Asian Journal of Research and Reports in Ophthalmology

Collodion to Clarity: Reversible Neonatal Ectropion in CERS3-Associated Ichthyosis

2026-01-09T05:52:29+00:00

Autosomal Recessive Congenital Ichthyosis (ARCI) is a heterogeneous group of inherited disorders of cornification, with CERS3 mutations being a rare cause that typically produces a lamellar ichthyosis–like phenotype due to defective synthesis of very long-chain ceramides essential for epidermal barrier function. We report a preterm male neonate who presented at birth as a collodion baby with generalized desquamation, eclabium, and severe bilateral ectropion. Ocular examination revealed significant eversion of eyelid with preserved corneal transparency. Whole exome sequencing identified a homozygous frameshift mutation in CERS3 (c.990_991del, p.Phe331HisfsTer10), confirming ARCI9. The newborn was managed with intensive neonatal care, intensive moisturising skin, antibiotics, and frequent ocular lubrication with no surgical intervention. Progressive clinical improvement was observed, with complete resolution of ectropion and normalisation of ocular findings by day 30 of life. This case demonstrates the reversible nature of neonatal ectropion in CERS3-associated ichthyosis and emphasises the importance of early genetic diagnosis and prompt, multidisciplinary management to avoid vision threatening complications and achieve favourable outcomes.

Posterior Polymorphous Corneal Dystrophy: A Case Report

2026-01-17T10:06:16+00:00

Background: Posterior polymorphous corneal dystrophy (PPCD) is a rare hereditary disorder of the corneal endothelium and Descemet’s membrane. Its heterogeneous clinical presentation accounts for the term "polymorphous" and may lead to diagnostic confusion, particularly in the presence of anterior segment abnormalities, with potential implications for patient management.

Case Presentation: We describe a female patient presenting with a corneal epithelial lesion initially suggestive of a primary epithelial pathology. Careful examination of the fellow eye revealed subtle endothelial alterations. Anterior segment optical coherence tomography (AS-OCT) demonstrated irregularities of Descemet’s membrane, while specular microscopy (SM) showed endothelial cell polymorphism and polymegathism, consistent with PPCD. No family history of corneal dystrophy was identified. Conservative ocular surface treatment was initiated, resulting in clinical improvement and epithelial healing. Long-term follow-up was recommended, and endothelial keratoplasty was discussed as a potential therapeutic option.

Discussion: This case emphasizes the importance of systematic endothelial evaluation in patients presenting with unexplained epithelial corneal lesions. The polymorphous nature of PPCD may mimic other endothelial or inflammatory corneal disorders, such as herpetic keratitis or early Fuchs endothelial dystrophy, potentially leading to misdiagnosis. Multimodal imaging, including AS-OCT and SM, is essential for accurate diagnosis and assessment of endothelial involvement.

Conclusion: PPCD may present with anterior corneal epithelial changes, highlighting the need for careful endothelial assessment in atypical presentations. Early recognition is critical to ensure appropriate monitoring and to prevent progression to endothelial decompensation.

Occult Posterior Scleral Rupture Following Sports-related Orbito-Palpebral Trauma: A Case Report

2026-03-04T12:26:03+00:00

Sports-related orbitopalpebral trauma is a common cause of ocular injury and may lead to complex involvement of both the anterior and posterior segments, with severe visual consequences. Despite prominent external findings, significant intraocular lesions may remain occult at the initial presentation. We present the case of a 22-year-old patient who sustained severe orbitopalpebral trauma during a sports accident, presenting with extensive anterior segment injury. Progressive clinical findings and multimodal imaging raised suspicion of an occult posterior scleral rupture. Urgent surgical exploration confirmed a deeply posterior, surgically inaccessible scleral tear—a rare and easily overlooked complication of blunt ocular trauma—ultimately resulting in a poor visual outcome. This case underscores the necessity of a thorough and systematic ophthalmic evaluation in orbitopalpebral trauma to avoid missed diagnoses with potentially detrimental visual consequences. Early recognition, appropriate imaging, and timely intervention are essential, while preventive strategies such as protective eyewear and education remain crucial in reducing sports-related ocular injuries.

