Glaucoma News - OphthalmologyWeb

Mean IOP Reduction, Medication Number Lowest In Combined Cataract, Stents

Wed, 28 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Two stents combined with cataract surgery had better outcomes than cataract surgery alone in open-angle glaucoma and ocular hypertension patients, a study found.

Academy Names Medical Director For Governmental Affairs

Wed, 28 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The American Academy of Ophthalmology has named Michael X. Repka, MD, to the newly created position of Medical Director for Governmental Affairs. The position was created to provide Washington-based physician leadership on Academy issues and critical health care topics being debated on Capitol Hill and before government regulators.

Glaucoma Patients Struggle With Applying Eyedrops

Fri, 23 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT

NEW YORK (Reuters Health) - People in most need of sight-preserving eyedrops may be the least successful in landing the therapy in their eyes, suggests a new study.

Buildup of internal eye pressure is one of the main causes of the vision damage associated with glaucoma, a potentially blinding disease that affects more than 4 million Americans, according to the Glaucoma Research Foundation. Standard treatment relies on self-administering pressure-lowering eyedrops.

But based on observations of a large number of people with glaucoma, researchers found that more than half struggled to apply these eyedrops properly -- including many patients who thought their technique was perfect.

Selective Beta-Blockers May Protect Against Glaucoma Development

Fri, 23 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Oral beta-1 beta-blockers could have a protective effect against glaucoma development, a study examining the association of hypotensive medication and statins to glaucoma risk found.

Government Department Of Health And Ageing Awarded Approval To Unique Glaucoma IOP Eye Test DIATON Tonometer By Therapeutic Goods Administration TGA Australia

Fri, 16 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT

BiCOM Inc., obtained approval for unique medical device DIATON, through the eyelid Tonometer by Department of Health and Ageing, Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), which approves new medical devices before they can be sold in Australian market. DIATON Glaucoma IOP Eye Test through the eyelid aids in quick and painless glaucoma diagnostics in children and adults.

Neptazane(TM) Tablets Now Available From Fera Pharmaceuticals

Wed, 14 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Fera Pharmaceuticals is pleased to announce the launch of Neptazane (Methazolamide) 25 mg and 50 mg tablets. Both strengths are available in 90 count bottles.

Similar IOP Reduction Reported For Iridotomy With And Without Iridoplasty

Tue, 13 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT

While peripheral anterior synechiae were decreased following iridoplasty by one additional clock hour when compared to iridotomy plus iridoplasty, IOP was significantly lowered in both iridoplasty and iridotomy plus iridoplasty cases, a study found.

Confronting Glaucoma, Before It's Too Late

Mon, 12 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Alan Leighton discovered he had glaucoma when he noticed a gray area of sight in his left eye.

Glaucoma Cases On The Rise In U.S.

Mon, 12 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The changing makeup of the U.S. population is expected to lead to an increase in cases of glaucoma, the leading cause of vision loss in the country, experts say.

Sylentis Completes Phase I Trial With SYL040012 To Treat Elevated Intraocular Pressure And Glaucoma

Thu, 08 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Sylentis, a biopharmaceutical subsidiary of Grupo Zeltia (MC: ZEL) and a pioneer in the research and development of new drugs based on gene silencing (interference RNA, RNAi), has completed Phase Ia of its first clinical trial with SYL040012 in the form of ophthalmic drops to treat elevated intraocular pressure and glaucoma.

EyeTechCare Raises Funds To Complete Clinical Trial Of Ultrasound-Based Glaucoma Treatment

Thu, 08 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT

EyeTechCare has secured a ?7.5 million round of funding to complete a clinical trial of its novel EyeOP1 ultrasound-based device for treating glaucoma, the company announced in a press release.

Sylentis Completes Phase I Trial With SYL040012 To Treat Elevated Intraocular Pressure And Glaucoma

Tue, 06 Jul 2010 14:54:00 GMT

EyeTechCare Trials Ultrasound Glaucoma Procedure

Tue, 06 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT

French company EyeTechCare is performing clinical trials at Edouard Herriot Hospital in Lyon on a new medical technology called EyeOP1 that directs finely focused ultrasound beams into the ciliary bodies of a patient's eye through miniaturised transducers in a ring-shape probe.

