retinal and choroidal sectoral regions. The groups did not statistically significantly differ concerning Rh factor (p > 0.05). Although we found a significant difference in retinal thickness in the temporal retina between group B with group A and group O, we suggest that both blood group and Rh factor have no effect on retinal and choroidal thickness.

[Intravitreal bevacizumab for choroidal neovascularization associated with Best's disease].

PubMed

Velazquez-Villoria, D; Macià Badia, C; Rigo Quera, J; Velez-Escola, L; Arcos-Algaba, G; Martínez-Castillo, V; García-Arumí, J

2014-10-01

A 27-year old woman presented with loss of vision in the right eye (20/200). Ophthalmoscopic examination showed intrarretinal hemorrhage in the macular region with neurosensory detachment in the right eye, and viteliform deposit on the left eye. Fluorescein angiography and the electrooculogram confirmed the diagnosis of choroidal neovascularization associated with Best's disease. Four weeks after a single bevacizumab intravitreal injection, visual acuity was restored (20/25) and remained stable after a 12 month follow-up. Intravitreal bevacizumab appears to be an effective treatment for choroidal neovascularization associated to Best's disease. Copyright © 2013 Sociedad Española de Oftalmología. Published by Elsevier Espana. All rights reserved.

En Face Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography Imaging Versus Fundus Photography in the Measurement of Choroidal Nevi.

PubMed

Lee, Michele D; Kaidonis, Georgia; Kim, Alice Y; Shields, Ryan A; Leng, Theodore

2017-09-01

Choroidal nevi are common benign intraocular tumors with a small risk of malignant transformation. This retrospective study investigates the use of en face spectral-domain optical coherence tomography angiography (SD-OCTA) in determining the clinical features and measurement of choroidal nevi. Patients with choroidal nevi were imaged with both OCTA and a fundus photography device. Greatest longitudinal dimension (GLD), perpendicular dimension (PD), and the GLD/PD ratio were assessed on each device. Inter-device variation and intra- and inter-rater reliability analyses were performed. Fourteen patients with choroidal nevi were included. No significant difference between the GLD/PD ratio as measured by all three devices was found (Chi-square = 2.8, 2 df, P = .247). Intraclass correlation coefficients were greater than 0.7 for repeated measures on all devices, suggesting good repeatability and reproducibility. This study demonstrated inter-device consistency and high intra- and inter-rater reliability when measuring choroidal nevi. [Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina. 2017;48:741-747.]. Copyright 2017, SLACK Incorporated.

Dark adaptation in relation to choroidal thickness in healthy young subjects: a cross-sectional, observational study.

PubMed

Munch, Inger Christine; Altuntas, Cigdem; Li, Xiao Qiang; Jackson, Gregory R; Klefter, Oliver Niels; Larsen, Michael

2016-07-11

Dark adaptation is an energy-requiring process in the outer retina nourished by the profusely perfused choroid. We hypothesized that variations in choroidal thickness might affect the rate of dark adaptation. Cross-sectional, observational study of 42 healthy university students (mean age 25 ± 2.0 years, 29 % men) who were examined using an abbreviated automated dark adaptometry protocol with a 2° diameter stimulus centered 5° above the point of fixation. The early, linear part of the rod-mediated dark adaptation curve was analyzed to extract the time required to reach a sensitivity of 5.0 × 10(-3) cd/m2 (time to rod intercept) and the slope (rod adaptation rate). The choroid was imaged using enhanced-depth imaging spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (EDI-OCT). The time to the rod intercept was 7.3 ± 0.94 (range 5.1 - 10.2) min. Choroidal thickness 2.5° above the fovea was 348 ± 104 (range 153-534) μm. There was no significant correlation between any of the two measures of rod-mediated dark adaptation and choroidal thickness (time to rod intercept versus choroidal thickness 0.072 (CI95 -0.23 to 0.38) min/100 μm, P = 0.64, adjusted for age and sex). There was no association between the time-to-rod-intercept or the dark adaptation rate and axial length, refraction, gender or age. Choroidal thickness, refraction and ocular axial length had no detectable effect on rod-mediated dark adaptation in healthy young subjects. Our results do not support that variations in dark adaptation can be attributed to variations in choroidal thickness.

Forecasting the prognosis of choroidal melanoma with an artificial neural network.

PubMed

Kaiserman, Igor; Rosner, Mordechai; Pe'er, Jacob

2005-09-01

To develop an artificial neural network (ANN) that will forecast the 5-year mortality from choroidal melanoma. Retrospective, comparative, observational cohort study. One hundred fifty-three eyes of 153 consecutive patients with choroidal melanoma (age, 58.4+/-14.6 years) who were treated with ruthenium 106 brachytherapy between 1988 and 1998 at the Department of Ophthalmology, Hadassah University Hospital, Jerusalem, Israel. Patients were observed clinically and ultrasonographically (A- and B-mode standardized ultrasonography). Metastatic screening included liver function tests and liver imaging. Backpropagation ANNs composed of 3 or 4 layers of neurons with various types of transfer functions and training protocols were assessed for their ability to predict the 5-year mortality. The ANNs were trained on 77 randomly selected patients and tested on a different set of 76 patients. Artificial neural networks were compared based on their sensitivity, specificity, forecasting accuracy, area under the receiver operating curves, and likelihood ratios (LRs). The best ANN was compared with the results of logistic regression and the performance of an ocular oncologist. The ability of the ANNs to forecast the 5-year mortality from choroidal melanoma. Thirty-one patients died during the follow-up period of metastatic choroidal melanoma. The best ANN (one hidden layer of 16 neurons) had 84% forecasting accuracy and an LR of 31.5. The number of hidden neurons significantly influenced the ANNs' performance (P<0.001). The performance of the ANNs was not significantly influenced by the training protocol, the number of hidden layers, or the type of transfer function. In comparison, logistic regression reached 86% forecasting accuracy, with a very low LR (0.8), whereas the human expert forecasting ability was <70% (LR, 1.85). Artificial neural networks can be used for forecasting the prognosis of choroidal melanoma and may support decision-making in treating this malignancy.

Choroidal imaging by one-micrometer dual-beam Doppler optical coherence angiography with adjustable velocity range

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jaillon, Franck; Makita, Shuichi; Yasuno, Yoshiaki

2012-03-01

Ability of a new version of one-micrometer dual-beam optical coherence angiography (OCA) based on Doppler optical coherence tomography (OCT), is demonstrated for choroidal vasculature imaging. A particular feature of this system is the adjustable time delay between two probe beams. This allows changing the measurable velocity range of moving constituents such as blood without alteration of the scanning protocol. Since choroidal vasculature is made of vessels having blood flows with different velocities, this technique provides a way of discriminating vessels according to the velocity range of their inner flow. An example of choroid imaging of a normal emmetropic eye is here given. It is shown that combining images acquired with different velocity ranges provides an enhanced vasculature representation. This method may be then useful for pathological choroid characterization.

Knockdown of the placental growth factor gene inhibits laser induced choroidal neovascularization in a murine model.

PubMed

Nourinia, Ramin; Soheili, Zahra-Soheila; Ahmadieh, Hamid; Akrami, Hassan; Rezaei Kanavi, Mozhgan; Samiei, Shahram

2013-01-01

To evaluate the effect of placental growth factor (PlGF) gene knockdown in a murine model of laser-induced choroidal neovascularization. Choroidal neovascularization was induced in the left eyes of 11 mice by infrared laser. Small interfering RNA (siRNA, 20 picomoles/10 μl) corresponding to PlGF mRNA was administered intravitreally by Hamilton syringe in all subjects. One month later, fluorescein angiography and histolologic examination were performed. No leakage was apparent in the 11 eyes treated with siRNA cognate to PlGF. The results of histological evaluation were consistent with angiographic findings showing absence of choroidal neovascularization. Knockdown of the PlGF gene can inhibit the growth of laser-induced choroidal neovascularization in mice.

Membrane peptidases in the pig choroid plexus and on other cell surfaces in contact with the cerebrospinal fluid.

PubMed Central

Bourne, A; Barnes, K; Taylor, B A; Turner, A J; Kenny, A J

1989-01-01

A comprehensive survey of 11 peptidases, all of which are markers for renal microvillar membranes, has been made in membrane fractions prepared from pig choroid plexus. Two fractionation schemes were explored, both depending on a MgCl2-precipitation step, the preferred one having advantages in speed and yield of the activities. The specific activities of the peptidases in the choroid-plexus membranes were, with the exception of carboxypeptidase M, lower than in renal microvillar membranes: those of aminopeptidase N, peptidyl dipeptidase A ('angiotensin-converting enzyme') and gamma-glutamyltransferase were 3-5-fold lower, those of aminopeptidase A and endopeptidase-24.11 were 12-15 fold lower, and those of dipeptidyl peptidase IV and aminopeptidase W were 50-70-fold lower. Carboxypeptidase M had a similar activity in both membranes. Alkaline phosphatase and (Na+ + K+)-activated ATPase were more active in the choroid-plexus membranes. No activity for microsomal dipeptidase, aminopeptidase P and carboxypeptidase P could be detected. Six of the peptidases and (Na+ + K+)-activated ATPase were also studied by immunoperoxidase histochemistry at light- and electron-microscopic levels. Endopeptidase-24.11 and (Na+ + K+)-activated ATPase were uniquely located on the brush border, and the other two peptidases appeared to be much more abundant on the endothelial lining of microvessels. Dipeptidyl peptidase IV and aminopeptidase W were also detected in microvasculature. Pial membranes associated with the brain and spinal cord also stained positively for endopeptidase-24.11, aminopeptidase N and peptidyl dipeptidase A. The immunohistochemical studies indicated the subcellular fractionation did not discriminate between membranes derived from epithelial cells (i.e. microvilli) and those from endothelial cells. The possible significance of these studies in relation to neuropeptide metabolism and the control of cerebrospinal fluid production is discussed. Images Fig. 1. Fig. 2. Fig

Changes in the choroidal thickness in reproductive-aged women with iron-deficiency anemia.

PubMed

Yumusak, Erhan; Ciftci, Aydin; Yalcin, Selim; Sayan, Cemile Dayangan; Dikel, Nevin Hande; Ornek, Kemal

2015-12-29

The aim of this study was to investigate the potential significance of the central macular thickness (foveal thickness-FT) and choroidal thickness (CT) in the eyes of patients with iron-deficiency anemia, the most common form of the anemia, via enhanced-depth imaging optical coherence tomography (EDI-OCT). We also investigated whether such changes might serve as an early indicator of underlying hematological disease. This prospective clinical study compared 96 female patients with iron-deficiency anemia and 60 healthy female control subjects. The macular and choroidal thicknesses in the temporal and nasal subfoveal areas were measured using enhanced-depth imaging optical coherence tomography (EDI-OCT) at 500 and 1500 microns and in five different regions (FCT, T1500, T500, N500, and N1500). The mean ages of the patients and healthy controls were 34.08 ± 10.39 years and 32.29 ± 8.28 years, respectively (P =0.232). There were no significant changes in macular thickness between the groups (225.58 ± 19.76 vs. 222.45 ± 13.51, P =0.2). The choroidal thickness was significantly reduced in the patient group relative to the controls at all measured points (foveal choroidal thickness, P = 0.042; nasal-500 microns, P = 0.033; temporal-500 microns, P = 0.033; and temporal-1500 microns, P = 0.019). At some points, the choroidal thickness findings correlated with the hemoglobin values (temporal-500 microns, r = -0.287, P = 0.001; nasal-500 microns, r = -0.287, P = 0.005; nasal-1500 microns, r = -0.245, P = 0.016; and temporal-1500 microns, r = -0.280, P = 0.06). Patients with iron-deficiency anemia had a significantly reduced choroidal thickness.

Current perspectives of herpesviral retinitis and choroiditis.

PubMed

Madhavan, H N; Priya, K; Biswas, J

2004-10-01

Vision-threatening viral retinitis are primarily caused by members of the herpesvirus family. The biology and molecular characterization of herpesviruses, clinical presentations of retinopathies, pathology and pathogenesis including the host responses, epidemiology and the laboratory methods of aetiological diagnosis of these diseases are described. Clinical syndromes are acute retinal necrosis (ARN), progressive outer retinal necrosis (PORN), cytomegalovirus (CMV) retinitis, multifocal choroiditis and serpiginous choroiditis besides other viral retinopathies. Herpes simplex virus (HSV) retinitis is more common in immunocompetent persons while varicella zoster virus (VZV) affects both immunocompetent and immunosuppressed patients equally. CMV retinitis is most common among patients with AIDS. The currently employed laboratory methods of antigen detection, virus isolation and antibody detection by enzyme linked immuno-sorbent assay (ELISA) have low sensitivity. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) has increased the value of diagnosis due to its high clinical sensitivity and absolute specificity in detection of herpesviruses in intraocular specimens.

Indirect choroidal ruptures: aetiological factors, patterns of ocular damage, and final visual outcome.

PubMed Central

Wood, C M; Richardson, J

1990-01-01

Indirect choroidal ruptures result from blunt ocular trauma and have a pathognomonic fundal appearance. We analysed a group of 30 patients with indirect choroidal ruptures with specific reference to the circumstances of the injury, the pattern of ocular damage, the cause of any visual loss, and the final visual outcome. Using this analysis we deduce a pathogenetic explanation for the characteristic fundus signs in patients with indirect choroidal ruptures. The majority of cases were young males injured during sport or by an assault, a minority were injured at work. Diffuse nonfocal impact injuries due to punches were associated with ruptures concentric with and adjacent to the optic disc. Focal impact injuries, due to projectiles, showed more extensive ocular damage. Seventeen of 30 patients regained 6/12 vision after injury. Injuries due to projectiles and temporally situated ruptures were associated with a poorer visual outcome than others. Macular damage was the commonest cause of visual loss, principally due to pigmentary maculopathy, traumatic inner retinal damage, and choroidal neovascular membranes rather than direct focal damage by the rupture. Images PMID:2337545

Daily morning light therapy is associated with an increase in choroidal thickness in healthy young adults.

PubMed

Read, Scott A; Pieterse, Emily C; Alonso-Caneiro, David; Bormann, Rebekah; Hong, Seentinie; Lo, Chai-Hoon; Richer, Rhiannon; Syed, Atif; Tran, Linda

2018-05-29

Ambient light exposure is one environmental factor thought to play a role in the regulation of eye growth and refractive error development, and choroidal thickness changes have also been linked to longer term changes in eye growth. Therefore in this study we aimed to examine the influence of a 1-week period of morning light therapy upon choroidal thickness. Twenty two healthy young adult subjects had a series of macular choroidal thickness measurements collected with spectral domain optical coherence tomography before, and then following a 7-day period of increased daily light exposure. Increased light exposure was delivered through the use of commercially available light therapy glasses, worn for 30 minutes in the morning each day. A significant increase in subfoveal choroidal thickness (mean increase of +5.4 ± 10.3 µm) was found following 7-days of increased daily light exposure (p = 0.02). An increase in choroidal thickness was also observed associated with light therapy across the central 5 mm macular region. This study provides the first evidence in the human eye that daily morning light therapy results in small magnitude but statistically significant increases in choroidal thickness. These changes may have implications for our understanding of the impact of environmental factors upon eye growth.

Biochemical study of prolactin binding sites in Xenopus laevis brain and choroid plexus

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Muccioli, G.; Guardabassi, A.; Pattono, P.

1990-03-01

The occurrence of prolactin binding sites in some brain structures (telencephalon, ventral hypothalamus, myelencephalon, hypophysis, and choroid plexus) from Xenopus laevis (anuran amphibian) was studied by the in vitro biochemical technique. The higher binding values were obtained at the level of the choroid plexus and above all of the hypothalamus. On the bases of hormonal specificity and high affinity, these binding sites are very similar to those of prolactin receptors of classical target tissues as well as of those described by us in other structures from Xenopus. To our knowledge, the present results provide the first demonstration of the occurrencemore » of prolactin specific binding sites in Xenopus laevis choroid plexus cells.« less

SIV Encephalitis Lesions Are Composed of CD163+ Macrophages Present in the Central Nervous System during Early SIV Infection and SIV-Positive Macrophages Recruited Terminally with AIDS

PubMed Central

Nowlin, Brian T.; Burdo, Tricia H.; Midkiff, Cecily C.; Salemi, Marco; Alvarez, Xavier; Williams, Kenneth C.

2016-01-01

Macrophage recruitment to the central nervous system (CNS) during AIDS pathogenesis is poorly understood. We measured the accumulation of brain perivascular (CD163+) and inflammatory (MAC387+) macrophages in SIV-infected monkeys. Monocyte progenitors were 5-bromo-2′-deoxyuridine (BrdU) labeled in bone marrow, and CNS macrophages were labeled serially with fluorescent dextrans injected into the cisterna magna. MAC387+ macrophages accumulated in the meninges and choroid plexus in early inflammation and in the perivascular space and SIV encephalitis (SIVE) lesions late. CD163+ macrophages accumulated in the perivascular space and SIVE lesions with late inflammation. Most of the BrdU+ cells were MAC387+; however, CD163+BrdU+ macrophages were present in the meninges and choroid plexus with AIDS. Most (81.6% ± 1.8%) of macrophages in SIVE lesions were present in the CNS before SIVE lesion formation. There was a 2.9-fold increase in SIVp28+ macrophages entering the CNS late compared with those entering early (P < 0.05). The rate of CD163+ macrophage recruitment to the CNS inversely correlated with time to death (P < 0.03) and increased with SIVE. In SIVE animals, soluble CD163 correlated with CD163+ macrophage recruitment (P = 0.02). Most perivascular macrophages that comprise SIVE lesions and multinucleated giant cells are present in the CNS early, before SIVE lesions are formed. Most SIV-infected macrophages traffic to the CNS terminally with AIDS. PMID:25963554

Normative values for optical coherence tomography parameters in healthy children and interexaminer agreement for choroidal thickness measurements.

PubMed

Turan, Kadriye Erkan; Sekeroglu, Hande Taylan; Baytaroglu, Ata; Bezci, Figen; Karahan, Sevilay

2018-01-01

To (a) determine the normative values for optical coherence tomography (OCT) parameters such as central macular thickness, retinal nerve fiber layer thickness, and choroidal thickness in healthy children; (b) investigate the relationships of these parameters with axial length, central corneal thickness, refractive errors, and intraocular pressure; and (c) determine interexaminer agreement for choroidal thickness measurements. In this cross-sectional study, 120 healthy children aged 8-15 years underwent detailed ophthalmological examination and OCT measurements. Choroidal thickness was measured at three separate locations by two independent examiners. The mean global retinal nerve fiber layer thickness was 98.75 ± 9.45 μm (79.0-121.0). The mean central macular thickness was 232.29 ± 29.37 μm (190.0-376.0). The mean subfoveal choroidal thickness obtained by examiner 1 was 344.38 ± 68.83 μm and that obtained by examiner 2 was 344.04 ± 68.92 μm. Interexaminer agreement was between 99.6%-99.8% for choroidal thickness at three separate locations. Central macular thickness increased with axial length (r=0.245, p=0.007). Choroidal thickness increased with age (r=0.291, p=0.001) and decreased with axial length (r=-0.191, p=0.037). Global retinal nerve fiber layer thickness decreased with axial length (r=-0.247, p=0.007) and increased with central corneal thickness (r=0.208, p=0.022). Global retinal nerve fiber layer thickness positively correlated with choroidal thickness (r=0.354, p<0.001). Global retinal nerve fiber layer thickness (r=0.223, p=0.014) and choroidal thickness (r=0.272, p=0.003) increased with the spherical equivalent (D). Optical coherence tomography parameters showed a wide range of variability in children. Retinal nerve fiber layer thickness, central macular thickness, and choroidal thickness were found to be either inter-related or correlated with age, central corneal thickness, axial length, and refractive errors. Furthermore, manual

Macular retinal and choroidal thickness in unilateral amblyopia using swept-source optical coherence tomography.

PubMed

Araki, Syunsuke; Miki, Atsushi; Goto, Katsutoshi; Yamashita, Tsutomu; Takizawa, Go; Haruishi, Kazuko; Ieki, Yoshiaki; Kiryu, Junichi; Yaoeda, Kiyoshi

2017-09-15

To investigate macular retinal and choroidal thickness in amblyopic eyes compared to that in fellow and normal eyes using swept-source optical coherence tomography (SS-OCT). This study examined 31 patients with hyperopic anisometropic amblyopia (6.9 ± 3.8 years, mean ± standard deviation), 15 patients with strabismic amblyopia without anisometropia (7.9 ± 4.2 years), and 24 age-matched controls (7.8 ± 3.3 years). Retinal and choroidal thickness was measured by 3D scans using SS-OCT. A 6-mm area around the fovea was automatically analyzed using the Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study map. The thickness from SS-OCT was corrected for magnification error using individual axial length, spherical refraction, cylinder refraction, and corneal radius. Retinal thickness was divided into the macular retinal nerve fiber layer (mRNFL), ganglion cell layer + inner plexiform layer (GCL+IPL), ganglion cell complex (GCC), and the inner limiting membrane to the retinal pigment epithelium (ILM-RPE) thickness. Retinal and choroidal thickness was compared among amblyopic, fellow, and normal eyes. In both amblyopia groups, there was no significant difference in the mRNFL, GCL+IPL, and GCC thicknesses among the amblyopic, fellow, and control eyes. In the anisometropic amblyopia group, choroidal thickness (subfovea, center 1 mm, nasal and inferior of the inner ring, nasal of the outer ring, and center 6 mm) of amblyopic eyes were significantly greater than that of fellow and normal eyes. In contrast, none of the choroidal thicknesses were significantly different among the investigated eyes in the strabismic amblyopia group. We found no significant difference in inner retinal thickness in patients with unilateral amblyopia. Although there were significant differences in choroidal thickness with hyperopic anisometropic amblyopia, there was no significant difference for the strabismic amblyopia. The discrepancy in choroidal thickness between the two types of amblyopia may be due

[Case of brain infarction in the anterior choroidal artery territory with homonymous scotomas].

PubMed

Nakae, Yoshiharu; Higashiyama, Yuichi; Kuroiwa, Yoshiyuki

2009-08-01

We report a case of brain infarction in the anterior choroidal artery territory accompanied homonymous scotomas. A 59-year-old man with diabetes mellitus felt weakness in his left upper and lower extremities. He was admitted to our hospital with mild hemiparesis on his left side. He noticed a small black spot in the left inferior portion of his visual field; however, this disappeared within one minute. He had no visual defects as assessed by a confrontation test, but a Goldmann visual field test revealed that there were homonymous scotomas in the left inferior portion of the visual field. Brain MRI showed hyperintense signals on diffusion-weighted images in the territory of the right anterior choroidal artery. He was diagnosed as having a brain infarction. The anterior choroidal artery penetrates the lateral geniculate nucleus from the front, and branches of the artery usually supply the medial and lateral parts of the lateral geniculate nucleus. Occlusion of these branches causes the loss of the upper and lower homonymous sectors in the visual field. The present case exhibited homonymous scotomas. We assumed that our patient's homonymous scotomas were a variant form of wedge-shaped visual field deficits often seen in anterior choroidal artery syndrome. On the basis the experience gained in this case, we consider that patients with brain infarction in the anterior choroidal artery territory should undergo ophthalmological examination, even when no visual defects are detected by a confrontation test.

Knockdown of the Placental Growth Factor Gene Inhibits Laser Induced Choroidal Neovascularization in a Murine Model

PubMed Central

Nourinia, Ramin; Soheili, Zahra-Soheila; Ahmadieh, Hamid; Akrami, Hassan; Rezaei Kanavi, Mozhgan; Samiei, Shahram

2013-01-01

Purpose To evaluate the effect of placental growth factor (PlGF) gene knockdown in a murine model of laser-induced choroidal neovascularization. Methods Choroidal neovascularization was induced in the left eyes of 11 mice by infrared laser. Small interfering RNA (siRNA, 20 picomoles/10 μl) corresponding to PlGF mRNA was administered intravitreally by Hamilton syringe in all subjects. One month later, fluorescein angiography and histolologic examination were performed. Results No leakage was apparent in the 11 eyes treated with siRNA cognate to PlGF. The results of histological evaluation were consistent with angiographic findings showing absence of choroidal neovascularization. Conclusion Knockdown of the PlGF gene can inhibit the growth of laser-induced choroidal neovascularization in mice. PMID:23825706

IL-17/Th17 Pathway Is Activated in Acne Lesions

PubMed Central

Kelhälä, Hanna-Leena; Palatsi, Riitta; Fyhrquist, Nanna; Lehtimäki, Sari; Väyrynen, Juha P.; Kallioinen, Matti; Kubin, Minna E.; Greco, Dario; Tasanen, Kaisa; Alenius, Harri; Bertino, Beatrice; Carlavan, Isabelle; Mehul, Bruno; Déret, Sophie; Reiniche, Pascale; Martel, Philippe; Marty, Carine; Blume-Peytavi, Ulrike; Voegel, Johannes J.; Lauerma, Antti

2014-01-01

The mechanisms of inflammation in acne are currently subject of intense investigation. This study focused on the activation of adaptive and innate immunity in clinically early visible inflamed acne lesions and was performed in two independent patient populations. Biopsies were collected from lesional and non-lesional skin of acne patients. Using Affymetrix Genechips, we observed significant elevation of the signature cytokines of the Th17 lineage in acne lesions compared to non-lesional skin. The increased expression of IL-17 was confirmed at the RNA and also protein level with real-time PCR (RT-PCR) and Luminex technology. Cytokines involved in Th17 lineage differentiation (IL-1β, IL-6, TGF-β, IL23p19) were remarkably induced at the RNA level. In addition, proinflammatory cytokines and chemokines (TNF-α, IL-8, CSF2 and CCL20), Th1 markers (IL12p40, CXCR3, T-bet, IFN-γ), T regulatory cell markers (Foxp3, IL-10, TGF-β) and IL-17 related antimicrobial peptides (S100A7, S100A9, lipocalin, hBD2, hBD3, hCAP18) were induced. Importantly, immunohistochemistry revealed significantly increased numbers of IL-17A positive T cells and CD83 dendritic cells in the acne lesions. In summary our results demonstrate the presence of IL-17A positive T cells and the activation of Th17-related cytokines in acne lesions, indicating that the Th17 pathway is activated and may play a pivotal role in the disease process, possibly offering new targets of therapy. PMID:25153527

Is there a relationship between outer retinal destruction and choroidal changes in cone dystrophy?

PubMed

Ayyildiz, Onder; Ozge, Gokhan; Kucukevcilioglu, Murat; Ozgonul, Cem; Mumcuoglu, Tarkan; Durukan, Ali Hakan; Mutlu, Fatih Mehmet

2016-01-01

The aim of the present study was to use enhanced depth imaging optical coherence tomography (EDI-OCT) to investigate choroidal changes in patients with cone dystrophy (CD) and to correlate these findings with clinical and electroretinography (ERG) findings. This case-control study included 40 eyes of 20 patients with CD and 40 eyes of 40 age- and refraction-matched healthy individuals. Choroidal thickness (CT) measurements were obtained under the foveal center and at 500 and 1,500 μm from the nasal and temporal regions to the center of the fovea, respectively. EDI-OCT and ERG data were analyzed, and the correlations of CT with the best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and the central foveal thickness (CFT) were evaluated. The mean subfoveal CTs in the CD and control groups were 240.70 ± 70.78 and 356.18 ± 48.55 μm, respectively. The subfoveal CT was significantly thinner in patients with CD than in the controls (p<0.001). The patients with CD also had significantly thinner choroids than the controls at each measurement location relative to the fovea (p<0.001). The subfoveal CT in the CD group correlated with CFT (p=0.012), but no significant correlation was found between the subfoveal CT and BCVA or photopic ERG responses. The present study demonstrated a significant thinning of the choroid in patients with CD. EDI-OCT is a useful technique for describing the choroidal changes occurring in CD. Future studies investigating the association between choroidal changes and outer retinal destruction or the disease stage may provide a better understanding of the pathophysiology of CD.

Decreased Retinal-Choroidal Blood Flow in Retinitis Pigmentosa as measured by MRI

PubMed Central

Zhang, Yi; Harrison, Joseph M; Nateras, Oscar San Emeterio; Chalfin, Steven; Duong, Timothy Q

2013-01-01

Purpose To evaluate retinal and choroidal blood flow (BF) using high-resolution magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) as well as visual function measured by the electroretinogram (ERG) in patients with retinitis pigmentosa (RP). Methods MRI studies were performed in 6 RP patients (29-67 years) and 5 healthy volunteers (29-64 years) on a 3-Tesla scanner with a custom-made surface coil. Quantitative BF was measured using the pseudo-continuous arterial-spin-labeling technique at 0.5x0.8x6.0mm. Full-field ERGs of all patients were recorded. Amplitudes and implicit times of standard ERGs were analyzed. Results Basal BF in the posterior retinal-choroid was 142±16 ml/100ml/min (or 1.14±0.13 μl/mm2/min) in the control group and was 70±19 ml/100ml/min (or 0.56±0.15 μl/mm2/min) in the RP group. Retinal-choroidal BF was significantly reduced by 52±8% in RP patients compared to controls (P<0.05). ERG a- and b-wave amplitudes of RP patients were reduced and b-wave implicit times were delayed. There were statistically significant correlations between a-wave amplitude and BF value (r=0.9, P<0.05) but not between b-wave amplitude and BF value (r =0.7, P=0.2). Conclusions This study demonstrates a novel non-invasive MRI approach to measure quantitative retinal and choroidal BF in RP patients. We found that retinal-choroidal BF was markedly reduced and significantly correlated with reduced amplitudes of the a-wave of the standard combined ERG. PMID:23408312

Pathological alteration in the choroid plexus of Alzheimer's disease: implication for new therapy approaches.

PubMed

Krzyzanowska, Agnieszka; Carro, Eva

2012-01-01

Morphological alterations of choroid plexus in Alzheimer's disease (AD) have been extensively investigated. These changes include epithelial atrophy, thickening of the basement membrane, and stroma fibrosis. As a result, synthesis, secretory, and transportation functions are significantly altered resulting in decreased cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) turnover. Recent studies discuss the potential impacts of these changes, including the possibility of reduced resistance to stress insults and slow clearance of toxic compounds from CSF with specific reference to the amyloid peptide. Here, we review new evidences for AD-related changes in the choroid plexus. The data suggest that the significantly altered functions of the choroid plexus contribute to the multiparametric pathogenesis of late-onset AD.

Age-related structural abnormalities in the human retina-choroid complex revealed by two-photon excited autofluorescence imaging.

PubMed

Han, Meng; Giese, Guenter; Schmitz-Valckenberg, Steffen; Bindewald-Wittich, Almut; Holz, Frank G; Yu, Jiayi; Bille, Josef F; Niemz, Markolf H

2007-01-01

The intensive metabolism of photoreceptors is delicately maintained by the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and the choroid. Dysfunction of either the RPE or choroid may lead to severe damage to the retina. Two-photon excited autofluorescence (TPEF) from endogenous fluorophores in the human retina provides a novel opportunity to reveal age-related structural abnormalities in the retina-choroid complex prior to apparent pathological manifestations of age-related retinal diseases. In the photoreceptor layer, the regularity of the macular photoreceptor mosaic is preserved during aging. In the RPE, enlarged lipofuscin granules demonstrate significantly blue-shifted autofluorescence, which coincides with the depletion of melanin pigments. Prominent fibrillar structures in elderly Bruch's membrane and choriocapillaries represent choroidal structure and permeability alterations. Requiring neither slicing nor labeling, TPEF imaging is an elegant and highly efficient tool to delineate the thick, fragile, and opaque retina-choroid complex, and may provide clues to the trigger events of age-related macular degeneration.

Changes in choroidal thickness following trabeculectomy and its correlation with the decline in intraocular pressure.

PubMed

Silva, Diana; Lopes, Ana Sofia; Henriques, Susana; Lisboa, Maria; Pinto, Sara; Trancoso Vaz, Fernando; Prieto, Isabel

2018-04-16

Evaluate whether there are significant changes in choroidal thickness following trabeculectomy, and how they relate do the decline in intraocular pressure. This was a prospective evaluation of 28 eyes who underwent Moorfields modified trabeculectomy. The choroidal thickness was measured via OCT with enhanced depth imaging, before surgery and 1 day, 1 week and 1 month after surgery. Measurements were taken at the fovea, 1000 µm temporal to the fovea and 1000 µm nasal to the fovea. The relationship between choroidal thickness and intraocular pressure was statistically evaluated. The mean intraocular pressure before surgery was 25.07 ± 4.64 mmHg; 8.57 ± 3.62 mmHg after 1 day; 10.36 ± 4.39 mmHg after 1 week and 13.71 ± 5.13 mmHg after 1 month. Mean choroidal thickness increased after trabeculectomy with maximal values at 1 week. The largest increase was found at the fovea, with an average before surgery of 253.54 ± 62.01 µm; 286.75 ± 64.20 µm at 1 day, 286.36 ± 63.14 µm at 1 week and 271.00 ± 60.31 µm at 1 month. Increase in choroidal thickness was significant 1 day and 1 week after surgery in the foveal (p = 0.012, p = 0.007) and temporal (p = 0.040, p = 0.000) locations and 1 week postoperatively on the nasal location (p = 0.016). None of them were significant at 1 month after surgery. Preoperative IOP and choroidal thickness were correlated at all macular locations (ρ = 0.449-0.525, p = 0.004-0.016) yet no correlation was found between increase in choroidal thickness and decline in intraocular pressure in the postoperative period. Choroidal thickness appears to increase temporarily after trabeculectomy and these changes were not correlated with the decline in intraocular pressure. Further research is required to fully understand this phenomenon.

CHANGES IN CHOROIDAL THICKNESS IN AND OUTSIDE THE MACULA AFTER HEMODIALYSIS IN PATIENTS WITH END-STAGE RENAL DISEASE

PubMed Central

Chang, In Boem; Lee, Jeong Hyun

2017-01-01

Purpose: To evaluate changes in choroidal thickness in and outside the macula as a result of hemodialysis (HD) in patients with end-stage renal disease. Methods: Patients with end-stage renal disease treated with maintenance HD in the Dialysis Unit of Sanggye Paik Hospital, Seoul, South Korea, were included in this study. The choroidal thickness was measured in and outside the macula before and after HD (paired t-test). Choroidal thickness in the macula was measured at the foveal center and 1.5 mm temporal to the foveal center and outside the macula was measured at superior, inferior, and nasal area 3.5 mm from the optic disk margin. Peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer thickness, intraocular pressure, central corneal thickness, and systemic parameters such as serum osmolarity and blood pressure (BP) were measured before and after HD (paired t-test). We divided patients into two groups, diabetic and nondiabetic groups to compare the changes in choroidal thickness. Patients with diabetes were subdivided into two groups: severe retinal change group and moderate retinal change group (Mann–Whitney test). Pearson's correlation test was used to evaluate the correlations between choroidal thickness and changes in serum osmolarity, BP, and body weight loss. Choroidal thickness and peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer thickness were measured using spectral-domain optical coherence tomography. Results: Fifty-four eyes of 31 patients with end-stage renal disease were included. After HD, the mean intraocular pressure was significantly decreased from 14.8 ± 2.5 mmHg to 13.0 ± 2.6 mmHg (P < 0.001). Choroidal thickness was reduced in all areas (P < 0.001). The reduction in choroidal thickness correlated with body weight loss, decrease in serum osmolarity, and decrease in systolic BP (P < 0.05). In the diabetic group, the mean choroidal thickness changes were greater than those in the nondiabetic group (P < 0.05). The severe retinal change group showed greater changes in

Neural retina-specific Aldh1a1 controls dorsal choroidal vascular development via Sox9 expression in retinal pigment epithelial cells.

PubMed

Goto, So; Onishi, Akishi; Misaki, Kazuyo; Yonemura, Shigenobu; Sugita, Sunao; Ito, Hiromi; Ohigashi, Yoko; Ema, Masatsugu; Sakaguchi, Hirokazu; Nishida, Kohji; Takahashi, Masayo

2018-04-03

VEGF secreted from retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells is responsible for the choroidal vascular development; however, the molecular regulatory mechanism is unclear. We found that Aldh1a1 -/- mice showed choroidal hypoplasia with insufficient vascularization in the dorsal region, although Aldh1a1, an enzyme that synthesizes retinoic acids (RAs), is expressed in the dorsal neural retina, not in the RPE/choroid complex. The level of VEGF in the RPE/choroid was significantly decreased in Aldh1a1 -/- mice, and RA-dependent enhancement of VEGF was observed in primary RPE cells. An RA-deficient diet resulted in dorsal choroidal hypoplasia, and simple RA treatment of Aldh1a1 -/- pregnant females suppressed choroid hypoplasia in their offspring. We also found downregulation of Sox9 in the dorsal neural retina and RPE of Aldh1a1 -/- mice and RPE-specific disruption of Sox9 phenocopied Aldh1a1 -/- choroidal development. These results suggest that RAs produced by Aldh1a1 in the neural retina directs dorsal choroidal vascular development via Sox9 upregulation in the dorsal RPE cells to enhance RPE-derived VEGF secretion. © 2018, Goto et al.