Mooren-like Peripheral Ulcerative Keratitis Associated with Pulmonary Tuberculosis: A Case Report

2026-03-25T06:04:55+00:00

Introduction: Peripheral ulcerative keratitis (PUK) represents a severe inflammatory disorder characterized by progressive stromal thinning and epithelial ulceration of the peripheral cornea. Although it is most frequently associated with autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis or systemic vasculitis, infectious agents may act as triggering factors. Tuberculosis remains an important cause of immune-mediated ocular inflammation in endemic areas. Tuberculosis-associated PUK may clinically mimic Mooren’s ulcer, making diagnosis challenging. Early recognition is essential because appropriate anti-tubercular therapy combined with anti-inflammatory treatment may prevent severe visual loss.

Case Presentation: We report the case of a 43-year-old woman followed in the pulmonology department for pulmonary tuberculosis who presented with painless redness and decreased vision in the left eye. Ophthalmologic examination revealed visual acuity limited to counting fingers, conjunctival hyperemia, and a crescent-shaped temporal peripheral corneal ulcer measuring 5 × 4 mm with positive fluorescein staining and surrounding stromal edema. The anterior chamber was quiet and the contralateral eye was normal. Tuberculin skin testing and interferon-gamma release assay were positive. A diagnosis of Mooren-like peripheral ulcerative keratitis associated with tuberculosis was suspected.

Management and Outcome: The patient received standard six-month anti-tubercular therapy combined with topical lubrication, prophylactic antibiotics, and systemic corticosteroids. Clinical evolution was favorable with progressive epithelial healing and complete corneal re-epithelialization after two months of treatment. At the final follow-up, a residual peripheral corneal scar was present and best-corrected visual acuity improved to 2/10.

Conclusion: Tuberculosis-associated Mooren-like ulcer is a rare but important cause of peripheral ulcerative keratitis. Because the clinical presentation may mimic autoimmune corneal diseases, a thorough etiological investigation is necessary. Early diagnosis and combined anti-tubercular and anti-inflammatory therapy are essential to prevent severe corneal destruction and visual impairment.

Late-onset Ocular Hypotony Revealing Post-traumatic Cyclodialysis: A Case Report

2026-04-04T06:25:27+00:00

Post-traumatic cyclodialysis is a rare entity resulting from a detachment of the ciliary body from the scleral spur, most often secondary to blunt trauma. This creates a shunt space between the anterior chamber and the suprachoroidal space, leading to variable ocular hypotony. Its significance lies in the potential consequences for the optic nerve and macula. We report a case of delayed hypotony in a 13-year-old child, in whom intraocular pressure decreased from 12 to 6 mmHg over fifteen days following trauma, with a visual acuity declining from 10/10 to 4/10 (0.0 to 0.4 LogMAR) .The diagnosed was made using gonioscopy and anterior segment optical coherence tomography (AS-OCT).The patient’s condition evolved favorably under conservative medical management with cycloplegia using atropine 1% for one month. This case highlights the importance of close monitoring and early diagnosis in pediatric post-traumatic cyclodialysis.

“Tuck-in Tenon Patch Graft” Technique in Neurotrophic Keratitis: A Case Report

2026-04-10T11:33:41+00:00

Neurotrophic keratitis (NK) is a rare but serious corneal disorder caused by impaired corneal sensory innervation, leading to defective epithelial healing. Neurotrophic corneal ulcers can progress to deep stromal thinning or perforation, posing a significant risk to vision. Therapeutic options include tear substitutes, biological agents, and surgical interventions.

Autologous Tenon’s patch graft has emerged as an effective alternative for managing refractory corneal ulcers, particularly when conventional therapies fail or donor tissue is unavailable. Its ability to provide stromal support and facilitate epithelial regeneration makes it especially valuable in resource-limited settings.

We report a case treated with an autologous Tenon’s capsule graft using the “Tuck-in Tenon Patch Graft” technique, resulting in favorable anatomical and functional outcomes over a 60-day follow-up. The patient had diabetes with suboptimal glycemic control and prior use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Preoperative visual acuity was 20/200 (1.0 LogMAR), improving to 20/100 (0.7 LogMAR) postoperatively, corresponding to a gain of three lines. Minimal stromal thickness increased from 210 µm preoperatively to 410 µm on day 30.