Subconjunctival 5-FU Injections After Filtration Surgery Spur Corneal Complications

Tue, 06 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Subconjunctival 5-fluorouracil injections after glaucoma surgery produced short-term corneal complications, a study showed.

EyeTechCare Raises ?7.5m To Fund Glaucoma Treatment

Tue, 06 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT

EyeTechCare has raised ?7.5m ($9.4m) to support development of its non-invasive glaucoma treatment.

Alcon Announces Shareholder Meeting To Effect Previously Agreed Conditional Replacement Of Nestl�-Nominated Directors

Thu, 01 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Alcon, Inc. (NYSE:ACL) ("Alcon") announced today that the Alcon board of directors resolved to hold an extraordinary general meeting of the Alcon shareholders, to be held on August 16, 2010 in Zug, Switzerland. The purpose of the meeting is to hold a shareholder vote on the conditional election of directors nominated by Novartis AG ("Novartis") to replace directors nominated by Nestl� S.A. ("Nestl�") if and when Novartis acquires Nestl�'s remaining shares of Alcon. The directors nominated by Novartis and standing for election are:

Adverse Events Main Reason For Subject Withdrawal From Glaucoma Medication Clinical Trials

Wed, 30 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Approximately 46% of subjects who dropped out of multicenter medical glaucoma clinical trials cited adverse events for the reason of withdrawal, with administrative errors as the second most common reason at 32%, a study found.

Quark Pharmaceutical's QPI-1007 Exhibits Neuroprotective Effects In Glaucoma Model

Mon, 28 Jun 2010 05:30:00 GMT

Quark Pharmaceuticals, Inc., a world leader in the discovery and development of RNAi-based therapeutics, today announced results from a second study of QPI-1007, a neuroprotective siRNA drug, in rat ocular hypertension model of glaucoma, conducted by Prof. Adriana Di Polo of the Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Universite de Montreal. Prof. Di Polo's recent study in a rat model of glaucoma shows that QPI-1007, when given in two intravitreal injections after induction of ocular hypertension (at two weeks and 10 days later), can deliver a sustained neuroprotective effect, as measured by a significant attenuation in RGC death five weeks after disease induction. Ocular neuroprotection, encompassing prevention of retinal ganglion cell (RGC) death, represents a novel approach for treating glaucoma, non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION), and other ocular diseases.

American Academy Of Ophthalmology Sends Supplies To Haitian Colleagues

Tue, 22 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The American Academy of Ophthalmology's (Academy) Task Force on Haiti Recovery, in cooperation with the Pan-American Association of Ophthalmology (PAAO), is coordinating donation and distribution of ophthalmic equipment and supplies to Haitian ophthalmologists, including several exam lanes (complete sets of the equipment needed to provide a thorough eye exam)*, thousands of doses of pharmaceuticals, surgical supplies, educational materials and much more. View a complete list of all in-kind donations as a result of the efforts of the task force.

Inotek Pharmaceuticals Corporation Initiates Multiple-Dose Phase 2 Clinical Trial Of INO-8875 In Patients With Glaucoma

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Inotek Pharmaceuticals Corp., a leader in the development of innovative drug candidates to address significant diseases of the eye, today announced that it has initiated dosing in a multiple-dose Phase 2 clinical trial to evaluate the efficacy and safety of its novel eye-drop INO-8875 in patients with glaucoma. In an earlier Phase 1/2 single ocular dose clinical trial, INO-8875 was shown to significantly reduce intraocular pressure (IOP) in glaucoma patients. As a highly-selective adenosine-1 receptor agonist, INO-8875 reduces IOP by enhancing a natural mechanism for clearing protein material that clogs the major outflow pathway -- the trabecular meshwork -- as the eye with glaucoma ages.

Bausch + Lomb Names Robert E. Grant as CEO and President of its Surgical Business

Wed, 16 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT

ROCHESTER, N.Y. - Bausch + Lomb, the global eye health company, has named Robert E. Grant chief executive officer and president of its global Surgical business, effective August 1.

New Procedure Reduces IOP In Patients With Open-Angle And Juvenile Glaucoma

Fri, 11 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Sclerothalamotomy ab interno, a new trabecular surgery, may be effective in treating open-angle glaucoma, a long-term study showed.

National Eye Institute Hosts Translational Research And Vision Symposium

Fri, 11 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The National Eye Institute (NEI), part of the National Institutes of Health, is bringing together premier researchers who translate molecular and genetic approaches from the laboratory to visual system diseases in the clinic.