Characterization of vascular lesions in pigs affected by porcine circovirus type 2-systemic disease.

PubMed

Resendes, A R; Segalés, J

2015-05-01

Vascular lesions and their association with porcine circovirus type 2 (PCV2) were evaluated in multiple organs from 10 pigs affected with PCV2-systemic disease (PCV2-SD). Animals had vascular lesions in multiple organs, consisting of lymphohistiocytic lymphangitis and/or phlebitis, mild to severe necrotizing arteritis, and thrombosis within splenic arterioles and choroid plexus capillaries. Variable amounts of PCV2 nucleic acid detected by in situ hybridization were present within endothelial cells, tunica media myocytes, and perivascular and/or intralesional inflammatory cell infiltrates. PCV2 nucleic acid was detected within endothelial cells of both lymphatic and blood vessels without lesions in the associated tissues. Necrotizing arteritis was principally present in lymph nodes and kidney and consisted of degeneration, necrosis, and pyknosis of myocytes, often with intracytoplasmic, brightly eosinophilic inclusion bodies that were strongly positive for PCV2 nucleic acid. Segmental or circumferential fibrinoid necrosis was mainly present in vessels of the lymph node, spleen, and choroid plexus and was variably associated with PCV2 nucleic acid. Severe lymphangitis associated with strong intralesional PCV2 labeling was frequently detected within the mesenteric and mediastinal lymph nodes and the lamina propria of the ileum. In most tissues, medium and large lymphatics and/or veins often had disruption of the intima and mild mononuclear inflammatory cell infiltration that was variably associated with PCV2 nucleic acid. The present study indicates that vasculitis is a frequent finding in natural cases of PCV2-SD and that PCV2 may have a direct cytopathic effect on tunica media myocytes of small- and medium-sized arteries as well as endothelium. © The Author(s) 2014.

Choroidal nevus with subretinal pigment epithelial neovascular membrane and a positive P-32 test

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Snip, R.C.; Green, W.R.; Jaegers, K.R.

A 62-year-old white female was found to have a small, flat pigmented choroidal tumor. After fluorescein angiography and a positive P-32 test, the eye was enucleated for presumed malignant melanoma. Histologically, the tumor proved to be a choroidal nevus with a break in Bruch's membrane and a subretinal-pigment-epithelial neovascular membrane.

Epidermal growth factor targeting of bacteriophage to the choroid plexus for gene delivery to the central nervous system via cerebrospinal fluid.

PubMed

Gonzalez, Ana Maria; Leadbeater, Wendy; Podvin, Sonia; Borboa, Alexandra; Burg, Michael; Sawada, Ritsuko; Rayner, James; Sims, Karen; Terasaki, Tetsuya; Johanson, Conrad; Stopa, Edward; Eliceiri, Brian; Baird, Andrew

2010-11-04

Because the choroid plexus normally controls the production and composition of cerebrospinal fluid and, as such, its many functions of the central nervous system, we investigated whether ligand-mediated targeting could deliver genes to its secretory epithelium. We show here that when bacteriophages are targeted with epidermal growth factor, they acquire the ability to enter choroid epithelial cells grown in vitro as cell cultures, ex vivo as tissue explants or in vivo by intracerebroventricular injection. The binding and internalization of these particles activate EGF receptors on targeted cells, and the dose- and time-dependent internalization of particles is inhibited by the presence of excess ligand. When the phage genome is further reengineered to contain like green fluorescent protein or firefly luciferase under control of the cytomegalovirus promoter, gene expression is detectable in the choroid plexus and ependymal epithelium by immunohistochemistry or by noninvasive imaging, respectively. Taken together, these data support the hypothesis that reengineered ligand-mediated gene delivery should be considered a viable strategy to increase the specificity of gene delivery to the central nervous system and bypass the blood-brain barrier so as to exploit the biological effectiveness of the choroid plexus as a portal of entry into the brain. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

The Abiotrophies of the Retina and Choroid

PubMed Central

Sorsby, Arnold

1939-01-01

(1) Hereditary lesions fall into three groups:— (a) Malformations: Present at birth. (b) Abiotrophies: At birth the tissue is fully differentiated but it undergoes degenerative changes at some period in post-natal life. (c) Phakomatoses: A group possessing features of the two previous groups and some features of neoplasms. (2) The conception of abiotrophy draws attention to a large group of affections which have a hereditary character and develop in apparently normal tissues, making their appearance in different families at different periods of life. The conception is well established in neurology. Ophthalmology offers numorous examples. A large variety of familial fundus lesions (other than hereditary congenital anomalies), the corneal dystrophies (generally setting in at about puberty), “senile” cataract (occurring with regular frequency in certain families at certain ages), all illustrate the occurrence of familial groups of affections in tissues that show no obvious congenital anomaly, structurally or functionally. Whether this group is called heredo-degenerations or abiotrophies or by some other name is of little significance in comparison with the recognition of the existence of such a clinically distinct group. (3) The understanding of the nature of these affections is rudimentary. Studies in the mode of inheritance of the different abiotrophies help to explain their distribution, but not their nature, just as the genetics of congenital malformations do not explain the embryological mechanism underlying these defects. (4) The earlier workers of this branch of genetics were inclined to attribute the degenerative process in post-natal life to a failure inherent in the cell. Present evidence indicates that in the abiotrophies it is the environment of the cells rather than the cells themselves that is at fault. Work along these lines has already led to valuable therapeutic results in affections that were previously regarded as incurable (acholuric familial

Propranolol and atropine do not alter choroidal blood flow regulation during isometric exercise in healthy humans.

PubMed

Polska, Elzbieta; Luksch, Alexandra; Schering, Joanne; Frank, Barbara; Imhof, Andrea; Fuchsjäger-Mayrl, Gabriele; Wolzt, Michael; Schmetterer, Leopold

2003-01-01

Recent studies indicate that the human choroid has a considerable capacity to keep blood flow constant despite exercise-induced increases in perfusion pressure. The mechanisms underlying this vasoconstrictor response remain unclear. We hypothesized that pharmacological modulation of the autonomic nervous system may alter the choroidal pressure/flow relationship during squatting. To test this hypothesis, we performed a randomized, double-masked, placebo-controlled, three-way crossover study in 15 healthy male volunteers. Subjects received, on different study days, intravenous infusions of the beta-adrenoceptor antagonist propranolol, the muscarinic receptor antagonist atropine, or placebo. During these infusions, subjects performed squatting for 6 min. Choroidal blood flow was assessed with laser Doppler flowmetry and ocular perfusion pressure (OPP) was calculated from mean arterial pressure and intraocular pressure. As expected, propranolol reduced basal pulse rate, whereas atropine increased pulse rate, indicating that the drugs were administered at systemically effective doses. None of the drugs altered the choroidal pressure/flow relationship during isometric exercise. These data indicate that the regulatory vasoconstrictor capacity of the choroid during exercise is not affected by systemic blockade of beta-adrenoceptors or muscarinic receptors.

Scleral electrocautery and its effects on choroid vessels: implications for subretinal fluid drainage during scleral buckling surgery.

PubMed

Roybal, C Nathaniel; Tsui, Irena; Sanfilippo, Christian; Hubschman, Jean-Pierre

2013-01-01

External drainage of subretinal fluid as part of a scleral buckling procedure rapidly restores the retinal pigment epithelium-neural retina interface in rhegmatogenous retinal detachments but carries the inherent risk of subretinal hemorrhage and retinal incarceration. The authors investigated variations to the technique to reduce the chance of subretinal hemorrhage originating from the choroid. A novel method for needle drainage using electrocautery of the sclerochoroidal layers before puncture was employed. The effect of 0% to 50% scleral electrocautery in a porcine model was investigated. A significant decrease in choroidal vessel diameter and choroidal vessel density at 40% electrocautery was demonstrated. Electrocautery without scleral cut-down before external drainage of subretinal fluid likely decreases the chance of subretinal hemorrhage by decreasing choroidal vascularity. Copyright 2013, SLACK Incorporated.

Neural retina-specific Aldh1a1 controls dorsal choroidal vascular development via Sox9 expression in retinal pigment epithelial cells

PubMed Central

Goto, So; Misaki, Kazuyo; Yonemura, Shigenobu; Sugita, Sunao; Ito, Hiromi; Ohigashi, Yoko; Ema, Masatsugu; Sakaguchi, Hirokazu; Nishida, Kohji; Takahashi, Masayo

2018-01-01

VEGF secreted from retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells is responsible for the choroidal vascular development; however, the molecular regulatory mechanism is unclear. We found that Aldh1a1–/– mice showed choroidal hypoplasia with insufficient vascularization in the dorsal region, although Aldh1a1, an enzyme that synthesizes retinoic acids (RAs), is expressed in the dorsal neural retina, not in the RPE/choroid complex. The level of VEGF in the RPE/choroid was significantly decreased in Aldh1a1–/– mice, and RA-dependent enhancement of VEGF was observed in primary RPE cells. An RA-deficient diet resulted in dorsal choroidal hypoplasia, and simple RA treatment of Aldh1a1–/– pregnant females suppressed choroid hypoplasia in their offspring. We also found downregulation of Sox9 in the dorsal neural retina and RPE of Aldh1a1–/– mice and RPE-specific disruption of Sox9 phenocopied Aldh1a1–/– choroidal development. These results suggest that RAs produced by Aldh1a1 in the neural retina directs dorsal choroidal vascular development via Sox9 upregulation in the dorsal RPE cells to enhance RPE-derived VEGF secretion. PMID:29609731

Partial antagonism of endothelin 1-induced vasoconstriction in the human choroid by topical unoprostone isopropyl.

PubMed

Polska, Elzbieta; Doelemeyer, Arno; Luksch, Alexandra; Ehrlich, Paulina; Kaehler, Nils; Percicot, Christine L; Lambrou, George N; Schmetterer, Leopold

2002-03-01

There is increasing evidence that reduced ocular blood flow plays a role in the pathogenesis of glaucoma. In patients with normal-tension glaucoma, ocular blood flow abnormalities may be associated with dysfunction of the endothelin 1 (ET-1) regulation system. To test the hypothesis that unoprostone, a topical docosanoid, may affect ET-1--induced vasoconstriction in the human choroid. In a placebo-controlled, randomized, double-masked, 2-way crossover design, ET-1 (2.5 ng/kg per minute for 150 minutes) was administered intravenously to 24 healthy individuals. Thirty minutes after the start of ET-1 infusion, 1 drop of unoprostone or placebo was instilled into the right eye. After another 30 minutes, 2 drops of unoprostone or placebo was topically administered. This procedure was continued and the dose was increased further until 4 drops of unoprostone or placebo was reached. Subfoveal and pulsatile choroidal blood flow were assessed using laser Doppler flowmetry and laser interferometric measurement of fundus pulsation amplitude, respectively. Administration of exogenous ET-1 decreased choroidal blood flow (mean +/- SEM, 17% +/- 2%; P<.001) and fundus pulsation amplitude (mean +/- SEM, 19% +/- 2%; P<.001). This effect was significantly blunted when topical unoprostone was coadministered (mean +/- SEM decrease in choroidal blood flow, 7% +/- 2%; P =.04 vs. placebo; mean +/- SEM decrease in fundus pulsation amplitude, 12% +/- 2%; P<.001 vs. placebo). There is a functional antagonism between ET-1 and topical unoprostone in the choroidal vasculature. Our findings of a functional antagonism between ET-1 and topical unoprostone in the choroidal vasculature may be important in vascular eye diseases associated with increased ET-1.

A Monte Carlo model for the internal dosimetry of choroid plexuses in nuclear medicine procedures.

PubMed

Amato, Ernesto; Cicone, Francesco; Auditore, Lucrezia; Baldari, Sergio; Prior, John O; Gnesin, Silvano

2018-05-01

Choroid plexuses are vascular structures located in the brain ventricles, showing specific uptake of some diagnostic and therapeutic radiopharmaceuticals currently under clinical investigation, such as integrin-binding arginine-glycine-aspartic acid (RGD) peptides. No specific geometry for choroid plexuses has been implemented in commercially available software for internal dosimetry. The aims of the present study were to assess the dependence of absorbed dose to the choroid plexuses on the organ geometry implemented in Monte Carlo simulations, and to propose an analytical model for the internal dosimetry of these structures for 18 F, 64 Cu, 67 Cu, 68 Ga, 90 Y, 131 I and 177 Lu nuclides. A GAMOS Monte Carlo simulation based on direct organ segmentation was taken as the gold standard to validate a second simulation based on a simplified geometrical model of the choroid plexuses. Both simulations were compared with the OLINDA/EXM sphere model. The gold standard and the simplified geometrical model gave similar dosimetry results (dose difference < 3.5%), indicating that the latter can be considered as a satisfactory approximation of the real geometry. In contrast, the sphere model systematically overestimated the absorbed dose compared to both Monte Carlo models (range: 4-50% dose difference), depending on the isotope energy and organ mass. Therefore, the simplified geometric model was adopted to introduce an analytical approach for choroid plexuses dosimetry in the mass range 2-16 g. The proposed model enables the estimation of the choroid plexuses dose by a simple bi-parametric function, once the organ mass and the residence time of the radiopharmaceutical under investigation are provided. Copyright © 2018 Associazione Italiana di Fisica Medica. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

A Pharmacodynamic Analysis of Choroidal Neovascularization in a Porcine Model Using Three Targeted Drugs.

PubMed

Tran, Jeffrey; Craven, Caroline; Wabner, Kathy; Schmit, Jenn; Matter, Brock; Kompella, Uday; Grossniklaus, Hans E; Olsen, Timothy W

2017-07-01

To compare the efficacy of microneedle-delivered suprachoroidal (SC) pazopanib to intravitreal (Ivit) delivery of pazopanib, bevacizumab, or a fusion protein hI-con1 versus vehicle controls on choroidal neovascularization (CNV) growth in a pig model. Forty-one pigs were injected on the day of CNV induction (hI-con1 on postinduction day 14) with either 2.5 mg Ivit bevacizumab (n = 9), 1 mg Ivit pazopanib (n = 9), 300 Ivit μg hI-con1 (n = 4), or 1 mg SC pazopanib (n = 9), vs. 10 vehicle controls (3 SC + 7 Ivit = 10). Pigs were euthanized at week 2 (11), 3 (8), 4 (11), and 8 (11), and eyes were fixed for histology. The size of the CNV was determined from histology, and CNV height was the primary outcome measure. Immunostaining for cytotoxic T-cells was performed in the hI-con1 study. In 39 of 41 (95%) eyes, type 2 CNV lesions were identified. One CNV lesion was lost during dissection. One animal was euthanized due to surgical complications. For mean CNV size comparisons, Ivit pazopanib had smaller mean height measurements (90 ± 20 μm) versus controls (180 ± 20 μm; P = 0.009), and Ivit pazopanib had smaller maximum CNV height (173 ± 43 μm) compared to SC pazopanib (478 ± 105 μm; P = 0.018). The mean lesion size in hI-con1-treated animals trended smaller than in controls (P = 0.11). Immunostaining did not detect cytotoxic T-cells. Intravitreal pazopanib and to a lesser extent hI-con1 reduced the size of CNV lesions. The pig model has nearly a 100% rate of type 2 CNV induction and is a reliable preclinical model with pharmacodynamics similar to humans.

A Pharmacodynamic Analysis of Choroidal Neovascularization in a Porcine Model Using Three Targeted Drugs

PubMed Central

Tran, Jeffrey; Craven, Caroline; Wabner, Kathy; Schmit, Jenn; Matter, Brock; Kompella, Uday; Grossniklaus, Hans E.; Olsen, Timothy W.

2017-01-01

Purpose To compare the efficacy of microneedle-delivered suprachoroidal (SC) pazopanib to intravitreal (Ivit) delivery of pazopanib, bevacizumab, or a fusion protein hI-con1 versus vehicle controls on choroidal neovascularization (CNV) growth in a pig model. Methods Forty-one pigs were injected on the day of CNV induction (hI-con1 on postinduction day 14) with either 2.5 mg Ivit bevacizumab (n = 9), 1 mg Ivit pazopanib (n = 9), 300 Ivit μg hI-con1 (n = 4), or 1 mg SC pazopanib (n = 9), vs. 10 vehicle controls (3 SC + 7 Ivit = 10). Pigs were euthanized at week 2 (11), 3 (8), 4 (11), and 8 (11), and eyes were fixed for histology. The size of the CNV was determined from histology, and CNV height was the primary outcome measure. Immunostaining for cytotoxic T-cells was performed in the hI-con1 study. Results In 39 of 41 (95%) eyes, type 2 CNV lesions were identified. One CNV lesion was lost during dissection. One animal was euthanized due to surgical complications. For mean CNV size comparisons, Ivit pazopanib had smaller mean height measurements (90 ± 20 μm) versus controls (180 ± 20 μm; P = 0.009), and Ivit pazopanib had smaller maximum CNV height (173 ± 43 μm) compared to SC pazopanib (478 ± 105 μm; P = 0.018). The mean lesion size in hI-con1–treated animals trended smaller than in controls (P = 0.11). Immunostaining did not detect cytotoxic T-cells. Conclusions Intravitreal pazopanib and to a lesser extent hI-con1 reduced the size of CNV lesions. The pig model has nearly a 100% rate of type 2 CNV induction and is a reliable preclinical model with pharmacodynamics similar to humans. PMID:28738417

Clinical Features of Pregnancy-associated Retinal and Choroidal Diseases Causing Acute Visual Disturbance.

PubMed

Park, Young Joo; Park, Kyu Hyung; Woo, Se Joon

2017-08-01

To report clinical features of patients with retinal and choroidal diseases presenting with acute visual disturbance during pregnancy. In this retrospective case series, patients who developed acute visual loss during pregnancy (including puerperium) and visited a tertiary hospital from July 2007 to June 2015, were recruited by searching electronic medical records. Patients were categorized according to the cause of visual loss. Clinical features and required diagnostic modalities were analyzed in the retinal and choroidal disease group. Acute visual loss occurred in 147 patients; 49 (38.9%) were classified into the retinal and choroidal group. The diagnoses included central serous chorioretinopathy (22.4%), hypertensive retinopathy with or without pre-eclampsia (22.4%), retinal tear with or without retinal detachment (18.4%), diabetic retinopathy progression (10.2%), Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada disease (4.1%), retinal artery occlusion (4.1%), multiple evanescent white dot syndrome (4.1%), and others (14.3%). Visual symptoms first appeared at gestational age 25.9 ± 10.3 weeks. The initial best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was 0.27 ± 0.39 logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution (logMAR); the final BCVA after delivery improved to 0.13 ± 0.35 logMAR. Serious visual deterioration (BCVA worth than 20 / 200) developed in two patients. Differential diagnoses were established with characteristic fundus and spectral-domain optical coherence tomography findings in all cases. In pregnant women with acute visual loss, retinal and choroidal diseases are common and could be vision threatening. Physicians should be aware of pregnancy-associated retinal and choroidal diseases and their clinical features. The differential diagnosis can be established with non-invasive techniques. © 2017 The Korean Ophthalmological Society

Melanopsin Phototransduction Contributes to Light-Evoked Choroidal Expansion and Rod L-Type Calcium Channel Function In Vivo.

PubMed

Berkowitz, Bruce A; Schmidt, Tiffany; Podolsky, Robert H; Roberts, Robin

2016-10-01

In humans, rodents, and pigeons, the dark → light transition signals nonretinal brain tissue to increase choroidal thickness, a major control element of choroidal blood flow, and thus of photoreceptor and retinal pigment epithelium function. However, it is unclear which photopigments in the retina relay the light signal to the brain. Here, we test the hypothesis that melanopsin (Opn4)-regulated phototransduction modulates light-evoked choroidal thickness expansion in mice. Two-month-old C57Bl/6 wild-type (B6), 4- to 5-month-old C57Bl/6/129S6 wild-type (B6 + S6), and 2-month-old melanopsin knockout (Opn4-/-) on a B6 + S6 background were studied. Retinal anatomy was evaluated in vivo by optical coherence tomography and MRI. Choroidal thickness in dark and light were measured by diffusion-weighted MRI. Rod cell L-type calcium channel (LTCC) function in dark and light (manganese-enhanced MRI [MEMRI]) was also measured. Opn4-/- mice did not show the light-evoked expansion of choroidal thickness observed in B6 and B6 + S6 controls. Additionally, Opn4-/- mice had lower than normal rod cell and inner retinal LTCC function in the dark but not in the light. These deficits were not due to structural abnormalities because retinal laminar architecture and thickness, and choroidal thickness in the Opn4-/- mice were similar to controls. First time evidence is provided that melanopsin phototransduction contributes to dark → light control of murine choroidal thickness. The data also highlight a contribution in vivo of melanopsin phototransduction to rod cell and inner retinal depolarization in the dark.

Creating a Full-thickness Choroidal Incision: An Ex Vivo Analysis of Human and Porcine Tissue Contraction Dynamics

PubMed Central

LoBue, Stephen A.; Yamada, Norihiro; Choi, Moon Jeong; Olsen, Timothy W.

2017-01-01

Purpose We hypothesized that the elastic nature of the choroid leads to tissue contraction following a full-thickness, sharp incision. Furthermore, we sought to quantify, measure, and compare tissue contraction in ex vivo porcine globes and human globes of various ages using predetermined variables. Method A full-thickness, ex vivo choroidal incision was performed in either pig (n = 97) or human (n = 30) specimens. Variables included trephine diameter (1.5, 2.0, or 2.5 mm) versus a straight surgical blade, and temperature (1.7 °–4.4° vs. 36.6°F). Central centripetal and surround centrifugal tissue contractions were measured. Mean percentage tissue contraction was assessed as a ratio of trephine diameter to final tissue contraction measured immediately following each incision using a standardized device. Results For trephination in pig specimens, centripetal contraction ranged from 38% to 50% with a mean of 44%. Centrifugal contraction was approximately 15%. Human choroidal contraction was 39% and 15%, respectively, with a statistically significant inverse relationship to age (R2 = 0.35, P ≤ 0.01). Asymmetric contraction was noted when incisions were closer to choroidal attachment sites to the sclera, such as near vortex ampullae. Linear incisions resulted in contraction that correlated with incision length (R2 = 0.35, P ≤ 0.001). Conclusions A full-thickness choroidal incision results in significant tissue contraction. For circular incisions, the centripetal contraction approaches 50% of the original incision size. For linear incisions, the contraction corresponds directly with incision length. In human specimens, there is less contraction with advancing age. Translational Relevance Our findings have clinical relevance for choroidal biopsy, traumatic injury, and choroidal translocation surgery. PMID:29134136

Mechanisms of 5-aminolevulinic acid uptake at the choroid plexus.

PubMed

Novotny, A; Xiang, J; Stummer, W; Teuscher, N S; Smith, D E; Keep, R F

2000-07-01

5-Aminolevulinic acid (5-ALA) is a precursor of porphyrins and heme that has been implicated in the neuropsychiatric symptoms associated with porphyrias. It is also being used clinically to delineate malignant gliomas. The blood-CSF barrier may be an important interface for 5-ALA transport between blood and brain as in vivo studies have indicated 5-ALA is taken up by the choroid plexuses whereas the normal blood-brain barrier appears to be relatively impermeable. This study examines the mechanisms of 5-[(3)H]ALA uptake into isolated rat lateral ventricle choroid plexuses. Results suggest that there are two uptake mechanisms. The first was a Na(+)-independent uptake system that was pH dependent (being stimulated at low pH). Uptake was inhibited by the dipeptide Gly-Gly and by cefadroxil, an alpha-amino-containing cephalosporin. These properties are the same as the proton-dependent peptide transporters PEPT1 and PEPT2, which have recently been shown to transport 5-ALA in frog oocyte expression experiments. Choroid plexus uptake was not inhibited by captopril, a PEPT1 inhibitor, suggesting PEPT2-mediated uptake. The presence of PEPT2 and absence of PEPT1 in the choroid plexus were confirmed by western blotting. The second potential mechanism was both Na(+) and HCO(3)(-) dependent and appears to be an organic anion transporter, although it is possible that removal of Na(+) and HCO(3)(-) may indirectly affect PEPT2 by affecting intracellular pH. The presence of PEPT2 and a putative Na(+)/HCO(3)(-)-dependent organic anion transporter is important not only for an understanding of 5-ALA movement between blood and brain but also because these transporters may affect the distribution of a number of drugs between blood and CSF.

Fish biomarkers for environmental monitoring: An integrated model supporting enzyme activity and histopathological lesions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Neta, Raimunda Nonata Fortes Carvalho; Torres Junior, Audalio Rebelo

2014-10-01

We present a mathematical model describing the association between glutathione-S-transferase activity and brachial lesions in the catfish, Sciades herzbergii (Ariidae) from a polluted port. The catfish were sampled from a port known to be contaminated with heavy metals and organic compounds and from a natural reserve in São Marcos Bay, Brazil. Two biomarkers, hepatic glutathione S-transferase (GST) activity and histopathological lesions, in gills tissue were measured. The values for GST activity were modeled with the occurrence of branchial lesions by fitting a third order polynomial. Results from the mathematical model indicate that GST activity has a strong polynomial relationship with the occurrence of branchial lesions in both the wet and the dry seasons, but only at the polluted port site. The model developed in this study indicates that branchial and hepatic lesions are initiated when GST activity reaches 2.15 μmol min-1 mg protein-1. Beyond this limit, GST activity decreased to very low levels and irreversible histopathological lesions occurred. This mathematical model provides a realistic approach to analyze predictive biomarkers of environmental health status.

Three-dimensional automated choroidal volume assessment on standard spectral-domain optical coherence tomography and correlation with the level of diabetic macular edema.

PubMed

Gerendas, Bianca S; Waldstein, Sebastian M; Simader, Christian; Deak, Gabor; Hajnajeeb, Bilal; Zhang, Li; Bogunovic, Hrvoje; Abramoff, Michael D; Kundi, Michael; Sonka, Milan; Schmidt-Erfurth, Ursula

2014-11-01

To measure choroidal thickness on spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD OCT) images using automated algorithms and to correlate choroidal pathology with retinal changes attributable to diabetic macular edema (DME). Post hoc analysis of multicenter clinical trial baseline data. SD OCT raster scans/fluorescein angiograms were obtained from 284 treatment-naïve eyes of 142 patients with clinically significant DME and from 20 controls. Three-dimensional (3D) SD OCT images were evaluated by a certified independent reading center analyzing retinal changes associated with diabetic retinopathy. Choroidal thicknesses were analyzed using a fully automated algorithm. Angiograms were assessed manually. Multiple endpoint correction according to Bonferroni-Holm was applied. Main outcome measures were average retinal/choroidal thickness on fovea-centered or peak of edema (thickest point of edema)-centered Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study grid, maximum area of leakage, and the correlation between retinal and choroidal thicknesses. Total choroidal thickness is significantly reduced in DME (175 ± 23 μm; P = .0016) and nonedematous fellow eyes (177 ± 20 μm; P = .009) of patients compared with healthy control eyes (190 ± 23 μm). Retinal/choroidal thickness values showed no significant correlation (1-mm: P = .27, r(2) = 0.01; 3-mm: P = .96, r(2) < 0.0001; 6-mm: P = .42, r(2) = 0.006). No significant difference was found in the 1- or 3-mm circle of a retinal peak of edema-centered grid. All other measurements of choroidal/retinal thickness (DME vs healthy, DME vs peak of edema-centered, DME vs fellow, healthy vs fellow, peak of edema-centered vs healthy, peak of edema-centered vs fellow eyes) were compared but no statistically significant correlation was found. By tendency a thinner choroid correlates with larger retinal leakage areas. Automated algorithms can be used to reliably assess choroidal thickness in eyes with DME. Choroidal thickness was generally

The γ-Glutamyl Cycle in the Choroid Plexus: Its Possible Function in Amino Acid Transport

PubMed Central

Tate, Suresh S.; Ross, Leonard L.; Meister, Alton

1973-01-01

Various anatomic regions of rabbit brain have been examined for activities of the enzymes of the γ-glutamyl cycle. While these enzyme activities were widely distributed in the brain, they are present in much higher concentrations in the choroid plexus than in other parts of the brain. The activities observed are of about the same order of magnitude as found in the kidney. These observations and other considerations suggest that the γ-glutamyl cycle may play a significant role in the transport of amino acids between blood and cerebrospinal fluid. PMID:4145786

Effects of dorzolamide on choroidal blood flow, ciliary blood flow, and aqueous production in rabbits.

PubMed

Reitsamer, Herbert A; Bogner, Barbara; Tockner, Birgit; Kiel, Jeffrey W

2009-05-01

To determine the effects of topical dorzolamide (a carbonic anhydrase inhibitor) on choroidal and ciliary blood flow and the relationship between ciliary blood flow and aqueous flow. The experiments were performed in four groups of pentobarbital-anesthetized rabbits treated with topical dorzolamide (2%, 50 microL). In all groups, intraocular pressure (IOP) and mean arterial pressure (MAP) at the eye level were measured continuously by direct cannulation. In group 1, aqueous flow was measured by fluorophotometry before and after dorzolamide treatment. In group 2, aqueous flow was measured after dorzolamide at normal MAP and while MAP was held constant at 80, 55, or 40 mm Hg with occluders on the aorta and vena cava. In group 3, the same MAP levels were used, and ciliary blood flow was measured transsclerally by laser Doppler flowmetry (LDF). In group 4, choroidal blood flow was measured by LDF with the probe tip positioned in the vitreous over the posterior pole during ramp increases and decreases in MAP before and after dorzolamide. Dorzolamide lowered IOP by 19% (P < 0.01) and aqueous flow by 17% (P < 0.01), and increased ciliary blood flow by 18% (P < 0.01), which was associated with a significant reduction in ciliary vasculature resistance (-7%, P < 0.01). Dorzolamide shifted the relationship between ciliary blood flow and aqueous flow downward relative to the previously determined control relationship in the rabbit. Dorzolamide did not alter choroidal blood flow, choroidal vascular resistance, or the choroidal pressure flow relationship. Acute topical dorzolamide is a ciliary vasodilator and has a direct inhibitory effect on aqueous production, but it does not have a detectable effect on choroidal hemodynamics at the posterior pole in the rabbit.

Characteristics of Hyperautofluorescent Choroidal Vessels Using Fundus Camera Type Short-Wavelength Autofluorescence.

PubMed

Shinojima, Ari; Mori, Ryusaburo; Nakashizuka, Hiroyuki; Shimada, Hiroyuki

2016-01-01

To clarify differences between eyes showing hyperautofluorescent choroidal vessels in both nasal and temporal, or only the nasal, portions of the fundus using fundus autofluorescence. Nineteen eyes with hyperautofluorescent vessels in both nasal and temporal portions (group 1) and 17 only the nasal portion (group 2) of the fundus were studied. Choroidal and retinal thicknesses (foveal, and nasal and temporal 3,000 µm from the fovea), axial length, and refraction were compared between the two groups. In group 1, the average foveal, nasal, and temporal choroidal thicknesses (mean ± SD) were 69.0 ± 30.9, 57.1 ± 18.7, and 88.3 ± 30.4 μm, retinal thicknesses 170.1 ± 48.5, 221.9 ± 46.5, and 209.5 ± 37.9 μm, axial length 28.2 ± 2.2 mm, and refraction -9.9 ± 5.9 dpt. In group 2, the respective values were 174.8 ± 43.0, 80.5 ± 20.9, and 173.5 ± 46.1 μm, 213.4 ± 29.8, 278.3 ± 20.2, and 252.8 ± 19.6 μm, 24.2 ± 1.4 mm, and -1.8 ± 3.8 dpt. There were significant between-group differences for all items (p < 0.05). Fundus autofluorescence tends to be associated with the detection of hyperautofluorescent choroidal vessels in eyes with strong myopia or greater axial length. © 2016 S. Karger AG, Basel.

Pathological Alteration in the Choroid Plexus of Alzheimer’s Disease: Implication for New Therapy Approaches

PubMed Central

Krzyzanowska, Agnieszka; Carro, Eva

2012-01-01

Morphological alterations of choroid plexus in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) have been extensively investigated. These changes include epithelial atrophy, thickening of the basement membrane, and stroma fibrosis. As a result, synthesis, secretory, and transportation functions are significantly altered resulting in decreased cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) turnover. Recent studies discuss the potential impacts of these changes, including the possibility of reduced resistance to stress insults and slow clearance of toxic compounds from CSF with specific reference to the amyloid peptide. Here, we review new evidences for AD-related changes in the choroid plexus. The data suggest that the significantly altered functions of the choroid plexus contribute to the multiparametric pathogenesis of late-onset AD. PMID:22563316

Gene Expression Profiling of Multiple Sclerosis Pathology Identifies Early Patterns of Demyelination Surrounding Chronic Active Lesions

PubMed Central

Hendrickx, Debbie A. E.; van Scheppingen, Jackelien; van der Poel, Marlijn; Bossers, Koen; Schuurman, Karianne G.; van Eden, Corbert G.; Hol, Elly M.; Hamann, Jörg; Huitinga, Inge

2017-01-01

In multiple sclerosis (MS), activated microglia and infiltrating macrophages phagocytose myelin focally in (chronic) active lesions. These demyelinating sites expand in time, but at some point turn inactive into a sclerotic scar. To identify molecular mechanisms underlying lesion activity and halt, we analyzed genome-wide gene expression in rim and peri-lesional regions of chronic active and inactive MS lesions, as well as in control tissue. Gene clustering revealed patterns of gene expression specifically associated with MS and with the presumed, subsequent stages of lesion development. Next to genes involved in immune functions, we found regulation of novel genes in and around the rim of chronic active lesions, such as NPY, KANK4, NCAN, TKTL1, and ANO4. Of note, the presence of many foamy macrophages in active rims was accompanied by a congruent upregulation of genes related to lipid binding, such as MSR1, CD68, CXCL16, and OLR1, and lipid uptake, such as CHIT1, GPNMB, and CCL18. Except CCL18, these genes were already upregulated in regions around active MS lesions, showing that such lesions are indeed expanding. In vitro downregulation of the scavenger receptors MSR1 and CXCL16 reduced myelin uptake. In conclusion, this study provides the gene expression profile of different aspects of MS pathology and indicates that early demyelination, mediated by scavenger receptors, is already present in regions around active MS lesions. Genes involved in early demyelination events in regions surrounding chronic active MS lesions might be promising therapeutic targets to stop lesion expansion. PMID:29312322

Gene Expression Profiling of Multiple Sclerosis Pathology Identifies Early Patterns of Demyelination Surrounding Chronic Active Lesions.

PubMed

Hendrickx, Debbie A E; van Scheppingen, Jackelien; van der Poel, Marlijn; Bossers, Koen; Schuurman, Karianne G; van Eden, Corbert G; Hol, Elly M; Hamann, Jörg; Huitinga, Inge

2017-01-01

In multiple sclerosis (MS), activated microglia and infiltrating macrophages phagocytose myelin focally in (chronic) active lesions. These demyelinating sites expand in time, but at some point turn inactive into a sclerotic scar. To identify molecular mechanisms underlying lesion activity and halt, we analyzed genome-wide gene expression in rim and peri-lesional regions of chronic active and inactive MS lesions, as well as in control tissue. Gene clustering revealed patterns of gene expression specifically associated with MS and with the presumed, subsequent stages of lesion development. Next to genes involved in immune functions, we found regulation of novel genes in and around the rim of chronic active lesions, such as NPY, KANK4, NCAN, TKTL1 , and ANO4 . Of note, the presence of many foamy macrophages in active rims was accompanied by a congruent upregulation of genes related to lipid binding, such as MSR1, CD68, CXCL16 , and OLR1 , and lipid uptake, such as CHIT1, GPNMB , and CCL18 . Except CCL18 , these genes were already upregulated in regions around active MS lesions, showing that such lesions are indeed expanding. In vitro downregulation of the scavenger receptors MSR1 and CXCL16 reduced myelin uptake. In conclusion, this study provides the gene expression profile of different aspects of MS pathology and indicates that early demyelination, mediated by scavenger receptors, is already present in regions around active MS lesions. Genes involved in early demyelination events in regions surrounding chronic active MS lesions might be promising therapeutic targets to stop lesion expansion.

[Indocyanine green angiography in "multiple evanescent white dot syndrome" (MEWDS)].

PubMed

Desarnaulds, A B; Borruat, F X; Herbort, C P; de Courten, C

1998-05-01

Multiple evanescent white dot syndrome (MEWDS) is a benign acquired chorioretinal disorder occurring mostly in young adults. Its pathophysiology is unknown. To describe the results of indocyanine green angiography (ICGA) in MEWDS. Four patients with MEWDS were investigated by ICGA. In all cases, ICGA revealed numerous choroidal hypofluorescent lesions that largely outnumbered the lesions visible with either fundoscopy or fluorescein angiography. Three cases showed a blind spot enlargement on perimetry associated with the presence of a large peripapillary hypofluorescent zone on ICGA. Three cases showed macular granularity on fundoscopy correlating with a significant subfoveal hypfluorescent lesion on ICGA. Evolution was always favorable with disappearance of the hypofluorescent choroidal lesions. Our results confirm that MEWDS is primarily a choroidal disorder. The blind spot enlargement and the macular granularity, frequently detected in MEWDS, result from larger peripapillary and subfoveal choroidal lesions.