Follow-up with anterior segment optical coherence tomography (AS-OCT) allowed precise, non-invasive monitoring of graft integration and stability.

The Tuck-in Tenon Patch Graft is a simple, autologous, and effective technique for refractory neurotrophic corneal ulcers, particularly when access to amniotic membrane or donor corneal tissue is limited.

Bilateral Orbital Cellulitis: A Case Report and Review of the Literature

2026-05-01T10:59:20+00:00

Orbital cellulitis (OC) is a potentially life-threatening ophthalmic emergency characterized by rapid progression, which may result in severe visual impairment and serious systemic complications if not managed promptly. The condition is typically unilateral, with bilateral involvement being uncommon and generally associated with extension through the cavernous sinus. Bilateral orbital cellulitis secondary to rhino-sinusitis is rare, although such cases have been documented in the literature from various regions. The present case underscores the critical importance of sound clinical judgement, early and accurate diagnosis, and timely therapeutic intervention in the effective management of bilateral orbital cellulitis, in order to prevent adverse visual and systemic outcomes. We present a 7-year-old boy who had catarrh, fever, headache, and right eye swelling, which later progressed to involve the left eye. An Orbital MRI was done, which showed bilateral orbital cellulitis with right intraocular collection extending into the right maxillary and ethmoidal sinuses. Management was both medical and surgical, using a multidisciplinary approach.

Cleared for Takeoff: Atypical Optic Neuritis in a Commercial Pilot Revealing Myelin Oligodendrocyte Glycoprotein Antibody Disease—A Case Report and Literature Review

2026-05-23T16:20:32+00:00

MOG antibody–associated disease (MOGAD) is an emerging autoimmune demyelinating disorder of the central nervous system, distinct from multiple sclerosis and neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD), and most commonly presenting with optic neuritis. We report the case of a 22-year-old previously healthy pilot presenting with a two-week history of bilateral ocular pain, photophobia, and acute visual loss. Ophthalmologic examination revealed bilateral papillary hyperemia with vascular tortuosity. Papillary OCT demonstrated retinal nerve fiber layer involvement, accompanied by central and peripheral visual field deficits. Orbito-cerebral MRI showed bilateral intraconal enhancement, and visual evoked potentials confirmed severe optic neuropathy. Extensive serologic and infectious evaluation, including anti-AQP4 and anti-MOG antibodies, was negative, with low-titer positive antinuclear antibodies. High-dose intravenous corticosteroids were ineffective; however, plasma exchange resulted in complete recovery of visual acuity and progressive improvement of visual fields. At five-month follow-up, the patient remained clinically stable, with an inactive demyelinating plaque on MRI. Based on the radioclinical profile, a diagnosis of probable seronegative MOGAD was established, and rituximab maintenance therapy was initiated, achieving sustained clinical, radiological, and laboratory remission. Given the potential implications for flight safety, aeromedical clearance was granted under strict monitoring following a formal waiver.

Spectrum of Ocular Tuberculosis: Pathophysiology, Diagnosis and Management: A Case Series

2026-04-08T06:04:34+00:00

Background: Tuberculosis (TB) represents a rare aetiological factor in the development of choroidal neovascularisation (CNV), a process largely mediated by vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). Evidence from experimental animal models of intraocular TB has demonstrated increased VEGF expression in the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE), where Mycobacterium tuberculosis can persist by inhibiting phagolysosome fusion. Choroidal neovascular membranes (CNV) are characterised by the pathological proliferation of new blood vessels and may result in significant visual impairment. A range of pathological alterations involving the RPE and Bruch’s membrane can contribute to CNV formation. In this case series, we present three patients who developed ocular manifestations of tuberculosis and describe their subsequent clinical management.

Aims: To describe the various Ocular manifestations in Tuberculosis and its treatment. In this case series we highlight three patients who developed ocular manifestation of tuberculosis and describe their subsequent management.