Surgeons Use iStent Implant On UK Glaucoma Patient

Wed, 09 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The smallest medical device to be implanted in the human body has been used in an eye operation for the first time in Britain. The millimetre-long titanium tube is designed to halt the progress of glaucoma, which is responsible for causing blindness in more than 67 million people worldwide.

Transillumination Technique Can Show Ciliary Body Mass In Glaucoma Patients

Wed, 09 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT

A simplified, inexpensive transillumination technique could assist in detecting glaucomatous damage by providing a view of the ciliary body mass and its depigmentation. This is the first screening method to show depigmentation with clarity, a study found.

BD Signs Agreements To Sell Ophthalmic Systems Unit, Other Platforms

Tue, 08 Jun 2010 05:01:00 GMT

BD (Becton, Dickinson and Company) , a leading global medical technology company, announced today that it has signed agreements to sell certain assets of its BD Medical segment, including the Ophthalmic Systems unit as well as the surgical blades, critical care and extended dwell catheter product platforms of the Medical Surgical Systems unit, to RoundTable Healthcare Partners, an operating-oriented private equity firm focused on the healthcare industry based in Lake Forest, Illinois, and two of its portfolio companies, Argon Medical Devices, Inc. and Aspen Surgical Products, Inc. The financial terms of the agreements were not disclosed.

Myopia Does Not Appear To Be Related To Progression Rate In Normal-Tension Glaucoma

Thu, 03 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT

No statistically significant difference was found for glaucoma progression rates between non-myopic patients and myopic patients, all of whom had normal-tension glaucoma, when multiple factors were compared and age and IOP after treatment were controlled, a study found

Research Suggests Latinos At Highest Risk For Eye Disease

Tue, 01 Jun 2010 08:02:00 GMT

New research suggests Latinos have the highest rates of eye disease in the United States, and one Los Angeles area clinic, Eye Physicians of Long Beach, is supremely prepared to meet the community's eye care needs.

The Foundation Of The American Academy Of Ophthalmology's Museum Of Vision Announces New Oral History Series

Tue, 01 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The Museum of Vision announced this week the publication of a new oral history series recorded in partnership with the Academy Seniors Committee of the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) and StoryCorps, a national project of Sound Portraits Productions.

Micro-Device Allows Ab Interno Reduction Of IOP

Tue, 01 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Preliminary results with the CyPass micro-device for glaucoma management show stable pressure reduction, according to one presenter here.

Keeler Launches Goldmann-Style Applanation Tonometer

Tue, 25 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Broomall, Pennsylvania (May 25, 2010) Keeler has completed its family of quality tonometers with the launch of the Keeler Applanation Tonometer, KAT. The FDA-approved contact tonometer aids in glaucoma diagnosis with intraocular pressure (IOP) measurements taken at the slit lamp as part of a routine examination.

FDA Task Force Releases Detailed Report On Proposed Disclosure Measures

Thu, 20 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration's Transparency Task Force has released a report on proposals for increasing the disclosure of information while protecting confidentiality and patient information.

True 360� View With Volk's G-6 Gonio Lens

Wed, 19 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Mentor, Ohio (May 19, 2010) - Volk Optical has developed a new gonio lens with the most comprehensive sweeping views of the anterior segment. The G-6 Gonio's six closely aligned mirrors provide a true 360� view during glaucoma screening, without any lens adjustment required.

High Rate Of Ocular Surface Disease Found In Glaucoma, High IOP Patients

Fri, 14 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT

PARIS - Research carried out at the Centre Hospitalier National d'Ophtalmologie des Quinze-Vingts found a high rate of ocular surface disease in patients with glaucoma or high IOP.

Long-Term Ophthalmic Corticosteroids Might Cause Vision Loss In Glaucoma Patients: Presented At ARVO

Tue, 11 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Extended use of ophthalmic steroids and steroid ointments appear to be associated with vision field loss in a minority of patients being treated for glaucoma, researchers cautioned here at the 2010 Annual Meeting of the Association for Research on Vision and Ophthalmology (ARVO).

Switch To Bimatoprost Shows Further Reduction In Eye Pressure In Glaucoma Patients: Presented At ARVO

Sun, 09 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The use of bimatoprost as a replacement for latanoprost among patients with glaucoma resulted in a significant lowering of intraocular pressure (IOP), without significant increases in adverse side effects, according to a study presented here at the 2010 Annual Meeting of the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology (ARVO).

