Abstract:With the growing popularity of periocular cosmetic procedures, including injectable fillers, laser therapy, and eyeliner tattooing, the incidence of meibomian gland dysfunction(MGD)and other meibomian gland disorders has increased correspondingly. Nevertheless, the standardized diagnosis and management of these conditions remain controversial. Based on multidisciplinary clinical practice and up-to-date evidence-based medical evidence, this expert consensus systematically elaborates on the pathogenesis, clinical manifestations, and diagnostic criteria of cosmetic procedure-related MGD. It highlights the necessity of detailed medical history collection and comprehensive ocular surface assessment. A stepwise therapeutic strategy, covering conservative nursing management, pharmacological intervention, and physical therapy, is proposed for standardized clinical treatment. In addition, this consensus standardizes the preoperative evaluation workflow for periocular cosmetic procedures, optimizes operational techniques to prevent meibomian gland injury, and stresses the significance of standardized postoperative follow-up for reducing iatrogenic ocular complications. This consensus intends to improve clinicians'cognition and standardized management of periocular cosmetic procedure-related MGD, and facilitate a benign balance between cosmetic procedural safety and ocular surface health.

Abstract:AIM: To analyze the composition of diseases and surgical methods for pediatric corneal diseases treated with surgery in a tertiary hospital of Northwest China.

METHODS: A retrospective analysis of the clinical data of patients treated at the Corneal Disease Department of Xi'an No.1 Hospital and underwent related surgical treatments between January 1, 2018 and December 30, 2022 was conducted. The gender, age, disease classification, surgical method, and residence were analyzed.

RESULTS: This study included 139 children(139 eyes, aged ≤14 y)with corneal diseases, comprising 67 males(48.2%)and 72 females(51.8%). Acquired non-traumatic corneal diseases constituted the largest proportion(67 cases, 48.2%), primarily due to infectious corneal diseases(41 patients, 29.5%). Congenital corneal diseases accounted for 52 cases(37.4%). There were 20 cases with acquired-traumatic corneal dieases(14.4%), involving 11 male and 9 female patients. Geographically, 102(73.4%)patients resided in Shaanxi Province, 26(18.7%)in Gansu Province, 8(5.8%)in Qinghai Province, and 3(2.1%)in Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region. No patients were from the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. Regarding primary surgical intervention, 65 patients underwent penetrating keratoplasty(PKP), 34 underwent lamellar keratoplasty(LKP), 31 underwent amniotic membrane transplantation(AMT), and 9 underwent other surgical procedures. The corresponding proportions of these primary surgeries were 46.8%, 24.4%, 22.3%, and 6.5%. The overall corneal transplantation rate was 71.2%.

CONCLUSION: Infectious corneal diseases, corneal dermoids, and corneal trauma constitute the primary etiologies of pediatric corneal diseases treated with surgery in the hospital. Corneal transplantation surgery constitutes a cornerstone intervention for addressing these diseases and represents an effective therapeutic approach for pediatric corneal blindness.

Abstract:AIM: To examine differences in etiology, risk factors, gender, and acute-phase manifestations of retinal artery occlusion(RAO)patients in different age groups, highlighting age-related heterogeneity.

METHODS:This retrospective comparative cohort study enrolled patients with RAO. Patients were divided into <50 y group and ≥50 y group. Etiological classification was based on modified TOAST criteria. Comparisons assessed the prevalence of risk factors, etiological distribution, sex ratio, and, in cases of acute central retinal artery occlusion(CRAO), fundus characteristics and visual outcomes.

RESULTS:This study included a total of 145 RAO patients,which were divided into two groups based on age: <50 y group(15 females and 13 males)with the mean age of 36.64±9.72 y, and ≥50 y group(38 females and 79 males)with the mean age of 63.50±9.54 y. Hypertension(46.4% vs 85.5%)and diabetes(3.6% vs 27.4%)were less prevalent in <50 y group(both P<0.001). The <50 y group was characterized predominantly by stroke of other determined etiology(SOE, 35.7% vs 2.6%, P<0.001), whereas the ≥50 y group was dominated by small artery occlusion(SAO, 35.9%)and large artery atherosclerosis(LAA, 31.6%), the incidence rates were significantly higher in the ≥50 y group than in the <50 y group(both P<0.001). Females were more frequently represented in <50 y group(53.6% vs 32.5%, P=0.039). Multivariable analysis demonstrated that LAA was independently linked to older age and SOE to younger age. Boxcarring occurred exclusively in ≥50 y patients\〖39.5%(17/43)vs 0, P=0.011\〗.

CONCLUSION:The RAO patients<50 y predominantly present with non-atherosclerotic causes and a higher proportion of females, whereas patients≥50 y are mainly affected by atherosclerosis driven etiologies and show signs of reduced vascular compensatory capacity. These findings indicate that age-related differences in RAO should be taken into account when determining etiologic evaluation and management strategies.

Abstract:AIM: To investigate the effects of high-concentration glucose on the cell viability of retinal pigment epithelialcells(ARPE-19)/ human umbilical vein endothelial cells(HUVEC)cells, as well as on the expression levels of sirtuin 6(SIRT6).

METHODS:ARPE-19 and HUVEC cells were cultured for 48 h in media containing various glucose concentrations(5.5, 25, 50, 75, 100 mmol/L)and cellular morphology was observed under an optical microscope.Cell viability was assessed using the CCK-8 assay. Flow cytometry was utilized to evaluate apoptosis levels, and Western blot analysis was conducted to measure the expression of Bcl-2 and SIRT6. ARPE-19/HUVEC cells were treated with 50 mmol/L glucose for 48 h, after which immunofluorescence staining was performed to determine the subcellular localization and expression level of SIRT6 protein. In parallel, cells receiving the same treatment were harvested at different time points(0, 6, 12, 24, 36, 48, and 72 h), and the temporal changes in SIRT6 protein expression were assessed by Western blot analysis. SIRT6 overexpressing stable ARPE-19/HUVEC cell lines were constructed. Western blot was performed to detect the effects of SIRT6 overexpression on the expression levels of glucose transporters in ARPE-19/HUVEC cells treated with high glucose(50 mmol/L glucose).

RESULTS:Compared with the 5.5 mmol/L glucose group, cell number was decreased and cell viability was significantly reduced in ARPE19/HUVEC cells with increasing glucose concentrations(all P<0.01). Meanwhile, the protein expression level of SIRT6 was markedly downregulated(P<0.05). Such inhibitory effects exhibited both concentration-and time-dependent patterns(all P<0.05). Furthermore, high glucose induced cell apoptosis and downregulated the protein expression of Bcl-2(P<0.05). Immunofluorescence staining revealed that SIRT6 protein was predominantly localized in the nucleus after 48 h of high-glucose treatment, accompanied by pyknosis and nuclear fragmentation. After incubation with highg-lucose medium(50 mmol/L glucose)for different durations, long-term high-glucose intervention was found to reduce SIRT6 protein expression in ARPE19/HUVEC cells. Successful construction of the SIRT6-overexpressing stable ARPE-19/HUVEC cell lines was confirmed via immunofluorescence and Western blotting. Western blot analysis revealed that, compared with the HG+LV-con group, the HG+LV-SIRT6 group exhibited no significant differences in GLUT1 or GLUT4 expression in ARPE-19 cells, whereas GLUT3 expression was elevated(P<0.05). Compared with the HG+LV-con group, the HG+LV-SIRT6 group showed no significant change in GLUT1 expression, while GLUT3 and GLUT4 levels were increased(both P<0.05).