Place of Study: Department of Ophthalmology, Regional Institute of Ophthalmology, Bhimrao Ambedkar Memorial Hospital, Pt. JNM, Raipur, Chhattisgarh, India

Methodology: We have described three patients with ocular manifestation of tuberculosis,one patient presented with RE-TB(Tubercular) Chorioretinitis with CNVM with CME.LE - TB (Tubercular) Chorioretinitis.There was history of tuberculosis in father 5 years back and taken course of anti tuberculosis treatment (ATT) for 6 months. Rubella IgM was positive, MANTOUX test – induration 20mm was positive, TB Quantiferon gold test was positive. Patient was started on ATT for 9 months, RE -Injection posterior subtenons triamcinolone acetonide was given. Patient was started on oral steroids 20 mg in tapering doses, Intravitreal ranbizumab 0.5 mg in 0.05 ml injection was given one month later. After 1 month there was improvement in her vision in right eye, which was counting finger 5 meters and left eye 6/6. Second case presents a 20yr old male presented with diplopia since 3 days, deviation of LE towards nasal side since 3 days. Fundus examination revealed choroidal granuloma. Third case presented with optic neuritis.

Conclusion: While tubercular chorioretinitis is a known entity, the occurrence of CNVM with CME in a pediatric patient with presumed ocular tuberculosis represents a rare and noteworthy manifestation. Ocular tuberculosis as a cause of chorioretinitis. TB is a well-recognized cause of posterior uveitis and chorioretinitis, especially in endemic countries. Pediatric presentation (13 years) of bilateral tubercular chorioretinitis, which is rare compared to adults. Concurrent presence of active choroidal tubercle, multifocal chorioretinitis, Inflammatory CNVM with CME, in the same eye, which is infrequently reported. Macular CNVM as the presenting cause of severe vision loss. Asymmetric bilateral disease, Right eye with active inflammation and CNVM, Left eye showing only healed lesions.

Awareness and Perception of Eye Donation among the Literate Population: A Cross-sectional Study

2026-01-14T09:43:39+00:00

Background: Preventing corneal blindness requires a multifaceted approach. Public health interventions aimed at promoting hygiene, early diagnosis, and timely treatment of corneal infections are essential. Awareness regarding the harmful effects of using unregulated eye products, the importance of protective eyewear in hazardous occupations, and access to affordable eye care services can significantly reduce the burden of corneal blindness. Corneal blindness is a major cause of avoidable visual impairment in India. Eye donation can restore vision, yet awareness and willingness to donate remain inadequate.

Objective: The present study assesses awareness, perception, and willingness toward eye donation among literate individuals in India.

Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted among 170 literate participants aged ≥18 years. Data were collected using a structured self-administered questionnaire assessing awareness, myths, procedural knowledge, and willingness. Descriptive statistics were applied to analyze responses.

Results: Awareness of eye donation was high (92.9%), yet knowledge of procedural details was limited. Only 62.4% correctly identified the cornea as the donated part. While 77.6% knew that eye donation does not disfigure the face, misconceptions persisted regarding living donation (42.3% incorrect) and time limits for retrieval. The majority (87.1%) were aware that family consent is required. Although 70% expressed willingness to donate, only a small proportion had pledged or discussed donation with family.

Conclusion: The study demonstrates satisfactory awareness but inadequate procedural understanding and limited willingness to pledge eyes. Misconceptions, cultural barriers, and lack of family dialogue remain key deterrents. Educational campaigns emphasizing factual, procedural, and emotional aspects are essential to improve eye donation rates in India.

Association between Visual Function Impairment and Road Traffic Accident Risk among Commercial Vehicle Drivers in Gwagwalada, Abuja

2026-02-06T12:01:57+00:00

Aim: The aim of the study was to assess the pattern of visual function (visual acuity, contrast sensitivity, colour vision, stereoacuity and visual field) and its association with risk of RTA among CVDs in Gwagwalada, FCT-Abuja.

Study Design: Community base cross sectional study.

Place and Duration of Study: Four major motor parks within Gwagwalada, Abuja, Nigeria. This study lasted for 4 months.

Materials and Methods: Commercial Vehicle Drivers (CVDs) with minimum of one-year driving experience, who were aged 18 years and above and consented to participate in the study were recruited. An interviewer administered questionnaire was used to obtain information on RTA count and years of driving from which RTA rate (crashes per person years of driving) was determined. Visual acuity status was assessed based on WHO and FRSC definitions using a smartphone Peek Acuity application. Contrast sensitivity and colour vision were assessed using Pelli-Robson chart and Ishihara chart respectively while Stereoacuity and visual fields were assessed using Titmus Stereo chart and Confrontation perimetry, respectively. Multiple visual functions were assessed to provide a comprehensive evaluation beyond visual acuity alone. Descriptive and inferential statistics, were carried out using the SPSS version 25. The level of statistical significance was set at p < 0.05.