Choroidal and scleral mechanisms of compensation for spectacle lenses in chicks.

PubMed

Wildsoet, C; Wallman, J

1995-05-01

It is known that when hyperopic or myopic defocus is imposed on chick eyes by spectacle lenses, they rapidly compensate, becoming myopic or hyperopic respectively, by altering the depth of their vitreous chamber. Changes in two components--ocular length and choroidal thickness--underlie this rapid compensation. With monocular lens treatment, hyperopic defocus imposed by negative lenses resulted in substantially increased ocular elongation and a slight thinning of the choroid, both changes resulting in myopia; myopic defocus imposed by positive lenses resulted a dramatic increase in choroidal thickness, which pushed the retina forward toward the image plane, and a slight decrease in ocular elongation, both changes resulting in hyperopia. The refractive error after 5 days of lens wear correlated well with vitreous chamber depth, which reflected the changes in both choroidal thickness and ocular length. The degree of compensation for lenses was not affected by whether the fellow eye was covered or open. Both form-deprivation myopia and lens-induced myopia declined with age in parallel, but wearing a -15 D lens produced more myopia than did form deprivation. The spectacle lenses affected the refractive error not only of the lens-wearing eye, but also, to a much lesser degree, of the untreated fellow eye. At lens removal refractive errors were opposite in sign to the lense worn, and the subsequent changes in choroidal thickness and ocular length were also opposite to those that occurred when the lenses were in place. In this situation as well, effects of the spectacle lenses on the fellow eyes were observed. Eyes with no functional afferent connection to the brain because of either prior optic nerve section or intraocular tetrodotoxin injections showed compensatory changes to imposed defocus, but these were limited to compensation for imposed myopic defocus, at least for the eyes with optic nerve section. In addition, optic nerve section, but not tetrodotoxin treatment

Peripapillary Choroidal Thickness Variation With Age and Race in Normal Eyes

PubMed Central

Rhodes, Lindsay A.; Huisingh, Carrie; Johnstone, John; Fazio, Massimo A.; Smith, Brandon; Wang, Lan; Clark, Mark; Downs, J. Crawford; Owsley, Cynthia; Girard, Michael J. A.; Mari, Jean Martial; Girkin, Christopher A.

2015-01-01

Purpose. This study examined the association between peripapillary choroidal thickness (PCT) with age and race in a group of African descent (AD) and European descent (ED) subjects with normal eyes. Methods. Optic nerve head images from enhanced depth imaging spectral-domain optical coherence tomography of 166 normal eyes from 84 subjects of AD and ED were manually delineated to identify the principal surfaces of Bruch's membrane (BM), Bruch's membrane opening (BMO), and anterior sclera (AS). Peripapillary choroidal thickness was measured between BM and AS at increasing distance away from BMO. The mean PCT was compared between AD and ED subjects and generalized estimating equation (GEE) regression analysis was used to examine the association between race and PCT overall, in each quadrant, and by distance from BMO. Models were adjusted for age, BMO area, and axial length in the regression analysis. Results. Overall, the mean PCT increased from 63.9 μm ± 18.1 at 0 to 250 μm to 170.3 μm ± 56.7 at 1500 to 2000 μm from BMO. Individuals of AD had a greater mean PCT than those of ED at all distances from BMO (P < 0.05 at each distance) and in each quadrant (P < 0.05 in each quadrant). Results from multivariate regression indicate that ED subjects had significantly lower PCT compared to AD overall and in all quadrants and distances from BMO. Increasing age was also significantly associated with a lower PCT in both ED and AD participants. Conclusions. Peripapillary choroidal thickness varies with race and age, as individuals of AD have a thicker peripapillary choroid than those of ED. (ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT00221923.) PMID:25711640

En face choroidal vascular feature imaging in acute and chronic central serous chorioretinopathy using swept source optical coherence tomography.

PubMed

Lee, Won June; Lee, Jung Wook; Park, Seung Hun; Lee, Byung Ro

2017-05-01

To evaluate the variable depth tomographic features of choroidal vasculature in acute and chronic central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC) using swept source optical coherence tomography (SS-OCT) en face imaging. We retrospectively reviewed the en face SS-OCT images of 29 patients that presented with acute (12 eyes) or chronic (17 eyes) CSC. All of the patient eyes underwent 6×6 macular scans with SS-OCT (DRI OCT-1, Topcon, Tokyo, Japan), fluorescein angiography and indocyanine green angiography. The en face image was used to investigate the choroidal vasculature of each layer. Moreover, we determined that some parts corresponded to choriocapillaris and Sattler's layer attenuation, whereas choroidal vessel dilatation was associated with Haller's layer. At Haller's layer level, choroidal vessel dilatation was observed in 11 of 12 acute CSC (91.7%) and 15 of 17 chronic CSC (88.2%). In acute CSC, choroidal vessel dilatation was divided into focal (9/11; 81.8%) and diffuse (2/11; 18.2%) patterns. The chronic CSC cases demonstrated different patterns of choroidal vessel dilatation: focal (5/15; 33.3%) and diffuse (10/15; 66.6%). Ten of the acute CSC eyes (83.3%) and 14 of the chronic CSC eyes (82.4%) were found to have obscured choriocapillaris and Sattler's layers on en face imaging. En face imaging of SS-OCT is useful when combined with angiography in CSC for evaluating choroidal vessel dilatation at Haller's layer and to identify obscured upper layers. We identified different choroidal vessel dilatation patterns between acute and chronic CSC. These findings might be useful for pathophysiological understanding of CSC. Published by the BMJ Publishing Group Limited. For permission to use (where not already granted under a licence) please go to http://www.bmj.com/company/products-services/rights-and-licensing/.

Th17 Cells and Activated Dendritic Cells Are Increased in Vitiligo Lesions

PubMed Central

Fuentes-Duculan, Judilyn; Moussai, Dariush; Gulati, Nicholas; Sullivan-Whalen, Mary; Gilleaudeau, Patricia; Cohen, Jules A.; Krueger, James G.

2011-01-01

Background Vitiligo is a common skin disorder, characterized by progressive skin de-pigmentation due to the loss of cutaneous melanocytes. The exact cause of melanocyte loss remains unclear, but a large number of observations have pointed to the important role of cellular immunity in vitiligo pathogenesis. Methodology/Principal Findings In this study, we characterized T cell and inflammation-related dermal dendritic cell (DC) subsets in pigmented non-lesional, leading edge and depigmented lesional vitiligo skin. By immunohistochemistry staining, we observed enhanced populations of CD11c+ myeloid dermal DCs and CD207+ Langerhans cells in leading edge vitiligo biopsies. DC-LAMP+ and CD1c+ sub-populations of dermal DCs expanded significantly in leading edge and lesional vitiligo skin. We also detected elevated tissue mRNA levels of IL-17A in leading edge skin biopsies of vitiligo patients, as well as IL-17A positive T cells by immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence. Langerhans cells with activated inflammasomes were also noted in lesional vitiligo skin, along with increased IL-1ß mRNA, which suggest the potential of Langerhans cells to drive Th17 activation in vitiligo. Conclusions/Significance These studies provided direct tissue evidence that implicates active Th17 cells in vitiligo skin lesions. We characterized new cellular immune elements, in the active margins of vitiligo lesions (e.g. populations of epidermal and dermal dendritic cells subsets), which could potentially drive the inflammatory responses. PMID:21541348

In Vivo Detection of Choroidal Abnormalities Related to NF1: Feasibility and Comparison With Standard NIH Diagnostic Criteria in Pediatric Patients.

PubMed

Parrozzani, Raffaele; Clementi, Maurizio; Frizziero, Luisa; Miglionico, Giacomo; Perrini, Pierdavide; Cavarzeran, Fabiano; Kotsafti, Olympia; Comacchio, Francesco; Trevisson, Eva; Convento, Enrica; Fusetti, Stefano; Midena, Edoardo

2015-09-01

To evaluate the feasibility of near-infrared (NIR) imaging acquisition in a large sample of consecutive pediatric patients with neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1), to evaluate the diagnostic performance of NF1-related choroidal abnormalities as a diagnostic criterion of the disease, and to compare this criterion with other standard National Institutes of Health (NIH) diagnostic criteria. A total of 140 consecutive pediatric patients (0-16 years old) affected by NF1 (at least two diagnostic criteria), 59 suspected (a single diagnostic criterion), and 42 healthy subjects (no diagnostic criterion) were consecutively included. Each patient underwent genetic, dermatologic, and ophthalmologic examination to evaluate the presence/absence of each NIH diagnostic criterion. The presence of NF1-related choroidal abnormalities was investigated using NIR confocal ophthalmoscopy. Two masked operators assessed Lisch nodules and NF1-related choroidal abnormalities. Neurofibromatosis type 1-related choroidal abnormalities were detected in 72 affected (60.5%) and 1 suspected (2.4%) child. No healthy subject had choroidal abnormalities. Feasibility rate of this sign was 82%. Sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values of NF1-related choroidal abnormalities were 0.60, 0.97, 0.98, and 0.46, respectively. Compared with standard NIH criteria, the presence of NF1-related choroidal abnormalities was the third parameter for positive predictive value and the fourth for sensitivity, specificity, and negative predictive value. Compared with Lisch nodules, NF1-related choroidal abnormalities were characterized by higher specificity and positive predictive value. The interoperator agreement for Lisch nodules and NF1-related choroidal abnormalities was 0.67 (substantial) and 0.97 (almost perfect), respectively. The use of this sign moved one patient from the suspected to the affected group (0.5%). Neurofibromatosis type 1-related choroidal abnormalities represent a new

Commissural NTS lesions enhance the pressor response to central cholinergic and adrenergic activation.

PubMed

Vieira, Alexandre A; De Luca, Laurival A; Colombari, Eduardo; Colombari, Debora S A; Menani, José V

2012-07-11

Electrolytic lesions of the commissural nucleus of the solitary tract (commNTS) in rats enhance the pressor response to bilateral carotid occlusion or to intravenous infusion of hypertonic NaCl without changing baroreflex responses. In an opposite direction, commNTS lesions abolish the pressor responses to peripheral chemoreflex activation. These opposite effects of commNTS lesions apparently result from an impairment of sympathetic activation in one case and in a facilitation of vasopressin secretion in the others. In the present study, we investigated the effects of the electrolytic lesions of the commNTS in the pressor responses that depend on sympathetic activation and vasopressin secretion produced by central cholinergic or adrenergic activation with intracerebroventricular (i.c.v.) injections of carbachol or noradrenaline, respectively, in unanesthetized rats. Male Holtzman rats (280-320 g, n=8-15/group) with acute (1 day) or chronic (21 days) sham or commNTS lesions (1 mA×10 s) and a stainless steel cannula implanted in the lateral ventricle were used. Acute commNTS lesions increased the pressor response to i.c.v. injection of carbachol (0.5 nmol/1μ1) (52 ± 2, vs. sham: 37 ± 2mm Hg) or noradrenaline (80 nmol/1μl) (45 ± 6, vs. sham: 30 ± 3 mm Hg), whereas chronic commNTS lesions did not affect the pressor responses to the same treatments. Lesions of the commNTS impaired chemoreflex responses produced by intravenous KCN, without changing baroreflex responses. The results suggest that commNTS-dependent inhibitory signals are involved in the modulation of the pressor responses to central cholinergic and adrenergic activation, probably limiting vasopressin secretion. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Effect of duration and severity of migraine on retinal nerve fiber layer, ganglion cell layer, and choroidal thickness.

PubMed

Abdellatif, Mona K; Fouad, Mohamed M

2018-03-01

To investigate the factors in migraine that have the highest significance on retinal and choroidal layers' thickness. Ninety patients with migraine and 40 age-matched healthy participants were enrolled in this observational, cross-sectional study. After full ophthalmological examination, spectral domain-optical coherence tomography was done for all patients measuring the thickness of ganglion cell layer and retinal nerve fiber layer. Enhanced depth imaging technique was used to measure the choroidal thickness. There was significant thinning in the superior and inferior ganglion cell layers, all retinal nerve fiber layer quadrants, and all choroidal quadrants (except for the central subfield) in migraineurs compared to controls. The duration of migraine was significantly correlated with ganglion cell layer, retinal nerve fiber layer, and all choroidal quadrants, while the severity of migraine was significantly correlated with ganglion cell layer and retinal nerve fiber layer only. Multiregression analysis showed that the duration of migraine is the most important determinant factor of the superior retinal nerve fiber layer quadrant (β = -0.375, p = 0.001) and in all the choroidal quadrants (β = -0.531, -0.692, -0.503, -0.461, -0.564, respectively, p  < 0.001), while severity is the most important determinant factor of inferior, nasal, and temporal retinal nerve fiber layer quadrants (β = -0.256, -0.335, -0.308; p  = 0.036, 0.005, 0.009, respectively) and the inferior ganglion cell layer hemisphere (β = -0.377 and p = 0.001). Ganglion cell layer, retinal nerve fiber layer, and choroidal thickness are significantly thinner in patients with migraine. The severity of migraine has more significant influence in the thinning of ganglion cell layer and retinal nerve fiber layer, while the duration of the disease affected the choroidal thickness more.

ELECTROMYOGRAPHIC ACTIVITY OF STERNOCLEIDOMASTOID AND MASTICATORY MUSCLES IN PATIENTS WITH VESTIBULAR LESIONS

PubMed Central

Tartaglia, Gianluca M.; Barozzi, Stefania; Marin, Federico; Cesarani, Antonio; Ferrario, Virgilio F.

2008-01-01

This study evaluated the electromyographic characteristics of masticatory and neck muscles in subjects with vestibular lesions. Surface electromyography of the masseter, temporalis and sternocleidomastoid muscles was performed in 19 patients with Ménière's disease, 12 patients with an acute peripheral vestibular lesion, and 19 control subjects matched for sex and age. During maximum voluntary clenching, patients with peripheral vestibular lesions had the highest co-contraction of the sternocleidomastoid muscle (analysis of covariance, p=0.02), the control subjects had the smallest values, and the patients with Ménière's disease had intermediate values. The control subjects had larger standardized muscle activities than the other patient groups (p=0.001). In conclusion, during maximum voluntary tooth clenching, patients with vestibular alterations have both more active neck muscles, and less active masticatory muscles than normal controls. Results underline the importance of a more inclusive craniocervical assessment of patients with vestibular lesions. PMID:19082397

Atypical Presentation of Ocular Toxoplasmosis: A Case Report of Exudative Retinal Detachment and Choroidal Ischemia.

PubMed

Al-Zahrani, Yahya A; Al-Dhibi, Hassan A; Al-Abdullah, Abdulelah A

2016-01-01

A 24-year-old healthy male presented with a chief complaint of blurred vision in the right eye for 1-week. Fundus examination indicated right exudative retinal detachment and choroidal ischemia. The patient responded well to anti-toxoplasmosis medications and steroids. Exudative retinal detachment and choroidal ischemia are atypical presentations of ocular toxoplasmosis. However, both conditions responded well to anti.parasitic therapy with steroid.

BIRDSHOT CHORIORETINITIS LESIONS ON INDOCYANINE GREEN ANGIOGRAPHY AS AN INDICATOR OF DISEASE ACTIVITY.

PubMed

Cao, Jennifer H; Silpa-Archa, Sukhum; Freitas-Neto, Clovis A; Foster, C Stephen

2016-09-01

To determine whether classical indocyanine green angiography lesions in patients with birdshot chorioretinitis can be used to monitor disease activity. A retrospective case series was performed on 26 eyes in 26 consecutive patients with birdshot chorioretinitis who had at least one indocyanine green angiography performed during disease activity and another during disease quiescence. Using Photoshop, the mean number, area, and area per spot on indocyanine green angiography were compared between disease activity and quiescence using a paired ratio test. The mean total lesion number, area, and area per spot during disease activity were 75.27 spots, 24,525 pixels, and 364 pixels/spots, respectively. The mean total lesion number, area, and area per spot size during disease quiescence were 28.35 spots (P < 0.01), 7,411 pixels (P < 0.01), and 279 pixels/spot (P = 0.12), respectively. There was a statistically significant decrease in the mean total area and number of lesions between the time of disease activity and disease quiescence (P < 0.01). Our results suggest that indocyanine green angiography has a role not only in diagnosis but also in monitoring treatment effectiveness; lesions can be reversible with treatment and their reappearance may be an indicator of disease relapse.

Choroidal retinoic acid synthesis: a possible mediator between refractive error and compensatory eye growth.

PubMed

Mertz, J R; Wallman, J

2000-04-01

Research over the past two decades has shown that the growth of young eyes is guided by vision. If near- or far-sightedness is artificially imposed by spectacle lenses, eyes of primates and chicks compensate by changing their rate of elongation, thereby growing back to the pre-lens optical condition. Little is known about what chemical signals might mediate between visual effects on the retina and alterations of eye growth. We present five findings that point to choroidal retinoic acid possibly being such a mediator. First, the chick choroid can convert retinol into all-trans-retinoic acid at the rate of 11 +/- 3 pmoles mg protein(-1) hr(-1), compared to 1.3 +/- 0.3 for retina/RPE and no conversion for sclera. Second, those visual conditions that cause increased rates of ocular elongation (diffusers or negative lens wear) produce a sharp decrease in all-trans-retinoic acid synthesis to levels barely detectable with our assay. In contrast, visual conditions which result in decreased rates of ocular elongation (recovery from diffusers or positive lens wear) produce a four- to five-fold increase in the formation of all-trans-retinoic acid. Third, the choroidal retinoic acid is found bound to a 28-32 kD protein. Fourth, a large fraction of the choroidal retinoic acid synthesized in culture is found in a nucleus-enriched fraction of sclera. Finally, application of retinoic acid to cultured sclera at physiological concentrations produced an inhibition of proteoglycan production (as assessed by measuring sulfate incorporation) with a EC50 of 8 x 10(-7) M. These results show that the synthesis of choroidal retinoic acid is modulated by those visual manipulations that influence ocular elongation and that this retinoic acid may reach the sclera in concentrations adequate to modulate scleral proteoglycan formation.

Peripapillary choroidal thickness in healthy controls and patients with focal, diffuse, and sclerotic glaucomatous optic disc damage.

PubMed

Roberts, Kenneth F; Artes, Paul H; O'Leary, Neil; Reis, Alexandre S C; Sharpe, Glen P; Hutchison, Donna M; Chauhan, Balwantray C; Nicolela, Marcelo T

2012-08-01

To examine peripapillary choroidal thickness in healthy controls and in patients with glaucoma who have focal, diffuse, and sclerotic optic disc damage. Healthy controls (n=92) and patients with glaucoma who have focal (n=34), diffuse (n=35), and sclerotic (n=34) optic disc damage were imaged with spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (12° circular scan protocol centered on optic nerve head). Peripapillary choroidal thickness was measured as the distance between the automatically segmented retinal pigment epithelium/Bruch's membrane and the manually outlined interface between the posterior choroid and the anterior border of the sclera in eyes in which the anterior scleral border was visible over more than 85% of the scan circumference. The anterior scleral border was visible in 76 controls (83%) and 89 patients (86%). Peripapillary choroidal thickness in healthy controls decreased linearly with age (-11 μm/decade; P.001; r2=0.16), with a predicted value of 137 μm at age 70 years (95% prediction interval, 62-212 μm). While this value was similar in patients with focal and diffuse optic disc damage (126 and 130 μm, respectively; P=.22 compared with controls), it was approximately 30% lower in patients with sclerotic optic disc damage (96 μm; P.001 compared with controls). The peripapillary choroid of patients with glaucoma who have sclerotic optic disc damage was approximately 25% to 30% thinner compared with that in patients with focal and diffuse optic disc damage and with that in healthy controls. The role of the choroid in the pathophysiology of sclerotic glaucomatous optic disc damage needs further investigation.

The relationship between scleral staphyloma and choroidal thinning in highly myopic eyes: The Beijing Eye Study.

PubMed

Zhou, Ling Xiao; Shao, Lei; Xu, Liang; Wei, Wen Bin; Wang, Ya Xing; You, Qi Sheng

2017-08-29

Based on the Beijing Eye Study 2011, a detailed ophthalmic examination was performed including spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) with enhanced depth imaging for measurement of subfoveal choroidal thickness (SFCT) and relative height of posterior scleral staphyloma. OCT images were obtained in 103 highly myopic eyes (≤-6.00 diopters) and 227 normal eyes. The mean SFCT in highly myopic eyes was 110.6 ± 85.2 μm (range, 3 to 395 μm). The SFCT of high myopia without posterior scleral staphyloma(55 eyes) was 157.79 ± 85.18 μm, which was significantly greater than that (54.94 ± 49.96 μm) of high myopia with posterior scleral staphyloma (48 eyes) (P < 0.001). In multivariate analysis, posterior scleral staphyloma was the most important factor of choroidal thinning in high myopia (F = 22.63; P < 0.001), then age (F = 19.14; P < 0.001), axial length (F = 17.37; P < 0.001) and gender (F = 17.31; P < 0.001). The SFCT in highly myopic eyes is very thin and undergoes further thinning with increasing age and axial length (refractive error). Posterior staphyloma formation was a key factor in choroidal thinning in highly myopic eyes and to be a good indicator for risk management of choroidal thinning. Abnormalities of the choroid may play a role in the pathogenesis of myopic degeneration.

Semi-automated software to measure luminal and stromal areas of choroid in optical coherence tomographic images.

PubMed

Sonoda, Shozo; Sakamoto, Taiji; Kakiuchi, Naoko; Shiihara, Hideki; Sakoguchi, Tomonori; Tomita, Masatoshi; Yamashita, Takehiro; Uchino, Eisuke

2018-03-01

To determine the capabilities of "EyeGround" software in measuring the choroidal cross sectional areas in optical coherence tomographic (OCT) images. Cross sectional, prospective study. The cross-sectional area of the subfoveal choroid within a 1500 µm diameter circle centered on the fovea was measured both with and without using the EyeGround software in the OCT images. The differences between the evaluation times and the results of the measurements were compared. The inter-rater, intra-rater, inter-method agreements were determined. Fifty-one eyes of 51 healthy subjects were studied: 24 men and 27 women with an average age of 35.0 ± 8.8 years. The time for analyzing a single image was significantly shorter with the software at 3.2±1.1 min than without the software at 12.1±5.1 min (P <0.001). The inter-method correlation efficient for the measurements of the whole choroid was high [0.989, 95% CI (0.981-0.994)]. With the software, the inter-rater correlation efficient was significantly high [0.997, 95% CI (0.995-0.999)], and the intra-rater correlation efficient was also significantly high [0.999, 95% CI (0.999-1.0)]. The EyeGround software can measure the choroidal area in the OCT cross sectional images with good reproducibility and in a significantly shorter times. It can be a valuable tool for analyzing the choroid.

Diurnal variations in axial length, choroidal thickness, intraocular pressure, and ocular biometrics.

PubMed

Chakraborty, Ranjay; Read, Scott A; Collins, Michael J

2011-07-11

To investigate the pattern of diurnal variations in axial length (AL), choroidal thickness, intraocular pressure (IOP), and ocular biometrics over 2 consecutive days. Measurements of ocular biometrics and IOP were collected for 30 young adult subjects (15 myopes, 15 emmetropes) at 10 different times over 2 consecutive days. Five sets of measurements were collected each day at approximately 3-hour intervals, with the first measurement taken at ~9 AM and final measurement at ~9 PM. AL underwent significant diurnal variation (P < 0.0001) that was consistently observed across the 2 measurement days. The longest AL was typically observed at the second measurement session (mean time, 12:26) and the shortest AL at the final session of each day (mean time, 21:06). The mean diurnal change in AL was 0.032 ± 0.018 mm. Choroidal thickness underwent significant diurnal variation (mean change, 0.029 ± 0.016 mm; P < 0.001) and varied approximately in antiphase to the AL changes. Significant diurnal variations were also found in vitreous chamber depth (VCD; mean change, 0.06 ± 0.029 mm; P < 0.0001) and IOP (mean change, 3.54 ± 0.84 mm Hg; P < 0.0001). A positive association was found between the variations of AL and IOP (r(2) = 0.17, P < 0.0001) and AL and VCD (r(2) = 0.31, P < 0.0001) and a negative association between AL and choroidal thickness (r(2) = 0.13, P < 0.0001). There were no significant differences in the magnitude and timing of diurnal variations associated with refractive error. Significant diurnal variations in AL, choroidal thickness, and IOP were consistently observed over 2 consecutive days of testing.

Clinical and Histopathologic Ocular Findings in Disseminated Mycobacterium chimaera Infection after Cardiothoracic Surgery.

PubMed

Zweifel, Sandrine A; Mihic-Probst, Daniela; Curcio, Christine A; Barthelmes, Daniel; Thielken, Andrea; Keller, Peter M; Hasse, Barbara; Böni, Christian

2017-02-01

To investigate and characterize clinical and histopathologic ocular findings in patients with disseminated infection with Mycobacterium chimaera, a slow-growing nontuberculous mycobacterium (NTM), subsequent to cardiothoracic surgery. Observational case series. Five white patients (10 eyes). Analysis of clinical ocular findings, including visual acuity, slit-lamp biomicroscopy, spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD OCT), fundus autofluorescence (FAF), and fluorescein angiography/indocyanine green (ICG) angiography findings, of patients with a disseminated M. chimaera infection. Biomicroscopic and multimodal imaging findings were compared with the histopathology of 1 patient. Clinical and histopathologic ocular findings of M. chimaera. The mean age of the 5 male patients, diagnosed with endocarditis or aortic graft infection, was 57.8 years. Clinical ocular findings included anterior and intermediate uveitis, optic disc swelling, and white-yellowish choroidal lesions. Multifocal choroidal lesions were observed bilaterally in all patients and were hyperfluorescent on fluorescein angiography, hypofluorescent on ICG angiography, and correlated with choroidal lesions on SD OCT. The extent of choroidal lesions varied from few in 2 patients to widespread miliary lesions in 3 patients leading to localized choroidal thickening with elevation of the overlying retinal layers. Spectral-domain optical coherence tomography through regressing lesions revealed altered outer retinal layers and choroidal hypertransmission. The ocular findings were correlated with the course of the systemic disease. Patients with few choroidal lesions had a favorable outcome, whereas all patients with widespread chorioretinitis died of systemic complications of M. chimaera infection despite long-term targeted antimicrobial therapy. Ocular tissue was obtained from 1 patient at autopsy. Necropsy of 2 eyes of 1 patient revealed prominent granulomatous lymphohistiocytic choroiditis with

Massive spontaneous choroidal hemorrhage in a patient with chronic renal failure and coronary artery disease treated with Plavix.

PubMed

De Marco, Rocco; Aurilia, Pasquale; Mele, Alessandro

2009-01-01

To report a case of massive spontaneous choroidal hemorrhage in a patient with chronic renal failure and coronary artery disease treated with clopidogrel bisulfate (Plavix). Case report. A 75-year-old man presented with pain and loss of vision in the left eye for 1 week. His medical history was remarkable for systemic hypertension, chronic renal failure, and artery coronary disease. For 6 months, he had been taking 75 mg/day of Plavix after coronary angioplasty. Ocular examination revealed the patient to be in angle closure. Ultrasonography and computed tomography scan revealed a massive choroidal hemorrhage pushing the iris-lens diaphragm forward. Pain and intraocular pressure were treated successfully with evacuative sclerotomies, but the final exitus after 6 months was bulbar phthisis. Massive spontaneous choroidal hemorrhage is an extremely rare event that usually has been described in older patients (65-87 years old) receiving anticoagulants or thrombolytic agents. Systemic hypertension, generalized atherosclerosis, and age-related macular degeneration are additional risk factors. In the present case, massive choroidal hemorrhage was associated with use of clopidogrel bisulfate (Plavix) in a patient with chronic renal failure. Our report indicates that Plavix should be administered with caution in patients with chronic renal failure owing to the risk of serious choroidal bleeding. Chronic renal failure should be also included in the list of risk factors for massive spontaneous choroidal hemorrhage. Evacuative sclerotomies may have value in the relief of pain and elevated intraocular pressure but has not been shown to be beneficial in visual and anatomic outcomes.

Effects of adenosine on intraocular pressure, optic nerve head blood flow, and choroidal blood flow in healthy humans.

PubMed

Polska, Elzbieta; Ehrlich, Paulina; Luksch, Alexandra; Fuchsjäger-Mayrl, Gabriele; Schmetterer, Leopold

2003-07-01

There is evidence from a variety of animal studies that the adenosine system plays a role in the control of intraocular pressure (IOP) and ocular blood flow. However, human data on the effect of adenosine on IOP and choroidal and optic nerve blood flow are not available. The effect of stepwise increases in doses of adenosine (10, 20, and 40 micro g/kg per minute, 30 minutes per infusion step) on optic nerve head blood flow, choroidal blood flow, and IOP was determined in a placebo-controlled double-masked clinical trial in 12 healthy male volunteers. Blood flow in the optic nerve head and choroid was measured with laser Doppler flowmetry. In addition, fundus pulsation amplitude in the macula (FPAM) and the optic nerve head (FPAO) were assessed with laser interferometry. Adenosine induced a small but significant decrease in IOP (at 40 microg/kg per minute: 12% +/- 13%), which was significant versus placebo (P = 0.046). In addition, adenosine induced a significant increase in choroidal blood flow (P < 0.001) and optic nerve head blood flow (P = 0.037), and FPAM (P = 0.0014) and tended to increase FPAO (P = 0.057). At the highest administered dose, the effect on choroidal hemodynamic parameters between 14% and 17%, whereas the effect on optic nerve hemodynamic parameters was between 3% and 11%. These data are consistent with adenosine inducing choroidal and optic nerve head vasodilatation and reducing IOP in healthy humans. Considering the neuroprotective properties of adenosine described in previous animal experiments the adenosine system is an attractive target system for therapeutic approaches in glaucoma.

Inhibition of VEGF secretion and experimental choroidal neovascularization by picropodophyllin (PPP), an inhibitor of the insulin-like growth factor-1 receptor.

PubMed

Economou, Mario A; Wu, Jiangmei; Vasilcanu, Daiana; Rosengren, Linda; All-Ericsson, Charlotta; van der Ploeg, Ingeborg; Menu, Eline; Girnita, Leonard; Axelson, Magnus; Larsson, Olle; Seregard, Stefan; Kvanta, Anders

2008-11-01

Choroidal neovascularization (CNV) is a debilitating complication of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and a leading cause of vision loss. Along with other angiogenic factors like vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), insulin-like growth factor (IGF-1) and its receptor, IGF-1R, have been implicated in CNV. We have previously shown that the cyclolignan picropodophyllin (PPP) efficiently blocks the insulin-like growth factor-1 receptor (IGF-1R) activity and causes cell death in uveal melanoma cell lines and in an in-vivo model. In this study we investigated the effect of PPP on VEGF expression both in vitro and in vivo and whether this effect has anti-angiogenic consequences in a murine CNV model. C57BL/6J mice with laser-induced CNVs were treated with PPP. Effects on CNV area were assayed by image analysis. VEGF levels in choroids and retinal pigment epithelial cells (APRE-19) were measured by Western blot or ELISA. Transcriptional activation of the VEGF promoter was determined by luciferase reporter gene assay. Mice treated with PPP, administered intraperitoneally or orally, showed 22-32% (p = 0.002) decrease in CNV area. Furthermore, VEGF levels in the choroids were significantly reduced. In cultured APRE-19 cells, IGF-1 was shown to increase VEGF secretion. This increase was completely blocked by PPP. We could confirm that PPP reduced the level of transcriptional activity of VEGF promoter. PPP reduces IGF-1 dependent VEGF expression and CNV in vivo. Accordingly, IGF-1R inhibitors may be useful tools in the therapy of conditions associated with CNV including neovascular AMD.

Inhibition of VEGF secretion and experimental choroidal neovascularization by picropodophyllin (PPP), an inhibitor of the insulin-like growth factor-1 receptor.

PubMed

Economou, Mario A; Wu, Jiangmei; Vasilcanu, Daiana; Rosengren, Linda; All-Ericsson, Charlotta; van der Ploeg, Ingeborg; Menu, Eline; Girnita, Leonard; Axelson, Magnus; Larsson, Olle; Seregard, Stefan; Kvanta, Anders

2008-06-01

Choroidal neovascularization (CNV) is a debilitating complication of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and a leading cause of vision loss. Along with other angiogenic factors such as vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-1 and its receptor, IGF-1R, have been implicated in CNV. A prior study has shown that the cyclolignan picropodophyllin (PPP) efficiently blocks the insulin-like growth factor-1 receptor (IGF-1R) activity and causes cell death in uveal melanoma cell lines and in an in vivo model. In this study we investigated the effect of PPP on VEGF expression, both in vitro and in vivo, and whether this effect has antiangiogenic consequences in a murine CNV model. C57BL/6J mice with laser-induced CNVs were treated with PPP. Effects on CNV area were assayed by image analysis. VEGF levels in the choroid and retinal pigment epithelial cells (ARPE-19) were measured by Western blot or ELISA. Transcriptional activation of the VEGF promoter was determined by luciferase reporter gene assay. Mice treated with PPP, administered intraperitoneally or orally, showed a 22% to 32% (P = 0.002) decrease in CNV area. Furthermore, VEGF levels in the choroid were significantly reduced. In cultured ARPE-19 cells, IGF-1 was shown to increase VEGF secretion. This increase was completely blocked by PPP. PPP reduced the level of transcriptional activity of the VEGF promoter. PPP reduces IGF-1-dependent VEGF expression and CNV in vivo. Accordingly, IGF-1R inhibitors may be useful tools in the treatment of conditions associated with CNV, including neovascular AMD.

Maturation of Rb+ and PAH accumulation by rabbit anterior uvea and choroid plexus

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Krupin, T.; Fritz, C.; Becker, B.

In vitro accumulation of radioactive para-aminohippuric acid (/sup 3/H-PAH) and rubidium (/sup 86/Rb+) by the anterior uvea, ciliary processes, and the choroid plexus was evaluated in tissues from newborn and various aged rabbits. Accumulation of PAH was present in the anterior uvea at 1 day of age (tissue to media ratio, T/M, of 2.1 +/- 0.2) and remained at this level for the first 14 days of life. Accumulation did not rise to adult levels until 21 days of age (T/M 5.5 +/- 0.6). Rubidium accumulation in the anterior uvea, a measure of Na+, K+-pump activity, was higher than adultmore » values 6 hr after birth (T/M25.2 +/- 0.9). Activity remained elevated through day 28 and did not fall to adult levels until day 60 (T/M 13.4 +/- 0.6). Accumulation studies on isolated ciliary processes were similar to those obtained from anterior uveal tissue. Daily subcutaneous injections of penicillin (300,000 units/kg/day) for 1 week had no effect on anterior uvea PAH accumulation (penicillin T/M was 1.7 +/- 0.1 and saline control T/M was 2.0 +/- 0.2). Accumulation of either /sup 3/H-PAH or /sup 86/Rb+ by the choroid plexus was present 1 day after birth in amounts that were similar to adult values and did not change during the 90 days of testing.« less

Optical coherence tomography angiography reproducibility of lesion size measurements in neovascular age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

PubMed

Amoroso, Francesca; Miere, Alexandra; Semoun, Oudy; Jung, Camille; Capuano, Vittorio; Souied, Eric H

2018-06-01

To evaluate the reproducibility and interuser agreement of measurements of choroidal neovascularisation in optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA). Prospective non-interventional study. Consecutive patients, presenting with neovascular age-related macular degeneration (AMD), underwent two sequential OCTA examinations (AngioVue, Optovue, Fremont, California, USA), performed by the same trained examiner. Neovascular lesion area was then measured on both examinations in the choriocapillaris automatic segmentation by two masked readers, using the semiautomated measuring software embedded in the instrument. Two measuring features were used: the first corresponding to the total manually contoured lesion area with the flow draw tool (select area) and the second to the total area of solely vessels with high flow within the lesion (vessel area). These measurements were then compared in order to assess both the reproducibility of OCTA examination and the interuser agreement with the embedded software. Forty-eight eyes of 46 patients (77.4 mean age,+/-8.2 SD, range from 62 to 95 years old, eight men, 38 women) were included in our study. Mean choroidal neovascularisation area was of 0.72+/-0.7 mm 2 for the first measurement and 0.75+/-0.76 mm 2 for the second measurement; difference between the first and the second measurement was 0.03 mm 2 . Intrauser agreement was of 0.98 (CI 0.98 to 0.99) for both 'vessel area' and 'select area' features. Interuser agreement was of 0.98 (CI 0.97 to 0.99) for 'select area' and 'vessel area' features. Our data suggest that OCTA provide reproducible imaging for evaluation of the neovascular size in the setting of AMD. © Article author(s) (or their employer(s) unless otherwise stated in the text of the article) 2018. All rights reserved. No commercial use is permitted unless otherwise expressly granted.

Salt-loading increases vasopressin and vasopressin 1b receptor mRNA in the hypothalamus and choroid plexus.