CONCLUSION:High-concentration glucose-reduce the proliferative activity of ARPE-19/HUVEC cells, induce apoptosis, and downregulate SIRT6 expression. SIRT6 may alleviate high glucose-induced retinal cell damage by promoting the expression of glucose transporters.

Abstract:AIM: To compare the postoperative clinical outcomes of two diffractive extended depth-of-focus intraocular lenses(IOLs), the AMEUH and the Tecnis Symfony IOL.

METHODS:This prospective cohort, multicenter study enrolled patients with cataract who underwent cataract phacoemulsification with IOL implantation at three hospitals between October 2024 and June 2025. Patients were divided into the AMEUH group and the ZXR00 group according to the implanted IOL. The AMEUH group included patients implanted with diffractive extended depth-of-focus IOL, and the ZXR00 group included patients implanted with the Tecnis Symfony IOL. At 6 mo postoperatively, ocular biometric parameters, photopic uncorrected distance visual acuity(UDVA), uncorrected intermediate visual acuity(UIVA), uncorrected near visual acuity(UNVA), corrected distance visual acuity(CDVA), distance-corrected intermediate visual acuity(DCIVA), and distance-corrected near visual acuity(DCNVA); mesopic CDVA, DCIVA, and DCNVA, defocus curves, manifest refraction, contrast sensitivity, adverse visual symptoms, spectacle independence, patient satisfaction, and intraocular pressure were compared between the two groups.

RESULTS:A total of 83 patients(83 eyes)were included in this study, including 31 males(31 eyes)and 52 females(52 eyes), with a mean age of 63.18±10.30 y. The AMEUH group included 41 patients(41 eyes), aged 67.00(60.00, 72.00)y, including 13 males and 28 females. The ZXR00 group included 42 patients(42 eyes), aged 62.00(57.50, 69.00)y, including 18 males and 24 females. The 77 patients completed 6 mo postoperative follow up, with 6 patients lost to follow up(3 from the AMEUH group and 3 from the ZXR00 group). There were no significant differences in ocular biometric parameters between the two groups postoperative 6 mo(all P>0.05). No significant differences were observed in photopic UDVA, UIVA, UNVA, CDVA, and DCIVA, or in mesopic CDVA and DCIVA between the two groups(all P>0.05). However,photopic and mesopic DCNVA in the AMEUH group were significantly better than in the ZXR00 group(both P<0.05). The effective depth-of-focus in the AMEUH group was increased by 0.5 D compared with the ZXR00 group. Significant differences were observed in manifest refraction between the two groups(P<0.05). Under specific lighting conditions and spatial frequencies, contrast sensitivity in the AMEUH group was significantly better than in the ZXR00 group(all P<0.05). The incidences of glare, halos, and blurred vision in the AMEUH group were all significantly lower than in the ZXR00 group(all P<0.05). There were no significant differences in spectacle independence for distance, intermediate, and near vision, or in patient satisfaction for distance and intermediate vision between the two groups(all P>0.05). However, patient satisfaction for near vision in the AMEUH group was significantly higher than in the ZXR00 group(P<0.05).

CONCLUSION:The diffractive extended depth-of-focus IOL AMEUH further extends the depth-of-focus through a higher-order aspheric optical design based on a diffractive design, providing comparable efficacy to the Symfony IOL in improving distance and intermediate vision. Meanwhile, benefiting from its higher add power, it provides superior near visual performance, and reduces spectacle dependence. The AMEUH IOL is associated with a lower incidence of postoperative adverse visual symptoms, as well as favorable safety, and high patient satisfaction.

Abstract:AIM: To evaluate the effects of different corneal cap thicknesses during small-incision lenticule extraction(SMILE)on corneal densitometry(CD), visual quality, and corneal biomechanics during the first postoperative year, and to explore its safety.

METHODS: A prospective randomized contralateral controlled design was employed. Thin cap(110-120 μm)and thick cap(130-140 μm)SMILE procedures were performed on the two eyes of the same myopic patients undergoing surgery, respectively. Postoperative evaluations at 1 wk, 1, 3, 6 mo, and 1 y included CD, uncorrected distance visual acuity(UDVA), corrected distance visual acuity(CDVA), contrast sensitivity, wavefront aberrations, and corneal biomechanics. A linear mixed-effects model was used for statistical analysis.

RESULTS:A total of 60 patients(120 eyes, 60 eyes in the thin-cap group and 60 eyes in the thick-cap group)completed the surgery successfully and attended scheduled follow-up visits. The mean age was 26.3±3.8 y, including 34 males(57%)and 26 females(43%).The intended cap thickness was 115.24±3.10 μm in the thin-cap group and 135.28±3.45 μm in the thick-cap group. There were significant intergroup differences in lenticule thickness and ablation depth(P<0.001), whereas the residual stromal bed(RSB)thickness was comparable between groups(P=0.301). Central 0-6 mm CD significantly decreased over time(P<0.001), and the thin-cap group had overall higher densitometry values than the thick-cap group(P<0.001), with significant differences persisting from 1 wk to 1 y postoperatively(Bonferroni-corrected P<0.05). At 1 y, significant CD differences were most pronounced in the anterior and central layers(both P<0.05), with no significant differences in posterior layers. The thick-cap group showed a significant improvement in UDVA(P=0.002)and better contrast sensitivity(corrected P<0.05), while the thin-cap group had higher values of total root mean square of higher-order aberrations(HOA-RMS), spherical aberration, and coma(all P<0.05). No statistical differences were observed between groups in corneal biomechanical parameters(DA, CBI, SSI)(all P >0.05), and the incidence of safety events was also comparable between the two groups(P≥0.5).

CONCLUSION: Given an equivalent RSB thickness, thicker corneal caps can reduce anterior-layer CD, improve contrast sensitivity and higher-order aberration outcomes, without obvious increases in biomechanical risks or safety concerns.Therefore, it warrants consideration as a preferred intraoperative strategy for SMILE.

Abstract:Retinal astrocytes play pivotal roles in regulating neuronal function, maintaining retinal homeostasis, and responding to pathological stress. This review focuses on recent advances in astrocyte heterogeneity, including its spatial distribution and functional states, and discusses the dual roles of pathological processes. Evidence indicates that, during the early stages of glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration, and other degenerative retinal disorders, astrocytes exert neuroprotective effects by supporting neuronal metabolism, modulating inflammatory responses, and alleviating oxidative stress. However, persistent disruption of the retinal microenvironment can drive astrocytes toward a pro-inflammatory reactive phenotype. A clearer understanding of these pathophysiological processes and molecular mechanisms may provide a theoretical basis and potential therapeutic direction for retinal neurodegenerative diseases.