Result: A total of 188 male CVDs, were enrolled, with majority (66%) of them being in the 41 to 60 years age group. 57.4% of the drivers were involved in at-fault RTA. Majority (58%) of CVDs had at least one form of visual function impairment and stereoacuity accounted for the highest abnormality (47.3%). Visual impairment prevalence, based on WHO and FRSC definitions, were 18.1% and 21.8%, respectively. Abnormal visual acuity, based on FRSC definition, showed 12.5 times higher likelihood of RTA per year of driving (CI: 1.1 - 147.5, p=0.045) while abnormal stereoacuity revealed 2.4 times higher likelihood of RTA per year of driving (CI: 1.2 - 4.8, p=0.016). Drivers aged 18-40 years showed 2.6 times higher likelihood of RTA per year of driving (CI: 1.1 - 6.0, p=0.026).

Conclusion: This study found that abnormal stereoacuity and visual acuity based on FRSC visual standard for driving were significantly associated with increased risks of RTAs. These findings should guide driving regulations and eyecare policies for drivers in Nigeria. it is also recommended that enforcement of pre-license vision testing regulations for drivers should be strengthened and made mandatory to improve Public safety.

Day-1 Postoperative Complications Following Small Incision Cataract Surgery (SICS): An Institution-based Observational Study

2026-02-09T13:42:08+00:00

Background: Cataract is the leading cause of reversible blindness worldwide, with a disproportionately high burden in low- and middle-income countries. Small incision cataract surgery (SICS) is widely practiced in such settings due to its cost-effectiveness and reproducibility. Despite favorable outcomes, early postoperative complications may influence immediate visual recovery and patient satisfaction.

Aim: To evaluate the frequency and pattern of day-1 postoperative complications following uncomplicated small incision cataract surgery.

Methods: This retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted at a tertiary care eye hospital in India. Medical records of 100 patients aged 40–100 years who underwent uncomplicated SICS and presented for postoperative day-1 evaluation were analyzed. Postoperative assessment included corneal status, anterior chamber reaction, intraocular pressure, wound integrity, and intraocular lens position. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics.

Results: The most common postoperative finding was Descemet’s membrane folds (27%), followed by corneal edema (24%) and anterior chamber reaction (18%). Hyphema (14%), soft globe (11%), and decentered intraocular lens (6%) were less frequently observed. Most complications were mild and self-limiting, and no sight-threatening complications were noted.

Conclusion: Day-1 postoperative complications following SICS are predominantly mild and involve the cornea and anterior segment. The absence of sight-threatening complications supports the safety and reliability of SICS, and systematic early postoperative evaluation provides valuable insight into immediate surgical outcomes and optimization of postoperative care.

Prevalence of Glaucoma among Patients Attending a Tertiary Ophthalmology Clinic in Zanzibar, Tanzania

2026-02-11T12:39:43+00:00

Background and Aim: Glaucoma is a frequent eye condition in which the optic nerve, which connects the eye and the brain, is injured. Glaucoma poses a serious public health concern since it is the second biggest cause of blindness worldwide, and this blindness is usually irreversible. The aim of the study is to systematically assess the prevalence of glaucoma among patients attending a tertiary care hospital in Zanzibar, Tanzania.

Materials and Methods: This hospital-based cross-sectional study estimated the prevalence of glaucoma among patients attending the Ophthalmology clinic at Mnazi Mmoja Hospital (MMH) in Zanzibar, Tanzania. Questionnaires were used to collect socio-demographic data, family history, and other risk factors. Data analysis was conducted using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 23. The frequency of prevalence of glaucoma was tabulated.