PubMed

Zemo, D A; McCabe, J T

2001-01-01

The choroid plexus plays a pivotal role in the production of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). Messenger RNA (mRNA) transcripts encoding arginine vasopressin (AVP) and the vasopressin 1b receptor (V(1b)R) are found in various structures of the central nervous system, including the choroid plexus. The present study measured AVP and V(1b)R mRNA production in response to plasma hyperosmolality. Compared to rats maintained on water, 2% salt-drinking rats had increased levels of AVP and V(1b)R mRNAs in the supraoptic (SON) and paraventricular (PVN) nuclei of the hypothalamus and in the choroid plexus. The increase in V(1b)R mRNA in the SON and PVN as a result of plasma hyperosmolality may reflect changes in receptor production that, in turn, have a role in AVP autoregulation of hypothalamic magnocellular neurons. The increase of AVP and V(1b)R mRNAs in the choroid plexus further shows the involvement of AVP in the regulation of brain water content and cerebral edema. Copyright 2001 Harcourt Publishers Ltd.

Imaging of the human choroid with a 1.7 MHz A-scan rate FDML swept source OCT system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gorczynska, I.; Migacz, J. V.; Jonnal, R.; Zawadzki, R. J.; Poddar, R.; Werner, J. S.

2017-02-01

We demonstrate OCT angiography (OCTA) and Doppler OCT imaging of the choroid in the eyes of two healthy volunteers and in a geographic atrophy case. We show that visualization of specific choroidal layers requires selection of appropriate OCTA methods. We investigate how imaging speed, B-scan averaging and scanning density influence visualization of various choroidal vessels. We introduce spatial power spectrum analysis of OCT en face angiographic projections as a method of quantitative analysis of choroicapillaris morphology. We explore the possibility of Doppler OCT imaging to provide information about directionality of blood flow in choroidal vessels. To achieve these goals, we have developed OCT systems utilizing an FDML laser operating at 1.7 MHz sweep rate, at 1060 nm center wavelength, and with 7.5 μm axial imaging resolution. A correlation mapping OCA method was implemented for visualization of the vessels. Joint Spectral and Time domain OCT (STdOCT) technique was used for Doppler OCT imaging.

Correlation between choroidal thickness and degree of myopia assessed with enhanced depth imaging optical coherence tomography.

PubMed

El-Shazly, Amany A; Farweez, Yousra A; ElSebaay, Marwa E; El-Zawahry, Walid M A

2017-08-30

To assess the choroidal thickness in different degrees of myopia using enhanced depth imaging optical coherence tomography (EDI-OCT) compared with healthy subjects. We included 240 patients with myopia and 60 emmetropes as controls. Participants underwent full ophthalmologic examination, axial length measurement, and EDI-OCT imaging of the choroid. Choroidal thickness (CT) was measured at 5 locations, including subfoveal (SFCT), 2 mm nasal, temporal, upper, and lower to fovea. Choroidal thickness was significantly lower in myopic eyes compared to controls. Regardless of the degree of myopia, nasal regions showed the lowest CT with decremental pattern with advance of myopia (low myopia 279.00 ± 24.50 µm, moderate myopia 269.58 ± 20.69 µm, high myopia 189.58 ± 25.95 µm, advanced myopia 96.75 ± 24.83 µm). Highest CT was variable according to the degree of myopia with decremental pattern with advance of myopia (low myopia in subfoveal region 354.40 ± 35.14 µm, moderate myopia in temporal region 337.87 ± 35.75 µm, high myopia in lower region 312.15 ± 38.90 µm, and advanced myopia in upper region 201.25 ± 18.27 µm). Axial length showed significant negative correlation with SFCT and CT in different studied regions. Different degrees of myopia showed thinner choroidal thickness than that of normal control eyes with decremental thinning with progress of myopia. This might be secondary to the longer axial length, which was the determining factor in some locations such as subfoveal, nasal, and upper CT.

Monocyte Chemoattractant Protein-1 in the choroid plexus: a potential link between vascular pro-inflammatory mediators and the CNS during peripheral tissue inflammation

PubMed Central

Mitchell, K.; Yang, H.-Y. T.; Berk, J. D.; Tran, J. H.; Iadarola, M. J.

2009-01-01

During peripheral tissue inflammation, inflammatory processes in the CNS can be initiated by blood-borne pro-inflammatory mediators. The choroid plexus, the site of CSF production, is a highly specialized interface between the vascular system and CNS, and thus, this structure may be an important element in communication between the vascular compartment and the CNS during peripheral tissue inflammation. We investigated the potential participation of the choroid plexus in this process during peripheral tissue inflammation by examining expression of the SCYA2 gene which codes for monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1). MCP-1 protein was previously reported to be induced in a variety of cells during peripheral tissue inflammation. In the basal state, SCYA2 is highly expressed in the choroid plexus as compared to other CNS tissues. During hind paw inflammation, SCYA2 expression was significantly elevated in choroid plexus, whereas it remained unchanged in a variety of brain regions. The SCYA2-expressing cells were strongly associated with the choroid plexus as vascular depletion of blood cells by whole-body saline flush did not significantly alter SCYA2 expression in the choroid plexus. In situ hybridization suggested that the SCYA2-expressing cells were localized to the choroid plexus stroma. To elucidate potential molecular mechanisms of SCYA2 increase, we examined genes in the NF-κβ signaling cascade including TNF-α, IL-1β and IκBα in choroid tissue. Given that we also detected increased levels of MCP-1 protein by ELISA, we sought to identify potential downstream targets of MCP-1 and observed altered expression levels of mRNAs encoding tight junction proteins TJP2 and claudin 5. Finally, we detected a substantial up-regulation of the transcript encoding E-selectin, a molecule which could participate in leukocyte recruitment to the choroid plexus along with MCP-1. Together, these results suggest that profound changes occur in the choroid plexus during

Peripheral Reticular Pigmentary Degeneration and Choroidal Vascular Insufficiency, Studied by Ultra Wide-Field Fluorescein Angiography

PubMed Central

Bae, Kunho; Cho, Kyuyeon; Kang, Se Woong; Kim, Sang Jin; Kim, Jong Min

2017-01-01

Purpose To explore the pathogenesis of peripheral reticular pigmentary degeneration (PRPD) and its clinical significance. Methods This cross-sectional, observational study (conducted between January 2010 and May 2015) enrolled 441 eyes of 229 subjects, including 35 eyes with PRPD and 406 eyes without PRPD, which was identified by ultra-wide-field fluorescein angiography (UWFA). The distribution and angiographic circulation time of PRPD were assessed by UWFA. The frequencies of systemic and ophthalmologic comorbidities were compared between groups. Univariate and multivariate generalized estimation equation methods were used to determine the risk factors for PRPD. Results The patients with PRPD had a mean age of 75.7 ± 8.5 years (range, 59–93 years), whereas the patients without PRPD had a mean age of 60.1 ± 14.9 years (range, 9–92 years). All eyes with PRPD manifested the lesion in the superior nasal periphery with or without circumferential extension. Among those, only 16 eyes (45.7%) in the PRPD group showed distinctive features in the same location on fundus photographs. There was significant choroidal filling delay in the PRPD group when compared with the control group (1.42±1.22 vs. -0.02±1.05 seconds, P < 0.001). Multivariate regression analysis revealed that older age (P < 0.001), stroke (P = 0.018), ischemic optic neuropathy (P < 0.001), and age-related macular degeneration (P = 0.022) were significantly associated with PRPD. Conclusions UWFA may enhance the diagnostic sensitivity of PRPD. Choroidal vascular insufficiency with compromised systemic circulation in the elderly was related to the manifestation of PRPD. These results help to better understand the pathophysiology of PRPD. Co-existence of systemic and ophthalmic circulatory disorders should be considered in patients with PRPD. PMID:28114409

Retinopathy of prematurity: inflammation, choroidal degeneration, and novel promising therapeutic strategies.

PubMed

Rivera, José Carlos; Holm, Mari; Austeng, Dordi; Morken, Tora Sund; Zhou, Tianwei Ellen; Beaudry-Richard, Alexandra; Sierra, Estefania Marin; Dammann, Olaf; Chemtob, Sylvain

2017-08-22

Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is an important cause of childhood blindness globally, and the incidence is rising. The disease is characterized by initial arrested retinal vascularization followed by neovascularization and ensuing retinal detachment causing permanent visual loss. Although neovascularization can be effectively treated via retinal laser ablation, it is unknown which children are at risk of entering this vision-threatening phase of the disease. Laser ablation may itself induce visual field deficits, and there is therefore a need to identify targets for novel and less destructive treatments of ROP. Inflammation is considered a key contributor to the pathogenesis of ROP. A large proportion of preterm infants with ROP will have residual visual loss linked to loss of photoreceptor (PR) and the integrity of the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) in the macular region. Recent studies using animal models of ROP suggest that choroidal degeneration may be associated with a loss of integrity of the outer retina, a phenomenon so far largely undescribed in ROP pathogenesis. In this review, we highlight inflammatory and neuron-derived factors related to ROP progression, as well, potential targets for new treatment strategies. We also introduce choroidal degeneration as a significant cause of residual visual loss following ROP. We propose that ROP should no longer be considered an inner retinal vasculopathy only, but also a disease of choroidal degeneration affecting both retinal pigment epithelium and photoreceptor integrity.

Susceptibility of Primary Human Choroid Plexus Epithelial Cells and Meningeal Cells to Infection by JC Virus.

PubMed

O'Hara, Bethany A; Gee, Gretchen V; Atwood, Walter J; Haley, Sheila A

2018-04-15

JC polyomavirus (JCPyV) establishes a lifelong persistence in roughly half the human population worldwide. The cells and tissues that harbor persistent virus in vivo are not known, but renal tubules and other urogenital epithelial cells are likely candidates as virus is shed in the urine of healthy individuals. In an immunosuppressed host, JCPyV can become reactivated and cause progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML), a fatal demyelinating disease of the central nervous system. Recent observations indicate that JCPyV may productively interact with cells in the choroid plexus and leptomeninges. To further study JCPyV infection in these cells, primary human choroid plexus epithelial cells and meningeal cells were challenged with virus, and their susceptibility to infection was compared to the human glial cell line, SVG-A. We found that JCPyV productively infects both choroid plexus epithelial cells and meningeal cells in vitro Competition with the soluble receptor fragment LSTc reduced virus infection in these cells. Treatment of cells with neuraminidase also inhibited both viral infection and binding. Treatment with the serotonin receptor antagonist, ritanserin, reduced infection in SVG-A and meningeal cells. We also compared the ability of wild-type and sialic acid-binding mutant pseudoviruses to transduce these cells. Wild-type pseudovirus readily transduced all three cell types, but pseudoviruses harboring mutations in the sialic acid-binding pocket of the virus failed to transduce the cells. These data establish a novel role for choroid plexus and meninges in harboring virus that likely contributes not only to meningoencephalopathies but also to PML. IMPORTANCE JCPyV infects greater than half the human population worldwide and causes central nervous system disease in patients with weakened immune systems. Several recent reports have found JCPyV in the choroid plexus and leptomeninges of patients with encephalitis. Due to their role in forming the blood

One-Year Outcomes following Intravitreal Aflibercept for Polypoidal Choroidal Vasculopathy in Japanese Patients: The APOLLO Study.

PubMed

Oshima, Yuji; Kimoto, Kenichi; Yoshida, Noriko; Fujisawa, Kimihiko; Sonoda, Shozo; Kubota, Toshiaki; Murata, Toshinori; Sakamoto, Taiji; Yoshida, Shigeo; Sonoda, Koh-Hei; Ishibashi, Tatsuro

2017-01-01

To evaluate 1-year outcomes of intravitreal injections of aflibercept (IVA) in Japanese polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy (PCV) patients. In this prospective, open-label, single-arm multicenter clinical trial, treatment-naïve PCV patients received IVA (2.0 mg) every 2 months, after 3 initial monthly doses. The primary endpoint assessed was the proportion of patients maintaining baseline best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) at 1 year. Fifty eyes with PCV were included in the study. BCVA was maintained or improved in 97.6% of the patients. Mean logMAR BCVA at baseline was 0.33, and had improved to 0.12 logMAR 1 year after the initiation of aflibercept treatment (p < 0.001). Mean central foveal thickness decreased from 356 to 239 μm (p < 0.001). Complete regression of polypoidal lesions was seen in 72.5% after 1 year of treatment. One year of IVA resulted in stabilization of BCVA and anatomical improvement in Japanese PCV patients. © 2017 S. Karger AG, Basel.

Enhanced depth imaging optical coherence tomography of choroidal metastasis in 14 eyes.

PubMed

Al-Dahmash, Saad A; Shields, Carol L; Kaliki, Swathi; Johnson, Timothy; Shields, Jerry A

2014-08-01

To describe the imaging features of choroidal metastasis using enhanced depth imaging optical coherence tomography (EDI-OCT). This retrospective observational case series included 31 eyes with choroidal metastasis. Spectral domain EDI-OCT was performed using Heidelberg Spectralis HRA + OCT. The main outcome measures were imaging features by EDI-OCT. Of 31 eyes with choroidal metastasis imaged with EDI-OCT, 14 (45%) eyes displayed image detail suitable for study. The metastasis originated from carcinoma of the breast (n = 7, 50%), lung (n = 5, 36%), pancreas (n = 1, 7%), and thyroid gland (n = 1, 7%). The mean tumor basal diameter was 6.4 mm, and mean thickness was 2.3 mm by B-scan ultrasonography. The tumor location was submacular in 6 (43%) eyes and extramacular in 8 (57%) eyes. By EDI-OCT, the mean tumor thickness was 987 μm. The most salient EDI-OCT features of the metastasis included anterior compression/obliteration of the overlying choriocapillaris (n = 13, 93%), an irregular (lumpy bumpy) anterior contour (n = 9, 64%), and posterior shadowing (n = 12, 86%). Overlying retinal pigment epithelial abnormalities were noted (n = 11, 78%). Outer retinal features included structural loss of the interdigitation of the cone outer segment tips (n = 9, 64%), the ellipsoid portion of photoreceptors (n = 8, 57%), external limiting membrane (n = 4, 29%), outer nuclear layer (n = 1, 7%), and outer plexiform layer (n = 1, 7%). The inner retinal layers (inner nuclear layer to nerve fiber layer) were normal. Subretinal fluid (n = 11, 79%), subretinal lipofuscin pigment (n = 1, 7%), and intraretinal edema (n = 2, 14%) were identified. The EDI-OCT of choroidal metastasis shows a characteristic lumpy bumpy anterior tumor surface and outer retinal layer disruption with preservation of inner retinal layers.

Nucleoside Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitors Suppress Laser-Induced Choroidal Neovascularization in Mice

PubMed Central

Mizutani, Takeshi; Fowler, Benjamin J.; Kim, Younghee; Yasuma, Reo; Krueger, Laura A.; Gelfand, Bradley D.; Ambati, Jayakrishna

2015-01-01

Purpose To evaluate the efficacy of nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs) in the laser-induced mouse model of choroidal neovascularization (CNV). Methods We evaluated the NRTIs lamivudine (3TC), zidovudine (AZT), and abacavir (ABC) and the P2X7 antagonist A438079. Choroidal neovascularization was induced by laser injury in C57BL/6J wild-type, Nlrp3−/−, and P2rx7−/− mice, and CNV volume was measured after 7 days by confocal microscopy. Drugs were administered by intravitreous injection immediately after the laser injury. Vascular endothelial growth factor-A in RPE-choroid lysates was measured 3 days after laser injury by ELISA. HEK293 cells expressing human and mouse P2X7 were exposed to the selective P2X7 receptor agonist 2′, 3′-(benzoyl-4-benzoyl)-ATP (Bz-ATP) with or without 3TC, and VEGF-A levels in media were measured by ELISA. Results Intravitreous injection of 3TC, AZT, and ABC significantly suppressed laser-induced CNV in C57BL/6J wild-type and Nlrp3−/− mice (P < 0.05) but not in P2rx7−/− mice. Intravitreous injection of A438079 also suppressed the laser-induced CNV (P < 0.05). The NRTIs 3TC, AZT, and ABC blocked VEGF-A levels in the RPE/choroid after laser injury in wild-type (P < 0.05) but not P2rx7−/− mice. Moreover, there was no additive effect of 3TC on CNV inhibition when coadministered with a neutralizing VEGF-A antibody. Stimulation of human and mouse P2X7-expressing HEK293 cells with Bz-ATP increased VEGF secretion (P < 0.001), which was abrogated by 3TC (P < 0.001). Stimulation of primary human RPE cells with Bz-ATP increased VEGFA and IL6 mRNA levels, which were abrogated by 3TC. Conclusions Multiple clinically relevant NRTIs suppressed laser-induced CNV and downregulated VEGF-A, via P2X7. PMID:26529046

The ocular lesions of naturally occurring lymphocystis in fish.

PubMed

Dukes, T W; Lawler, A R

1975-10-01

Six cases of ocular lymphocystis, a virus disease, are described. Lymphocystis is generally known as a benigh, unique, giant cell disease of fishes causing nodules on the skin and fins. It has been studied extensively because of the virus-host cell relationship that results in extreme size and lack of quick cellular destruction or stimulation to neoplasia. Lymphocystis cells were found behind or in one or both eyes and were also found on the cornea or adjacent skin surfaces. A retrobulbar mass produced extreme exophthalmos. Uveal (choroid and iris) masses were present in most cases. Optic nerve involvement was also seen. It is probable that the virus reached the eye by the blood with the resulting masses forming in situ rather than by direct extension from skin lesions.

Complement is activated in progressive multiple sclerosis cortical grey matter lesions.

PubMed

Watkins, Lewis M; Neal, James W; Loveless, Sam; Michailidou, Iliana; Ramaglia, Valeria; Rees, Mark I; Reynolds, Richard; Robertson, Neil P; Morgan, B Paul; Howell, Owain W

2016-06-22

The symptoms of multiple sclerosis (MS) are caused by damage to myelin and nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. Inflammation is tightly linked with neurodegeneration, and it is the accumulation of neurodegeneration that underlies increasing neurological disability in progressive MS. Determining pathological mechanisms at play in MS grey matter is therefore a key to our understanding of disease progression. We analysed complement expression and activation by immunocytochemistry and in situ hybridisation in frozen or formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded post-mortem tissue blocks from 22 progressive MS cases and made comparisons to inflammatory central nervous system disease and non-neurological disease controls. Expression of the transcript for C1qA was noted in neurons and the activation fragment and opsonin C3b-labelled neurons and glia in the MS cortical and deep grey matter. The density of immunostained cells positive for the classical complement pathway protein C1q and the alternative complement pathway activation fragment Bb was significantly increased in cortical grey matter lesions in comparison to control grey matter. The number of cells immunostained for the membrane attack complex was elevated in cortical lesions, indicating complement activation to completion. The numbers of classical (C1-inhibitor) and alternative (factor H) pathway regulator-positive cells were unchanged between MS and controls, whilst complement anaphylatoxin receptor-bearing microglia in the MS cortex were found closely apposed to cortical neurons. Complement immunopositive neurons displayed an altered nuclear morphology, indicative of cell stress/damage, supporting our finding of significant neurodegeneration in cortical grey matter lesions. Complement is activated in the MS cortical grey matter lesions in areas of elevated numbers of complement receptor-positive microglia and suggests that complement over-activation may contribute to the worsening pathology that underlies the

Choriocapillaris and Choroidal Microvasculature Imaging with Ultrahigh Speed OCT Angiography

PubMed Central

Choi, WooJhon; Mohler, Kathrin J.; Potsaid, Benjamin; Lu, Chen D.; Liu, Jonathan J.; Jayaraman, Vijaysekhar; Cable, Alex E.; Duker, Jay S.; Huber, Robert; Fujimoto, James G.

2013-01-01

We demonstrate in vivo choriocapillaris and choroidal microvasculature imaging in normal human subjects using optical coherence tomography (OCT). An ultrahigh speed swept source OCT prototype at 1060 nm wavelengths with a 400 kHz A-scan rate is developed for three-dimensional ultrahigh speed imaging of the posterior eye. OCT angiography is used to image three-dimensional vascular structure without the need for exogenous fluorophores by detecting erythrocyte motion contrast between OCT intensity cross-sectional images acquired rapidly and repeatedly from the same location on the retina. En face OCT angiograms of the choriocapillaris and choroidal vasculature are visualized by acquiring cross-sectional OCT angiograms volumetrically via raster scanning and segmenting the three-dimensional angiographic data at multiple depths below the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE). Fine microvasculature of the choriocapillaris, as well as tightly packed networks of feeding arterioles and draining venules, can be visualized at different en face depths. Panoramic ultra-wide field stitched OCT angiograms of the choriocapillaris spanning ∼32 mm on the retina show distinct vascular structures at different fundus locations. Isolated smaller fields at the central fovea and ∼6 mm nasal to the fovea at the depths of the choriocapillaris and Sattler's layer show vasculature structures consistent with established architectural morphology from histological and electron micrograph corrosion casting studies. Choriocapillaris imaging was performed in eight healthy volunteers with OCT angiograms successfully acquired from all subjects. These results demonstrate the feasibility of ultrahigh speed OCT for in vivo dye-free choriocapillaris and choroidal vasculature imaging, in addition to conventional structural imaging. PMID:24349078

Choriocapillaris and choroidal microvasculature imaging with ultrahigh speed OCT angiography.

PubMed

Choi, WooJhon; Mohler, Kathrin J; Potsaid, Benjamin; Lu, Chen D; Liu, Jonathan J; Jayaraman, Vijaysekhar; Cable, Alex E; Duker, Jay S; Huber, Robert; Fujimoto, James G

2013-01-01

We demonstrate in vivo choriocapillaris and choroidal microvasculature imaging in normal human subjects using optical coherence tomography (OCT). An ultrahigh speed swept source OCT prototype at 1060 nm wavelengths with a 400 kHz A-scan rate is developed for three-dimensional ultrahigh speed imaging of the posterior eye. OCT angiography is used to image three-dimensional vascular structure without the need for exogenous fluorophores by detecting erythrocyte motion contrast between OCT intensity cross-sectional images acquired rapidly and repeatedly from the same location on the retina. En face OCT angiograms of the choriocapillaris and choroidal vasculature are visualized by acquiring cross-sectional OCT angiograms volumetrically via raster scanning and segmenting the three-dimensional angiographic data at multiple depths below the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE). Fine microvasculature of the choriocapillaris, as well as tightly packed networks of feeding arterioles and draining venules, can be visualized at different en face depths. Panoramic ultra-wide field stitched OCT angiograms of the choriocapillaris spanning ∼32 mm on the retina show distinct vascular structures at different fundus locations. Isolated smaller fields at the central fovea and ∼6 mm nasal to the fovea at the depths of the choriocapillaris and Sattler's layer show vasculature structures consistent with established architectural morphology from histological and electron micrograph corrosion casting studies. Choriocapillaris imaging was performed in eight healthy volunteers with OCT angiograms successfully acquired from all subjects. These results demonstrate the feasibility of ultrahigh speed OCT for in vivo dye-free choriocapillaris and choroidal vasculature imaging, in addition to conventional structural imaging.

Choroid plexus carcinoma with neuronal and glial differentiation in a 7-week-old male Sprague-Dawley rat.

PubMed

Inohana, Mari; Eguchi, Ayumi; Nakamura, Misato; Nagahara, Rei; Watanabe, Yosuke; Yoshida, Toshinori; Shibutani, Makoto

2018-04-18

We describe a case of choroid plexus carcinoma arising in the cerebrum of a 7-week-old male Sprague-Dawley rat. The tumor mass occupied the right lateral ventricle of the cerebrum. Histological analyses revealed that the epithelial tumor cells had proliferated in tubular, cribriform, papillary and solid growth patterns in the vicinity of the choroid plexus, with slight invasion into the cerebrum parenchyma. We divided the tumor cells into cuboidal, elongated and intermediate cells. Immunohistochemical studies showed that these tumor cells expressed relatively high levels of cytokeratin AE1/AE3, vimentin and glial fibrillary acidic proteins, and low levels of nestin, oligodendrocyte transcription factor and doublecortin proteins. The present case was diagnosed as a choroid plexus carcinoma with neuronal and glial differentiation.

Functional activation independently contributes to naming ability and relates to lesion site in post-stroke aphasia.

PubMed

Skipper-Kallal, Laura M; Lacey, Elizabeth H; Xing, Shihui; Turkeltaub, Peter E

2017-04-01

Language network reorganization in aphasia may depend on the degree of damage in critical language areas, making it difficult to determine how reorganization impacts performance. Prior studies on remapping of function in aphasia have not accounted for the location of the lesion relative to critical language areas. They rectified this problem by using a multimodal approach, combining multivariate lesion-symptom mapping and fMRI in chronic aphasia to understand the independent contributions to naming performance of the lesion and the activity in both hemispheres. Activity was examined during two stages of naming: covert retrieval, and overt articulation. Regions of interest were drawn based on over- and under-activation, and in areas where activity had a bivariate relationship with naming. Regressions then tested whether activation of these regions predicted naming ability, while controlling for lesion size and damage in critical left hemisphere naming areas, as determined by lesion-symptom mapping. Engagement of the right superior temporal sulcus (STS) and disengagement of the left dorsal pars opercularis (dPOp) during overt naming was associated with better than predicted naming performance. Lesions in the left STS prevented right STS engagement and resulted in persistent left dPOp activation. In summary, changes in activity during overt articulation independently relate to naming outcomes, controlling for stroke severity. Successful remapping relates to network disruptions that depend on the location of the lesion in the left hemisphere. Hum Brain Mapp 38:2051-2066, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Influence of Lipophilicity on Drug Partitioning into Sclera, Choroid-Retinal Pigment Epithelium, Retina, Trabecular Meshwork, and Optic Nerve

PubMed Central

Kadam, Rajendra S.

2010-01-01

In vitro bovine eye tissue/phosphate-buffered saline, pH 7.4, partition coefficients (Kt:b), in vitro binding to natural melanin, and in vivo delivery at 1 h after posterior subconjunctival injection in Brown Norway rats were determined for eight β-blockers. The Kt:b was in the order intact tissue, dry weight method ≥ intact tissue, wet weight method corrected for tissue water and drug in tissue water ≫ intact tissue, wet weight method > homogenized tissue. In intact tissue methods, Kt:b followed the order choroid-retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) > trabecular meshwork > retina > sclera ∼ optic nerve; propranolol > betaxolol > pindolol ∼ timolol ∼ metoprolol > sotalol ∼ atenolol ∼ nadolol. Intact tissue, wet weight log (Kt:b) correlated positively with log D for all tissues (R2 of 0.7–0.9). Log (melanin binding capacity) correlated positively with choroid-RPE log (Kt:b) (R2 of 0.5). With an increase in concentration, Kt:b decreased in trabecular meshwork for all β-blockers and for some lipophilic β-blockers in choroid-RPE and sclera. With an increase in drug lipophilicity, in vivo tissue distribution increased in choroid-RPE, iris-ciliary body, sclera, and cornea but exhibited a declining trend in retina, vitreous, and lens. In vitro bovine intact tissue, wet weight Kt:b correlated positively with rat in vivo tissue/vitreous humor distribution for sclera, choroid-RPE, and retina (R2 of 0.985–0.993). In vitro tissue partition coefficients might be useful in predicting in vivo drug distribution after trans-scleral delivery. Less lipophilic solutes exhibiting limited nonproductive binding in choroid-RPE might exhibit greater trans-scleral delivery to the retina and vitreous. PMID:19926800

The effect of obesity and insulin resistance on macular choroidal thickness in a pediatric population as assessed by enhanced depth imaging optical coherence tomography.

PubMed

Topcu-Yilmaz, Pinar; Akyurek, Nesibe; Erdogan, Erkan

2018-06-23

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the macular choroidal thickness in obese children with and without insulin resistance (IR). Thirty-six patients with obesity and 26 healthy volunteers were included in this cross-sectional study. The choroidal thickness was measured with enhanced depth imaging optical coherence tomography (EDI-OCT) at the fovea and at positions 500 μm, 1000 μm, 1500 μm nasal and temporal to the fovea. The choroidal thickness measurements of the groups were compared and the correlation between the homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) and choroidal thickness values was evaluated. The average choroidal thickness in the obese group was significantly lower than that of controls at locations 1000 μm (303.31±58.52 vs. 340.58±69.47, p=0.026) and 1500 μm (284.14±65.06 vs. 336.85±71.37, p=0.004) temporal to the fovea. A subgroup analysis depending on the presence of IR revealed that the choroidal thickness measurements at all positions were thinner in obese children without IR compared to children with IR and healthy controls. This thinning reached a statistical significance at locations 500 μm temporal, 1000 μm temporal and 1500 μm temporal to the fovea (p=0.03, p=0.009 and p=0.006; respectively). There was a moderate correlation between the choroidal thickness measurements and HOMA-IR values (r-values between 0.37 and 0.48; p<0.05). Our results suggest that obesity and IR may have an influence on the choroidal thickness in children. Longitudinal studies will clarify whether these choroidal changes are progressive and are a sign of microvascular dysfunction in childhood obesity.

Retinal-specific ATP-binding cassette transporter (ABCR/ABCA4) is expressed at the choroid plexus in rat brain.

PubMed

Bhongsatiern, Jiraganya; Ohtsuki, Sumio; Tachikawa, Masanori; Hori, Satoko; Terasaki, Tetsuya

2005-03-01

ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporter A4 is a member of the ABC transporter subfamily A which has been reported to be exclusively expressed in the retina. In contrast, a previous report has suggested a possible relationship between ABCA4 and CNS function. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the localization of ABCA4 mRNA and protein in rat brain. In situ hybridization analysis revealed that ABCA4 mRNA was localized in the lateral ventricles. RT-PCR analysis detected ABCA4 mRNA in isolated rat choroid plexus and conditionally immortalized rat choroid plexus epithelial cells (TR-CSFB). Furthermore, ABCA4 protein was also detected in the isolated rat choroid plexus at about 250 kDa by western blot analysis, and its apparent molecular size was reduced by N-glycosidase F treatment. These results suggest that glycosylated ABCA4 protein is expressed in rat choroid plexus epithelial cells. ABCA4 may play a role in the function of the blood-cerebrospinal fluid barrier and affect CSF conditions.

Ultra-Short-Term Reproducibility of Speckle-Noise Freed Fluid and Tissue Compartmentalization of the Choroid Analyzed by Standard OCT.

PubMed

Maloca, Peter; Gyger, Cyrill; Schoetzau, Andreas; Hasler, Pascal W

2015-11-01

We measured reproducibility of speckle-noise freed fluid and tissue compartmentalization of the choroid (choroidal angiography and tissue characterization). This study included 26 eyes of 13 healthy females: 13 were used for repeated measurements and 13 were used for side comparison. A semiautomated algorithm removed speckle-noise with structure preservation. Intraclass correlation (ICC), with respect to reproducibility of the method, showed an ICC for choroidal fluid inner space analysis (FISA) of 95.15% (90.01-98.24). The ICC of tissue inner space analysis (TISA) was 99.75% (99.47-99.91). The total choroid ratio (TCR), calculated from volumes of tissue to vessels, showed an ICC of 88.84% (78.28-95.82). Comparison of eyes (left to right) showed a difference for FISA of 0.033 (95% confidence interval [CI] -0.0018-0.0680, P = 0.063), TISA -0.118 (CI -0.2373-0.0023, P = 0.055), and TCR -0.590 (CI -0.9047 to -0.2754, P = 0.004). The ICC for FISA and TISA showed a trend in the difference comparing left and right eyes; however, TCR showed a significant difference between the eyes in the measured area ( P < 0.001). Mean overall FISA was 0.58 mm 3 (range, 0.25-0.98 mm 3 , SD = 0.14). Mean TISA was 3.45 mm 3 (range, 2.38-5.0 mm 3 , SD 0.072). Mean TCR was 6.13 (overall range, 3.93-10.2, SD = 1.34). Differences in choroidal layers between subjects were found mainly due to alterations in choroidal tissue. Reproducibility of speckle-noise freed choroidal angiography appeared excellent. Speckle noise is a granular "noise" that appears in a wide range of medical imaging methods as ultrasonography, magnetic resonance, computer tomography, or optical coherence tomography (OCT). Findings from basic science about speckle noise were translated into a novel, medical image postprocessing application that can separate signal from speckle noise with structure preservation with high reproducibility and enhance medical imaging.

Lycopene mitigates β-amyloid induced inflammatory response and inhibits NF-κB signaling at the choroid plexus in early stages of Alzheimer's disease rats.

PubMed

Liu, Chong-Bin; Wang, Rui; Yi, Yan-Feng; Gao, Zhen; Chen, Yi-Zhu

2018-03-01

The choroid plexus is able to modulate the cognitive function, through changes in the neuroinflammatory response and in brain immune surveillance. However, whether lycopene is involved in inflammatory responses at the choroid plexus in the early stages of Alzheimer's disease, and its molecular underpinnings are elusive. In this rat study, lycopene was used to investigate its protective effects on inflammation caused by β-amyloid. We characterized the learning and memory abilities, cytokine profiles of circulating TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6β in the serum and the expressions of Toll like receptor 4 and nuclear factor-κB p65 mRNA and protein at the choroid plexus. The results showed that functional deficits of learning and memory in lycopene treatment groups were significantly improved compared to the control group without lycopene treatment in water maze test. The levels of serum TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6β were significantly increased, and the expressions of TLR4 and NF-κB p65 mRNA and protein at the choroid plexus were up-regulated, indicating inflammation response was initiated following administration of Aβ 1-42 . After intragastric pretreatment with lycopene, inflammatory cytokines were significantly reduced and lycopene also reversed the Aβ 1-42 induced up-regulation of TLR4 and NF-κB p65 mRNA and protein expressions at the choroid plexus. These results provided a novel evidence that lycopene significantly improved cognitive deficits and were accompanied by the attenuation of inflammatory injury via blocking the activation of NF-κB p65 and TLR4 expressions and production of cytokines, thereby endorsing its usefulness for diminishing β-amyloid deposition in the hippocampus tissues. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Imaging of retinal and choroidal vascular tumours

PubMed Central

Heimann, H; Jmor, F; Damato, B

2013-01-01

The most common intraocular vascular tumours are choroidal haemangiomas, vasoproliferative tumours, and retinal haemangioblastomas. Rarer conditions include cavernous retinal angioma and arteriovenous malformations. Options for ablating the tumour include photodynamic therapy, argon laser photocoagulation, trans-scleral diathermy, cryotherapy, anti-angiogenic agents, plaque radiotherapy, and proton beam radiotherapy. Secondary effects are common and include retinal exudates, macular oedema, epiretinal membranes, retinal fibrosis, as well as serous and tractional retinal detachment, which are treated using standard methods (ie, intravitreal anti-angiogenic agents or steroids as well as vitreoretinal procedures, such as epiretinal membrane peeling and release of retinal traction). The detection, diagnosis, and monitoring of vascular tumours and their complications have improved considerably thanks to advances in imaging. These include spectral domain and enhanced depth imaging optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT and EDI-OCT, respectively), wide-angle photography and angiography as well as wide-angle fundus autofluorescence. Such novel imaging has provided new diagnostic clues and has profoundly influenced therapeutic strategies so that vascular tumours and secondary effects are now treated concurrently instead of sequentially, enhancing any opportunities for conserving vision and the eye. In this review, we describe how SD-OCT, EDI-OCT, autofluorescence, wide-angle photography and wide-angle angiography have facilitated the evaluation of eyes with the more common vascular tumours, that is, choroidal haemangioma, retinal vasoproliferative tumours, and retinal haemangioblastoma. PMID:23196648

Toll-like receptor 3 polymorphism rs3775291 is not associated with choroidal neovascularization or polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy in Chinese subjects.

PubMed

Sng, Chelvin C A; Cackett, Peter D; Yeo, Ian Y; Thalamuthu, Anbupalam; Venkatraman, Anandalakshmi; Venkataraman, Divya; Koh, Adrian H; Tai, E-Shyong; Wong, Tien Y; Aung, Tin; Vithana, Eranga N

2011-01-01

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a leading cause of visual impairment. A single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP; rs3775291) in the Toll-like receptor 3 (TLR3) gene has recently been implicated in the pathogenesis of AMD in Caucasian populations. The aim of this study was to examine this association in Chinese persons with choroidal neovascularization (CNV) secondary to AMD and polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy (PCV). This was an observational cross-sectional study in Singapore. Study subjects were of Chinese ethnicity and included patients with exudative maculopathy and normal control subjects. The diagnoses of CNV and PCV were made based on fundus examination, fluorescein angiography and indocyanine green angiography findings. Genomic DNA was extracted, and genotypes were determined by bidirectional DNA sequencing. We compared the allele and genotype frequencies between subjects with CNV and PCV with controls using the software PLINK. A total of 246 subjects with exudative maculopathy (consisting of 126 with CNV and 120 with PCV) and 274 normal control subjects were recruited. The distribution of rs3775291 SNP genotypes for CNV and PCV was not significantly different from that for normal controls. This study indicates that the TLR3 rs3775291 gene polymorphism is not associated with CNV and PCV in Singaporean Chinese patients. Copyright © 2010 S. Karger AG, Basel.

Unique gene expression profiles of donor-matched human retinal and choroidal vascular endothelial cells.