Abstract:Periorbital pain is a common concomitant symptom of dry eye disease, which is transmitted through the ophthalmic branch of the trigeminal nerve and mainly manifests as burning, distending, and stinging sensations, severely impairing patients' quality of life. Western medicine and traditional Chinese medicine have unique advantages in managing dry eye-related periorbital pain. Western medicine can rapidly relieve targeted symptoms, while traditional Chinese medicine adopts holistic syndrome differentiation to lower long-term recurrence risk. Western therapeutic modalities include pharmacotherapy and physical interventional therapies, and Chinese medicine interventions cover oral herbal formulas, topical herbal preparations, acupuncture and Tuina massage. This paper systematically reviews advances over the past five years regarding the pathogenesis of dry eye-associated periorbital pain and integrated traditional Chinese and western therapeutic schemes. The limitations of current clinical studies are summarized, aiming to offer standardized clinical references and innovative insights for the diagnosis and management of dry eye-induced periorbital pain.

Abstract:Mucins are a class of large, highly glycosylated proteins that play a critical role in maintaining ocular surface homeostasis, tear film stability and the ocular surface barrier. This article provides a systematic review of recent advances in clinical and basic research on mucins, summarizing their role in maintaining ocular surface health and their involvement in the onset and progression of ocular surface diseases. It also reviews current methods for detecting mucins and therapeutic strategies targeting mucins. Particular emphasis is placed on examining changes in the mucin expression profile in different subtypes of dry eye, ocular surface diseases and following ocular surface surgery, with the aim of providing guidance for the diagnosis, assessment and treatment of mucin-related ocular surface diseases.

Abstract:Modern cataract surgery has completely moved beyond the traditional vision-restoring model and has fully entered a new era of refractive cataract surgery(RCS)centered on precise refractive correction. Its core objective is to provide patients with personalized visual experiences characterized by full-range, clear, and comfortable vision. Currently, although diagnostic and therapeutic technologies for RCS are rapidly evolving, there remain many bottlenecks in the precise management of the entire perioperative process that urgently need to be addressed. Preoperatively, the measurement consistency among ocular biometry devices based on different detection principles remains poor, and systematic measurement errors cannot be completely eliminated. Moreover, the individualized selection of intraocular lenses(IOLs)relies heavily on surgeons' clinical experience, lacking a standardized quantitative decision-making framework, which makes it difficult to achieve precise personalized matching. Intraoperatively, the quality of continuous curvilinear capsulorhexis is affected by multiple factors such as ocular anatomical characteristics and surgical proficiency, and its stability cannot be reliably ensured. Various intelligent surgical navigation systems are compromised by intraoperative ocular conditions, and their clinical performance fails to meet theoretical expectations. At the postoperative stage, existing IOL optical designs and materials have inherent limitations. The longterm prevention and control of posterior capsule opacification(PCO)remains a core factor restricting patients' long-term high-quality visual outcomes. This article systematically reviews the precise diagnostic and therapeutic challenges and core bottlenecks across the preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative stages of RCS. It further explores frontier technological directions—including cross-device error compensation models, artificial intelligence-assisted decision-making, preoperative VR-based visual simulation, and the construction of intelligent surgical ecosystem platforms—to delineate targeted solutions and optimization pathways. This review aims to provide references and insights for the standardized clinical implementation, technological innovation, and future research endeavors in precision diagnosis and treatment of RCS.

Abstract:Congenital cataract(CC)is one of the important causes of visual impairment in infants and young children. Approximately 30% of cases are associated with monogenic mutations. It is one of the core diseases in pediatric blindness prevention and treatment. The maintenance of lens transparency is closely related to membrane protein-mediated intercellular communication, water transport, and the orderly arrangement of fiber cells. This review focuses on the gap junction protein genes(GJA8 and GJA3), related to lens membrane function, the major intrinsic protein gene(MIP/AQP0), and the lens intrinsic membrane protein 2 gene(LIM2), and summarizes the inheritance patterns, clinical phenotypes, and pathogenic mechanisms of related monogenic mutations. Current evidence indicates that GJA8 and GJA3 mutations mainly disrupt lens cell homeostasis by affecting gap junction channel function, protein localization, and hemichannel opening; MIP/AQP0 mutations may impair water transport and intercellular adhesion, leading to abnormal fiber cell arrangement; in addition to the classic autosomal recessive inheritance pattern, dominant LIM2 mutations may affect membrane protein complex assembly through aberrant disulfide bond formation, thereby causing lens opacification. A systematic review of the mutational characteristics and mechanisms of these genes may help clarify the role of membrane protein abnormalities in the development and progression of CC and provide a reference for molecular diagnosis, genetic counseling, and subsequent intervention research.

Abstract:Phacoemulsification represents the mainstream, efficient, and safe surgical modality for cataract treatment, and continuous technological advances have further improved the safety profile of this procedure in ordinary patients. However, patients with high myopia feature inherent anatomical abnormalities of the eyeball, leading to a fundamental incompatibility with conventional phacoemulsification protocols. Such patients face a markedly elevated risk of both anterior and posterior segment perioperative complications, posing a persistent clinical challenge in cataract surgery. Focusing on the unique ocular anatomical characteristics associated with high myopia, this review systematically summarizes the distinct traumatic effects and pathological impacts of phacoemulsification on the anterior and posterior ocular segments of affected patients. Moving beyond generalized discussions of routine cataract management, it consolidates clinical evidence specific to this special-population patients, aiming to provide refined references for perioperative risk prevention and control in cataract patients complicated with high myopia.

Abstract:Retinal degenerative diseases are a group of blinding ocular disorders characterized by progressive and irreversible loss of retinal neural cells. They mainly include age-related macular degeneration and retinitis pigmentosa. At present, there are no curative clinical therapies capable of reversing the disease course. Patients have poor long-term visual prognosis, imposing a heavy public-health burden on families and society. Mesenchymal stem cell(MSC)-derived exosomes, as a novel cell-free therapeutic vector, have emerged as a research hotspot due to their low immunogenicity, no tumorigenic risk, and excellent tissue barrier penetration ability. This review systematically summarizes the core mechanisms of MSC-derived exosomes in regulating immune inflammation, inhibiting apoptosis, and promoting retinal neuroprotection and structural/functional recovery via miRNA and tsRNA, compares the efficacy differences and existing controversies among exosomes from different sources, and outlines the advances in intraocular delivery technologies and engineering modification strategies. Combined with preclinical and clinical data, the current bottlenecks and safety evidence for clinical translation were objectively described. Meanwhile, in view of the heterogeneity among existing studies, this review proposes future directions including standardized preparation and the establishment of efficacy evaluation systems, so as to provide theoretical references for the development of novel therapeutic strategies for retinal degenerative diseases.