Leading Health Information Source For Women Offers Guidance On Protecting Eyes Against Harmful UV Radiation

Wed, 05 May 2010 04:17:00 GMT

It's just as important to protect your eyes from the sun's harmful rays as it is to shield your skin. Yet many families are not taking simple, important steps to protect their eyes from ultraviolet (UV) exposure.

Glaucoma's Unique Protein Expression Could Enhance Diagnosis And Treatment

Wed, 05 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT

AUGUSTA, Ga. - An eye under pressure appears to express a unique set of proteins that physicians hope will one day help them better diagnose and treat glaucoma.

AlphaSphereT Orbital Implant Named Winner of the Prestigious Alpha Award� presented by the Engineering Society of Detroit

Thu, 29 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Des Plaines, Illinois, April 27, 2010 - Addition Technology, Inc., the maker of AlphaSphereT orbital implant, AlphaCorT artificial cornea and Intacs� corneal implants announced today that the new AlphaSphere Orbital Implant ophthalmic device has been awarded the 2010 Alpha Award� for Innovation In Engineering & Technology presented by the Engineering Society of Detroit. The Society is celebrating their 115th year and presents the Alpha Award� to recognize creative ideas that generate innovative solutions in engineering and technology.

Digital Light Meter for Pelli-Robson Test

Wed, 28 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Richmond Products' digital Luxmeter is designed to measure light values prior to the Pelli-Robson contrast test to ensure the correct illumination for contrast sensitivity.

Acquired Childhood Glaucoma More Common Than Congenital Types

Fri, 23 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Childhood glaucoma may most commonly be caused by trauma, surgery or other acquired or secondary cause, according to a report in the April issue of Archives of Ophthalmology, one of the JAMA/Archives journals. In one Minnesota county, the condition occurred in approximately one per 43,575 residents age 20 and younger.

MedInformatix EPM Helps Billing Efficiency Reach New Highs At Multi-Location Eye Clinic

Mon, 12 Apr 2010 12:49:00 GMT

Just eight years after its founding, Cokingtin Eye Center has achieved an enviable level of growth. The Overland Park, Kansas-based practice, which employs seven ophthalmologists and two optometrists, operates three offices in suburban Kansas City. Several days a month it also sees patients in four rural locations, performing a full range of surgical, osteoplastic and therapeutic services.

Visual Field Analysis Software Can Help Track Glaucoma Progression

Sat, 10 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Visual field analysis software shows promise for the evaluation of glaucoma progression but is limited by a lack of standards, a speaker said here.

Carl Zeiss Meditec Unveils Its New Glaucoma Solutions Offering At ASCRS Glaucoma Day

Fri, 09 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Carl Zeiss Meditec introduced its Glaucoma Solutions offering at the American Academy Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery (ASCRS) on Glaucoma Day in Boston, Mass. Featuring the most complete portfolio of diagnostic, therapeutic and data management modalities, Carl Zeiss Meditec's Glaucoma Solutions are designed to enable doctors to preserve vision throughout a patient's lifetime, from early glaucoma detection to disease monitoring to long-term management.

Topcon Introduces EyeRoute� Mobile, First IPhone� Application For Ophthalmic Image Management

Thu, 08 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Topcon Medical Systems announced today that the mobile version of its successful EyeRoute Image Management Suite is now available as a dedicated iPhone application from the Apple iTunes store in North America. First presented in October 2009 at the American Academy of Ophthalmology Meeting in San Francisco, EyeRoute Mobile sets the stage for connectivity on the go.

Glaucoma Test In A Contact Lens

Tue, 06 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Glaucoma is the second most common cause of blindness, and without constant vigilance it can prove a very difficult disease to manage. But a Swiss biotech company has developed a monitoring system that allows physicians to keep track of their patients' symptoms over 24 hours. Sensimed's "Triggerfish" system consists of a contact lens with embedded sensors that can pick up subtle physical changes in a patient's eye, and then wirelessly transmit that data to a receiver worn around his neck.