PubMed

Smith, Justine R; Choi, Dongseok; Chipps, Timothy J; Pan, Yuzhen; Zamora, David O; Davies, Michael H; Babra, Bobby; Powers, Michael R; Planck, Stephen R; Rosenbaum, James T

2007-06-01

Consistent with clinical observations that posterior uveitis frequently involves the retinal vasculature and recent recognition of vascular heterogeneity, the hypothesis for this study was that retinal vascular endothelium was a cell population of unique molecular phenotype. Donor-matched cultures of primary retinal and choroidal endothelial cells from six human cadavers were incubated with either Toxoplasma gondii tachyzoites (10:1, parasites per cell) or Escherichia coli lipopolysaccharide (100 ng/mL); control cultures were simultaneously incubated with medium. Gene expression profiling of endothelial cells was performed using oligonucleotide arrays containing probes designed to detect 8746 human transcripts. After normalization, differential gene expression was assessed by the significance analysis of microarrays, with the false-discovery rate set at 5%. For selected genes, differences in the level of expression between retinal and choroidal cells were evaluated by real-time RT-PCR. Graphic descriptive analysis demonstrated a strong correlation between gene expression of unstimulated retinal and choroidal endothelial cells, but also highlighted distinctly different patterns of expression that were greater than differences noted between donors or between unstimulated and stimulated cells. Overall, 779 (8.9%) of 8746 transcripts were differentially represented. Of note, the 330 transcripts that were present at higher levels in retinal cells included a larger percentage of transcripts encoding molecules involved in the immune response. Differential gene expression was confirmed for 12 transcripts by RT-PCR. Retinal and choroidal vascular endothelial cells display distinctive gene expression profiles. The findings suggest the possibility of treating posterior uveitis by targeting specific interactions between the retinal endothelial cell and an infiltrating leukocyte.

Anterior but not posterior choroid changed before and during Valsalva manoeuvre in healthy Chinese: a UBM and SS-OCT study

PubMed Central

Li, Fei; Gao, Kai; Li, Xingyi; Chen, Shida; Huang, Wenbin; Zhang, Xiulan

2017-01-01

Purpose To determine if the anterior choroid is involved in ocular change during the Valsalva manoeuvre (VM). Materials and methods Fifty-three healthy volunteers aged 18–65 years with normal visual field test results and no history of intraocular pressure (IOP) exceeding 21 mm Hg were recruited. Anterior and posterior choroidal changes before and during VM were recorded by ultrasound microscope and swept-source optical coherence tomography, respectively. Parameters of the anterior segment included ciliary body thickness (CBT0), thickness of the choroid at a distance of 4 mm from the root of the iris (CT4), anterior placement of the ciliary body (APCB) and trabecular–ciliary angle (TCA). Thickness of different layers of retina and posterior choroid were also measured and compared before and during VM. IOP, blood pressure (BP), heart rate (HR), axial length, spherical equivalent refractive error and pupil diameter (PD) were also recorded and analysed. Results VM caused elevated IOP, systolic BP, diastolic BP and increased HR. There was a significant increase in anterior parameters including CBT0, CT4 and APCB (p<0.001), but not in TCA or PD (p>0.05). The mean change of CBT0, CT4 and APCB were: from 1.00±0.09 mm to 1.11±0.10 mm (p<0.001), from 0.29±0.04 mm to 0.36±0.05 mm (p<0.001), from 0.76±0.11 mm to 0.88±0.13 mm (p<0.001), respectively. However, there is no significant change in posterior choroid (from 215.74±60.23 µm to 214.82±61.32 µm, p=0.17). Conclusion We found that VM did not affect the posterior choroid, but it did cause thickening of the anterior choroid and the ciliary body, both of which led to a larger anterior placement of the ciliary body and a narrowed anterior chamber. The anterior (but not the posterior) choroid could be related to IOP elevation and a narrowed anterior chamber in primary angle closure diseases. PMID:28432110

Lesional perfusion abnormalities in Leigh disease demonstrated by arterial spin labeling correlate with disease activity.

PubMed

Whitehead, Matthew T; Lee, Bonmyong; Gropman, Andrea

2016-08-01

Leigh disease is a metabolic disorder of the mitochondrial respiratory chain culminating in symmetrical necrotizing lesions in the deep gray nuclei or brainstem. Apart from classic gliotic/necrotic lesions, small-vessel proliferation is also characteristic on histopathology. We have observed lesional hyperperfusion on arterial spin-labeling (ASL) sequence in children with Leigh disease. In this cross-sectional analysis, we evaluated lesional ASL perfusion characteristics in children with Leigh syndrome. We searched the imaging database from an academic children's hospital for "arterial spin labeling, perfusion, necrosis, lactate, and Leigh" to build a cohort of children for retrospective analysis. We reviewed each child's medical record to confirm a diagnosis of Leigh disease, excluding exams with artifact, technical limitations, and without ASL images. We evaluated the degree and extent of cerebral blood flow and relationship to brain lesions. Images were compared to normal exams from an aged-matche cohort. The database search yielded 45 exams; 30 were excluded. We evaluated 15 exams from 8 children with Leigh disease and 15 age-matched normal exams. In general, Leigh brain perfusion ranged from hyperintense (n=10) to hypointense (n=5). Necrotic lesions appeared hypointense/hypoperfused. Active lesions with associated restricted diffusion demonstrated hyperperfusion. ASL perfusion patterns differed significantly from those on age-matched normal studies (P=<.0001). Disease activity positively correlated with cerebral deep gray nuclei hyperperfusion (P=0.0037) and lesion grade (P=0.0256). Children with Leigh disease have abnormal perfusion of brain lesions. Hyperperfusion can be found in active brain lesions, possibly associated with small-vessel proliferation characteristic of the disease.

Surgical removal of subfoveal choroidal neovascularization in pathologic myopia: a 12-year follow-up study.

PubMed

Hera, R; Chiquet, C; Romanet, J P

2013-12-01

The purpose of this study was to review the 12-year visual outcomes of patients who underwent surgical removal for subfoveal choroidal neovascularization (CNV) attributable to pathologic myopia. This retrospective study included 14 patients, with a mean age of 45.8 years, high myopia (>6 D) and classic subfoveal CNV. They were treated with pars plana vitrectomy and surgical removal of CNV. All patients were followed up every 3 months for 2 years, with visual acuity (VA), fundus examination, and fluorescein angiography and then every year for 5 years. Ten patients underwent a final visit with VA and fundus examination after a minimum 12-year follow-up. The main outcome measurement was VA and the secondary outcome measurement was the lesion size. After 12 years of follow-up, the mean VA did not significantly change over time, with a mean gain of 0.22 logMAR at 1 year, and 0.18, 0.12 and 0.05 at 2, 5 and 12 years, respectively. The anatomical evolution was characterized by a significant enlargement of the lesion size at 5 years. This study showed that final VA after surgical treatment with 12 years of follow-up was poor, due to the significant CNV scar enlargement over time. These results should prompt a prospective randomized study of other medical treatments, particularly anti-vascular endothelial growth factor therapy.

Anomalous medial origin of the anterior choroidal artery with associated aneurysm.

PubMed

Hammers, Ronald; Hacein-Bey, Lotfi; Origitano, Thomas C

2009-12-15

Injury to the anterior choroidal artery (AchA) can be devastating owing to the importance of the territory it supplies. The AchA is a known site of aneurysm formation, and is often exposed during various surgical and endovascular procedures. We report a patient with an aneurysm at the origin of the AchA, and an anomalous medial take off of the artery from the internal carotid artery, then a sharp lateral turn followed by a normal course toward the choroidal fissure, unreported to date to our knowledge. The aneurysm was treated successfully by endovascular therapy. The typical anatomy of the AchA, and reported variations in its origin are discussed. Thorough knowledge of the normal cerebrovascular anatomy and attention to variations play an important role in the successful management of patients with neurological vascular conditions.

Measurement of Acute Changes in Choroid Thickness in Healthy Eyes During Posture Change Using Optical Coherence Tomography

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ferguson, Connor R.; Lee, Stuart M. C.; Stenger, Michael B.; Laurie, Steven S.

2015-01-01

The Visual Impairment and Intracranial Pressure (VIIP) syndrome affects 60% of astronauts returning from long-duration missions and is characterized by structural and functional changes of the eye (3). Upon entry into weightlessness, approximately two liters of fluid translocates from the lower body to the thorax and cephalad regions, potentially contributing to elevated intracranial and intraocular pressures. The choroid is the vasculature that supplies blood flow to the posterior part of the retina and has limited autoregulation. As a consequence these vessels may engorge during a cephalad fluid shift, contributing to structural changes in the retina. The purpose of this experiment was to quantify changes in choroid thickness during a fluid shift. In order to fulfill this objective, it was also necessary to improve the measurement technique for assessing choroid thickness.

Initial evaluation of an ultrasound measure for assessing the activity of skin lesions in juvenile localized scleroderma.

PubMed

Li, S C; Liebling, M S; Haines, K A; Weiss, J E; Prann, A

2011-05-01

To evaluate the construct validity of 2 proposed measures (the Ultrasound Disease Activity [U-DA] and the Tissue Thickness Score [TTS]) for evaluating sonographic differences in juvenile localized scleroderma skin lesions. We conducted a retrospective review of juvenile localized scleroderma patients who had ultrasound scans of their skin lesions between October 2005 and February 2009. Imaged lesions were classified as active or inactive based upon clinical assessment. Lesions had to have been imaged within 1 month of a clinic visit or have the same clinical assessment during both the visit before and the visit after the scan. Two physicians scored the scans using the U-DA, which scores for differences in lesion echogenicity and vascularity compared with normal tissue. Tissue thickness differences were evaluated by percent differences and by using the TTS. Wilcoxon's rank sum test was performed to assess differences. We studied 52 scans from 21 patients, 32 scans of active skin lesions and 20 scans of inactive skin lesions. Features reported by clinicians as indicative of active disease included erythema, warmth, violaceous color, new lesion, expansion of lesion, and induration. The U-DA was significantly different between active and inactive skin lesions (P = 0.0010) with significant differences found for the parameters of total echogenicity, hypodermis echogenicity, and deep tissue layer vascularity (P = 0.0014, P = 0.0023, and P = 0.0374, respectively). No significant differences were found for tissue layer thickness or TTS. The U-DA may be a useful tool in the identification of localized scleroderma activity. Further study is needed to prospectively evaluate the validity, reliability, and sensitivity of this potential monitoring tool. Copyright © 2011 by the American College of Rheumatology.

Molecular Targeted Therapies of Childhood Choroid Plexus Carcinoma

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-10-01

Microarray intensities were analyzed in PGS, using the benign human choroid plexus papilloma (CPP) samples as an expression baseline reference. This...additional human and mouse CPC genomic profiles (timeframe: months 1-5). The goal of these studies is to expand our number of genomic profiles (DNA and...mRNA arrays) of both human and mouse CPCs to provide a comprehensive dataset with which to identify key candidate oncogenes, tumor suppressor genes

Molecular Targeted Therapies of Childhood Choroid Plexus Carcinoma

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-10-01

Microarray intensities were analyzed in PGS, using the benign human choroid plexus papilloma (CPP) samples as an expression baseline reference...identify candidate drug targets of CPC. Task 1: Generation of additional human and mouse CPC genomic profiles (timeframe: months 1-5). The goal...of these studies is to expand our number of genomic profiles (DNA and mRNA arrays) of both human and mouse CPCs to provide a comprehensive dataset

Molecular Targeted Therapies of Childhood Choroid Plexus Carcinoma

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-10-01

were analyzed in PGS, using the benign human choroid plexus papilloma (CPP) samples as an expression baseline reference. This analysis highlights...Task 1: Generation of additional human and mouse CPC genomic profiles (timeframe: months 1-5). The goal of these studies is to expand our...number of genomic profiles (DNA and mRNA arrays) of both human and mouse CPCs to provide a comprehensive dataset with which to identify key candidate

Mast cells are present in the choroid of the normal eye in most vertebrate classes.

PubMed

McMenamin, Paul Gerard; Polla, Emily

2013-07-01

Mast cells are bone marrow-derived tissue-homing leukocytes, which have traditionally been regarded as effector cells in allergic disorders, responses against parasites, and regulation of blood flow, but a broader perspective of their functional heterogeneity, such as immunomodulation, angiogenesis, tissue repair, and remodeling after injury, is now emerging. The persistence of mast cells in connective tissues throughout the evolution of vertebrates is evidence of strong selective pressure suggesting that these cells must have multiple beneficial and important roles in normal homeostasis. While mast cells are present within the uveal tract of eutherian mammals, there is little known about their presence in the choroid of other vertebrate classes. Eye tissues from a range of vertebrate species (fish, amphibian, reptiles, birds, marsupials, monotreme, and eutherian mammals) were investigated. Tissues were fixed in either 2% glutaraldehyde, 2% paraformaldehyde or a mixture of both and processed for resin embedding. Semi-thin sections of the retina and choroid were cut and stained with toluidine blue. Mast cells were identified in the choroid of all classes of vertebrates investigated except sharks. Their morphology, location, and staining characteristics were remarkably similar from teleost fish through to eutherian mammals and bore close morphological resemblance to mammalian connective tissue mast cells. The similar morphology and distribution of mast cells in the choroid of all vertebrate classes studied suggest a basic physiological function that has been retained since the evolution of the vertebrate eye. © 2013 American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists.

Acute triventricular hydrocephalus caused by choroid plexus cysts: a diagnostic and neurosurgical challenge.

PubMed

Spennato, Pietro; Chiaramonte, Carmela; Cicala, Domenico; Donofrio, Vittoria; Barbarisi, Manlio; Nastro, Anna; Mirone, Giuseppe; Trischitta, Vincenzo; Cinalli, Giuseppe

2016-11-01

OBJECTIVE Intraventricular choroid plexus cysts are unusual causes of acute hydrocephalus in children. Radiological diagnosis of intraventricular choroid plexus cysts is difficult because they have very thin walls and fluid contents similar to CSF and can go undetected on routine CT studies. METHODS This study reports the authors' experience with 5 patients affected by intraventricular cysts originating from the choroid plexus. All patients experienced acute presentation with rapid neurological deterioration, sometimes associated with hypothalamic dysfunction, and required urgent surgery. In 2 cases the symptoms were intermittent, with spontaneous remission and sudden clinical deteriorations, reflecting an intermittent obstruction of the CSF pathway. RESULTS Radiological diagnosis was difficult in these cases because a nonenhanced CT scan revealed only triventricular hydrocephalus, with slight lateral ventricle asymmetry in all cases. MRI with driven-equilibrium sequences and CT ventriculography (in 1 case) allowed the authors to accurately diagnose the intraventricular cysts that typically occupied the posterior part of the third ventricle, occluding the aqueduct and at least 1 foramen of Monro. The patients were managed by urgent implantation of an external ventricular drain in 1 case (followed by endoscopic surgery, after completing a diagnostic workup) and by urgent endoscopic surgery in 4 cases. Endoscopic surgery allowed the shrinkage and near-complete removal of the cysts in all cases. Use of neuronavigation and a laser were indispensable. All procedures were uneventful, resulting in restoration of normal neurological conditions. Long-term follow-up (> 2 years) was available for 2 patients, and no complications or recurrences occurred. CONCLUSIONS This case series emphasizes the necessity of an accurate and precise identification of the possible causes of triventricular hydrocephalus. Endoscopic surgery can be considered the ideal treatment of choroid plexus

CHOROIDAL THICKNESS IN DIABETIC RETINOPATHY ASSESSED WITH SWEPT-SOURCE OPTICAL COHERENCE TOMOGRAPHY.

PubMed

Laíns, Inês; Talcott, Katherine E; Santos, Ana R; Marques, João H; Gil, Pedro; Gil, João; Figueira, João; Husain, Deeba; Kim, Ivana K; Miller, Joan W; Silva, Rufino; Miller, John B

2018-01-01

To compare the choroidal thickness (CT) of diabetic eyes (different stages of disease) with controls, using swept-source optical coherence tomography. A multicenter, prospective, cross-sectional study of diabetic and nondiabetic subjects using swept-source optical coherence tomography imaging. Choroidal thickness maps, according to the nine Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study (ETDRS) subfields, were obtained using automated software. Mean CT was calculated as the mean value within the ETDRS grid, and central CT as the mean in the central 1 mm. Diabetic eyes were divided into four groups: no diabetic retinopathy (No DR), nonproliferative DR (NPDR), NPDR with diabetic macular edema (NPDR + DME), and proliferative DR (PDR). Multilevel mixed linear models were performed for analyses. The authors included 50 control and 160 diabetic eyes (n = 27 No DR, n = 51 NPDR, n = 61 NPDR + DME, and n = 21 PDR). Mean CT (ß = -42.9, P = 0.022) and central CT (ß = -50.2, P = 0.013) were statistically significantly thinner in PDR eyes compared with controls, even after adjusting for confounding factors. Controlling for age, DR eyes presented a significantly decreased central CT than diabetic eyes without retinopathy (β = -36.2, P = 0.009). Swept-source optical coherence tomography demonstrates a significant reduction of CT in PDR compared with controls. In the foveal region, the choroid appears to be thinner in DR eyes than in diabetic eyes without retinopathy.

Comparison of the global gene expression of choroid plexus and meninges and associated vasculature under control conditions and after pronounced hyperthermia or amphetamine toxicity.

PubMed

Bowyer, John F; Patterson, Tucker A; Saini, Upasana T; Hanig, Joseph P; Thomas, Monzy; Camacho, Luísa; George, Nysia I; Chen, James J

2013-03-05

The meninges (arachnoid and pial membranes) and associated vasculature (MAV) and choroid plexus are important in maintaining cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) generation and flow. MAV vasculature was previously observed to be adversely affected by environmentally-induced hyperthermia (EIH) and more so by a neurotoxic amphetamine (AMPH) exposure. Herein, microarray and RT-PCR analysis was used to compare the gene expression profiles between choroid plexus and MAV under control conditions and at 3 hours and 1 day after EIH or AMPH exposure. Since AMPH and EIH are so disruptive to vasculature, genes related to vasculature integrity and function were of interest. Our data shows that, under control conditions, many of the genes with relatively high expression in both the MAV and choroid plexus are also abundant in many epithelial tissues. These genes function in transport of water, ions, and solutes, and likely play a role in CSF regulation. Most genes that help form the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and tight junctions were also highly expressed in MAV but not in choroid plexus. In MAV, exposure to EIH and more so to AMPH decreased the expression of BBB-related genes such as Sox18, Ocln, and Cldn5, but they were much less affected in the choroid plexus. There was a correlation between the genes related to reactive oxidative stress and damage that were significantly altered in the MAV and choroid plexus after either EIH or AMPH. However, AMPH (at 3 hr) significantly affected about 5 times as many genes as EIH in the MAV, while in the choroid plexus EIH affected more genes than AMPH. Several unique genes that are not specifically related to vascular damage increased to a much greater extent after AMPH compared to EIH in the MAV (Lbp, Reg3a, Reg3b, Slc15a1, Sct and Fst) and choroid plexus (Bmp4, Dio2 and Lbp). Our study indicates that the disruption of choroid plexus function and damage produced by AMPH and EIH is significant, but the changes may not be as pronounced as they are in

Proton or photon irradiation for hemangiomas of the choroid? A retrospective comparison

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Hoecht, Stefan; Wachtlin, Joachim; Bechrakis, Nikolaos E.

2006-10-01

Purpose: The aim of this study was to compare, on a retrospective basis, the results of therapy in patients with uveal hemangioma treated with photon or proton irradiation at a single center. Methods and Materials: From 1993 to 2002 a total of 44 patients were treated. Until 1998 radiotherapy was given with 6 MV photons in standard fractionation of 2.0 Gy 5 times per week. In 1998 proton therapy became available and was used since then. A dose of 20 to 22.5 Cobalt Gray Equivalent (CGE) 68 MeV protons was given on 4 consecutive days. Progressive symptoms or deterioration ofmore » vision were the indications for therapy. Results: Of the 44 patients treated, 36 had circumscribed choroidal hemangiomas and 8 had diffuse choroidal hemangiomas (DCH) and Sturge-Weber syndrome. Of the patients, 19 were treated with photons with a total dose in the range of 16 to 30 Gy. A total of 25 patients were irradiated with protons. All patients with DCH but 1 were treated with photons. Stabilization of visual acuity was achieved in 93.2% of all patients. Tumor thickness decreased in 95.4% and retinal detachment resolved in 92.9%. Late effects, although generally mild or moderate, were frequently detected. In all, 40.9% showed radiation-induced optic neuropathy, maximum Grade I. Retinopathy was found in 29.5% of cases, but only 1 patient experienced more than Grade II severity. Retinopathy and radiation-induced optic neuropathy were reversible in some of the patients and in some resolved completely. No differences could be detected between patients with circumscribed choroidal hemangiomas treated with protons and photons. Treatment was less effective in DCH patients (75%). Conclusions: Radiotherapy is effective in treating choroidal hemangiomas with respect to visual acuity and tumor thickness but a benefit of proton therapy could not be detected. Side effects are moderate but careful monitoring for side effects should be part of the follow-up procedures.« less

Determinant Factors of Untreated Dental Caries and Lesion Activity in Preschool Children Using ICDAS

PubMed Central

Pinto-Sarmento, Tássia Cristina de Almeida; Abreu, Mauro Henrique; Gomes, Monalisa Cesarino; Costa, Edja Maria Melo de Brito; Martins, Carolina Castro; Granville-Garcia, Ana Flávia; Paiva, Saul Martins

2016-01-01

The aim of the present study was to investigate determinant factors associated with the presence of dental caries and lesion activity in preschool children. A population-based, cross-sectional study was carried out with 843 children of aged three to five years enrolled at public and private preschools in the city of Campina Grande, Brazil. A questionnaire addressing socio-demographic data and oral health care was self-administered by parents/caregivers. Three dentists previously calibrated examined the children for the diagnosis of dental caries and lesion activity using the International Caries Detection and Assessment System (ICDAS). Nutritional status was evaluated based on the body mass index. Logistic regression analysis for complex samples was performed (α = 5%). The prevalence of dental caries was 66.3%. Among the children with caries, 88.0% had active lesions. Dental caries was more prevalent in girls (OR = 1.53, 95%CI: 1.05–2.23), in children from families with a monthly household income ≤US$312.50 (OR = 2.38, 95%CI: 1.65–3.43) and those whose mothers had up to eight years of schooling (OR = 1.55, 95%CI: 1.07–2.23). Lesion activity was significantly associated with mother’s schooling ≤ 8 years (OR = 2.15, 95%CI: 1.15–4.00). The prevalence rates of dental caries and lesion activity were high and mainly associated with a lower socioeconomic status and mother’s schooling. PMID:26900846

Quantitative Retinal and Choroidal Blood Flow During Light, Dark Adaptation and Flicker Light Stimulation in Rats Using Fluorescent Microspheres

PubMed Central

Shih, Yen-Yu I.; Wang, Lin; De La Garza, Bryan H.; Li, Guang; Cull, Grant; Kiel, Jeffery W.; Duong, Timothy Q.

2013-01-01

Purpose The present study aimed to quantify retinal and choroidal blood flow (BF) during light, dark adaptation and flicker light stimulation using the microsphere technique. Materials and Methods Adult male Sprague–Dawley rats were anesthetized with isoflurane. Eyes were dark (Group I, n = 8), light (Group II, n = 8) adapted or stimulated with 10Hz flicker light (Group III, n = 10). Retinal and choroidal BF were measured by a previously established method, using a mixture of 8 μm yellow-green and 10 μm red fluorescent microspheres. The microspheres were counted ex vivo in the dissected retina and choroid and in the reference arterial blood under a fluorescent microscope. Results The choroidal BF was 64.8 ± 29 μl/min (mean ± SD) during dark adaptation, not significantly different from that during light adaptation (66.0 ± 17.8 μl/min). The retinal BF was 13.5 ± 3.2 μl/min during 10 Hz flickering light stimulation, significantly higher than that during dark adaptation in the control fellow eyes (9.9 ± 2.9 μl/min). The choroidal BF values were not statistically different between flicker stimulation and dark adaptation. Retinal BF was 11.6 ± 2.9 μl/min during light adaptation. Dark adaptation did not increase retinal BF (Group I, 8.2 ± 2.4 μl/min; Group II, 9.9 ± 2.9 μl/min). Conclusions These findings argue against a dark-induced or flicker-induced functional hyperemia in the choroid as a result of the demands of the outer retina. Retinal BF was not higher during dark adaptation. Our data support the conclusion that the inner retina has a higher energy demand in flicker conditions relative to dark. PMID:23317112

Quantitative retinal and choroidal blood flow during light, dark adaptation and flicker light stimulation in rats using fluorescent microspheres.

PubMed

Shih, Yen-Yu I; Wang, Lin; De La Garza, Bryan H; Li, Guang; Cull, Grant; Kiel, Jeffery W; Duong, Timothy Q

2013-02-01

The present study aimed to quantify retinal and choroidal blood flow (BF) during light, dark adaptation and flicker light stimulation using the microsphere technique. Adult male Sprague-Dawley rats were anesthetized with isoflurane. Eyes were dark (Group I, n = 8), light (Group II, n = 8) adapted or stimulated with 10 Hz flicker light (Group III, n = 10). Retinal and choroidal BF were measured by a previously established method, using a mixture of 8 µm yellow-green and 10 µm red fluorescent microspheres. The microspheres were counted ex vivo in the dissected retina and choroid and in the reference arterial blood under a fluorescent microscope. The choroidal BF was 64.8 ± 29 µl/min (mean ± SD) during dark adaptation, not significantly different from that during light adaptation (66.0 ± 17.8 µl/min). The retinal BF was 13.5 ± 3.2 µl/min during 10 Hz flickering light stimulation, significantly higher than that during dark adaptation in the control fellow eyes (9.9 ± 2.9 µl/min). The choroidal BF values were not statistically different between flicker stimulation and dark adaptation. Retinal BF was 11.6 ± 2.9 µl/min during light adaptation. Dark adaptation did not increase retinal BF (Group I, 8.2 ± 2.4 µl/min; Group II, 9.9 ± 2.9 µl/min). These findings argue against a dark-induced or flicker-induced functional hyperemia in the choroid as a result of the demands of the outer retina. Retinal BF was not higher during dark adaptation. Our data support the conclusion that the inner retina has a higher energy demand in flicker conditions relative to dark.

Inter-device size variation of small choroidal nevi measured using stereographic projection ultra-widefield imaging and optical coherence tomography.

PubMed

Maloca, Peter; Gyger, Cyrill; Schoetzau, Andreas; Hasler, Pascal W

2016-04-01

Our purpose was to compare the tumor sizes of small choroidal nevi using ultra-widefield imaging (UWF) and different optical coherence tomography systems. Thirteen choroidal nevi were measured using automatic and manual segmentation techniques, including enhanced depth imaging spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (EDI-SDOCT) and 1050 nm swept source OCT (SSOCT), to compare to measurements obtained using the Optos projection ultra-widefield fundus (UWF) imaging technique. Segmentation artifacts were evaluated for all 13 cases, alongside an additional 12 choroidal nevi, using SSOCT. In tumor eyes, segmentation artifacts for the choroid-sclera interface were found in 42 % of SSOCT scans. EDI-SDOCT can underestimate tumor dimensions and differs up to -8.41 % compared to UWF imaging and by 1.25 % compared to SSOCT cases. The horizontal length of the nevi showed an average difference between EDI-SDOCT and SSOCT of ± 9.38 %. Measured markers showed an average difference in length of ± 12.51 %. The average tumor thickness showed a difference of ± 11.47 %. Comparisons between EDI-SDOCT/UWF, SSOCT/EDI-SDOCT, and marker EDI-SDOCT/SSOCT showed significant mean differences of -122 μm (CI: -212 to -31 μm, p = 0.013), 134 μm (CI: 65-203 μm, p = 0.0012), and -193 μm (CI: -345 to -41 μm, p = 0.017), whereas SSOCT/UWF showed no significant difference with a measurement of 13 μm (CI: -69-95 μm, p = 0.74). Automatic segmentation of nevi requires much caution, because a choroidal tumor can trigger many artifacts. It would be beneficial to monitor choroidal nevi using the same type of OCT technology, because a tumor is displayed differently.

The ocular lesions of naturally occurring lymphocystis in fish.

PubMed Central

Dukes, T W; Lawler, A R

1975-01-01

Six cases of ocular lymphocystis, a virus disease, are described. Lymphocystis is generally known as a benigh, unique, giant cell disease of fishes causing nodules on the skin and fins. It has been studied extensively because of the virus-host cell relationship that results in extreme size and lack of quick cellular destruction or stimulation to neoplasia. Lymphocystis cells were found behind or in one or both eyes and were also found on the cornea or adjacent skin surfaces. A retrobulbar mass produced extreme exophthalmos. Uveal (choroid and iris) masses were present in most cases. Optic nerve involvement was also seen. It is probable that the virus reached the eye by the blood with the resulting masses forming in situ rather than by direct extension from skin lesions. Images Fig. 1. Fig. 2. Fig. 3. Fig. 4. PMID:1175076

Automated choroidal segmentation method in human eye with 1050nm optical coherence tomography

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Cindy; Wang, Ruikang K.

2014-02-01

Choroidal thickness (ChT), defined as the distance between the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and the choroid-sclera interface (CSI), is highly correlated with various ocular disorders like high myopia, diabetic retinopathy, and central serous chorioretinopathy. Long wavelength Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) has the ability to penetrate deep to the CSI, making the measurement of the ChT possible. The ability to accurately segment the CSI and RPE is important in extracting clinical information. However, automated CSI segmentation is challenging due to the weak boundary in the lower choroid and inconsistent texture with varied blood vessels. We propose a K-means clustering based automated algorithm, which is effective in segmenting the CSI and RPE. The performance of the method was evaluated using 531 frames from 4 normal subjects. The RPE and CSI segmentation time was about 0.3 seconds per frame, and the average time was around 0.5 seconds per frame with correction among frames, which is faster than reported algorithms. The results from the proposed method are consistent with the manual segmentation results. Further investigation includes the optimization of the algorithm to cover more OCT images captured from patients and the increase of the processing speed and robustness of the segmentation method.

Chromatic and achromatic visual fields in relation to choroidal thickness in patients with high myopia: A pilot study.

PubMed

García-Domene, M C; Luque, M J; Díez-Ajenjo, M A; Desco-Esteban, M C; Artigas, J M

2018-02-01

To analyse the relationship between the choroidal thickness and the visual perception of patients with high myopia but without retinal damage. All patients underwent ophthalmic evaluation including a slit lamp examination and dilated ophthalmoscopy, subjective refraction, best corrected visual acuity, axial length, optical coherence tomography, contrast sensitivity function and sensitivity of the visual pathways. We included eleven eyes of subjects with high myopia. There are statistical correlations between choroidal thickness and almost all the contrast sensitivity values. The sensitivity of magnocellular and koniocellular pathways is the most affected, and the homogeneity of the sensibility of the magnocellular pathway depends on the choroidal thickness; when the thickness decreases, the sensitivity impairment extends from the center to the periphery of the visual field. Patients with high myopia without any fundus changes have visual impairments. We have found that choroidal thickness correlates with perceptual parameters such as contrast sensitivity or mean defect and pattern standard deviation of the visual fields of some visual pathways. Our study shows that the magnocellular and koniocellular pathways are the most affected, so that these patients have impairment in motion perception and blue-yellow contrast perception. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

Chorioretinal neovascular membranes complicating contusional eye injuries with indirect choroidal ruptures.

PubMed Central

Wood, C M; Richardson, J

1990-01-01

Chorioretinal neovascular membranes are a recognised but rare cause of late visual loss in eyes suffering contusional injuries. A series of eight cases is presented all with indirect choroidal ruptures involving the perifoveal region. Two main patterns of 'at risk' rupture were noted: a temporally situated rupture passing almost directly through the fovea, and a rupture which curves inferior or superior to the optic disc stopping just short of the fovea. In six of eight cases there was only a partial thickness rupture of the choroid. These neovascular membranes may present at any time after the original injury, either early (within six months of the injury), which could be related to persistence of the normal reparative neovascular response, or late (at least one year after the injury), which are more likely to have resulted from a secondary breakdown of the outer blood-retina barrier. Images PMID:1690025

γ-Secretase Inhibition of Murine Choroidal Neovascularization Is Associated with Reduction of Superoxide and Proinflammatory Cytokines

PubMed Central

Qi, Xiaoping; Cai, Jun; Ruan, Qing; Liu, Li; Boye, Sanford L.; Chen, Zhijuan; Hauswirth, William W.; Ryals, Renee C.; Shaw, Lynn; Caballero, Sergio; Grant, Maria B.

2012-01-01

Purpose. This study aimed to determine whether upregulation of γ-secretase could inhibit laser-induced choroidal neovascularization (CNV) and if this was associated with a reduction in both oxidative stress and proinflammatory cytokines. Methods. γ-Secretase, or its catalytic subunit presenilin 1 (PS1), were upregulated by exposure to either pigment epithelial derived factor (PEDF) or an AAV2 vector containing a PS1 gene driven by a vascular endothelial-cadherin promoter. Retinal endothelial cells were infected with AAV2 or exposed to PEDF in the presence or absence of VEGF and in vitro angiogenesis determined. Mouse eyes either received intravitreal injection of PEDF, DAPT (a γ-secretase inhibitor) or PEDF + DAPT at the time of laser injury, or AAV2 infection 3 weeks before receiving laser burns. Lesion volume was determined 14 days post laser injury. Superoxide generation, antioxidant activity and the production of proinflammatory mediators were assessed. Knockdown of γ-secretase was achieved using siRNA. Results. γ-Secretase upregulation and PS1 overexpression suppressed VEGF-induced in vitro angiogenesis and in vivo laser-induced CNV. This was associated with a reduction in the expression of VEGF and angiogenin 1 together with reduced superoxide anion generation and an increase in MnSOD compared with untreated CNV eyes. PS1 overexpression reduced proinflammatory factors and microglial activation in eyes with CNV compared with control. siRNA inhibition of γ-secretase resulted in increased angiogenesis. Conclusions. γ-Secretase, and in particular PS1 alone, are potent regulators of angiogenesis and this is due in part to stabilizing endogenous superoxide generation and reducing proinflammatory cytokine expression during CNV. PMID:22205609

Flt3L controls the development of radiosensitive dendritic cells in the meninges and choroid plexus of the steady-state mouse brain

PubMed Central

Anandasabapathy, Niroshana; Victora, Gabriel D.; Meredith, Matthew; Feder, Rachel; Dong, Baojun; Kluger, Courtney; Yao, Kaihui; Dustin, Michael L.; Nussenzweig, Michel C.; Steinman, Ralph M.

2011-01-01

Antigen-presenting cells in the disease-free brain have been identified primarily by expression of antigens such as CD11b, CD11c, and MHC II, which can be shared by dendritic cells (DCs), microglia, and monocytes. In this study, starting with the criterion of Flt3 (FMS-like receptor tyrosine kinase 3)-dependent development, we characterize the features of authentic DCs within the meninges and choroid plexus in healthy mouse brains. Analyses of morphology, gene expression, and antigen-presenting function established a close relationship between meningeal and choroid plexus DCs (m/chDCs) and spleen DCs. DCs in both sites shared an intrinsic requirement for Flt3 ligand. Microarrays revealed differences in expression of transcripts encoding surface molecules, transcription factors, pattern recognition receptors, and other genes in m/chDCs compared with monocytes and microglia. Migrating pre-DC progenitors from bone marrow gave rise to m/chDCs that had a 5–7-d half-life. In contrast to microglia, DCs actively present self-antigens and stimulate T cells. Therefore, the meninges and choroid plexus of a steady-state brain contain DCs that derive from local precursors and exhibit a differentiation and antigen-presenting program similar to spleen DCs and distinct from microglia. PMID:21788405

Flt3L controls the development of radiosensitive dendritic cells in the meninges and choroid plexus of the steady-state mouse brain.

PubMed

Anandasabapathy, Niroshana; Victora, Gabriel D; Meredith, Matthew; Feder, Rachel; Dong, Baojun; Kluger, Courtney; Yao, Kaihui; Dustin, Michael L; Nussenzweig, Michel C; Steinman, Ralph M; Liu, Kang

2011-08-01

Antigen-presenting cells in the disease-free brain have been identified primarily by expression of antigens such as CD11b, CD11c, and MHC II, which can be shared by dendritic cells (DCs), microglia, and monocytes. In this study, starting with the criterion of Flt3 (FMS-like receptor tyrosine kinase 3)-dependent development, we characterize the features of authentic DCs within the meninges and choroid plexus in healthy mouse brains. Analyses of morphology, gene expression, and antigen-presenting function established a close relationship between meningeal and choroid plexus DCs (m/chDCs) and spleen DCs. DCs in both sites shared an intrinsic requirement for Flt3 ligand. Microarrays revealed differences in expression of transcripts encoding surface molecules, transcription factors, pattern recognition receptors, and other genes in m/chDCs compared with monocytes and microglia. Migrating pre-DC progenitors from bone marrow gave rise to m/chDCs that had a 5-7-d half-life. In contrast to microglia, DCs actively present self-antigens and stimulate T cells. Therefore, the meninges and choroid plexus of a steady-state brain contain DCs that derive from local precursors and exhibit a differentiation and antigen-presenting program similar to spleen DCs and distinct from microglia.