Abstract:Thyroid-associated ophthalmopathy(TAO)is an organ-specific autoimmune disease closely associated with autoimmune thyroid diseases. It is pathologically characterized by orbital fibroblast activation, glycosaminoglycan accumulation and extraocular muscle fibrosis, which seriously impair patients' visual function and quality of life. Autoimmune response imbalance constitutes the core pathogenesis of TAO, among which the disturbance of T helper 17 cell(Th17)and regulatory T cell(Treg)homeostasis plays a pivotal role in disease progression. This paper reviews the research progress of Th17/Treg cell imbalance in TAO. It firstly summarizes the immunopathological mechanism of TAO and clarifies the roles of thyroid-stimulating hormone receptor, insulin-like growth factor-1 receptor and various orbital autoantigens. Then it elaborates the biological characteristics and functional balance mechanism of Th17 and Treg cells, covering the regulatory roles of retinoic acid-related orphan receptor γ t, the key transcription factor for Th17 cell differentiation, and forkhead box protein P3, the core functional molecule of Treg cells. Furthermore, it concludes the clinical evidence of Th17/Treg imbalance in TAO patients, as well as the specific mechanism by which Th17 cells drive intraorbital inflammation via secreting pro-inflammatory factors such as interleukin-17A, and the immune dysregulation caused by the reduced number and functional defects of Treg cells. Finally, it sorts out therapeutic strategies targeting this imbalance, including research advances in cytokine antagonism, epigenetic regulation, immune checkpoint intervention and other directions, and points out the deficiencies and future prospects of current studies. This review aims to provide references for the research on immunopathological mechanisms and precise clinical treatment of TAO.

Abstract:In recent years, the application of artificial intelligence(AI)in ophthalmology has been continuously expanding. AI-assisted analysis of color fundus photography(CFP)and optical coherence tomography(OCT)enables the acquisition of more quantitative data on retinal vasculature, providing assistance in evaluating the systemic vascular status. Although single-modal AI systems(based solely on fundus analysis or OCT images)have achieved certain success, they are unable to simulate the comprehensive judgment process of clinicians who integrate multi-source information. Multimodal AI, which combines structural information from CFP with interlayer information from OCT, can uncover complementary features across different modalities, thereby enhancing diagnostic accuracy and predictive capabilities.This paper provides a systematic review of the application progress of multimodal AI based on CFP and OCT in blinding eye diseases. It outlines the technical foundations, current applications, and clinical value of multimodal AI in conditions such as diabetic retinopathy, age-related macular degeneration, glaucoma, and pathological myopia. Furthermore, the challenges and future directions of multimodal AI are discussed, offering references for ophthalmologists and promoting the development of ophthalmic diagnosis and therapeutic technologies.

Abstract:Retinoschisis in high myopia is one of the important complications leading to visual impairment and blindness. Its occurrence is closely related to factors such as axial extension, diopter increase, and vitreous-retinal interface traction, but the pathogenesis is not yet fully understood. Due to the concealment of early lesions and the complexity of the progression process, it brings challenges to early clinical diagnosis and precise management. With the iterative upgrading of high-resolution fundus imaging technology, the accurate identification of characteristic optical coherence tomography(OCT)imaging of retinoschisis in high myopia has become an important basis for early diagnosis, staging, and treatment of the disease. This article focuses on the OCT imaging features of myopic retinoschisis, focusing on its epidemiology and risk factors, and the progress of characteristic OCT imaging in disease staging, diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis evaluation. At the same time, it further reviews the research status and development prospects of the combination of artificial intelligence and OCT in the automatic identification, disease evaluation, and progression prediction of myopic retinoschisis, so as to provide theoretical support and clinical reference for the early diagnosis, standardized staging, and accurate diagnosis and treatment of myopic retinoschisis.

Abstract:The global rise in myopia prevalence and its increasingly earlier onset have become a serious public health concern. Drug intervention represents an important strategy for slowing myopia progression and reducing the risk of complications associated with high myopia. In studies of drug efficacy and underlying mechanisms, guinea pigs are widely regarded as an ideal animal model for experimental myopia because their ocular structure and refractive development are similar to those of humans. Current evidence indicates that chemical drugs, including muscarinic receptor antagonists, dopamine-related agents, and certain intraocular pressure-lowering drugs, may exert effects by modulating retina-choroid signaling pathways, inhibiting scleral remodeling, and suppressing excessive axial elongation. In contrast, traditional Chinese medicine and its bioactive components exhibit multitarget intervention advantages via improving retinal microcirculation, exerting antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, and regulating extracellular matrix metabolism.In addition, the exploration of novel therapeutic targets and advanced drug delivery systems, such as scleral collagen cross-linking, sustained-release formulations, and nanocarrier-based delivery systems, has opened new avenues for myopia control. However, this field still faces several challenges, including insufficient evidence for long-term drug safety, an incomplete understanding of the underlying molecular mechanisms, and limited progress in clinical translation. This review provides a reference for further research and clinical application of pharmacological strategies for myopia control.

Abstract:AIM:To compare the clinical efficacy of phacoemulsification with 2.2 mm versus 3.0 mm clear corneal incisions in patients with age-related cataract(ARC).

METHODS: ARC patients treated in the Ophthalmology Department of the hospital from January 2025 to November 2025 were retrospectively enrolled and divided into two groups according to the corneal incision size: the observation group underwent 2.2 mm clear corneal incision, while the control group underwent 3.0 mm clear corneal incision. The two groups were compared in terms of intraoperative parameters, pre- and postoperstive best-corrected visual acuity(BCVA), surgically induced astigmatism(SIA)at 1 wk, 1 and 3 mo postoperatively, inflammatory response(anterior chamber flare value and anterior chamber inflammatory cell count)at 1 and 3 d postoperatively, corneal endothelial cell parameters \〖corneal endothelial cell density(CECD), hexagonal cell ratio(HEX), coefficient of variation(CV)of cell area, and corneal endothelial cell loss rate\〗 measured preoperatively and at 3 mo postoperatively, and the incidence of complications within 3 mo after surgery.

RESULTS:A total of 120 ARC patients(120 eyes for patients with bilateral eyes meeting the inclusion criteria, only the right eye was enrolled)were enrolled, with 60 patients(60 eyes)in the observation group(31 males and 29 females, mean 68.93±6.01 y)and 60 patients(60 eyes)in the control group(28 males and 32 females, mean 69.25±5.73 y). No statistically significant differences were observed in preoperative baseline data between the two groups(all P>0.05). The mean intraoperative ultrasound time, mean phacoemulsification energy, cumulative dissipated energy, and volume of irrigation fluid used in the observation group were significantly lower than those in the control group(all P<0.01. At 1 d and 1 wk postoperatively, BCVA in the observation group was significantly better than that in the control group(both P<0.05). At 1 and 3 mo postoperatively, there was no statistically significant difference in BCVA between the two groups(both P>0.01). At 1 wk, 1 and 3 mo postoperatively, SIA in the observation group was significantly lower than that in the control group, and the change in astigmatism axis at 3 mo postoperatively was also significantly smaller in the observation group(P<0.01). At 1 and 3 d postoperatively, the anterior chamber flare value and inflammatory cell count in the observation group were significantly lower than those in the control group(all P<0.05). At 3 mo postoperatively, CECD and HEX in the observation group were significantly higher than those in the control group, while CV and endothelial cell loss rate were significantly lower(all P<0.05). The total incidence of postoperative complications in the observation group was 11.7%, which was significantly lower than that in the control group(26.7%, P<0.05).