Altheos Completes $20 Million Series A Financing To Develop Next-Generation Glaucoma Treatment

Mon, 05 Apr 2010 05:01:00 GMT

Altheos, Inc., a privately held early-stage biopharmaceutical company, announced today that it has completed a $20 million Series A financing led by Bay City Capital. New investors Novo A/S, Canaan Partners, Life Science Angels and Atheneos Capital also joined the round. The financing will be used primarily for the development of ATS907, a selective Rho-kinase inhibitor Altheos licensed from Japanese pharmaceutical company Asahi Kasei Pharma. The license also includes a series of highly active compounds (AK138 series) specifically for topical treatment for glaucoma.

Kowa Optimed Announces Promotion Of Craig Ross To President And COO; Names Kowa Executive Shinji Toyoda To Vice-Chairman

Thu, 25 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Los Angeles, CA - Kowa Optimed, Inc., is setting the standard for new product and technology innovations, announces the promotion of Craig C. Ross to president and chief operating officer of the company, and named Shinji Toyoda as its new Vice- Chairman.

Developing A Test To Save Eyesight By Detecting Glaucoma Years Earlier

Thu, 25 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

SAN FRANCISCO, March 24, 2010 - Scientists are reporting progress toward a test that could revolutionize the diagnosis of glaucoma - the second leading cause of vision loss and blindness worldwide - by detecting the disease years earlier than usually happens at present. They reported the findings here today at the 239th National Meeting of the American Chemical Society (ACS).

Contact Lenses Loaded With Vitamin E May Treat Glaucoma

Thu, 25 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

SAN FRANCISCO, March 24, 2010 - The popular dietary supplement vitamin E, loaded into special medicated contact lenses, can keep glaucoma medicine near the eye - where it can treat that common disease- almost 100 times longer than possible with current commercial lenses, scientists reported here today.

'Smart' Contact Lens With Embedded Wireless Sensor Promises Earlier Diagnosis And Optimized Treatment Of Glaucoma

Wed, 24 Mar 2010 06:43:00 GMT

STMicroelectronics , the world's leading supplier(1) of MEMS (Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems)(2) devices for consumer and portable applications, has announced that it will develop and supply a wireless MEMS sensor that acts as a transducer, antenna and mechanical support for additional read-out electronics in a breakthrough platform developed by Swiss company Sensimed AG. This solution will enable better management of glaucoma patients via earlier diagnosis and treatment that is optimally tailored to the individual patient.

Luis Tiant Lends Support To Sunridge's PNT Glaucoma Treatment In Caribbean

Tue, 23 Mar 2010 06:00:00 GMT

Sunridge International said today that Red Sox and Yankee star pitcher, Luis Tiant, is joining representatives of the company at a seminar on its Pneumatic Trabeculoplasty (PNT) non-invasive treatment for glaucoma in the Dominican Republic today.

Carl Zeiss Meditec Receives 510(k) Class II Clearance for Humphrey Field Analyzer's Guided Progression AnalysisT Software

Mon, 22 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Carl Zeiss Meditec announced that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has granted a 510(k) Class II clearance for the Humphrey� Field Analyzer (HFA) II-i with Guided Progression AnalysisT (GPA) software. The world's most widely used automated perimeter is now the only perimeter with GPA software that has received clearance from the FDA to specifically assess the rate of visual field loss over time.

Laser Goniopuncture Lowers IOP After Deep Sclerectomy But May Have Complications

Mon, 15 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

After a single Nd:YAG laser goniopuncture procedure following deep sclerectomy, IOP was reduced to lower than 15 mm Hg and remained lower for 2 years or longer in approximately 50% of cases, a study found.

On World Glaucoma Day, Do You Know Your Risks?

Mon, 15 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Glaucoma continues to be a major cause of blindness and vision loss both worldwide and in the United States, where an estimated 2.2 million people have the disease. During World Glaucoma Week 2010, the American Academy of Ophthalmology's EyeSmartT campaign and EyeCare America Foundation remind Americans that knowing your risks for glaucoma can save your sight.

Santen Ltd. Announces Change In Management Structure For U.S. Subsidiary Organization

Wed, 10 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Japan's leading ophthalmic pharmaceutical company, announced today that Adrienne L. Graves, PhD, President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of its wholly-owned U.S. subsidiary, Santen Inc. (Napa, CA), has resigned and will continue to work with Santen as a strategic consultant and advisor to the Senior Management of Santen.