Ultra–Short-Term Reproducibility of Speckle-Noise Freed Fluid and Tissue Compartmentalization of the Choroid Analyzed by Standard OCT

PubMed Central

Maloca, Peter; Gyger, Cyrill; Schoetzau, Andreas; Hasler, Pascal W.

2015-01-01

Purpose We measured reproducibility of speckle-noise freed fluid and tissue compartmentalization of the choroid (choroidal angiography and tissue characterization). Methods This study included 26 eyes of 13 healthy females: 13 were used for repeated measurements and 13 were used for side comparison. A semiautomated algorithm removed speckle-noise with structure preservation. Results Intraclass correlation (ICC), with respect to reproducibility of the method, showed an ICC for choroidal fluid inner space analysis (FISA) of 95.15% (90.01–98.24). The ICC of tissue inner space analysis (TISA) was 99.75% (99.47–99.91). The total choroid ratio (TCR), calculated from volumes of tissue to vessels, showed an ICC of 88.84% (78.28–95.82). Comparison of eyes (left to right) showed a difference for FISA of 0.033 (95% confidence interval [CI] −0.0018–0.0680, P = 0.063), TISA −0.118 (CI −0.2373–0.0023, P = 0.055), and TCR −0.590 (CI −0.9047 to −0.2754, P = 0.004). The ICC for FISA and TISA showed a trend in the difference comparing left and right eyes; however, TCR showed a significant difference between the eyes in the measured area (P < 0.001). Mean overall FISA was 0.58 mm3 (range, 0.25–0.98 mm3, SD = 0.14). Mean TISA was 3.45 mm3 (range, 2.38–5.0 mm3, SD 0.072). Mean TCR was 6.13 (overall range, 3.93–10.2, SD = 1.34). Conclusions Differences in choroidal layers between subjects were found mainly due to alterations in choroidal tissue. Reproducibility of speckle-noise freed choroidal angiography appeared excellent. Translational Relevance Speckle noise is a granular “noise” that appears in a wide range of medical imaging methods as ultrasonography, magnetic resonance, computer tomography, or optical coherence tomography (OCT). Findings from basic science about speckle noise were translated into a novel, medical image postprocessing application that can separate signal from speckle noise with structure preservation with high reproducibility and

Incidence and clinical characteristics of symptomatic choroidal metastasis from lung cancer.

PubMed

Kreusel, Klaus-Martin; Bechrakis, Nikolaos E; Wiegel, Thomas; Krause, Lothar; Foerster, Michael H

2008-08-01

To determine the clinical characteristics of symptomatic choroidal metastasis (CM) resulting from metastatic lung cancer. Twenty-two consecutive patients with symptomatic CM resulting from lung cancer were retrospectively reviewed for ocular findings, medical history and systemic disease. All patients underwent a complete screening for further organ metastasis by computed tomography (CT) and bone scintigraphy. Annual frequency of CM was determined and compared with the incidence predicted from ocular screening studies. In eight of 22 (36%; 95% confidence interval [CI] 17-59) patients, lung cancer had been diagnosed before occurrence of CM, with a median interval of 13 months. In 14 patients lung cancer was detected after diagnosis of CM, with a median interval of 1 month. Choroidal metastasis was unilateral, solitary and located close to or at the posterior pole in the majority of patients. Further organ metastasis with a median number of three affected organ systems was present in 19 (86%; 95% CI 65-97) patients. Median survival after diagnosis of symptomatic CM was 13 months, by contrast with 2 months in lung cancer patients with CM identified in an ocular screening study. The mean number of patients in Berlin diagnosed with symptomatic CM was 1.4 per year, which was two orders of magnitude less than predicted from screening studies. Symptomatic choroidal lung cancer metastasis in the majority of patients presents as a solitary tumour before diagnosis of lung cancer in patients with multiple organ systems affected by metastatic disease. Contrary to predictions from ocular screening studies, it is a rare clinical entity.

Microneurosurgical management of anterior choroid artery aneurysms.

PubMed

Lehecka, Martin; Dashti, Reza; Laakso, Aki; van Popta, Jouke S; Romani, Rossana; Navratil, Ondrej; Kivipelto, Leena; Kivisaari, Riku; Foroughi, Mansoor; Kokuzawa, Jouji; Lehto, Hanna; Niemelä, Mika; Rinne, Jaakko; Ronkainen, Antti; Koivisto, Timo; Jääskelainen, Juha E; Hernesniemi, Juha

2010-05-01

Anterior choroid artery aneurysms (AChAAs) constitute 2%-5% of all intracranial aneurysms. They are usually small, thin walled with one or several arteries originating at their base, and often associated with multiple aneurysms. In this article, we review the practical microsurgical anatomy, the preoperative imaging, surgical planning, and the microneurosurgical steps in the dissection and the clipping of AChAAs. This review, and the whole series on intracranial aneurysms (IAs), are mainly based on the personal microneurosurgical experience of the senior author (J.H.) in two Finnish centers (Helsinki and Kuopio) that serve, without patient selection, the catchment area in Southern and Eastern Finland. These two centers have treated more than 10,000 patients with IAs since 1951. In the Kuopio Cerebral Aneurysm Database of 3005 patients with 4253 IAs, 831 patients (28%) had altogether 980 internal carotid artery (ICA) aneurysms, of whom 95 patients had 99 (2%) AChAAs. Ruptured AChAAs, found in 39 patients (41%), with median size of 6 mm (range = 2-19 mm), were associated with intracerebral hematoma (ICH) in only 1 (3%) patient. Multiple aneurysms were seen in 58 (61%) patients. The main difficulty in microneurosurgical management of AChAAs is to preserve flow in the anterior choroid artery originating at the base and often attached to the aneurysm dome. This necessitates perfect surgical strategy based on preoperative knowledge of 3 dimensional angioarchitecture and proper orientation during the microsurgical dissection. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Evaluation of choroidal thickness using spectral-domain optical coherence tomography in patients with severe obstructive sleep apnea syndrome: a comparative study

PubMed Central

Karalezli, Aylin; Eroglu, Fatma Corak; Kivanc, Tulay; Dogan, Rusina

2014-01-01

AIM To assess choroidal thickness in patients with severe obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) and compare them with healthy controls, using spectral domain optical coherence tomography (OCT). METHODS In this observational, cross-sectional study, choroidal thicknesses of 23 newly severe OSAS patients and 23 body mass index- age- and sex-matched healthy subjects were measured using a high-speed, high-resolution frequency domain-OCT device (λ=840 nm, 26000 A-scans/s, 5 µm axial resolution). All patients underwent a complete ophthalmic examination before the measurements. OCT measurements were taken at the same time of day (9:00 a.m.), in order to minimize the effects of diurnal variation. RESULTS There was a statistically significant difference in median choroidal thickness between the OSAS patients (201 µm; range 145-237 µm) and the controls (324 µm; range 296-383 µm; P<0.001). There were significant differences at all measurement points (P<0.001 for all). The apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) values were more than 30 in all OSAS patients and the mean AHI was 48.57±6.54. The interexaminer intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) for the mean choroidal thickness was 0.938 (95%CI, 0.908-0.985) and ICC was greater than 0.90 for all measurement points. CONCLUSION The decreased choroidal thickness of patients with severe OSAS might be related to the the autonomic disregulation associated with this disease. Further studies are needed to evaluate the etiopathologic relationship between choroidal thickness and OSAS. PMID:25540760

The diagnostic use of choroidal thickness analysis and its correlation with visual field indices in glaucoma using spectral domain optical coherence tomography.

PubMed

Lin, Zhongjing; Huang, Shouyue; Huang, Ping; Guo, Lei; Shen, Xi; Zhong, Yisheng

2017-01-01

To evaluate the quantitative characteristics of choroidal thickness in primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG), normal tension glaucoma (NTG) and in normal eyes using spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT). To evaluate the diagnostic ability of choroidal thickness in glaucoma and to determine the correlation between choroidal thickness and visual field parameters in glaucoma. A total of 116 subjects including 40 POAG, 30 NTG and 46 healthy subjects were enrolled in this study. Choroidal thickness measurements were acquired in the macular and peripapillary regions using SD-OCT. All subjects underwent white-on-white (W/W) and blue-on-yellow (B/Y) visual field tests using Humphrey Field Analyzer. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve and the area under curve (AUC) were generated to assess the discriminating power of choroidal thickness for glaucoma. Pearson's correlation coefficients were calculated to assess the structure function correlation for glaucoma patients. No significant differences were observed for macular choroidal thickness among the different groups (all P > 0.05). Regarding the peripapillary choroidal thickness (PPCT), significant differences were observed among the three groups (all P < 0.05). Post hoc tests for multiple comparisons revealed a significant difference in the NTG-normal comparison group (all P < 0.01). The inferior and temporal PPCT in POAG patients were significantly thinner than those in normal subjects (P = 0.007, P = 0.002, respectively). Different parameters of PPCT showed significantly low diagnostic values to detect POAG from normal subjects (AUC: 0.555 to 0.652) and to discriminate NTG from POAG (AUC: 0.462 to 0.702), but moderate diagnostic power to detect NTG from normal subjects (AUC: 0.708 to 0.771). Regarding the diagnosis of early glaucoma, different parameters of PPCT showed relatively low diagnostic power (AUC: 0.606 to 0.698). In all the glaucoma subjects, PPCT was not significantly correlated with

Pilot clinical study to assess caries lesion activity using quantitative light-induced fluorescence during dehydration

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ando, Masatoshi; Ferreira-Zandoná, Andrea G.; Eckert, George J.; Zero, Domenick T.; Stookey, George K.

2017-03-01

This study aimed to evaluate the ability of quantitative light-induced fluorescence (QLF) to assess caries lesion activity using visual examination (VE) as the gold standard. Twenty-four visible white spot lesions on buccal surfaces were examined from 23 children, ages 9 to 14 years. At baseline, the surface was hydrated with water, and thereafter, it was dehydrated with continuous compressed air during image acquisition. QLF images were acquired at 0 (baseline), 5, and 15 s. QLF variables [QLFV: fluorescence loss (ΔF), lesion size (S), ΔQ: ΔF×S] was recorded. Changes-in-QLFV per second (ΔQLFV) were determined: ΔQLFV=(QLFVN-QLF/N), where N indicates dehydration time. One experienced dentist conducted VE independently using a dental unit's light, compressed air, and explorer. QLFV and ΔQLFV of the active group (n=11) were compared with those of the inactive group (n=13) using two-sample t-tests. As the surface was dehydrated, S and ΔQ values of the active group increased, whereas QLFV of the inactive group showed only a small change. ΔQLFV of the active group were larger than those of the inactive group; however, the difference did not reach statistical significance (p>0.11). Within the limitations of this study, QLF data indicated increments for lesions designated as active and minimal change for lesions defined as inactive.

En Face Spectral-Domain Optical Coherence Tomography for the Diagnosis and Evaluation of Polypoidal Choroidal Vasculopathy.

PubMed

Kokame, Gregg T; Shantha, Jessica G; Hirai, Kelsi; Ayabe, Julia

2016-08-01

To evaluate the diagnostic capability of en face spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) in patients with polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy (PCV) diagnosed by indocyanine green angiography (ICGA). A retrospective, consecutive case series of 100 eyes diagnosed with PCV by ICGA were imaged with en face SD-OCT. Evaluation of the PCV complex on en face SD-OCT was performed on the ability to diagnose PCV by the characteristic configuration of the PCV complex and the extent and size of the PCV lesion. The PCV complex was better visualized on ICGA in 45 eyes, on en face SD-OCT in 44 eyes, and equally well in 11 eyes. The extent of the PCV complex was larger on en face SD-OCT in 65 eyes, larger on ICGA in 23 eyes, and equal in size in 12 eyes. En face SD-OCT images the characteristic findings of PCV and provides a noninvasive way to diagnose and treat PCV when ICGA is not available. [Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina. 2016;47:737-744.]. Copyright 2016, SLACK Incorporated.

Comparison of the global gene expression of choroid plexus and meninges and associated vasculature under control conditions and after pronounced hyperthermia or amphetamine toxicity

PubMed Central

2013-01-01

Background The meninges (arachnoid and pial membranes) and associated vasculature (MAV) and choroid plexus are important in maintaining cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) generation and flow. MAV vasculature was previously observed to be adversely affected by environmentally-induced hyperthermia (EIH) and more so by a neurotoxic amphetamine (AMPH) exposure. Herein, microarray and RT-PCR analysis was used to compare the gene expression profiles between choroid plexus and MAV under control conditions and at 3 hours and 1 day after EIH or AMPH exposure. Since AMPH and EIH are so disruptive to vasculature, genes related to vasculature integrity and function were of interest. Results Our data shows that, under control conditions, many of the genes with relatively high expression in both the MAV and choroid plexus are also abundant in many epithelial tissues. These genes function in transport of water, ions, and solutes, and likely play a role in CSF regulation. Most genes that help form the blood–brain barrier (BBB) and tight junctions were also highly expressed in MAV but not in choroid plexus. In MAV, exposure to EIH and more so to AMPH decreased the expression of BBB-related genes such as Sox18, Ocln, and Cldn5, but they were much less affected in the choroid plexus. There was a correlation between the genes related to reactive oxidative stress and damage that were significantly altered in the MAV and choroid plexus after either EIH or AMPH. However, AMPH (at 3 hr) significantly affected about 5 times as many genes as EIH in the MAV, while in the choroid plexus EIH affected more genes than AMPH. Several unique genes that are not specifically related to vascular damage increased to a much greater extent after AMPH compared to EIH in the MAV (Lbp, Reg3a, Reg3b, Slc15a1, Sct and Fst) and choroid plexus (Bmp4, Dio2 and Lbp). Conclusions Our study indicates that the disruption of choroid plexus function and damage produced by AMPH and EIH is significant, but the changes

Polymerase chain reaction for Mycobacterium tuberculosis DNA detection from ocular fluids in patients with various types of choroiditis in a referral eye center in India

PubMed Central

Biswas, Jyotirmay; Kazi, Mohmmad Salman; Agarwal, Vishvesh Ashokkumar; Alam, Md. Shahid; Therese, K Lily

2016-01-01

Aims: The aim of this study was to detect Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) DNA with polymerase chain reaction (PCR) in aqueous or vitreous samples of patients suffering from choroiditis presumed to be infectious origin. Settings and Design: Hospital-based, retrospective case–control study. Subjects and Methods: In all, forty eyes of forty patients with choroiditis divided into two groups – Group A (serpiginous-like choroiditis, ampiginous choroiditis, multifocal choroiditis) and Group B (choroidal abscess, miliary tuberculosis (TB), choroidal tubercle) were analyzed retrospectively. In 27 controls (patients without uveitis undergoing phacoemulsification), anterior chamber aspirate was done and sample subjected to real-time PCR. Patients underwent nested PCR for MTB using IS6110 and MPB64 primers from aqueous (n = 39) or vitreous (n = 1). All patients underwent detailed ophthalmological examination by slit-lamp biomicroscopy, fundus examination by indirect ophthalmoscopy, and fundus photograph and fundus fluorescein angiography if required. Statistical Analysis: Positive results of PCR for MTB within the group and between two groups were statistically analyzed using Chi-square test. Results: There were 25 males and 15 females. Mean age at presentation was 34.66 years (range, 14–62). PCR positivity rates were 41.3% (n = 12/29) and 81.82% (n = 9/11) in Groups A and B, respectively. No controls had PCR-positive result. Comparison of PCR positivity rates showed statistically significant difference between Groups A and B (P = 0.028). Systemic TB was detected in 57.14% (n = 12/21) of all PCR-positive cases (Group A - 33.3%, n = 4/12; Group B - 88.9%, n = 8/9). Systemic antitubercular treatment (ATT) for 9 months and oral steroids were successful in resolution of choroiditis in all PCR-positive patients (n = 21) without disease recurrence. Conclusions: Eyes with choroiditis of suspected/presumed tubercular origin should be subjected to PCR for diagnosis of TB and

Positron emission mammography (PEM): Effect of activity concentration, object size, and object contrast on phantom lesion detection

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

MacDonald, Lawrence R.; Wang, Carolyn L.; Eissa, Marna

2012-10-15

Purpose: To characterize the relationship between lesion detection sensitivity and injected activity as a function of lesion size and contrast on the PEM (positron emission mammography) Flex Solo II scanner using phantom experiments. Methods: Phantom lesions (spheres 4, 8, 12, 16, and 20 mm diameter) were randomly located in uniform background. Sphere activity concentrations were 3 to 21 times the background activity concentration (BGc). BGc was a surrogate for injected activity; BGc ranged from 0.44-4.1 kBq/mL, corresponding to 46-400 MBq injections. Seven radiologists read 108 images containing zero, one, or two spheres. Readers used a 5-point confidence scale to scoremore » the presence of spheres. Results: Sensitivity was 100% for lesions {>=}12 mm under all conditions except for one 12 mm sphere with the lowest contrast and lowest BGc (60% sensitivity). Sensitivity was 100% for 8 mm spheres when either contrast or BGc was high, and 100% for 4 mm spheres only when both contrast and BGc were highest. Sphere contrast recovery coefficients (CRC) were 49%, 34%, 26%, 14%, and 2.8% for the largest to smallest spheres. Cumulative specificity was 98%. Conclusions: Phantom lesion detection sensitivity depends more on sphere size and contrast than on BGc. Detection sensitivity remained {>=}90% for injected activities as low as 100 MBq, for lesions {>=}8 mm. Low CRC in 4 mm objects results in moderate detection sensitivity even for 400 MBq injected activity, making it impractical to optimize injected activity for such lesions. Low CRC indicates that when lesions <8 mm are observed on PEM images they are highly tracer avid with greater potential of clinical significance. High specificity (98%) suggests that image statistical noise does not lead to false positive findings. These results apply to the 85 mm thick object used to obtain them; lesion detectability should be better (worse) for thinner (thicker) objects based on the reduced (increased) influence of photon

A model to environmental monitoring based on glutathione-S-transferase activity and branchial lesions in catfish

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Neta, Raimunda Nonata Fortes Carvalho; Torres, Audalio Rebelo

2017-11-01

In this work, we validate the glutathione-S-transferase and branchial lesions as biomarkers in catfish Sciades herzbergii to obtain a predictive model of the environmental impact effects in a harbor of Brazil. The catfish were sampled from a port known to be contaminated with heavy metals and organic compounds and from a natural reserve in São Marcos Bay, Maranhão. Two biomarkers, hepatic glutathione S-transferase (GST) activity and branchial lesions were analyzed. The values for GST activity were modeled with the occurrence of branchial lesions by fitting a third order polynomial. Results from the mathematical model indicate that GST activity has a strong polynomial relationship with the occurrence of branchial lesions in both the wet and the dry seasons, but only at the polluted port site. Our mathematic model indicates that when the GST ceases to act, serious branchial lesions are observed in the catfish of the contaminated port area.

Choroidal thinning in diabetes type 1 detected by 3-dimensional 1060 nm optical coherence tomography.

PubMed

Esmaeelpour, Marieh; Brunner, Simon; Ansari-Shahrezaei, Siamak; Shahrezaei, Siamak Ansari; Nemetz, Susanne; Povazay, Boris; Kajic, Vedran; Drexler, Wolfgang; Binder, Susanne

2012-10-03

To map choroidal (ChT) and retinal thickness (RT) in patients with diabetes type 1 with and without maculopathy and retinopathy in order to compare them with healthy subjects using high speed 3-dimensional (3D) 1060 nm optical coherence tomography (OCT). Thirty-three eyes from 33 diabetes type 1 subjects (23-57 years, 15 male) divided into groups of without pathology (NDR) and with pathology (DR; including microaneurysms, exudates, clinically significant macular-oedema and proliferative retinopathy) were compared with 20 healthy axial eye length and age-matched subjects (24-57 years, 9 male), imaged by high speed (60.000 A-scans/s) 3D 1060 nm OCT performed over 36° × 36° field of view. Ocular health status, disease duration, body mass index, haemoglobin-A1c, and blood pressure (bp) measurements were recorded. Subfoveal ChT, and 2D topographic maps between retinal pigment epithelium and the choroidal/scleral-interface, were automatically generated and statistically analyzed. Subfoveal ChT (mean ± SD, μm) for healthy eyes was 388 ± 109; significantly thicker than all diabetic groups, 291 ± 64 for NDR, and 303 ± 82 for DR (ANOVA P < 0.004, Tukey P = 0.01 for NDR and DR). Thinning did not relate to recorded factors (multi-regression analysis, P > 0.05). Compared with healthy eyes and the NDR, the averaged DR ChT-map demonstrated temporal thinning that extended superiorly and temporal-inferiorly (unpaired t-test, P < 0.05). Foveal RT and RT-maps showed no statistically significant difference between groups (mean SD, μm, healthy 212 ± 17, NDR 217 ± 15, DR 216 ± 27, ANOVA P > 0.05). ChT is decreased in diabetes type 1, independent of the absence of pathology and of diabetic disease duration. In eyes with pathology, 3D 1060 nm OCT averaged maps showed an extension of the thinning area matching retinal lesions and suggesting its involvement on onset or progression of disease.

Plaque radiotherapy for choroidal melanoma encircling the optic disc (circumpapillary choroidal melanoma).

PubMed

Sagoo, Mandeep S; Shields, Carol L; Mashayekhi, Arman; Freire, Jorge; Emrich, Jacqueline; Reiff, Jay; Komarnicky, Lydia; Shields, Jerry A

2007-09-01

To report results of plaque radiotherapy for choroidal melanoma that completely encircles the optic disc (circumpapillary melanoma). Retrospective medical record review over a 31-year period of 37 consecutive patients. The main outcome measures were treatment complications, long-term visual acuity, enucleation, tumor recurrence, metastasis, and death. The median patient age at treatment was 69 years (range, 20-86 years). The presenting complaint was visual loss in 19 eyes (51%), photopsia in 5 (14%), and visual field loss in 3 (8%). All tumors touched and encircled the optic disc for 360 degrees . The quadrantic location of the main tumor epicenter was superior in 8 eyes (22%), nasal in 10 (27%), inferior in 9 (24%), and temporal in 10 (27%). The median tumor basal diameter was 11 mm (range, 4.8-20 mm) and median tumor thickness was 3.6 mm (range, 1.8-14.8 mm). The optic disc was obscured to some extent by overhanging tumor in 19 cases (52%). The most commonly used isotope for plaque radiotherapy was iodine 125 (n = 34 cases; 92%), and a notched plaque design was used in 34 cases (92%). Planned adjunctive treatment included transpupillary thermotherapy in 17 cases (49%) and argon laser photocoagulation in 6 of 35 cases (17%) with follow-up. Of the 28 eyes with more than 5 months' follow-up (mean, 52 months; median, 46 months; range, 5-234 months), treatment complications included nonproliferative and proliferative retinopathy in 11 (39%) and 7 eyes (25%); maculopathy in 7 (25%); papillopathy in 9 eyes (32%); neovascular glaucoma in 5 (18%); and vitreous hemorrhage in 13 (46%). Pars plana vitrectomy was required in only 2 of 13 eyes (15%) with persistent vitreous hemorrhage. Long-term visual acuity of 20/200 or worse was observed in 13 eyes (62%), and 12 eyes (57%) lost more than 5 Snellen visual acuity lines, excluding 7 cases (25%) in which enucleation was necessary. Recurrence was noted in 4 cases (14%), of which 3 were treated with enucleation and 1 with

Plasma-activated medium suppresses choroidal neovascularization in mice: a new therapeutic concept for age-related macular degeneration.

PubMed

Ye, Fuxiang; Kaneko, Hiroki; Nagasaka, Yosuke; Ijima, Ryo; Nakamura, Kae; Nagaya, Masatoshi; Takayama, Kei; Kajiyama, Hiroaki; Senga, Takeshi; Tanaka, Hiromasa; Mizuno, Masaaki; Kikkawa, Fumitaka; Hori, Masaru; Terasaki, Hiroko

2015-01-09

Choroidal neovascularization (CNV) is the main pathogenesis of age-related macular degeneration (AMD), which leads to severe vision loss in many aged patients in most advanced country. CNV compromises vision via hemorrhage and retinal detachment on account of pathological neovascularization penetrating the retina. Plasma medicine represents the medical application of ionized gas "plasma" that is typically studied in the field of physical science. Here we examined the therapeutic ability of plasma-activated medium (PAM) to suppress CNV. The effect of PAM on vascularization was assessed on the basis of human retinal endothelial cell (HREC) tube formation. In mice, laser photocoagulation was performed to induce CNV (laser-CNV), followed by intravitreal injection of PAM. N-Acetylcysteine was used to examine the role of reactive oxygen species in PAM-induced CNV suppression. Fundus imaging, retinal histology examination, and electroretinography (ERG) were also performed to evaluate PAM-induced retinal toxicity. Interestingly, HREC tube formation and laser-CNV were both reduced by treatment with PAM. N-acetylcysteine only partly neutralized the PAM-induced reduction in laser-CNV. In addition, PAM injection had no effect on regular retinal vessels, nor did it show retinal toxicity in vivo. Our findings indicate the potential of PAM as a novel therapeutic agent for suppressing CNV.

Bilateral midperipheral large drusen and retinal pigment epithelial detachments associated with multifocal areas of choroidal neovascularization: a histopathologic study.

PubMed

Tabandeh, Homayoun; Dubovy, Sander; Green, W Richard

2006-01-01

The ocular histopathologic features of a patient with bilateral multiple midperipheral areas of choroidal vascularization, large drusen, and detachments of the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) are presented. The eyes were obtained at autopsy and fixed in 4% buffered formaldehyde. Serial sections through the macula area and inferior segments were prepared. Light as well as electron microscopy was performed. Microscopic examination disclosed numerous large drusen measuring up to 200 micro m in height and 280 micro m in diameter and areas of serous RPE detachments in the midperiphery of both eyes. Some of the large drusen had choroidal vascularization. Areas of sub-RPE neovascularization that measured up to 6.5 mm in diameter were present in the midperiphery of both eyes. The choroidal origin for neovascularization was evident in 10 areas. A 1-mm area of hemorrhagic detachment of the RPE contiguous with choroidal neovascularization (CNV) was present in the immediate postequatorial area temporally in the left eye. No drusen, basal deposit, or CNV was present in the macular area. Multifocal midperipheral RPE detachments and CNV can occur in the absence of significant age-related macular disease.

Experimental Toxoplasmosis in Rats Induced Orally with Eleven Strains of Toxoplasma gondii of Seven Genotypes: Tissue Tropism, Tissue Cyst Size, Neural Lesions, Tissue Cyst Rupture without Reactivation, and Ocular Lesions.

PubMed

Dubey, Jitender P; Ferreira, Leandra R; Alsaad, Mohammad; Verma, Shiv K; Alves, Derron A; Holland, Gary N; McConkey, Glenn A

2016-01-01

The protozoan parasite Toxoplasma gondii is one of the most widely distributed and successful parasites. Toxoplasma gondii alters rodent behavior such that infected rodents reverse their fear of cat odor, and indeed are attracted rather than repelled by feline urine. The location of the parasite encysted in the brain may influence this behavior. However, most studies are based on the highly susceptible rodent, the mouse. Latent toxoplasmosis was induced in rats (10 rats per T. gondii strains) of the same age, strain, and sex, after oral inoculation with oocysts (natural route and natural stage of infection) of 11 T. gondii strains of seven genotypes. Rats were euthanized at two months post inoculation (p.i.) to investigate whether the parasite genotype affects the distribution, location, tissue cyst size, or lesions. Tissue cysts were enumerated in different regions of the brains, both in histological sections as well in saline homogenates. Tissue cysts were found in all regions of the brain. The tissue cyst density in different brain regions varied extensively between rats with many regions highly infected in some animals. Overall, the colliculus was most highly infected although there was a large amount of variability. The cerebral cortex, thalamus, and cerebellum had higher tissue cyst densities and two strains exhibited tropism for the colliculus and olfactory bulb. Histologically, lesions were confined to the brain and eyes. Tissue cyst rupture was frequent with no clear evidence for reactivation of tachyzoites. Ocular lesions were found in 23 (25%) of 92 rat eyes at two months p.i. The predominant lesion was focal inflammation in the retina. Tissue cysts were seen in the sclera of one and in the optic nerve of two rats. The choroid was not affected. Only tissue cysts, not active tachyzoite infections, were detected. Tissue cysts were seen in histological sections of tongue of 20 rats but not in myocardium and leg muscle. This study reevaluated in depth the

Choroidal hemodynamic changes during isometric exercise in patients with inactive central serous chorioretinopathy.

PubMed

Tittl, Michael; Maar, Noemi; Polska, Elzbieta; Weigert, Günther; Stur, Michael; Schmetterer, Leopold

2005-12-01

Imaging studies suggest that the choroidal vasculature may be altered in central serous chorioretinopathy. Little is known, however, about the regulation of ocular blood flow in patients with central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC). The hypothesis for the present study was that choroidal blood flow changes during an increase in ocular perfusion pressure induced by isometric exercise may be altered in CSC. An observer-masked, two-cohort study was performed in 14 nonsmoking patients with chronic-relapsing but inactive CSC and in 14 healthy nonsmoking volunteers. Both groups were matched for age and sex. Subfoveal choroidal blood flow (CBF) was assessed with laser Doppler flowmetry, and ocular perfusion pressure (OPP) was calculated from mean arterial pressure (MAP) and intraocular pressure (IOP). Changes of CBF during isometric exercise over a period of 6 minutes were measured. Whereas the increase of MAP, the pulse rate, and the OPP were comparable between the two study groups, subfoveal CBF increased significantly more in the group of patients with CSC (P < 0.001). IOP remained unchanged in both groups during isometric exercise. At an 85% increase in OPP, subfoveal CBF was approximately twice as high in the patients with CSC compared with the healthy control group. The data indicate an abnormal subfoveal CBF regulation in patients with relapsing CSC compared with age-matched, nonsmoking, healthy volunteers during isometric exercise.

Retinal and choroidal imaging in vivo using integrated photoacoustic microscopy and optical coherence tomography

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tian, Chao; Zhang, Wei; Nguyen, Van Phuc; Huang, Ziyi; Wang, Xueding; Paulus, Yannis M.

2018-02-01

Most reported photoacoustic ocular imaging work to date uses small animals, such as mice and rats, the eyes of which are small and less than one-third the size of a human eye, which poses a challenge for clinical translation. Here we achieved chorioretinal imaging of larger animals, i.e. rabbits, using a dual-modality photoacoustic microscopy (PAM) and optical coherence tomography (OCT) system. Preliminary experimental results in living rabbits demonstrate that the PAM can noninvasively visualize depth-resolved retinal and choroidal vessels using a safe laser exposure dose; and the OCT can finely distinguish different retinal layers, the choroid, and the sclera. This reported work might be a major step forward in clinical translation of photoacoustic microscopy.

Evaluation of Macular Ganglion Cell-inner Plexiform Layer and Choroid in Psoriasis Patients Using Enhanced Depth Imaging Spectral Domain Optical Coherence Tomography.

PubMed

Ersan, Ismail; Kilic, Sevilay; Arikan, Sedat; Kara, Selcuk; Işik, Selda; Gencer, Baran; Ogretmen, Zerrin

2017-08-01

To evaluate changes in the thickness of the central macula, macular ganglion cell-inner plexiform layer (mGCIPL), and subfoveal choroid in patients with psoriasis using spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT). The measurements of macular, mGCIPL thicknesses and subfoveal choroidal thickness (SFCT) obtained by SD-OCT of psoriasis patients (n = 46). These measurements were compared with those of 50 healthy controls. The macular, mGCIPL, and choroidal thicknesses did not differ between the controls and psoriatic subjects (p>0.05). When the patients were divided into two distinct groups, only the SFCT was significantly thicker in the severe psoriasis group compared with the mild psoriasis group (p = 0.003). These findings suggest that choroidal alterations are seen without macular changes in patients with psoriasis. Severe psoriasis appears to be related to increases in SFCT as a consequence of possible inflammatory cascades that are part of the disease's pathogenesis.

Na+-coupled bicarbonate transporters in duodenum, collecting ducts and choroid plexus.

PubMed

Praetorius, Jeppe

2010-01-01

Epithelia cover the internal and external surfaces of the organism and form barriers between the various compartments. Some of these epithelia are specialized for effective transmembrane or even transepithelial movement of acid-base equivalents. Certain epithelia with a high rate of HCO3- transport express a few potent Na+-coupled acid-base transporters to gain a net HCO3- movement across the epithelium. Examples of such epithelia are renal proximal tubules and pancreatic ducts. In contrast, multiple Na+-coupled HCO3- transporters are expressed in other HCO3- secreting epithelia, such as the duodenal mucosa or the choroid plexus, which maintain suitable intracellular pH despite a variable demand for secreting HCO3-. In the duodenum, the epithelial cells must secrete HCO3- for neutralization of the gastric acid, and at the same time prevent cellular acidification. During the neutralization, large quantities of CO2 are formed in the duodenal lumen, which enter the epithelial cells. This would tend to lower intracellular pH and require effective counteracting mechanisms to avoid cell death and to maintain HCO3- secretion. The choroid plexus secretes the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and controls the pH of the otherwise poorly buffered CSF. The pCO2 of CSF fluctuates with plasma pCO2, and the choroid plexus must regulate the HCO3- secretion to minimize the effects of these fluctuations on CSF pH. This is done while maintaining pH neutrality in the epithelial cells. Thus, the Na+-HCO3- cotransporters appear to be involved in HCO3- import in more epithelia, where Na+/H+ exchangers were until recently thought to be sufficient for maintaining intracellular pH.

Effect of Reduced Meal Frequency during Ramadan Fasting on Retinal and Choroidal Thickness.

PubMed

Ersan, Ismail; Tufan, Hasan Ali; Arikan, Sedat; Kara, Selcuk; Gencer, Baran; Hondur, Ahmet Murat

2017-01-01

To evaluate the effects of Ramadan fasting on central foveal thickness (CFT) and subfoveal choroidal thickness (SFCT) in healthy individuals using enhanced depth imaging optical coherence tomography (EDI-OCT). The EDI-OCT scans of 42 healthy individuals obtained after about 12 hours of fasting on at least the twenty-first consecutive day of fasting were compared to scans of the same patients taken one month after the last day they had fasted. CFT values were similar for both time periods (p > 0.05). The SFCT was significantly higher after consecutive fasting days towards the end of Ramadan, compared to the SFCT after one month of no fasting (one month after Ramadan ended) (p < 0.001). Ramadan fasting may lead to a significant increase in subfoveal choroidal thickness without affecting the central foveal thickness.

Telocytes in meninges and choroid plexus.

PubMed

Popescu, B O; Gherghiceanu, M; Kostin, S; Ceafalan, L; Popescu, L M

2012-05-16

Telocytes (TCs) are a recently identified type of interstitial cells present in a wide variety of organs in humans and mammals (www.telocytes.com). They are characterized by a small cell body, but extremely long cell processes - telopodes (Tp), and a specific phenotype. TCs establish close contacts with blood capillaries, nerve fibers and stem cells. We report here identification of TCs by electron microscopy and immunofluorescence in rat meninges and choroid plexus/subventricular zone, in the vicinity of putative stem cells. The presence of TCs in brain areas involved in adult neurogenesis might indicate that they have a role in modulation of neural stem cell fate. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

The association between sterilizing activity and drug distribution into tuberculosis lesions

PubMed Central

Prideaux, Brendan; Via, Laura E.; Zimmerman, Matthew D.; Eum, Seokyong; Sarathy, Jansy; O’Brien, Paul; Chen, Chao; Kaya, Firat; Weiner, Danielle M.; Chen, Pei-Yu; Song, Taeksun; Lee, Myungsun; Shim, TaeSun; Cho, Jeong Su; Kim, Wooshik; Cho, Sang Nae; Olivier, Kenneth N.; Barry, Clifton E.; Dartois, Véronique

2015-01-01

Finding new treatment-shortening antibiotics to improve cure rates and curb the alarming emergence of drug resistance is the major objective of tuberculosis (TB) drug development. Using a MALDI mass spectrometry imaging suite in a biosafety containment facility, we show that the key sterilizing drugs rifampicin and pyrazinamide efficiently penetrate the sites of TB infection in lung lesions. Rifampicin even accumulates in necrotic caseum, a critical lesion site where persisting tubercle bacilli reside1. In contrast, moxifloxacin which is active in vitro against persisters, a sub-population of Mycobacterium tuberculosis that persists in specific niches under drug pressure, and achieved treatment shortening in mice2, does not diffuse well in caseum, concordant with its failure to shorten therapy in recent clinical trials. We also suggest that such differential spatial distribution and kinetics of accumulation in lesions may create temporal and spatial windows of monotherapy in specific niches, allowing the gradual development of multidrug resistant TB. We propose an alternative working model to prioritize new antibiotic regimens based on quantitative and spatial distribution of TB drugs in the major lesion types found in human lungs. The finding that lesion penetration contributes to treatment outcome has wide implications for TB. PMID:26343800

Transcriptomic analysis across nasal, temporal, and macular regions of human neural retina and RPE/choroid by RNA-Seq.