CONCLUSION:Compared with the 3.0 mm clear corneal incision, the 2.2 mm clear corneal incision phacoemulsification for ARC can significantly improve phacoemulsification efficiency, reduce early postoperative inflammatory response and SIA, accelerate visual recovery, better preserve the morphology and function of corneal endothelial cells in the short term, and lower the incidence of complications.

Abstract:AIM: To investigate factors associated with anterior chamber exudation following phacoemulsification combined with intraocular lens(IOL)implantation.

METHODS: Clinical data from patients with cataract who underwent phacoemulsification combined with IOL implantation at the hospital between June 2021 and June 2025 were retrospectively analyzed. Patients were divided into an exudation group and a non-exudation group according to the presence or absence of postoperative anterior chamber exudation. Demographic characteristics, underlying diseases, preoperative examination findings, surgery-related factors, intraoperative complications, and postoperative conditions were collected and compared between the two groups. Factors associated with anterior chamber exudation after phacoemulsification combined with IOL implantation were analyzed.

RESULTS: A total of 840 cataract patients(840 eyes)who underwent phacoemulsification combined with IOL implantation were enrolled. According to the presence or absence of postoperative anterior chamber exudation, 42 patients(42 eyes)were assigned to the exudation group, including 18 men and 24 women, with a mean age of 72.04±7.84 y; the remaining 798 patients(798 eyes)were assigned to the non-exudation group, including 370 men and 428 women, with a mean age of 65.13±9.25 y. Univariate analysis showed significant between-group differences in age, duration of cataract, diabetes mellitus, postoperative elevation of intraocular pressure, duration of corticosteroid eye-drop use, and lens nuclear grade(all P<0.05). Restricted cubic spline analysis demonstrated significant overall associations of age, duration of cataract, and duration of corticosteroid eye-drop use with the risk of postoperative anterior chamber exudation(all P<0.001). No significant non-linear associations were observed(P_{for non-linearity} >0.05), indicating linear relationships. Multivariable Logistic regression analysis showed that age(OR=1.096, 95%CI: 1.053-1.141), duration of cataract(OR=1.074, 95%CI: 1.042-1.107), diabetes mellitus(OR=2.630, 95%CI: 1.269-5.453), postoperative elevation of intraocular pressure(OR=4.311, 95%CI: 1.851-10.041), duration of corticosteroid eye-drop use(OR=2.082, 95%CI: 1.479-2.930), and lens nuclear grade ≥IV(OR=2.635, 95%CI: 1.309-5.304)were risk factors for postoperative anterior chamber exudation(all P<0.05). A nomogram prediction model was developed based on these factors. The calibration curve showed good agreement between the predicted and observed probabilities. ROC curve analysis showed that the AUC of the model for predicting postoperative anterior chamber exudation was 0.858(95%CI: 0.801-0.916), with a sensitivity of 0.810 and a specificity of 0.803.

CONCLUSION: Anterior chamber exudation following phacoemulsification combined with IOL implantation is influenced by multiple factors. Age, duration of cataract, diabetes mellitus, postoperative elevation of intraocular pressure, longer duration of corticosteroid eye-drop use, and greater lens nuclear hardness are risk factors. The nomogram developed using these factors demonstrates good predictive performance for postoperative anterior chamber exudation and may facilitate the early identification of high-risk patients and the development of individualized intervention strategies.

Abstract:AIM: To investigate the predictive value of serum pentraxin-3(PTX3), Toll-like receptor 4(TLR4), stromal cell-derived factor-1(SDF-1)for postoperative dry eye disease(DED)in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus(T2DM)complicated with cataract.

METHODS:Prospective study.T2DM patients with cataract who underwent phacoemulsification combined with intraocular lens implantation in the hospital from February 2024 to August 2025 were enrolled. Patients were divided into the DED group and the non-DED(N-DED)group according to the occurrence of postoperative DED. Meanwhile, another patients with simple cataract admitted during the same period were selected as the control group(cataract group). The levels of serum PTX3, TLR4, and SDF-1 were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay(ELISA). Multivariate Logistic regression analysis was performed to screen the factors influencing the occurrence of postoperative DED in patients with T2DM complicated with cataract. Receiver operating characteristic(ROC)curves were used to evaluate the predictive value of serum PTX3, TLR4, and SDF-1 for postoperative DED in these patients. Internal validation was performed by generating a calibration curve using the bootstrap resampling method. Decision curve analysis(DCA)was used to evaluate the clinical applicability of the combined prediction model for postoperative DED in these patients.

RESULTS: This study included 120 patients in the T2DM with cataract group(39 cases in the DED group and 81 cases in the N-DED group)and 120 patients in the cataract group. In the T2DM with cataract group, there were 63 males and 57 females, with a mean age of 58.38±7.11 y; in the cataract group, there were 65 males and 55 females, with a mean age of 58.62±7.21 y; in the DED group, there were 21 males and 18 females, with a mean age of 58.61±7.25 y; and in the N-DED group, there were 42 males and 39 females, with a mean age of 58.27±7.04 y. The serum levels of PTX3, TLR4, and SDF-1 in the T2DM combined with cataract group were significantly higher than those in the simple cataract group(all P<0.001). Meanwhile, the duration of T2DM, HbA1c, and serum levels of PTX3, TLR4, SDF-1 in the DED group were markedly elevated compared with the N-DED group, and the BUT was shorter than that in the N-DED group(all P<0.001). Serum levels of PTX3, TLR4, and SDF-1 were identified as risk factors for postoperative DED in patients(all P<0.05). The area under the curve(AUC)of combination of serum PTX3, TLR4, and SDF-1 levels in predicting DED was significantly higher than that of individual predictions(Z=2.394, 2.538, 2.529, all P<0.05). The calibration curve of the combined model of serum PTX3, TLR4, and SDF-1 for predicting postoperative DED in T2DM patients with cataract showed good agreement with the ideal curve. Within the high-risk threshold range of 0.04 to 0.85, the combined model of serum PTX3, TLR4, and SDF-1 in predicting the net benefit rate of postoperative DED in these patients was superior to the individual prediction.

CONCLUSION:In T2DM patients with cataract who develop postoperative DED, serum PTX3, TLR4, and SDF-1 levels are significantly elevated and demonstrate certain predictive value for postoperative DED.

Abstract:AIM: To investigate the repeatability of using IOL Master 700 to stratify corneal astigmatism and related biological parameters in cataract patients with different degrees of astigmatism, and evaluate its consistency with IOL Master 500.

METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted on preoperative cataract patientsadmitted to the hospital from February 2024 to September 2025. The patients were divided into three groups: low astigmatism group(astigmatism<0.75 D), moderate astigmatism group(0.75 D≤astigmatism≤1.50 D), and high astigmatism group(astigmatism>1.50 D). The IOL Master 700 and IOL Master 500 biometers were used by the same examiner respectively. Under the same environment, head position, and operating standards, each eye was continuously measured twice(with an interval of 3-5 min)with each instrument. Axial length(AL), anterior chamber depth(ACD), lens thickness(LT), corneal transverse diameter(WTW), flat curvature(Kf), steep curvature(Ks), mean curvature(Km), anterior corneal astigmatism(Kly), total corneal astigmatism(TK), iris-based diameter-vertical component(IBD-Ix), iris-based diameter-horizontal component(IBD-Iy)and astigmatism vectors J0 and J45 were recorded. Intraclass correlation coefficient(ICC)was used to evaluate the repeatability of IOL Master 700 measurements. Bland-Altman 95% limits of agreement(LoA)was used to evaluate the consistency of IOL Master 700 and IOL Master 500 measurements. Correlation scatter plots were used to evaluate the correlation between IOL Master 700 and IOL Master 500 measurements.

RESULTS:Totally 238 preoperative cataract patients(238 eyes)were selected as the research subjects and divided into a low astigmatism group of 88 cases, including 47 males and 41 females, with an average age of 68.14±6.25 y. The moderate astigmatism group consisted of 80 eyes, with 42 males and 38 females, with an average age of 68.13±6.98 y. The high astigmatism group consisted of 70 eyes, with 38 males and 32 females, with an average age of 69.11±6.79 y. The general information of the three groups of patients was comparable. In the low, medium, and high astigmatism groups, the ICC measured by IOL Master 700 for AL, ACD, LT, WTW, Kf, Ks, Km, Kly, TK, and IBD-Ix were all>0.90, and the ICC for IBD-Iy was>0.85. The ICC comparison of J0 and J45 patients with different degrees of astigmatism showed that the low astigmatism group was less than the moderate astigmatism group and less than the high astigmatism group. Bland Altman analysis between two devices showed that the 95% LoA width of AL, ACD, LT, WTW, Kf, Ks, Km, Kly, TK, and IBD-Ix was narrow, indicating good consistency between the two instruments. For the astigmatism vectors J0 and J45, the Bland Altman 95% LoA width between the two devices decreased with increasing astigmatism. A correlation scatter plot was drawn, which showed that the scatter points of AL, ACD, LT, WTW, Kf, Ks, Km, Kly, TK, IBD-Ix, and IBD-Iy were closely clustered on both sides of the diagonal without obvious outliers, indicating high correlation. J0 and J45 scatter points were still distributed along the diagonal, but the degree of dispersion was significantly greater than the above parameters, indicating slightly lower correlation.

CONCLUSION:IOL Master 700 exhibits goodtoexcellent repeatability in measuring parameters such as AL, ACD, LT, WTW, corneal curvature, Kly, TK, IBD-Ix,and IBD-Iy in cataract patients with different degrees of astigmatism, and shows good agreement with the IOL Master 500. However, for the astigmatism vectors J0 and J45, the repeatability of IOL Master 700 and its consistency with IOL Master 500 both decrease with decreasing astigmatism, and the difference is particularly significant in patients with low astigmatism. Therefore, astigmatism vector outcomes obtained from a single measurement should be interpreted with caution in patients with low astigmatism.

Abstract:AIM:To explore the clinical characteristics, time course, and influencing factors associated with the spontaneous regression of retinopathy of prematurity(ROP).

METHODS: A retrospective analysis was conducted on clinical data from infants diagnosed with ROP. The clinical outcomes were systematically evaluated, including the rates and process of spontaneous regression across different ROP stages and zones. Potential factors for spontaneous regression were also examined.

RESULTS: A total of 138 infants(138 eyes, for patients with bilateral involvement, the more severely affected eye was chosen)with ROP were included, consisting of 77 males and 61 females. The mean gestational age was 30.0±2.3 wk. Spontaneous regression was observed in 113 cases. The regression rates for stages 1, 2, and 3 were 100%, 81%, and 23%, respectively. Regression was observed in 100% of zone Ⅲ cases and 74% of zone II cases, but did not occur in zone I or in cases with plus disease. Higher gestational age and birth weight were associated with increased rates of spontaneous regression. The median postmenstrual age(PMA)at the onset of ROP regression was 39.8 wk and at the completion of regression was 48.4 wk, with a median regression duration of 8 wk. Zone II and higher-stage ROP(stages≥2)were associated with a later onset and completion of regression, as well as a longer regression duration. Further analysis revealed that mechanical ventilation duration>14 d and retinal hemorrhage were identified as risk factors impeding the spontaneous regression of ROP.

CONCLUSION: The spontaneous regression rate of ROP varies with stage, zone, gestational age, and birth weight. The regression rate is high for stage 1 and zone Ⅲ ROP, whereas it is lower for stage 2, zone II, and more severe forms of ROP, which require close monitoring or active intervention. The time course of spontaneous regression of ROP also differs by disease stage and zone.Mechanical ventilation lasting>14 d and retinal hemorrhage are risk factors impeding the spontaneous regression of ROP.

Abstract:AIM:To investigate the dynamic changes in ocular surface function after eyelid malignant tumor resection combined with Hughes flap reconstruction.

METHODS:A prospective self-controlled study was conducted. Patients who underwent eyelid malignant tumor resection combined with Hughes tarsoconjunctival flap reconstruction(all tumors occured in the lower eyelid)at Shanxi Eye Hospital from January 2021 to December 2023 were enrolled. The contralateral healthy eye served as control. Ocular surface examinations were performed preoperatively and at 3, 6, 9, and 12 mo postoperatively, including ocular surface disease index(OSDI), tear meniscus height(TMH), non-invasive average tear film break-up time(NiaBUT), tear film lipid layer grading, upper and lower eyelid meibomian gland dropout grading, corneal fluorescein staining, and eye redness index.

RESULTS:A total of 36 patients were enrolled. Two patients were lost to follow-up because they did not complete the scheduled follow-up period, leaving 34 patients with complete data for analysis. The cohort comprised 10 men(29%)and 24 women(71%), with a mean age of 70.08±10.92 y(range 33-81 y). Histopathological diagnoses included basal cell carcinoma(BCC)in 22 eyes(65%), sebaceous gland carcinoma(SGC)in 10 eyes(29%), and squamous cell carcinoma(SCC)in 2 eyes(6%). Tumor size ranged from 4 to 30 mm(mean 12.64±0.31 mm). According to the AJCC staging system, 14 eyes(41%), 18 eyes(53%), and 2 eyes(6%)were classified as T1b, T2b, and T3b, respectively. Preoperatively, OSDI scores were higher in surgical eyes than in contralateral healthy eyes(28.74±13.72 vs 17.47±3.02, P<0.05). OSDI scores in surgical eyes further increased at 6, 9, and 12 mo postoperatively, peaking at 9 mo(all P<0.05), whereas no significant postoperative changes were observed in contralateral healthy eyes. Compared with contralateral healthy eyes, TMH in surgical eyes increased significantly at 3 mo postoperatively and remained elevated thereafter despite a slight decline(all P<0.05). NiaBUT in surgical eyes was shorter than the preoperative value from 3 mo postoperatively onward and was lower than that in contralateral healthy eyes(all P<0.05). Eye redness index in surgical eyes were consistently higher than those in contralateral healthy eyes(all P<0.001). Tear film lipid layer grade and meibomian gland dropout grades in both the upper and lower eyelids were significantly worsened postoperatively compared with baseline(all P<0.001). Corneal fluorescein staining grades were higher in surgical eyes than in contralateral healthy eyes preoperatively(P<0.001)and were higher at 3, 6, 9, and 12 mo postoperatively than at baseline(all P<0.001).