Results: The study sample comprised 200 patients. Among the 200 study population, 78 patients (39%) were diagnosed with glaucoma. Most of the patients diagnosed with glaucoma were between 51-60 years of age (24.35%). Of the 78 patients diagnosed with glaucoma, 45 patients (57.7%) were female, and 33 patients (42.3%) were male. These patients have predisposing factors, like existing eye disease, family history of glaucoma (65.3%), hypertensive and diabetic (46.15% and 67.95% respectively). Our study also shows that a great proportion is only using topical medication as treatment of their condition.

Conclusion: The prevalence of glaucoma in patients presenting with eye disease is significantly high. Lack of awareness of appropriate treatment in the early stages of all eye diseases contributes to the development of glaucoma. Community health education on methods to mitigate risk factors through lifestyle modifications, and the provision of ophthalmic health care facilities in rural areas of Tanzania, will reduce the incidence of a major cause of blindness in Tanzania.

Clinical and Therapeutic Epidemiological Aspects of Ballistic Eye Trauma Cases Admitted to the Armed Forces Hospital Centre (CHA)

2026-02-18T08:05:29+00:00

Ballistic eye injuries are very rare ophthalmic emergencies, but they are potentially serious as they can lead to blindness. The prevailing insecurity in the Sahel has led to a multitude of cases that pose a problem in terms of treatment. The objective of the study was to describe the epidemiological, clinical, and therapeutic aspects of ballistic trauma cases at the Armed Forces Hospital (CHA). This was a descriptive, prospective study over six years, conducted from January 1, 2019, to April 30, 2024. All patients admitted to the CHA for ballistic eye trauma were included. The parameters studied were sociodemographic, the affected eye, the nature of the injuries, the causative agent, and the therapeutic modalities. Ten male patients of an average age of 24 years were included in the study. All of the patients were non-commissioned officers; seven of the patients (70%) belonged to the Nigerien Armed Forces. Eye trauma due to homemade mine explosions was the most common (n=9, or 90%). All patients had adnexal contusion (n=10). Three patients (30%) had globe rupture, five (50%) had corneal damage, and two (20%) patients had posterior segment damage. Evisceration was performed in 30% (n=3) of patients, and posterior segment surgery was performed in two patients. A dry eye syndrome occurred in 30 (n=3) patients. Six patients (60%) became monocular. Only one patient recovered without sequelae. Despite emergency treatment, ballistic eye injuries remain serious due to their severity and potential to lead to blindness. The limitation of the study lies in its small sample size, which is ten patients, and this low statistical power prevents any generalisation of the results to a larger population and reduces the ability to identify significant associations between injury characteristics, treatments, and prognoses. Therefore, it is recommended that larger, multicenter prospective studies should be developed to consolidate knowledge.

Prevalence of Glaucoma in Eye Clinic Federal Medical Centre, Owo, Ondo State, Nigeria

2026-02-20T06:58:38+00:00

Purpose: Glaucoma remained one of the leading causes of irreversible blindness globally, and early diagnosis was essential for preventing vision loss. Understanding its risk factors was particularly important in rural and semi-urban settings where awareness and access to eye care were limited. This study assessed the prevalence of glaucoma among patients attending the Federal Medical Center (FMC) Owo Eye Clinic.

Materials and Methods: A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted among patients who presented to the FMC Owo Eye Clinic. Data were collected using structured clinical records, including demographic characteristics, occupation, age, and glaucoma diagnosis. Statistical analysis was conducted to determine associations between glaucoma incidence between the year 2019-2022 and the patients’ characteristics.

Results: The findings revealed a notable incidence of glaucoma in the facility, leading to the rejection of the null hypothesis. Age showed a strong association with glaucoma, indicating that older patients were more likely to present with the condition. Certain occupations—particularly farming and trading—were identified as higher-risk groups. The results also indicated that 63.3% of females were more susceptible to glaucoma than males (36.7%).

Discussion and Conclusion: The study concluded that glaucoma remained a significant eye health challenge at FMC Owo, with age, occupation, and gender emerging as important risk factors. Strengthened public health awareness campaigns and early screening programs are urgently needed, especially in rural areas where awareness of glaucoma is low. Incorporating protective eye care practices and promoting routine eye examinations may help reduce the burden of the disease.