PubMed

Whitmore, S Scott; Wagner, Alex H; DeLuca, Adam P; Drack, Arlene V; Stone, Edwin M; Tucker, Budd A; Zeng, Shemin; Braun, Terry A; Mullins, Robert F; Scheetz, Todd E

2014-12-01

Proper spatial differentiation of retinal cell types is necessary for normal human vision. Many retinal diseases, such as Best disease and male germ cell associated kinase (MAK)-associated retinitis pigmentosa, preferentially affect distinct topographic regions of the retina. While much is known about the distribution of cell types in the retina, the distribution of molecular components across the posterior pole of the eye has not been well-studied. To investigate regional difference in molecular composition of ocular tissues, we assessed differential gene expression across the temporal, macular, and nasal retina and retinal pigment epithelium (RPE)/choroid of human eyes using RNA-Seq. RNA from temporal, macular, and nasal retina and RPE/choroid from four human donor eyes was extracted, poly-A selected, fragmented, and sequenced as 100 bp read pairs. Digital read files were mapped to the human genome and analyzed for differential expression using the Tuxedo software suite. Retina and RPE/choroid samples were clearly distinguishable at the transcriptome level. Numerous transcription factors were differentially expressed between regions of the retina and RPE/choroid. Photoreceptor-specific genes were enriched in the peripheral samples, while ganglion cell and amacrine cell genes were enriched in the macula. Within the RPE/choroid, RPE-specific genes were upregulated at the periphery while endothelium associated genes were upregulated in the macula. Consistent with previous studies, BEST1 expression was lower in macular than extramacular regions. The MAK gene was expressed at lower levels in macula than in extramacular regions, but did not exhibit a significant difference between nasal and temporal retina. The regional molecular distinction is greatest between macula and periphery and decreases between different peripheral regions within a tissue. Datasets such as these can be used to prioritize candidate genes for possible involvement in retinal diseases with

Transcriptomic analysis across nasal, temporal, and macular regions of human neural retina and RPE/choroid by RNA-Seq

PubMed Central

Whitmore, S. Scott; Wagner, Alex H.; DeLuca, Adam P.; Drack, Arlene V.; Stone, Edwin M.; Tucker, Budd A.; Zeng, Shemin; Braun, Terry A.; Mullins, Robert F.; Scheetz, Todd E.

2014-01-01

Proper spatial differentiation of retinal cell types is necessary for normal human vision. Many retinal diseases, such as Best disease and male germ cell associated kinase (MAK)-associated retinitis pigmentosa, preferentially affect distinct topographic regions of the retina. While much is known about the distribution of cell-types in the retina, the distribution of molecular components across the posterior pole of the eye has not been well-studied. To investigate regional difference in molecular composition of ocular tissues, we assessed differential gene expression across the temporal, macular, and nasal retina and retinal pigment epithelium (RPE)/choroid of human eyes using RNA-Seq. RNA from temporal, macular, and nasal retina and RPE/choroid from four human donor eyes was extracted, poly-A selected, fragmented, and sequenced as 100 bp read pairs. Digital read files were mapped to the human genome and analyzed for differential expression using the Tuxedo software suite. Retina and RPE/choroid samples were clearly distinguishable at the transcriptome level. Numerous transcription factors were differentially expressed between regions of the retina and RPE/choroid. Photoreceptor-specific genes were enriched in the peripheral samples, while ganglion cell and amacrine cell genes were enriched in the macula. Within the RPE/choroid, RPE-specific genes were upregulated at the periphery while endothelium associated genes were upregulated in the macula. Consistent with previous studies, BEST1 expression was lower in macular than extramacular regions. The MAK gene was expressed at lower levels in macula than in extramacular regions, but did not exhibit a significant difference between nasal and temporal retina. The regional molecular distinction is greatest between macula and periphery and decreases between different peripheral regions within a tissue. Datasets such as these can be used to prioritize candidate genes for possible involvement in retinal diseases with

Effects of Dorzolamide on Retinal and Choroidal Blood Flow in the DBA/2J Mouse Model of Glaucoma

PubMed Central

Chandra, Saurav; Muir, Eric R.; Deo, Kaiwalya; Kiel, Jeffrey W.; Duong, Timothy Q.

2016-01-01

Purpose To test the hypothesis that acute topical dorzolamide (DZ) decreases intraocular pressure (IOP) and increases retinal and choroidal blood flow in the DBA/2J mouse model of glaucoma. Methods Retinal and choroidal blood flow were measured in 4- and 9-month-old DBA/2J mice, and 4-month C57BL/6 (control) mice under isoflurane anesthesia using magnetic resonance imaging. Ocular blood flow was measured at baseline, and 1 and 2 hours after topical dorzolamide. Intraocular pressure was measured using a rebound tonometer in a subset of animals at the same time points. Results Baseline IOP in the 4-month-old DBA/2J mice and C57BL/6 mice was not significantly different (P > 0.05), and IOP in both groups was less than in the 9-month-old DBA/2J mice (P < 0.05 for both). Compared to baseline, dorzolamide reduced IOP at 1 and 2 hours after dorzolamide in the 4- (P < 0.05) and 9-month-old (P < 0.01) DBA/2J mice, but not in the C57BL/6J mice (P > 0.05). Baseline retinal blood flow was lower in the 4-month and 9-month-old DBA/2J mice compared with the 4-month-old C57BL/6J mice (P < 0.05). Baseline choroidal blood flow in the 9-month-old DBA/2J mice was less than in the C57BL/6J mice (P < 0.05). Compared with baseline, both retinal and choroidal blood flow increased at 1-hour post-dorzolamide and remained elevated 2 hours later in the 9-month-old DBA/2J mice (P < 0.05). Conclusions Dorzolamide lowers IOP and raises retinal and choroidal blood flow in older DBA/2J mice, consistent with the study hypothesis. PMID:26934140

Age, Sex, and Ethnic Variations in Inner and Outer Retinal and Choroidal Thickness on Spectral-Domain Optical Coherence Tomography.

PubMed

Bafiq, Rinoza; Mathew, Raeba; Pearce, Elizabeth; Abdel-Hey, Ahmed; Richardson, Matthew; Bailey, Thomas; Sivaprasad, Sobha

2015-11-01

To evaluate age, sex, and ethnic variations in inner and outer retinal and choroidal thickness and foveal pit, using spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD OCT). Single-center observational cross-sectional study. Ninety randomly selected, healthy individuals of white, black, and South Asian origin underwent SD OCT raster and enhanced depth imaging scan. Manual measurements of inner and outer retinal thickness and choroidal thickness up to 3 mm nasal and temporal to the fovea were performed. The age, sex, and ethnic differences in these parameters were analyzed. The mean inner retinal thickness was lower by approximately 12 μm in black subjects across the central retina compared to white subjects (P < .05). The central foveal thickness below the foveal pit was lower in eyes of blacks compared to South Asians (12 μm, P = .035) and white subjects (18 μm, P < .0001). The fovea was also significantly wider in eyes of black and South Asian subjects compared to white individuals. The inner retinal thickness decreased by 0.5 μm per year of age of subjects and was thinner by 6.1 μm (P < .02) in female compared to male subjects. The subfoveal choroidal thickness did not vary between ethnic groups but the temporal choroid was significantly thinner in black subjects (P < .05). The choroid showed an age-related decline in thickness of 2 μm per year of age of the subjects. Interethnic differences include wider fovea, lower central foveal thickness, and thinner inner retina in eyes of black subjects compared to their white and South Asian counterparts. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Toward earlier detection of choroidal neovascularization secondary to age-related macular degeneration: multicenter evaluation of a preferential hyperacuity perimeter designed as a home device.

PubMed

Loewenstein, Anat; Ferencz, Joseph R; Lang, Yaron; Yeshurun, Itamar; Pollack, Ayala; Siegal, Ruth; Lifshitz, Tova; Karp, Joseph; Roth, Daniel; Bronner, Guri; Brown, Justin; Mansour, Sam; Friedman, Scott; Michels, Mark; Johnston, Richards; Rapp, Moshe; Havilio, Moshe; Rafaeli, Omer; Manor, Yair

2010-01-01

The primary purpose of this study was to evaluate the ability of a home device preferential hyperacuity perimeter to discriminate between patients with choroidal neovascularization (CNV) and intermediate age-related macular degeneration (AMD), and the secondary purpose was to investigate the dependence of sensitivity on lesion characteristics. All participants were tested with the home device in an unsupervised mode. The first part of this work was retrospective using tests performed by patients with intermediate AMD and newly diagnosed CNV. In the second part, the classifier was prospectively challenged with tests performed by patients with intermediate AMD and newly diagnosed CNV. The dependence of sensitivity on lesion characteristics was estimated with tests performed by patients with CNV of both parts. In 66 eyes with CNV and 65 eyes with intermediate AMD, both sensitivity and specificity were 0.85. In the retrospective part (34 CNV and 43 intermediate AMD), sensitivity and specificity were 0.85 +/- 0.12 (95% confidence interval) and 0.84 +/- 0.11 (95% confidence interval), respectively. In the prospective part (32 CNV and 22 intermediate AMD), sensitivity and specificity were 0.84 +/- 0.13 (95% confidence interval) and 0.86 +/- 0.14 (95% confidence interval), respectively. Chi-square analysis showed no dependence of sensitivity on type (P = 0.44), location (P = 0.243), or size (P = 0.73) of the CNV lesions. A home device preferential hyperacuity perimeter has good sensitivity and specificity in discriminating between patients with newly diagnosed CNV and intermediate AMD. Sensitivity is not dependent on lesion characteristics.

Polypoidal Choroidal Vasculopathy: Definition, Pathogenesis, Diagnosis, and Management.

PubMed

Cheung, Chui Ming Gemmy; Lai, Timothy Y Y; Ruamviboonsuk, Paisan; Chen, Shih-Jen; Chen, Youxin; Freund, K Bailey; Gomi, Fomi; Koh, Adrian H; Lee, Won-Ki; Wong, Tien Yin

2018-05-01

Polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy (PCV) is an age-related macular degeneration (AMD) subtype and is seen particularly in Asians. Previous studies have suggested disparity in response to intravitreal injections of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) agents between PCV and typical AMD, and thus, the preferred treatment for PCV has remained unclear. Recent research has provided novel insights into the pathogenesis of PCV, and imaging studies based on OCT suggest that PCV belongs to a spectrum of conditions characterized by pachychoroid, in which disturbance in the choroidal circulation seems to be central to its pathogenesis. Advances in imaging, including enhanced depth imaging, swept-source OCT, en face OCT, and OCT angiography, have facilitated the diagnosis of PCV. Importantly, 2 large, multicenter randomized clinical trials evaluating the safety and efficacy of anti-VEGF monotherapy and combination with photodynamic therapy (PDT) recently reported initial first-year outcomes, providing level I evidence to guide clinicians in choosing the most appropriate therapy for PCV. In this review, we summarize the latest updates in the epidemiologic features, pathogenesis, and advances in imaging and treatment trials, with a focus on the most recent key clinical trials. Finally, we propose current management guidelines and recommendations to help clinicians manage patients with PCV. Remaining gaps in current understanding of PCV, such as significance of polyp closure, high recurrence rate, and heterogeneity within PCV, are highlighted where further research is needed. Copyright © 2018 American Academy of Ophthalmology. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Treatment of choroidal neovascularization in high myopia.

PubMed

Montero, Javier A; Ruiz-Moreno, Jose M

2010-05-01

High myopia affects approximately 2% of general population, and is a major cause of legal blindness in many developed countries. Choroidal neovascularization (CNV) is the most common vision-threatening complication of high myopia. Different therapeutic approaches have been attempted such as thermal laser photocoagulation, surgery and photodynamic therapy with verteporfin (PDT). The visual outcome of these therapies has been reported to be better than the natural history of the condition. However, the limited visual acuity improvement after PDT monotherapy and the appearance of subretinal fibrosis and chorioretinal atrophy prompted the association of other therapies. In the past few years a tremendous advance in the knowledge of the mechanisms underling CNV secondary to high myopia and age related macular degeneration has been achieved, leading to new therapeutic targets and novel drugs and combined therapies. These new therapeutic weapons have been designed to achieve a selective shut down of choroidal new vessels. Recent reviews have been published on the natural history and therapies for myopic CNV. Ohno-Matsui reported on the natural history of the condition as well as the outcome of laser photocoagulation, surgical extraction of CNV, foveal translocation and photodynamic therapy on myopic CNV in the short-term. Soubrane et al reviewed the new advances on surgery, laser photocoagulation and PDT, considering some of the potential effects of triamcinolone, pegaptanib and ranibizumab in CNV secondary to age related macular degeneration (AMD). Novack et al reported on the pharmacological therapy of CNV in AMD. The aim of this review is to summarize the recent advances in myopic CNV pathophysiology and the new therapeutic targets and drugs that are changing the clinical management of myopic CNV.

Posture changes and subfoveal choroidal blood flow.

PubMed

Longo, Antonio; Geiser, Martial H; Riva, Charles E

2004-02-01

To evaluate the effect of posture change on subfoveal choroidal blood flow (ChBF) in normal volunteers. The pulsatile, nonpulsatile, and mean ChBF were measured with laser Doppler flowmetry in 11 healthy volunteers with a mean age of 32 +/- 13 (SD) years. The posture of the subjects was changed from standing (90 degrees ), to supine (-8 degrees ), and back to standing, with a mechanically driven table. During the whole experimental procedure, ChBF and heart rate (HR) were continuously recorded. After 30 seconds in standing position, the subjects were tilted to supine during approximately 30 seconds. They remained in this position for approximately 2 minutes, after which they were tilted back to the standing position (recovery), where they remained for another approximately 2 minutes. Systemic brachial artery blood pressure (BP) was measured in the baseline, supine, and recovery positions. This procedure was repeated to measure the intraocular pressure (IOP) at the different postures. Mean BP did not change significantly throughout the experimental procedure. As the body was tilted from standing to supine, HR decreased by 16% (P < 0.0004), IOP increased by 29% (P < 0.001), and mean ChBF increased by 11% (P < 0.01). The increase in ChBF was primarily due to an increase in the nonpulsatile component of the blood velocity. Based on previously reported experimental data that indicate that the ocular perfusion pressure increases less than predicted by purely hydrostatic considerations when the body is tilted from the standing to the supine position, the observed increase in ChBF suggests a passive response of the choroidal circulation to the posture change.

DETECTION OF TYPE 1 CHOROIDAL NEOVASCULAR MEMBRANES USING OPTICAL COHERENCE TOMOGRAPHY ANGIOGRAPHY IN TUBERCULAR POSTERIOR UVEITIS.

PubMed

Aggarwal, Kanika; Agarwal, Aniruddha; Sharma, Aman; Sharma, Kusum; Gupta, Vishali

2018-04-23

To study optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) and multimodal imaging features of Type 1 inflammatory choroidal neovascularization (CNV) in tubercular serpiginous-like choroiditis and response to anti-vascular endothelial growth factor therapy. In this study, multimodal imaging was performed using OCTA, enhanced-depth imaging optical coherence tomography, fluorescein angiography, and indocyanine green angiography. Correlation of OCTA with other imaging modalities in the detection of CNV was performed. The changes in CNV configuration after anti-vascular endothelial growth factor therapy were assessed. In this study, nine eyes (8 patients; 5 females; mean age: 32.5 ± 11.57 years) with diagnosis of tubercular serpiginous-like choroiditis were included. All the eyes had presence of low-lying pigment epithelial detachments on enhanced-depth imaging optical coherence tomography. Using OCTA, it was possible to detect Type 1 CNV in all eyes. Type 1 CNV networks comprised fine anastomotic network of vessels, some of which had a hairpin loop configuration. After anti-vascular endothelial growth factor therapy, there was a decrease in branching and anastomosis. The visual acuity significantly improved from 0.49 ± 0.26 (20/60 Snellen equivalent) at baseline to 0.26 ± 0.17 (20/36 Snellen equivalent) (P = 0.03) in all eyes. Type 1 CNV can occur among patients with tubercular serpiginous-like choroiditis, leading to significant visual loss even in the healed stages of the disease. Optical coherence tomography angiography can help in the detection of Type 1 CNV where conventional multimodal imaging, including fluorescein angiography and OCT, fails to make a definitive diagnosis and thereby guide the initiation of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor therapy.

MicroRNA-188-5p regulates contribution of bone marrow-derived cells to choroidal neovascularization development by targeting MMP-2/13.

PubMed

Hou, Huiyuan; Gao, Fan; Liang, Hongliang; Lv, Yang; Li, Manhong; Yao, Libo; Zhang, Jian; Dou, Guorui; Wang, Yusheng

2018-06-14

Our previous investigations have shown that bone marrow-derived cells (BMCs), including mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), contribute to the development of choroidal neovascularization (CNV) as sources of cells and angiogenic factors. Two main steps for circulating BMCs to integrate into CNV lesions are extracellular matrix remodeling and consequential cell migration. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) were found to be involved in CNV development; however, little is known about whether miRNAs regulate the contribution of BMCs to CNV. In the present study, we found that the expression of miR-188-5p was decreased in cultured hypoxic MSCs and BMCs within laser-induced CNV in mice. Matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP-2) and MMP-13 were both discovered as targets of miR-188-5p by bioinformatics predictions and dual-luciferase reporter system. Accordingly, increased expression of MMP-2/13 was found in hypoxic MSCs and BMCs in CNV lesions. Furthermore, miR-188-5p mimic transfection caused downregulation of MMP-2/13 in hypoxic MSCs and decreased tube formation of co-cultured vascular endothelial cells. Intravitreal injections of a miR-188-5p agomir attenuated the severity of CNV and inhibited the migration of BMCs into CNV lesions in mice. Our study suggests that miR-188-5p regulates the contribution of BMCs to CNV development by targeting MMP-2/13-mediated extracellular matrix degeneration, and miR-188-5p serves as a therapeutic target to treat CNV-related diseases. Copyright © 2018. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

Pitfalls in colour photography of choroidal tumours

PubMed Central

Schalenbourg, A; Zografos, L

2013-01-01

Colour imaging of fundus tumours has been transformed by the development of digital and confocal scanning laser photography. These advances provide numerous benefits, such as panoramic images, increased contrast, non-contact wide-angle imaging, non-mydriatic photography, and simultaneous angiography. False tumour colour representation can, however, cause serious diagnostic errors. Large choroidal tumours can be totally invisible on angiography. Pseudogrowth can occur because of artefacts caused by different methods of fundus illumination, movement of reference blood vessels, and flattening of Bruch's membrane and sclera when tumour regression occurs. Awareness of these pitfalls should prevent the clinician from misdiagnosing tumours and wrongfully concluding that a tumour has grown. PMID:23238442

Pitfalls in colour photography of choroidal tumours.

PubMed

Schalenbourg, A; Zografos, L

2013-02-01

Colour imaging of fundus tumours has been transformed by the development of digital and confocal scanning laser photography. These advances provide numerous benefits, such as panoramic images, increased contrast, non-contact wide-angle imaging, non-mydriatic photography, and simultaneous angiography. False tumour colour representation can, however, cause serious diagnostic errors. Large choroidal tumours can be totally invisible on angiography. Pseudogrowth can occur because of artefacts caused by different methods of fundus illumination, movement of reference blood vessels, and flattening of Bruch's membrane and sclera when tumour regression occurs. Awareness of these pitfalls should prevent the clinician from misdiagnosing tumours and wrongfully concluding that a tumour has grown.

Expressed sequence tag analysis of human RPE/choroid for the NEIBank Project: over 6000 non-redundant transcripts, novel genes and splice variants.

PubMed

Wistow, Graeme; Bernstein, Steven L; Wyatt, M Keith; Fariss, Robert N; Behal, Amita; Touchman, Jeffrey W; Bouffard, Gerald; Smith, Don; Peterson, Katherine

2002-06-15

The retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and choroid comprise a functional unit of the eye that is essential to normal retinal health and function. Here we describe expressed sequence tag (EST) analysis of human RPE/choroid as part of a project for ocular bioinformatics. A cDNA library (cs) was made from human RPE/choroid and sequenced. Data were analyzed and assembled using the program GRIST (GRouping and Identification of Sequence Tags). Complete sequencing, Northern and Western blots, RH mapping, peptide antibody synthesis and immunofluorescence (IF) have been used to examine expression patterns and genome location for selected transcripts and proteins. Ten thousand individual sequence reads yield over 6300 unique gene clusters of which almost half have no matches with named genes. One of the most abundant transcripts is from a gene (named "alpha") that maps to the BBS1 region of chromosome 11. A number of tissue preferred transcripts are common to both RPE/choroid and iris. These include oculoglycan/opticin, for which an alternative splice form is detected in RPE/choroid, and "oculospanin" (Ocsp), a novel tetraspanin that maps to chromosome 17q. Antiserum to Ocsp detects expression in RPE, iris, ciliary body, and retinal ganglion cells by IF. A newly identified gene for a zinc-finger protein (TIRC) maps to 19q13.4. Variant transcripts of several genes were also detected. Most notably, the predominant form of Bestrophin represented in cs contains a longer open reading frame as a result of splice junction skipping. The unamplified cs library gives a view of the transcriptional repertoire of the adult RPE/choroid. A large number of potentially novel genes and splice forms and candidates for genetic diseases are revealed. Clones from this collection are being included in a large, nonredundant set for cDNA microarray construction.

Microglial activation in white matter lesions and nonlesional white matter of ageing brains.

PubMed

Simpson, J E; Ince, P G; Higham, C E; Gelsthorpe, C H; Fernando, M S; Matthews, F; Forster, G; O'Brien, J T; Barber, R; Kalaria, R N; Brayne, C; Shaw, P J; Stoeber, K; Williams, G H; Lewis, C E; Wharton, S B

2007-12-01

White matter lesions (WML), a common feature in brain ageing, are classified as periventricular (PVL) or deep subcortical (DSCL), depending on their anatomical location. Microglial activation is implicated in a number of neurodegenerative diseases, but the microglial response in WML is poorly characterized and its role in pathogenesis unknown. We have characterized the microglial response in WML and control white matter using immunohistochemistry to markers of microglial activation and of proliferation. WML of brains from an unbiased population-based autopsy cohort (Medical Research Council's Cognitive Function and Ageing Study) were identified by post mortem magnetic resonance imaging and sampled for histology. PVL contain significantly more activated microglia, expressing major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class II and the costimulatory molecules B7-2 and CD40, than either control white matter (WM) or DSCL. Furthermore, we show that significantly more microglia express the replication licensing protein minichromosome maintenance protein 2 within PVL, suggesting this is a more proliferation-permissive environment than DSCL. Although microglial activation occurs in both PVL and DSCL, our findings suggest a difference in pathogenesis between these lesion-types: the ramified, activated microglia associated with PVL may reflect immune activation resulting from disruption of the blood brain barrier, while the microglia within DSCL may reflect an innate, amoeboid phagocytic phenotype. We also show that microglia in control WM from lesional cases express significantly more MHC II than control WM from nonlesional ageing brain, suggesting that WML occur in a 'field-effect' of abnormal WM.

EDI OCT evaluation of choroidal thickness in Stargardt disease

PubMed Central

Sodi, Andrea; Bacherini, Daniela; Caporossi, Orsola; Murro, Vittoria; Mucciolo, Dario Pasquale; Cipollini, Francesca; Passerini, Ilaria; Virgili, Gianni; Rizzo, Stanislao

2018-01-01

Purpose Choroidal thickness (CT) evaluation with EDI-OCT in Stargardt Disease (STGD), considering its possible association with some clinical features of the disease. Methods CT was evaluated in 41 STGD patients and in 70 controls. Measurements were performed in the subfoveal position and at 1000 μm nasally and temporally. CT average values in STGD and in the control group were first compared by means of Student’s T test. Then, the possible association between CT and some clinical features was evaluated by means of linear regression analysis. Considered clinical parameters were: age, age on onset, duration of the disease, visual acuity, foveal thickness, Fishman clinical phenotype, visual field loss and ERG response. Results Average CT was not significantly different between controls and STGD patients. In the STGD group the correlation between CT and age (r = 0.22, p = 0.033) and age of onset (r = 0.05, p = 0.424) was modest, while that of CT with disease duration (r = 0.30, p<0.001) was moderate. CT and foveal thickness were also significantly but modestly correlated (r = 0.15, p = 0.033). Conclusion In our series average CT is not significantly changed in STGD in comparison with the controls. Nevertheless a choroidal thinning may be identified in the more advanced stages of the disease. PMID:29304098

The Clinical Picture. The Eyes: A Window into the Past

DTIC Science & Technology

2010-07-01

disseminated histoplasmosis, eye in- volvement manifests as panophthalmitis or uveitis , caused by yeast implantation. The finding of eye lesions typical of...Amsler grid.11 For POHS with choroidal neo- vascularization, treatment focuses on reducing the risk of vascular complications and includes oral...Antifungal treatment is not use- ful, as the lesions are not proven to be caused by active infection.10 Future treatments may include antiangio- genic drugs

Brief light exposure at night disrupts the circadian rhythms in eye growth and choroidal thickness in chicks

PubMed Central

Nickla, Debora L.; Totonelly, Kristen

2016-01-01

Changes in ocular growth that lead to myopia or hyperopia are associated with alterations in the circadian rhythms in eye growth, choroidal thickness and intraocular pressure in animal models of emmetropization. Recent studies have shown that light at night has deleterious effects on human health, acting via “circadian disruptions” of various diurnal rhythms, including changes in phase or amplitude. The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of brief, 2-hour episodes of light in the middle of the night on the rhythms in axial length and choroidal thickness, and whether these alter eye growth and refractive error in the chick model of myopia. Starting at 2 weeks of age, birds received 2 hours of light between 12:00 am and 2:00 am for 7 days (n=12; total hours of light: 14 hrs). Age-matched controls had a continuous dark night (n=14; 14L/10D). Ocular dimensions were measured using high-frequency A-scan ultrasonography on the first day of the experiment, and again on day 7, at 6-hour intervals, starting at noon (12pm, 6pm, 12am, 6am, 12pm). Measurements during the night were done under a photographic safe-light. These data were used to determine rhythm parameters of phase and amplitude. 2 groups of birds, both experimental (light at night) and control, were measured with ultrasound at various intervals over the course of 4 weeks to determine growth rates. Refractive errors were measured in 6 experimental and 6 control birds at the end of 2 weeks. Eyes of birds in a normal L/D cycle showed sinusoidal 24-hour period diurnal rhythms in axial length and choroid thickness. Light in the middle of the night caused changes in both the rhythms in axial length and choroidal thickness, such that neither could be fit to a sine function having a period of 24 hours. Light caused an acute, transient stimulation in ocular growth rate in the subsequent 6-hour period (12 am to 6 am), that may be responsible for the increased growth rate seen 4 weeks later, and the more

Relationship between reticular pseudodrusen and choroidal thickness in intermediate age-related macular degeneration: response.

PubMed

Ho, Chi Yd; Lek, Jia J; Aung, Khin Z; McGuinness, Myra B; Luu, Chi D; Guymer, Robyn H

2018-05-07

We thank Invernizzi, Nguyen and Gillies 1 for their interest in our paper "Relationship between reticular pseudodrusen and choroidal thickness in intermediate age-related macular degeneration". 2 . This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Mapping Alterations to the Endogenous Elemental Distribution within the Lateral Ventricles and Choroid Plexus in Brain Disorders Using X-Ray Fluorescence Imaging

PubMed Central

Lins, Brittney R.; Pushie, Jake M.; Jones, Michael; Howard, Daryl L.; Howland, John G.; Hackett, Mark J.

2016-01-01

The choroid plexus and cerebral ventricles are critical structures for the production of cerebral spinal fluid (CSF) and play an important role in regulating ion and metal transport in the brain, however many aspects of its roles in normal physiology and disease states, such as psychiatric illness, remain unknown. The choroid plexus is difficult to examine in vivo, and in situ ex vivo, and as such has typically been examined indirectly with radiolabeled tracers or ex vivo stains, making measurements of the endogenous K+, Cl−, and Ca+ distributions unreliable. In the present study, we directly examined the distribution of endogenous ions and biologically relevant transition metals in the choroid plexus and regions surrounding the ventricles (ventricle wall, cortex, corpus callosum, striatum) using X-ray fluorescence imaging (XFI). We find that the choroid plexus was rich in Cl− and Fe while K+ levels increase further from the ventricle as Cl− levels decrease, consistent with the known role of ion transporters in the choroid plexus CSF production. A polyI:C offspring displayed enlarged ventricles, elevated Cl− surrounding the ventricles, and intraventricular calcifications. These observations fit with clinical findings in patients with schizophrenia and suggest maternal treatment with polyI:C may lead to dysfunctional ion regulation in offspring. This study demonstrates the power of XFI for examining the endogenous elemental distributions of the ventricular system in healthy brain tissue as well as disease models. PMID:27351594

Mapping Alterations to the Endogenous Elemental Distribution within the Lateral Ventricles and Choroid Plexus in Brain Disorders Using X-Ray Fluorescence Imaging

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Lins, Brittney R.; Pushie, Jake M.; Jones, Michael

The choroid plexus and cerebral ventricles are critical structures for the production of cerebral spinal fluid (CSF) and play an important role in regulating ion and metal transport in the brain, however many aspects of its roles in normal physiology and disease states, such as psychiatric illness, remain unknown. The choroid plexus is difficult to examine in vivo, and in situ ex vivo, and as such has typically been examined indirectly with radiolabeled tracers or ex vivo stains, making measurements of the endogenous K +, Cl -, and Ca + distributions unreliable. In the present study, we directly examined themore » distribution of endogenous ions and biologically relevant transition metals in the choroid plexus and regions surrounding the ventricles (ventricle wall, cortex, corpus callosum, striatum) using X-ray fluorescence imaging (XFI). We find that the choroid plexus was rich in Cl - and Fe while K + levels increase further from the ventricle as Cl - levels decrease, consistent with the known role of ion transporters in the choroid plexus CSF production. A polyI:C offspring displayed enlarged ventricles, elevated Cl - surrounding the ventricles, and intraventricular calcifications. These observations fit with clinical findings in patients with schizophrenia and suggest maternal treatment with polyI:C may lead to dysfunctional ion regulation in offspring. Furthermore, this study demonstrates the power of XFI for examining the endogenous elemental distributions of the ventricular system in healthy brain tissue as well as disease models.« less

Mapping Alterations to the Endogenous Elemental Distribution within the Lateral Ventricles and Choroid Plexus in Brain Disorders Using X-Ray Fluorescence Imaging

DOE PAGES

Lins, Brittney R.; Pushie, Jake M.; Jones, Michael; ...

2016-06-28

The choroid plexus and cerebral ventricles are critical structures for the production of cerebral spinal fluid (CSF) and play an important role in regulating ion and metal transport in the brain, however many aspects of its roles in normal physiology and disease states, such as psychiatric illness, remain unknown. The choroid plexus is difficult to examine in vivo, and in situ ex vivo, and as such has typically been examined indirectly with radiolabeled tracers or ex vivo stains, making measurements of the endogenous K +, Cl -, and Ca + distributions unreliable. In the present study, we directly examined themore » distribution of endogenous ions and biologically relevant transition metals in the choroid plexus and regions surrounding the ventricles (ventricle wall, cortex, corpus callosum, striatum) using X-ray fluorescence imaging (XFI). We find that the choroid plexus was rich in Cl - and Fe while K + levels increase further from the ventricle as Cl - levels decrease, consistent with the known role of ion transporters in the choroid plexus CSF production. A polyI:C offspring displayed enlarged ventricles, elevated Cl - surrounding the ventricles, and intraventricular calcifications. These observations fit with clinical findings in patients with schizophrenia and suggest maternal treatment with polyI:C may lead to dysfunctional ion regulation in offspring. Furthermore, this study demonstrates the power of XFI for examining the endogenous elemental distributions of the ventricular system in healthy brain tissue as well as disease models.« less

Early transcriptional changes of retinal and choroidal TGFbeta-2, RALDH-2, and ZENK following imposed positive and negative defocus in chickens.

PubMed

Simon, Perikles; Feldkaemper, Marita; Bitzer, Michaela; Ohngemach, Sibylle; Schaeffel, Frank

2004-08-24

Imposing defocus to the retina results in compensatory changes of axial eye growth. It is not clear which factors initially contribute to this process and whether they act on the post-translational, translational, or transcriptional level. We have measured early changes in mRNA levels, in response to imposed negative and positive defocus, of the transcription factor ZENK, the retinoic acid synthesis enzyme RALDH-2, and the growth factor TGFbeta-2. Chickens 11 days of age were unilaterally treated with positive or negative spectacle lenses of 7 D power. After 0, 15, 30, and 120 min, mRNA was extracted from retina and choroid, and the concentration of the mRNAs of the three candidates was measured by quantitative real time PCR in both eyes. ZENK in the retina and RALDH-2 in the choroid displayed parallel signs of defocus dependent changes in mRNA levels after 15 or 30 min, respectively. ZENK mRNA levels were reduced in the retina after 15 min with both types of lenses but were then up regulated at 30 min with positive lenses and down regulated with negative lenses, similar to the previously observed changes in ZENK protein levels. Changes of RALDH-2 and TGFbeta-2 mRNA levels were confined to the choroid. Treatment with negative lenses resulted in a rapid (15 min) and persistent decrease in TGFbeta-2 mRNA concentration in the choroid. Negative lenses provoked parallel but less pronounced alterations in the open fellow eyes. Imposed defocus triggers extensive transcriptional changes of ZENK in the retina, and of TGFbeta-2 and RALHD-2 in the choroid. Changes in retina and choroid are rapid, show no phase delay with respect to each other, and can be considered, in the case of RALDH-2 and ZENK, as specific for the sign of imposed defocus. They occur prior to any morphological changes. This is consistent with a role in causing or controlling later changes in eye growth.

Depth-resolved imaging of capillary networks in retina and choroid using ultrahigh sensitive optical microangiography

PubMed Central

Wang, Ruikang K.; An, Lin; Francis, Peter; Wilson, David J.

2010-01-01

We demonstrate the depth-resolved and detailed ocular perfusion maps within retina and choroid can be obtained from an ultrahigh sensitive optical microangiography (OMAG). As opposed to the conventional OMAG, we apply the OMAG algorithm along the slow scanning axis to achieve the ultrahigh sensitive imaging to the slow flows within capillaries. We use an 840nm system operating at an imaging rate of 400 frames/sec that requires 3 sec to complete one 3D scan of ~3x3 mm2 area on retina. We show the superior imaging performance of OMAG to provide functional images of capillary level microcirculation at different land-marked depths within retina and choroid that correlate well with the standard retinal pathology. PMID:20436605

Inhibition of Choroidal Neovascularization by Intravenous Injection of Adenoviral Vectors Expressing Secretable Endostatin

PubMed Central

Mori, Keisuke; Ando, Akira; Gehlbach, Peter; Nesbitt, David; Takahashi, Kyoichi; Goldsteen, Donna; Penn, Michael; Chen, Cheauyan T.; Mori, Keiko; Melia, Michele; Phipps, Sandrina; Moffat, Diana; Brazzell, Kim; Liau, Gene; Dixon, Katharine H.; Campochiaro, Peter A.

2001-01-01

Endostatin is a cleavage product of collagen XVIII that inhibits tumor angiogenesis and growth. Interferon α2a blocks tumor angiogenesis and causes regression of hemangiomas, but has no effect on choroidal neovascularization (CNV). Therefore, inhibitors of tumor angiogenesis do not necessarily inhibit ocular neovascularization. In this study, we used an intravenous injection of adenoviral vectors containing a sig-mEndo transgene consisting of murine immunoglobulin κ-chain leader sequence coupled to sequence coding for murine endostatin to investigate the effect of high serum levels of endostatin on CNV in mice. Mice injected with a construct in which sig-mEndo expression was driven by the Rous sarcoma virus promoter had moderately high serum levels of endostatin and significantly smaller CNV lesions at sites of laser-induced rupture of Bruch’s membrane than mice injected with null vector. Mice injected with a construct in which sig-mEndo was driven by the simian cytomegalovirus promoter had ∼10-fold higher endostatin serum levels and had nearly complete prevention of CNV. There was a strong inverse correlation between endostatin serum level and area of CNV. This study provides proof of principle that gene therapy to increase levels of endostatin can prevent the development of CNV and may provide a new treatment for the leading cause of severe loss of vision in patients with age-related macular degeneration. PMID:11438478

Optimized doppler optical coherence tomography for choroidal capillary vasculature imaging

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Gangjun; Qi, Wenjuan; Yu, Lingfeng; Chen, Zhongping

2011-03-01

In this paper, we analyzed the retinal and choroidal blood vasculature in the posterior segment of the human eye with optimized color Doppler and Doppler variance optical coherence tomography. Depth-resolved structure, color Doppler and Doppler variance images were compared. Blood vessels down to capillary level were able to be obtained with the optimized optical coherence color Doppler and Doppler variance method. For in-vivo imaging of human eyes, bulkmotion induced bulk phase must be identified and removed before using color Doppler method. It was found that the Doppler variance method is not sensitive to bulk motion and the method can be used without removing the bulk phase. A novel, simple and fast segmentation algorithm to indentify retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) was proposed and used to segment the retinal and choroidal layer. The algorithm was based on the detected OCT signal intensity difference between different layers. A spectrometer-based Fourier domain OCT system with a central wavelength of 890 nm and bandwidth of 150nm was used in this study. The 3-dimensional imaging volume contained 120 sequential two dimensional images with 2048 A-lines per image. The total imaging time was 12 seconds and the imaging area was 5x5 mm2.