CONCLUSION: After lower eyelid malignant tumor resection combined with Hughes flap reconstruction, evaporative dry eye is the predominant phenotype. Meibomian gland dropout in both upper and lower eyelids appears irreversible within 12 mo postoperatively, and corneal epithelial damage and ocular surface inflammation persist over time.

Abstract:AIM: To compare the efficacy of highly aspherical lenslets(HAL), defocus incorporated multiple segments(DIMS), and single-vision spectacle lenses(SVL)in slowing myopia progression in children and adolescents.

METHODS: In this retrospective cohort study, myopic children and adolescents aged 6-16 y who were prescribed spectacle lenses at the hospital between January 2023 and June 2023 were included. Participants were divided into the HAL, DIMS, and SVL groups according to the correction modality voluntarily selected by participants and their guardians. The follow-up duration was 12 mo. After 12 mo of wear, changes from baseline in sphere, cylinder, spherical equivalent(SE), axial length(AL), flat corneal curvature(K1), steep corneal curvature(K2), mean corneal curvature, and binocular visual function \〖binocular cross-cylinder(BCC), negative/positive relative accommodation(NRA/PRA)\〗 were compared among the three groups after 12-month spectacle wear. Three groups were further stratified by age into age≤10 y and age>10 y subgroups to explore the effect of age on myopia control efficacy of defocus lenses.

RESULTS: A total of 159 myopic participants(159 eyes; only the right eye was included for each subject)were enrolled. In the HAL group(55 participants), there were 24 males and 31 females, with a mean age of 10.07±2.14 y. The DIMS group consisted of 60 participants(33 males, 27 females), with a mean age of 10.02±1.88 y. The SVL group included 44 participants(21 males, 23 females), with a mean age of 10.59±1.93 y. There were no significant differences in K1, K2, mean corneal curvature, NRA, BCC, and PRA among the three groups after 12-month spectacle wear(all P>0.05). There were statistically significant differences in the changes in sphere, SE, and AL(all P<0.05). The changes in sphere, cylinder, SE, and AL in the HAL and DIMS groups were significantly lower than those in the SVL group(all P<0.0167). The DIMS group showed a significantly smaller cylinder progression than the SVL group(P<0.0167). In participants aged≤10 y, the change in spherical power in the HAL group was significantly smaller than those in the DIMS group and SVL group after 12-month spectacle wear(all P<0.0167). The change in cylindrical power in the DIMS group was smaller than that in the SVL group(all P<0.0167). Among participants aged>10 y, the changes in spherical power, SE, and AL in both the HAL group and DIMS group were significantly smaller than those in the SVL group after 12-month spectacle wear(all P<0.0167).

CONCLUSION: Both HAL and DIMS lenses can effectively slow the progression of refractive error and AL elongation in children and adolescents, without significant adverse effects on binocular visual function. Among children≤10 y, HAL lenses yield superior spherical power control, whereas DIMS lenses provide better astigmatism control than SVL.

Abstract:Generative artificial intelligence(Gen-AI), an important branch of artificial intelligence(AI), has attracted increasing attention in medical image analysis and clinical decision support.Different from traditional discriminative models, Gen-AI can generate high-quality and diverse new data by learning the underlying distribution features of data. It exhibits unique advantages in alleviating insufficient training samples, mitigating uneven data distribution, and improving the generalization ability of models. Ophthalmology is highly dependent on multimodal imaging, making it a particularly suitable field for the application of Gen-AI. This review summarizes recent advances in major Gen-AI techniques, including generative adversarial networks, diffusion models, and large language models, and discusses their applications in ophthalmic disease screening and diagnosis, image synthesis and data augmentation, prognostic prediction, and individualized treatment planning. It also analyzes challenges in the course of clinical translation, including data quality, model credibility, ethical supervision and other issues, so as to provide references for its standardized application.

Abstract:AIM: To investigate the feasibility of sequential transepithelial phototherapeutic keratectomy(trans-PTK)followed by intraocular salvage surgery under a single general anesthesia session in young pediatric patients with band keratopathy who require urgent intraocular intervention.

METHODS: A retrospective study was performed. Clinical data were collected from pediatric patients who received sequential trans-PTK between August 2024 and August 2025. All patients had complex intraocular diseases combined with visual axis-involving band keratopathy, and opacified refractive media impeded intraocular surgical procedures. Under stable general anesthesia, trans-PTK was performed on the affected eye to remove corneal epithelium and calcific plaques. Upon completion, specific intraocular therapeutic procedures were sequentially performed while maintaining general anesthesia. The extent of band keratopathy and visualization were evaluated using a grading scale. Intraoperative parameters, postoperative corneal clarity, improvement of intraocular visualization and any adjunctive ocular surface measures were documented and evaluated.

RESULTS:A total of 13 eyes from 13 enrolled pediatric patients were included. The mean age was 6.15±3.10 y, with 9 males and 4 females. The indications for salvage surgery included rhegmatogenous retinal detachment(6 eyes), silicone oil emulsification, dislocation, or extraction(4 eyes), and anterior chamber shallowing or angle-closure(3 eyes). All patients completed the combined procedure under the same general anesthesia. Mean maximum corneal ablation depth was 97.08±15.60 μm, and mean laser treatment time was 57.85±14.80 s. Postoperatively, corneal transparency improved in all eyes, including completed improvement in 9 eyes and partial improvement in 4 eyes. Intraocular visualization score was significantly improved \〖3(2.5,3.5)vs 0(0,0),P<0.05\〗. Best-corrected visual acuity did not differ significantly from preoperative levels. During sequential intraocular surgery, corneal dehydration accelerated in eyes not treated with viscoelastic agents, and the mean corneal wetting interval was shortened to 11.66±4.10 s. Viscoelastic agents were applied in 5 eyes to reduce irregular refraction and severe dehydration, maintaining corneal hydration and surgical field clarity. No adverse events occurred in any pediatric patient during the intraoperative or postoperative periods.

CONCLUSION: For young pediatric patients with severe intraocular diseases complicated by band keratopathy, Trans-PTK performed under the same session of general anesthesia allows for a rapid enhancement of intraocular visualization, facilitating the successful implementation of sequential intraocular procedures.

Abstract:AIM: To compare the differences in intraocular pressure and anterior segment biometric parameters among Tibetan populations permanent residing at different altitudes in Xizang autonomous region, and to explore the impact of high-altitude environments on ocular characteristics.