Abnormal Lipid Profiles as Markers of Diabetic Macular Edema among Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus at Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Centre: A One-year Cross-sectional Study

2026-03-23T12:02:57+00:00

Background: Diabetes mellitus (DM) remains a major global health challenge and is associated with vision-threatening complications, including diabetic macular edema (DME), a leading cause of visual impairment. The abnormal lipids has been implicated in the development of macular edema through mechanisms involving vascular permeability, endothelial dysfunction, and chronic inflammation. However, evidence regarding the relationship between lipid abnormalities and macular edema remains inconsistent across studies.

Aim: This study aimed to evaluate the association between abnormal lipid profiles and diabetic macular edema among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus at Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Centre (KCMC).

Methods: A hospital-based analytical cross-sectional study was conducted among 296 diabetic outpatients at KCMC. Participants underwent comprehensive ophthalmic evaluation including fundoscopy and imaging with optical coherence tomography (OCT) for assessment of macular edema. Blood samples were collected for biochemical lipid analysis. Data were cleaned and analyzed using STATA version 17.

Results: Diabetic macular edema was identified in 56.4% (167/296) of participants. Abnormal lipid parameters were common, with elevated total cholesterol observed in 48.6%, triglycerides in 43.6%, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) in 36.1%, and reduced high-density lipoprotein (HDL) in 38.9% of patients. Elevated total cholesterol, triglycerides, and LDL levels showed significant associations with macular edema (p < 0.05). After multivariable adjustment, serum triglycerides remained independently associated with macular edema (p = 0.002).

Conclusion: The abnormal lipid profiles demonstrated a significant association with diabetic macular edema, with serum triglycerides emerging as an independent predictor. These findings highlight the importance of lipid monitoring, lifestyle modification, and strengthened screening strategies in reducing the burden of vision-threatening diabetic complications.

Knowledge and Treatment Adherence among Moroccan Glaucoma Patients: A Cross-sectional Study of 400 Cases

2026-04-04T08:15:08+00:00

Background: Glaucoma is a chronic progressive optic neuropathy and represents one of the leading causes of irreversible blindness worldwide. Because the disease is frequently asymptomatic in its early stages, long-term management relies heavily on patient adherence to treatment and regular follow-up. Adequate patient knowledge of the disease and its treatment plays a crucial role in maintaining adherence and preventing disease progression.

Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate the level of knowledge and treatment adherence among Moroccan glaucoma patients and to highlight the importance of therapeutic patient education in improving disease management.

Methods: This cross-sectional study included 400 patients previously diagnosed with glaucoma and followed at the Adult Ophthalmology Department of the 20 August 1953 Hospital, Ibn Rochd University Hospital Center, Casablanca. Data were collected over an eight-month period between May and December 2022. Patients were interviewed using a structured questionnaire administered in the glaucoma clinic waiting room. The questionnaire evaluated demographic characteristics, educational level, knowledge of glaucoma, awareness of lifelong treatment necessity, perception of blindness risk, knowledge of prescribed medication, treatment adherence, experience of side effects, and physician involvement. Data were analyzed using Microsoft Excel.

Results: The mean age of the patients was 64 years (range 23–92 years). The most represented age group was between 60 and 80 years. Women accounted for 57% of the study population and men for 43%. Regarding educational level, 28% of patients were illiterate, 31.5% had primary education, 25.5% secondary education, and 15% had attended university.

Most patients (70.5%) were aware that glaucoma treatment must be continued lifelong. However, 22.5% were uncertain about treatment duration and 7% believed that glaucoma could be cured. Additionally, 80% of patients knew that untreated glaucoma could lead to blindness.

Only 50.25% of patients knew the name of their medication, although 75.5% were aware of the dosing schedule. In terms of adherence, 52.5% reported never forgetting their treatment, while 25% admitted occasional forgetfulness and 22.5% reported frequent non-adherence. Less than half of the patients (47.5%) reported receiving instructions on proper eye drop instillation technique.

Furthermore, 65% of patients reported experiencing bothersome side effects such as ocular redness, dryness, or allergic reactions. Physician involvement was perceived as low by 9% of patients, average by 42%, and good by 49%.

Conclusion: Although Moroccan glaucoma patients demonstrate relatively good awareness of disease severity, treatment adherence remains suboptimal. Structured therapeutic education programs may significantly improve patient understanding, autonomy, and adherence to long-term glaucoma therapy.