Pediatric head and neck lesions: assessment of vascularity by MR digital subtraction angiography.

PubMed

Chooi, Weng Kong; Woodhouse, Neil; Coley, Stuart C; Griffiths, Paul D

2004-08-01

Pediatric head and neck lesions can be difficult to characterize on clinical grounds alone. We investigated the use of dynamic MR digital subtraction angiography as a noninvasive adjunct for the assessment of the vascularity of these abnormalities. Twelve patients (age range, 2 days to 16 years) with known or suspected vascular abnormalities were studied. Routine MR imaging, time-of-flight MR angiography, and MR digital subtraction angiography were performed in all patients. The dynamic sequence was acquired in two planes at one frame per second by using a thick section (6-10 cm) selective radio-frequency spoiled fast gradient-echo sequence and an IV administered bolus of contrast material. The images were subtracted from a preliminary mask sequence and viewed as a video-inverted cine loop. In all cases, MR digital subtraction angiography was successfully performed. The technique showed the following: 1) slow flow lesions (two choroidal angiomas, eyelid hemangioma, and scalp venous malformation); 2) high flow lesions that were not always suspected by clinical examination alone (parotid hemangioma, scalp, occipital, and eyelid arteriovenous malformations plus a palatal teratoma); 3) a hypovascular tumor for which a biopsy could be safely performed (Burkitt lymphoma); and 4) a hypervascular tumor of the palate (cystic teratoma). Our early experience suggests that MR digital subtraction angiography can be reliably performed in children of all ages without complication. The technique provided a noninvasive assessment of the vascularity of each lesion that could not always have been predicted on the basis of clinical examination or routine MR imaging alone.

Mechanisms involved in the gastroprotective activity of esculin on acute gastric lesions in mice.

PubMed

Rios, Emiliano Ricardo Vasconcelos; Rocha, Nayrton Flávio Moura; Venâncio, Edith Teles; Moura, Brinell Arcanjo; Feitosa, Mariana Lima; Cerqueira, Gilberto Santos; Soares, Pedro Marcos Gomes; Woods, David John; de Sousa, Francisca Cléa Florenço; Leal, Luzia Kalyne Almeida Moreira; Fonteles, Marta Maria de França

2010-10-06

This work describes the gastroprotective actions of esculin (6,7-dihydroxycoumarin-6-o-glucoside) against indomethacin- or ethanol-induced lesions and verifies the role of nitric oxide, ATP-dependent K(+) channels, prostaglandins, transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 and antioxidant effects in the gastroprotective mechanism of esculin in the ethanol-induced gastric lesion model. The intragastric administration of esculin at doses of 12.5, 25 and 50 mg/kg was able to protect the gastric mucosa against ethanol (0.2 mL/animal p.o.), and esculin at doses of 25 and 50 mg/kg protected against indomethacin-induced lesions (20mg/kg p.o.). Administration of l-NAME (10mg/kg i.p.), glibenclamide (10mg/kg i.p.) or indomethacin (10mg/kg p.o.), but not capsazepine (5mg/kg p.o.), was able to reduce the gastroprotection promoted by esculin (25mg/kg) on the ethanol-induced lesions. Measurements of nitrite, a NO metabolite, were increased in the group that was pretreated with esculin. In terms of antioxidant activity as a gastroprotective mechanism of esculin, the results show that pre-treatment with esculin decreased the amount of GSH, increased SOD activity, did not interfere with the CAT activity and decreased both the MPO activity and the MDA amount. In conclusion, pre-treatment with esculin confers significant gastroprotective and antioxidant activity and leads to a reduction in gastric injury; the mechanisms underlying these effects include stimulation of endogenous prostaglandins, nitric oxide synthesis, opening of K(ATP) channels and reduction of free radicals or modulation of antioxidant enzyme systems. Copyright 2010 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

A novel, microscope based, non invasive Laser Doppler flowmeter for choroidal blood flow assessment

PubMed Central

Strohmaier, C; Werkmeister, RM; Bogner, B; Runge, C; Schroedl, F; Brandtner, H; Radner, W; Schmetterer, L; Kiel, JW; Grabnerand, G; Reitsamer, HA

2015-01-01

Impaired ocular blood flow is involved in the pathogenesis of numerous ocular diseases like glaucoma or AMD. The purpose of the present study was to introduce and validate a novel, microscope based, non invasive laser Doppler flowmeter (NILDF) for measurement of blood flow in the choroid. The custom made NI-LDF was compared with a commercial fiber optic based laser Doppler flowmeter (Perimed PF4000). Linearity and stability of the NI-LDF were assessed in a silastic tubing model (i.d. 0.3 mm) at different flow rates (range 0.4 – 3 ml/h). In a rabbit model continuous choroidal blood flow measurements were performed with both instruments simultaneously. During blood flow measurements ocular perfusion pressure was changed by manipulations of intraocular pressure via intravitreal saline infusions. The NILDF measurement correlated linearly to intraluminal flow rates in the perfused tubing model (r = 0.99, p<0.05) and remained stable during a 1 hour measurement at a constant flow rate. Rabbit choroidal blood flow measured by the PF4000 and the NI-LDF linearly correlated with each other over the entire measurement range (r = 0.99, y = x* 1,01 – 12,35 P.U., p < 0,001). In conclusion, the NI-LDF provides valid, semi quantitative measurements of capillary blood flow in comparison to an established LDF instrument and is suitable for measurements at the posterior pole of the eye. PMID:21443871

Sustained choroid plexus function in human elderly and Alzheimer's disease patients.

PubMed

Spector, Reynold; Johanson, Conrad E

2013-09-24

We and other investigators have postulated deterioration of essential choroid plexus (CP) functions in some elderly and especially Alzheimer's disease patients based on apparent anatomical, histological and pathological changes in CP. We have termed this putative phenomenon CP failure. By focusing on four essential energy-requiring CP functions, specifically ascorbic acid (AA) and folate transport from blood into CSF, transthyretin synthesis and secretion into CSF, and electrolyte/acid-base balance in CSF, we were able to evaluate the hypothesis of CP failure by reviewing definitive human data. In both healthy elderly and Alzheimer's disease patients, the CP functions normally to transport AA and folates actively from blood into CSF, synthesize and secrete transthyretin into CSF, and maintain CSF acid-base balance and ion concentrations. These human CSF compositional data provide no support for the notion of CP failure in elderly humans and Alzheimer's disease patients.

Non-invasive measurement of choroidal volume change and ocular rigidity through automated segmentation of high-speed OCT imaging

PubMed Central

Beaton, L.; Mazzaferri, J.; Lalonde, F.; Hidalgo-Aguirre, M.; Descovich, D.; Lesk, M. R.; Costantino, S.

2015-01-01

We have developed a novel optical approach to determine pulsatile ocular volume changes using automated segmentation of the choroid, which, together with Dynamic Contour Tonometry (DCT) measurements of intraocular pressure (IOP), allows estimation of the ocular rigidity (OR) coefficient. Spectral Domain Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) videos were acquired with Enhanced Depth Imaging (EDI) at 7Hz during ~50 seconds at the fundus. A novel segmentation algorithm based on graph search with an edge-probability weighting scheme was developed to measure choroidal thickness (CT) at each frame. Global ocular volume fluctuations were derived from frame-to-frame CT variations using an approximate eye model. Immediately after imaging, IOP and ocular pulse amplitude (OPA) were measured using DCT. OR was calculated from these peak pressure and volume changes. Our automated segmentation algorithm provides the first non-invasive method for determining ocular volume change due to pulsatile choroidal filling, and the estimation of the OR constant. Future applications of this method offer an important avenue to understanding the biomechanical basis of ocular pathophysiology. PMID:26137373

Correlation of Optical Coherence Tomography and Autofluorescence in the Outer Retina and Choroid of Patients With Choroideremia.

PubMed

Xue, Kanmin; Oldani, Marta; Jolly, Jasleen K; Edwards, Thomas L; Groppe, Markus; Downes, Susan M; MacLaren, Robert E

2016-07-01

To evaluate the relationships between RPE, photoreceptor, and choroidal degeneration in choroideremia. Enhanced-depth imaging optical coherence tomography (EDI-OCT), scanning laser ophthalmoscopy (SLO), and autofluorescence (AF) were performed on 39 patients (78 eyes) with choroideremia. The edges of surviving outer retina on OCT and residual AF were aligned. The distribution of outer retinal tubulations was mapped over a range of ages (16-71 years), and comparison made between pre- and postsubretinal gene therapy. Subfoveal choroidal thickness (SFCT) was compared between 23 choroideremia patients (42 eyes) and 20 age- and refraction-matched male controls (40 eyes). The edges of RPE AF aligned with a reduction in outer nuclear layer thickness (Spearman's rho = 0.9992). Correlation was also found between the quality of AF and integrity of ellipsoid zone within islands of surviving retina. Tubulations existed in 71 of 78 (91%) eyes with choroideremia and remained stable following gene therapy. Subfoveal choroidal thickness was reduced at baseline in choroideremia (179.7 ± 17.2 μm) compared with controls (302.0 ± 4.8 μm; P < 0.0001), but did not undergo significant thinning until end-stage retinal degeneration (43.1 ± 6.5 μm). The data suggest that RPE loss is the primary cause of photoreceptor degeneration in choroideremia. The choroid is thinner than controls from early stages, in keeping with a mild developmental defect. Photoreceptors appear to lose outer segments following loss of underlying RPE and form tubulations at the edges of degeneration. The preservation of tubulations over time and after subretinal injection would be consistent with these structures maintaining attachment to the inner retina and hence being potentially light responsive (ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT01461213).

Role of NO in the control of choroidal blood flow during a decrease in ocular perfusion pressure.

PubMed

Simader, Christian; Lung, Solveig; Weigert, Günther; Kolodjaschna, Julia; Fuchsjäger-Mayrl, Gabriele; Schmetterer, Leopold; Polska, Elzbieta

2009-01-01

The study was conducted to investigate whether the L-arginine/nitric oxide system plays a role in choroidal blood flow (ChBF) regulation during a decrease in ocular perfusion pressure (OPP). Experiments were performed on 3 days in a randomized double-masked, placebo-controlled, three-way crossover design. On different study days, subjects received intravenous infusions of N(G)-monomethyl-L-arginine (L-NMMA), phenylephrine, or placebo. Intraocular pressure was raised in stepwise increments using the suction cup Choroidal blood flow (ChBF, laser Doppler flowmetry), mean arterial blood pressure (MAP), and IOP were assessed. Ocular perfusion pressure was calculated as OPP = 23(MAP - IOP). For correlation analysis all OPP/ChBF data pairs from all subjects were pooled independent of time point of measurement. Then, the pooled data were sorted according to OPP, and correlation analyses were performed. L-NMMA and phenylephrine increased resting OPP by +17% +/- 18% and +14% +/- 21%, respectively (P < 0.05). L-NMMA reduced resting ChBF by -21% +/- 17% (P < 0.05). The relative decrease in OPP during suction cup application was comparable with all drugs administered. The decrease in OPP was paralleled by a significant decrease in ChBF (maximum between -39% and -47%), which was less pronounced, however, than the decrease in OPP (maximum between -69% and -74%). Neither placebo nor L-NMMA, nor phenylephrine, influenced the OPP/ChBF relationship. The data confirm previously published observations that the choroid shows some regulatory capacity during reduced OPP. The L-arginine/nitric oxide-system plays a role in the maintenance of basal vascular tone but seems not to be involved in the choroidal vasodilator response when IOP is increased.

Choroidal thickness alterations in diabetic nephropathy patients with early or no diabetic retinopathy.

PubMed

Kocasarac, Can; Yigit, Yavuz; Sengul, Erkan; Sakalar, Yildirim Beyazit

2018-04-01

To assess changes in choroidal thickness (CT) in diabetes patients with and without diabetic nephropathy using enhanced depth imaging spectral domain optical coherence tomography (EDI-OCT). Thirty-five type 2 diabetes patients with a diagnosis of diabetic nephropathy (DNP) in nephrology department and 35 type 2 diabetes patients without nephropathy (non-DNP) were included in our prospective study consecutively. The control group comprised 34 healthy individuals. CT measurements were recorded under the fovea and at 1500 µm from the foveal center in the nasal and temporal sides. The study parameters also included age, refractive error, axial length, intraocular pressure, HbA1c, glomerular filtration rate and proteinuria amount. The subfoveal, temporal and nasal choroidal thickness was noted to be thinner in patients with DNP compared with non-DNP and normal subjects (p < 0.05). However, CT measurements did not show any difference between the healthy and non-DNP group. CT decreases significantly in diabetic patients when diabetic nephropathy accompanies diabetes mellitus.

[Choroid plexus tumours in childhood: Experience in Sant Joan de Déu hospital].

PubMed

Del Río-Pérez, Clara Maria; Suñol-Capella, Mariona; Cruz-Martinez, Ofelia; Garcia-Fructuoso, Gemma

2016-01-01

Choroid plexus tumours are rare, with a peak incidence in the first two years of life. The most common location is the lateral ventricle in children, while in adults it is the fourth ventricle. The most common clinical manifestation is the signs and symptoms of intracranial hypertension. They are histologically classified as plexus papilloma, atypical plexus papilloma, and plexus carcinoma. A review is presented on choroid plexus tumours treated in the Hospital Sant Joan de Déu between 1980 and 2014. A total of 18 patients have been treated. An analysis was made of the demographic, clinical, histological data, treatment, and recurrences. The treatment of choice is complete resection, accompanied by adjuvant therapy in carcinomas. In atypical papillomas, the use of adjuvant therapies is controversial, reserving radiation therapy for recurrences. Papillomas have a good outcome, whereas atypical papillomas and carcinomas outcome is poor. Copyright © 2015 Sociedad Española de Neurocirugía. Published by Elsevier España. All rights reserved.

Update on visual function and choroidal-retinal thickness alterations in Parkinson's disease.

PubMed

Obis, J; Satue, M; Alarcia, R; Pablo, L E; Garcia-Martin, E

2018-05-01

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative process that affects 7.5 million people around the world. Since 2004, several studies have demonstrated changes in various retinal layers in PD using optical coherence tomography (OCT). However, there are some discrepancies in the results of those studies. Some of them have correlated retinal thickness with the severity or duration of the disease, demonstrating that OCT measurements may be an innocuous and easy biomarker for PD progression. Other studies have demonstrated visual dysfunctions since early phases of the disease. Lastly, the most recent studies that use Swept Source OCT technology, have found choroidal thickness increase in PD patients and provide new information related to the retinal degenerative process in this disease. The aim of this paper is to review the literature on OCT and PD, in order to determine the altered retinal and choroidal parameters in PD and their possible clinical usefulness, and also the visual dysfunctions with higher impact in these patients. Copyright © 2018 Sociedad Española de Oftalmología. Publicado por Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.

A visual description of the dissection of the cerebral surface vasculature and associated meninges and the choroid plexus from rat brain.

PubMed

Bowyer, John F; Thomas, Monzy; Patterson, Tucker A; George, Nysia I; Runnells, Jeffrey A; Levi, Mark S

2012-11-14

This video presentation was created to show a method of harvesting the two most important highly vascular structures, not residing within the brain proper, that support forebrain function. They are the cerebral surface (superficial) vasculature along with associated meninges (MAV) and the choroid plexus which are necessary for cerebral blood flow and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) homeostasis. The tissue harvested is suitable for biochemical and physiological analysis, and the MAV has been shown to be sensitive to damage produced by amphetamine and hyperthermia. As well, the major and minor cerebral vasculatures harvested in MAV are of potentially high interest when investigating concussive types of head trauma. The MAV dissected in this presentation consists of the pial and some of the arachnoid membrane (less dura) of the meninges and the major and minor cerebral surface vasculature. The choroid plexus dissected is the structure that resides in the lateral ventricles as described by Oldfield and McKinley. The methods used for harvesting these two tissues also facilitate the harvesting of regional cortical tissue devoid of meninges and larger cerebral surface vasculature, and is compatible with harvesting other brain tissues such as striatum, hypothalamus, hippocampus, etc. The dissection of the two tissues takes from 5 to 10 min total. The gene expression levels for the dissected MAV and choroid plexus, as shown and described in this presentation can be found at GSE23093 (MAV) and GSE29733 (choroid plexus) at the NCBI GEO repository. This data has been, and is being, used to help further understand the functioning of the MAV and choroid plexus and how neurotoxic events such as severe hyperthermia and AMPH adversely affect their function.

Macular Choroidal Thickness May Be the Earliest Determiner to Detect the Onset of Diabetic Retinopathy in Patients with Prediabetes: A Prospective and Comparative Study.

PubMed

Yazgan, Serpil; Arpaci, Dilek; Celik, Haci Ugur; Dogan, Mustafa; Isık, Irem

2017-07-01

To evaluate the macular and peripapillary choroidal thickness and retinal volume in prediabetes. This prospective comparative study included 53 patients with prediabetes and 53 age- and sex-matched healthy subjects. Only right eyes were selected. Choroidal thicknesses (CT) and retinal volume were measured by optical coherence tomography. Macular CT was measured at the seven points including macular center, 1, 2, and 3 mm distances along the temporal and nasal scans. Peripapillary CT was measured at the eight points of the optic disk area. Systemic and laboratory findings of the subjects were also recorded. There were no significant differences in blood pressures, ocular findings including intraocular pressure, visual acuity, and refractive powers, and macular volumes between the two groups (p > 0.005). Macular and peripapillary CT at all measuring points, body mass index (BMI), fasting blood glucose (FBG), hemoglobinA1C, and lipid profile were significantly higher in prediabetic patients (p < 0.05). There was a significant positive correlation between all points of macular choroidal thicknesses with BMI, FBG, and hemoglobin A1C (p < 0.05). Prediabetic factors including impaired FBG, increased hemoglobinA1C, and BMI are independent risk factors for increase in choroidal thickness. Increased macular choroidal thickness may be the earliest determiner to detect the onset of diabetic retinopathy in prediabetes.

Detection of Myopic Choroidal Neovascularization Using Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography.

PubMed

Miyata, Manabu; Ooto, Sotaro; Hata, Masayuki; Yamashiro, Kenji; Tamura, Hiroshi; Akagi-Kurashige, Yumiko; Nakanishi, Hideo; Ueda-Arakawa, Naoko; Takahashi, Ayako; Kuroda, Yoshimasa; Wakazono, Tomotaka; Yoshikawa, Munemitsu; Yoshimura, Nagahisa

2016-05-01

To assess whether optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) can be used as an alternative to conventional fundus fluorescein angiography (FFA) for the detection of myopic choroidal neovascularization (CNV). Validity and reliability analysis. Twenty-eight eyes of 26 consecutive Japanese patients with exudative lesions associated with pathologic myopia were included in this institutional study. Myopic CNV was detected in 23 eyes of 22 patients; 5 eyes exhibited simple hemorrhage. The main outcome measure was CNV detection by OCTA and FFA. The CNV area was individually measured by FFA and OCTA. Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) for the CNV area, independently measured by 2 investigators using OCTA and FFA, were determined. OCTA images with sufficient quality for CNV assessment were obtained for 17 eyes with CNV and 4 without. FFA alone detected CNV in all 17 eyes, while OCTA alone detected CNV in 16 (94.1%). The 1 eye for which CNV was not detected by OCTA exhibited a 0.01 mm(2) area on FFA. Both FFA and OCTA did not detect CNV in eyes with simple hemorrhage. The mean CNV areas on FFA and OCTA were 0.59 ± 0.56 mm(2) and 0.51 ± 0.55 mm(2), respectively; the 2 values were significantly correlated (P < .001, r = .86). The ICC (2, 1) values for FFA and OCTA were 0.944 and 0.997, respectively. Our results indicate that OCTA can detect most myopic CNVs if high-quality images are acquired and can preclude the requirement for FFA in these settings. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Experimental Toxoplasmosis in Rats Induced Orally with Eleven Strains of Toxoplasma gondii of Seven Genotypes: Tissue Tropism, Tissue Cyst Size, Neural Lesions, Tissue Cyst Rupture without Reactivation, and Ocular Lesions

PubMed Central

Dubey, Jitender P.; Ferreira, Leandra R.; Alsaad, Mohammad; Verma, Shiv K.; Alves, Derron A.; Holland, Gary N.; McConkey, Glenn A.

2016-01-01

Background The protozoan parasite Toxoplasma gondii is one of the most widely distributed and successful parasites. Toxoplasma gondii alters rodent behavior such that infected rodents reverse their fear of cat odor, and indeed are attracted rather than repelled by feline urine. The location of the parasite encysted in the brain may influence this behavior. However, most studies are based on the highly susceptible rodent, the mouse. Methodology/Principal Findings Latent toxoplasmosis was induced in rats (10 rats per T. gondii strains) of the same age, strain, and sex, after oral inoculation with oocysts (natural route and natural stage of infection) of 11 T. gondii strains of seven genotypes. Rats were euthanized at two months post inoculation (p.i.) to investigate whether the parasite genotype affects the distribution, location, tissue cyst size, or lesions. Tissue cysts were enumerated in different regions of the brains, both in histological sections as well in saline homogenates. Tissue cysts were found in all regions of the brain. The tissue cyst density in different brain regions varied extensively between rats with many regions highly infected in some animals. Overall, the colliculus was most highly infected although there was a large amount of variability. The cerebral cortex, thalamus, and cerebellum had higher tissue cyst densities and two strains exhibited tropism for the colliculus and olfactory bulb. Histologically, lesions were confined to the brain and eyes. Tissue cyst rupture was frequent with no clear evidence for reactivation of tachyzoites. Ocular lesions were found in 23 (25%) of 92 rat eyes at two months p.i. The predominant lesion was focal inflammation in the retina. Tissue cysts were seen in the sclera of one and in the optic nerve of two rats. The choroid was not affected. Only tissue cysts, not active tachyzoite infections, were detected. Tissue cysts were seen in histological sections of tongue of 20 rats but not in myocardium and leg

Nanoproteomic analysis of extracellular receptor kinase-1/2 post-translational activation in microdissected human hyperplastic colon lesions.

PubMed

Drew, David A; Devers, Thomas; Horelik, Nicole; Yang, Shi; O'Brien, Michael; Wu, Rong; Rosenberg, Daniel W

2013-05-01

Oncogenic activation resulting in hyperproliferative lesions within the colonic mucosa has been identified in putative precancerous lesions, aberrant crypt foci (ACF). KRAS and BRAF mutation status was determined in 172 ACF identified in the colorectum of screening subjects by in situ high-definition, magnifying chromoendoscopy. Lesions were stratified according to histology (serrated vs. distended). Due to their limiting size, however, it was not technically feasible to examine downstream signaling consequences of these oncogenic mutations. We have combined ultraviolet-infrared (UV/IR) microdissection with an ultrasensitive nanofluidic proteomic immunoassay (NIA) to enable accurate quantification of posttranslational modifications to mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) in total protein lysates isolated from hyperproliferative crypts and adjacent normal mucosa. Using this approach, levels of singly and dually (activated) phosphorylated isoforms of extracellular receptor kinase(ERK)-1 and ERK-2 were quantified in samples containing as little as 16 ng of total protein recovered from <200 cells. ERK activation is responsible for observed hyperplasia found in these early lesions, but is not directly dependent on KRAS and/or BRAF mutation status. This study describes the novel use of a sensitive nanofluidic platform to measure oncogene-driven proteomic changes in diminutive lesions and highlights the advantage of this approach over classical immunohistochemistry-based analyses. © 2013 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Albumin transfer across the choroid plexus of South American opossum (Monodelphis domestica).

PubMed Central

Knott, G W; Dziegielewska, K M; Habgood, M D; Li, Z S; Saunders, N R

1997-01-01

1. Blood-cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) transfer of various exogenous albumins has been investigated in developing Monodelphis domestica (South American grey short-tailed opossum) and compared with the steady-state CSF: plasma ratios for endogenous (Monodelphis) albumin. Ratios for Monodelphis albumin and human albumin were similar and were the highest at postnatal day 5 (P5) (48.2 +/- 4.4 and 40.6 +/- 4.5%, respectively). The ratio for bovine albumin was similar to the steady-state ratio for Monodelphis albumin at P7-8 but became consistently lower than the Monodelphis albumin ratio at all other ages until P32-36 when all albumins tested attained a similar low ratio. The CSF:plasma ratio of chemically modified (succinylated) bovine albumin was always significantly lower than that of other albumins, except at the oldest age examined (P32-36). 2. Immunocytochemistry showed that within the brain, albumin was confined to the lumen and endothelial cells of blood vessels. In the choroid plexus only a small proportion (0.2-1.7% of the total cell number) of epithelial cells was positive for albumin, both endogenous and exogenous, at all ages studied (except the 3rd ventricle where cells were only positive from P8). The CSF was strongly positive for all albumins. The peak proportion of positive cells and of albumin concentrations in CSF occurred at P8. These findings suggest that the primary route for penetration of albumin into CSF is directly across the choroid plexus rather than via the brain. 3. Double-labelling immunocytochemistry revealed that the same epithelial cells contained both endogenous (Monodelphis) and exogenous (human) albumin. In contrast, for succinylated albumin, at P7 only about 35% (lateral ventricle) and 50% (4th ventricle) of Monodelphis albumin-positive cells were also positive for succinylated albumin, but by P30 this proportion increased to 90% at both sites. 4. Thus the developing choroid plexus distinguishes between different albumins. Chemical

Oculocardiac reflex in a dog caused by a choroidal melanoma with orbital extension.

PubMed

Steinmetz, Andrea; Ellenberger, Kristin; März, Imke; Ludewig, Eberhard; Oechtering, Gerhard

2012-01-01

A 7 yr old mixed-breed dog was presented with a choroidal melanoma of the left eye that had penetrated the sclera, producing an orbital mass. Bradycardia was detected on auscultation. The bradycardia resolved after exenteration of the orbit and was therefore presumed to be associated with the oculocardiac reflex.

Atypical retardation patterns in scanning laser polarimetry are associated with low peripapillary choroidal thickness.

PubMed

Tornow, Ralf P; Schrems, Wolfgang A; Bendschneider, Delia; Horn, Folkert K; Mayer, Markus; Mardin, Christian Y; Lämmer, Robert

2011-09-29

Scanning laser polarimetry (SLP) results can be affected by an atypical retardation pattern (ARP). One reason for an ARP is the birefringence of the sclera. The purpose of this study was to investigate the influence of the peripapillary choroidal thickness (pChTh) on the occurrence of ARP. One hundred ten healthy subjects were investigated with SLP and spectral domain OCT. pChTh was measured in B-scan images at 768 positions using semiautomatic software. Values were averaged to 32 sectors and the total peripapillary mean. Subjects were divided into four groups according to the typical scan score (TSS) provided by the GDxVCC: group 1 TSS, 100; group 2 TSS, 90-99; group 3 TSS, 80-89; group 4 TSS, <80. Mean pChTh (± SD) in 110 healthy subjects was 141 μm (±49 μm). There was a significant correlation between pChTh and TSS (r = 0.608; P < 0.001). In TSS groups 1 to 4, mean pChTh was 168 μm (±38 μm), 148 μm (± 48 μm), 119 μm (±35 μm), and 92 (±42 μm). Mean pChTh of TSS groups 3 and 4 was significantly lower than that of TSS group 1 (P < 0.001). Low values of TSS resulting from the appearance of ARP in SLP are associated with low peripapillary choroidal thickness. Reduced choroidal thickness may result in an increased amount of confounding light getting to the SLP light detectors.

Non-vascular smooth muscle cells in the human choroid: distribution, development and further characterization

PubMed Central

May, Christian Albrecht

2005-01-01

To characterize further non-vascular smooth muscle cells (NVSMC) in the choroid of the human eye, extensive morphological studies were performed including a three-dimensional distribution of NVSMC in the adult human eye and their appearance during development. Whole mounts and sections through the choroid and sclera of eyes of 42 human donors (between the 13th week of gestation and 89 years of age) were stained with antibodies against smooth muscle actin and other markers for smooth muscle cells. On the basis of their morphological localization, three groups of NVSMC could be distinguished in the adult eyes: (a) a semicircular arrangement of NVSMC in the suprachoroid and inner sclera, around the entry of posterior ciliary arteries and nerves; (b) NVSMC parallel to the vessels in the posterior eye segment between the point of entry of the posterior ciliary arteries and the point of exit of the vortex veins; and (c) a dense plaque-like arrangement of NVSMC in the suprachoroid, overlying the foveal region. The last of these groups showed most pronounced interindividual differences. During development, the first NVSMC to be observed at the 20th week of gestation belonged to group b. A complete NVSMC network was first observed in a 6-year-old donor eye. All three groups stained positive for smoothelin, caldesmon and calponin in all localizations. The NVSMC show a distinct distribution that might reflect different aspects of their function in the choroid and suprachoroid. All cells could be histochemically characterized as truly contractile. PMID:16191166

A novel, microscope based, non-invasive laser Doppler flowmeter for choroidal blood flow assessment.

PubMed

Strohmaier, C; Werkmeister, R M; Bogner, B; Runge, C; Schroedl, F; Brandtner, H; Radner, W; Schmetterer, L; Kiel, J W; Grabner, G; Reitsamer, H A

2011-06-01

Impaired ocular blood flow is involved in the pathogenesis of numerous ocular diseases like glaucoma or AMD. The purpose of the present study was to introduce and validate a novel, microscope based, non-invasive Laser Doppler Flowmeter (NI-LDF) for measurement of blood flow in the choroid. The custom made NI-LDF was compared with a commercial fiber optic based laser Doppler flowmeter (Perimed PF4000). Linearity and stability of the NI-LDF were assessed in a silastic tubing model (i.d. 0.3 mm) at different flow rates (range 0.4-3 ml/h). In a rabbit model continuous choroidal blood flow measurements were performed with both instruments simultaneously. During blood flow measurements ocular perfusion pressure was changed by manipulations of intraocular pressure via intravitreal saline infusions. The NI-LDF measurement correlated linearly to intraluminal flow rates in the perfused tubing model (r = 0.99, p < 0.05) and remained stable during a 1 h measurement at a constant flow rate. Rabbit choroidal blood flow measured by the PF4000 and the NI-LDF linearly correlated with each other over the entire measurement range (r = 0.99, y = x∗1.01-12.35 P.U., p < 0.001). In conclusion, the NI-LDF provides valid, semi quantitative measurements of capillary blood flow in comparison to an established LDF instrument and is suitable for measurements at the posterior pole of the eye. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Arterial supply and venous drainage of the choroid plexus of the human lateral ventricle in the prenatal period as revealed by vascular corrosion casts and SEM.

PubMed

Zagórska-Swiezy, K; Litwin, J A; Gorczyca, J; Pityński, K; Miodoński, A J

2008-08-01

The topography of the arterial supply and venous drainage was visualised by corrosion casting and scanning electron microscopy in the human foetal (20 weeks) choroid plexus of the lateral ventricle. Although secondary villi were not yet present at that developmental stage, the topography of the large arteries and veins almost fully corresponded to that described in adult individuals. The only major difference observed was a lack of the typical tortuosity of the lateral branch of the anterior choroidal artery and of the superior choroidal vein, which probably develops during further expansion of the vascular system associated with the formation of secondary villi.

Correlation of Optical Coherence Tomography and Autofluorescence in the Outer Retina and Choroid of Patients With Choroideremia

PubMed Central

Xue, Kanmin; Oldani, Marta; Jolly, Jasleen K.; Edwards, Thomas L.; Groppe, Markus; Downes, Susan M.; MacLaren, Robert E.

2016-01-01

Purpose To evaluate the relationships between RPE, photoreceptor, and choroidal degeneration in choroideremia. Methods Enhanced-depth imaging optical coherence tomography (EDI-OCT), scanning laser ophthalmoscopy (SLO), and autofluorescence (AF) were performed on 39 patients (78 eyes) with choroideremia. The edges of surviving outer retina on OCT and residual AF were aligned. The distribution of outer retinal tubulations was mapped over a range of ages (16–71 years), and comparison made between pre- and postsubretinal gene therapy. Subfoveal choroidal thickness (SFCT) was compared between 23 choroideremia patients (42 eyes) and 20 age- and refraction-matched male controls (40 eyes). Results The edges of RPE AF aligned with a reduction in outer nuclear layer thickness (Spearman's rho = 0.9992). Correlation was also found between the quality of AF and integrity of ellipsoid zone within islands of surviving retina. Tubulations existed in 71 of 78 (91%) eyes with choroideremia and remained stable following gene therapy. Subfoveal choroidal thickness was reduced at baseline in choroideremia (179.7 ± 17.2 μm) compared with controls (302.0 ± 4.8 μm; P < 0.0001), but did not undergo significant thinning until end-stage retinal degeneration (43.1 ± 6.5 μm). Conclusions The data suggest that RPE loss is the primary cause of photoreceptor degeneration in choroideremia. The choroid is thinner than controls from early stages, in keeping with a mild developmental defect. Photoreceptors appear to lose outer segments following loss of underlying RPE and form tubulations at the edges of degeneration. The preservation of tubulations over time and after subretinal injection would be consistent with these structures maintaining attachment to the inner retina and hence being potentially light responsive (ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT01461213). PMID:27403996

Evaluation of Retinal and Choroidal Thickness by Swept-Source Optical Coherence Tomography: Repeatability and Assessment of Artifacts

PubMed Central

Mansouri, Kaweh; Medeiros, Felipe A.; Tatham, Andrew J.; Marchase, Nicholas; Weinreb, Robert N.

2017-01-01

PURPOSE To determine the repeatability of automated retinal and choroidal thickness measurements with swept-source optical coherence tomography (SS OCT) and the frequency and type of scan artifacts. DESIGN Prospective evaluation of new diagnostic technology. METHODS Thirty healthy subjects were recruited prospectively and underwent imaging with a prototype SS OCT instrument. Undilated scans of 54 eyes of 27 subjects (mean age, 35.1 ± 9.3 years) were obtained. Each subject had 4 SS OCT protocols repeated 3 times: 3-dimensional (3D) 6 × 6-mm raster scan of the optic disc and macula, radial, and line scan. Automated measurements were obtained through segmentation software. Interscan repeatability was assessed by intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs). RESULTS ICCs for choroidal measurements were 0.92, 0.98, 0.80, and 0.91, respectively, for 3D macula, 3D optic disc, radial, and line scans. ICCs for retinal measurements were 0.39, 0.49, 0.71, and 0.69, respectively. Artifacts were present in up to 9% scans. Signal loss because of blinking was the most common artifact on 3D scans (optic disc scan, 7%; macula scan, 9%), whereas segmentation failure occurred in 4% of radial and 3% of line scans. When scans with image artifacts were excluded, ICCs for choroidal thickness increased to 0.95, 0.99, 0.87, and 0.93 for 3D macula, 3D optic disc, radial, and line scans, respectively. ICCs for retinal thickness increased to 0.88, 0.83, 0.89, and 0.76, respectively. CONCLUSIONS Improved repeatability of automated choroidal and retinal thickness measurements was found with the SS OCT after correction of scan artifacts. Recognition of scan artifacts is important for correct interpretation of SS OCT measurements. PMID:24531020

Local Inflammation, Dissemination and Coalescence of Lesions Are Key for the Progression toward Active Tuberculosis: The Bubble Model

PubMed Central

Prats, Clara; Vilaplana, Cristina; Valls, Joaquim; Marzo, Elena; Cardona, Pere-Joan; López, Daniel

2016-01-01

The evolution of a tuberculosis (TB) infection toward active disease is driven by a combination of factors mostly related to the host response. The equilibrium between control of the bacillary load and the pathology generated is crucial as regards preventing the growth and proliferation of TB lesions. In addition, some experimental evidence suggests an important role of both local endogenous reinfection and the coalescence of neighboring lesions. Herein we propose a mathematical model that captures the essence of these factors by defining three hypotheses: (i) lesions grow logistically due to the inflammatory reaction; (ii) new lesions can appear as a result of extracellular bacilli or infected macrophages that escape from older lesions; and (iii) lesions can merge when they are close enough. This model was implemented in Matlab to simulate the dynamics of several lesions in a 3D space. It was also fitted to available microscopy data from infected C3HeB/FeJ mice, an animal model of active TB that reacts against Mycobacterium tuberculosis with an exaggerated inflammatory response. The results of the simulations show the dynamics observed experimentally, namely an initial increase in the number of lesions followed by fluctuations, and an exponential increase in the mean area of the lesions. In addition, further analysis of experimental and simulation results show a strong coincidence of the area distributions of lesions at day 21, thereby highlighting the consistency of the model. Three simulation series removing each one of the hypothesis corroborate their essential role in the dynamics observed. These results demonstrate that three local factors, namely an exaggerated inflammatory response, an endogenous reinfection, and a coalescence of lesions, are needed in order to progress toward active TB. The failure of one of these factors stops induction of the disease. This mathematical model may be used as a basis for developing strategies to stop the progression of