METHODS:This was a retrospective cross-sectional study. Data were collected from Tibetan patients who visited the People's Hospital of Xizang Autonomous Region from September 2019 to October 2021. Participants were divided into two groups based on their permanent residence altitude: a higher altitude group(2 500-3 750 m)and a very high-altitude group(>3 750 m). The eye with better best corrected visual acuity was selected for each participant. Intraocular pressure, refractive error, and anterior segment biometric measurements \〖white-to-white corneal diameter(WTW), central corneal thickness(CCT), anterior chamber depth(ACD), lens thickness(LT), axial length(AL)\〗 were recorded and compared between the two groups.

RESULTS: A total of 43 Tibetan patients(43 eyes)were enrolled in this study, comprising 23 males and 20 females, with a mean age of 57.88±13.90 y. There were 19 patients(19 eyes)in the very high-altitude group and 24 patients(24 eyes)in the higher altitude group. The mean intraocular pressure in the very high-altitude group was 11.79±1.72 mmHg, which was significantly lower than 13.44±2.43 mmHg in the higher altitude group(P=0.019). CCT in the very high-altitude group was 482.70±23.76 μm, significantly thinner than 503.00±31.09 μm in the higher altitude group(P=0.012). AL in the very high-altitude group was 22.96±0.96 mm, significantly shorter than 23.64±1.10 mm in the higher altitude group(P=0.020). No statistically significant differences were found between the two groups in WTW, ACD, LT, or refractive error(all P>0.05).

CONCLUSION:Among the Tibetan population in Xizang autonomous region, as the altitude of residence increases, intraocular pressure significantly decreases, CCT becomes thinner and AL shortens. These morphological changes suggest possible adaptive remodelling of the eye in very high-altitude environments, and a thinner cornea may be an important factor contributing to the lower measured intraocular pressure values.

Abstract:AIM:To compare the clinical efficacy of pterygium excision combined with autologous conjunctival limbal transplantation versus the same procedure plus dehydrated amniotic membrane coverage for pterygium treatment in Qiandongnan region.

METHODS: This single-center retrospective cohort study enrolled patients diagnosed with primary nasal pterygium who received treatment at Qiandongnan Aier Eye Hospital from April 2023 to June 2025. All participants had resided locally for at least 5 y. Subjects were divided into two groups by surgical modality. Group A underwent pterygium excision combined with autologous conjunctival-limbal stem cell transplantation; Group B received identical core surgery supplemented with 10 mm×15 mm dehydrated biological amniotic membrane to cover the surgical wound. Preoperative baseline data, postoperative day 1 pain and ocular irritation symptoms, the incidence of postoperative complications, 6-month pterygium recurrence rate, and surgical outcome grading were compared between the two groups.

RESULTS: A total of 60 patients(60 eyes)were included, with 30 patients(30 eyes)assigned to each group. Group A consisted of 18 males and 12 females, with a mean age of 56.57±9.34 y; Group B contained 12 males and 18 females, with a mean age of 55.60±9.23 y. No statistically significant intergroup differences were observed in preoperative gender composition, age, or the length of pterygial corneal invasion(all P>0.05), indicating comparable baseline profiles. On postoperative day 1, painful sensation was recorded in 18 eyes(60%)in Group A and 10 eyes(33%)in Group B(P=0.038). Ocular irritation including foreign body sensation, photophobia, and lacrimation occurred in 17 eyes(57%)in Group A versus 5 eyes(17%)in Group B(P=0.001), indicating statistically significance. Regarding short-term postoperative complications: conjunctival hyperemia was noted in 11 eyes of Group A and 7 eyes of Group B on postoperative day 10(P=0.260); conjunctival granulomas developed in 3 eyes of Group A within 1 mo postoperatively, whereas no such lesions appeared in Group B(P=0.237). At the 6-month follow-up, pterygium recurrence was identified in 4 eyes(13%)of Group A, while no recurrence was detected in Group B(P=0.112), with no significant intergroup difference. At 6 mo postoperatively, the surgical outcome grading distribution was as follows: in Group A, Grade 1 was observed in 9 eyes(30%), Grade 2 in 11 eyes(37%), Grade 3 in 6 eyes(20%), and Grade 4 in 4 eyes(13%); in Group B, Grade 1 was observed in 15 eyes(50%), Grade 2 in 14 eyes(47%), Grade 3 in 1 eye(3%), and Grade 4 in 0 eyes(0%). Group B achieved superior overall grading results compared with Group A(P=0.013).

CONCLUSION:For patients in Qiandongnan region, intraoperative application of dehydrated biological amniotic membrane can markedly alleviate early postoperative ocular irritation and improve surgical outcome grading. Nevertheless, this adjunct material only yields a favorable trend in reducing recurrence risk; further studies with expanded sample sizes are required for verification.

Abstract:AIM:To investigate the prevalence of ocular fundus lesions among active-duty military personnel with high myopia and to analyze the associated influencing factors.

METHODS: A cross-sectional study. Subjects included military personnel with high myopia(≤-6.00 D)and elongated axial length(≥26 mm). A systematic evaluation protocol was implemented, consisting of standardized questionnaires, general physical health examinations, and comprehensive ophthalmic assessments. Optical coherence tomography(OCT)was used to screen for fundus lesions in highly myopic subjects, and the prevalence of related lesions was calculated. Axial length, refractive error, best-corrected visual acuity(BCVA), and macular ganglion cell complex(GCC)thickness were measured. Univariate analysis was performed to compare differences in the above parameters between highly myopic subjects with and without concomitant fundus lesions. Multivariate Logistic regression analysis was further applied to identify risk factors for fundus lesions.

RESULTS:A total of 134 male patients(268 eyes)were enrolled, with the mean age of 24.5±3.2 y. Of the 268 eyes, 123 eyes(45.9%)showed positive signs of fundus lesions. Among these, parapapillary blood flow density reduction was found in 84 eyes(31.3%), GCC thinning in 46 eyes(17.2%), drusen in 8 eyes(3.0%), optic disc edema in 7 eyes(2.6%), retinoschisis in 6 eyes(2.2%), and choroidal excavation in 3 eyes(1.1%). BCVA was significantly lower in highly myopic patients with retinoschisis than in those without retinoschisis(P<0.05).Univariate analysis showed that refractive error, axial length, and posterior scleral expansion were associated with the occurrence of fundus lesions(P<0.05). Multivariate Logistic regression analysis revealed that axial length(OR=2.52, 95%CI: 1.67-3.80, P<0.001)and posterior scleral expansion(OR=3.12, 95%CI: 1.65-5.92, P<0.01)were significant risk factors for fundus lesions in highly myopic military personnel.

CONCLUSION: The prevalence of fundus lesions is relatively high among active-duty military personnel with high myopia. Peripapillary flow density reduction and GCC thinning are the most common manifestations in this population. Increased axial length and posterior scleral ectasia are significant contributing factors. It is recommended that OCT be incorporated into routine ophthalmic examinations for these military personnel, thereby providing a basis for the early detection and intervention of fundus lesions.