Ask-Tell-Ask Discussion Method Could Help Improve Glaucoma Patient Adherence With Medication

Wed, 10 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

NAPLES, Fla. - Openly discussing adherence by asking glaucoma patients open-ended questions, educating them about drop instillation and using nonjudgmental ways to approach non-adherence could assist in improving patient compliance with medication, a study found.

Aton Pharma Launches Authorized Generic Version Of Glaucoma Eye Drop Timoptic-XE� Gel Forming Solution

Tue, 09 Mar 2010 07:30:00 GMT

Aton Pharma, Inc., a diversified specialty pharmaceutical company, today announced that it has launched an authorized generic version of its Timoptic-XE� (timolol maleate ophthalmic gel forming solution). Timoptic-XEis a non-selective beta-adrenergic receptor blocking agent indicated in the treatment of elevated intraocular pressure in patients with ocular hypertension or open-angle glaucoma.Aton also announced that it will continue to make available branded Timoptic-XE.

Motivation A Critical Factor For Multifocal IOL Use In Glaucoma Patients

Tue, 09 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

NAPLES, Fla. - Physicians should be aware of contrast sensitivity, anatomic issues and patient motivation when implanting multifocal lenses in glaucoma patients, a glaucoma expert said here.

Study Examines Effects Of Delaying Treatment For Ocular Hypertension

Tue, 09 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Early treatment of ocular hypertension appears to reduce the risk of developing glaucoma, especially in individuals at the highest risk, according to a report in the March issue of Archives of Ophthalmology, one of the JAMA/Archives journals. However, this strategy may not offer an absolute benefit in individuals at low risk.

Sunridge International To Present Its Non-Invasive Treatment For Glaucoma To The Southwest Investment Association Conference

Mon, 08 Mar 2010 06:01:00 GMT

Sunridge International, said it will be presenting details of its patented pneumatic trabeculoplasty treatment (PNT) a non-invasive treatment at the upcoming Southwest Investment Association, Inc. (SWIA) Conference on March 13, 2010, at the Westin Stonebriar Hotel in Frisco, Texas.

Digital Wide Field And SLT Lenses From Volk Optical At ASCRS

Mon, 08 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Volk Optical, the industry leader in aspheric optics, will be exhibiting at the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery (ASCRS) Annual Meeting, April 9 through 14 at the Boston Convention & Exhibition Center (Massachusetts).

Trabeculectomy Rates Declining While Other Glaucoma Surgical Procedures On The Rise

Mon, 08 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

NAPLES, Fla. - Annual estimates of the number of trabeculectomy cases performed in the U.S. are declining, while other forms of glaucoma surgical treatment have been increasing in use, according to Medicare data.

Diode Laser Cyclophotocoagulation Effective For Advanced Refractory Glaucoma Cases

Fri, 05 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

More than 60% of advanced refractory glaucoma cases treated with transscleral diode laser cyclophotocoagulation had reduced IOP of 21 mm Hg or less after laser application, with 21.7% of eyes requiring at least one re-treatment after initial laser application, a study found.

Frost & Sullivan Recognizes Timoptic� (timolol Maleate) As Best Brand Name Beta Blocker For Glaucoma: Timoptic Brand Is Highest Rated In Survey Of Ophthalmologists

Thu, 04 Mar 2010 08:29:00 GMT

Aton Pharma, Inc., a diversified specialty pharmaceutical company, today announced that in an independent survey of U.S. ophthalmologists by Frost & Sullivan, Timoptic� was rated the leading brand name of beta blockers for glaucoma. Timoptic received Frost & Sullivan's 2010 Best Practices Award as the "Best Brand Name of Beta Blockers for Glaucoma," based on its Brand Perception Index (BPI) score, reflecting strong brand reputation, recognition and customer loyalty.

Frost & Sullivan Recognizes Timoptic� (timolol maleate) as Best Brand Name Beta Blocker for Glaucoma

Thu, 04 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Lawrenceville, NJ - March 4, 2010 - Aton Pharma, Inc., a diversified specialty pharmaceutical company, today announced that in an independent survey of U.S. ophthalmologists by Frost & Sullivan, Timoptic� was rated the leading brand name of beta blockers for glaucoma. Timoptic received Frost & Sullivan's 2010 Best Practices Award as the "Best Brand Name of Beta Blockers for Glaucoma," based on its Brand Perception Index (BPI) score, reflecting strong brand reputation, recognition and customer loyalty.

Second Dose Of Gene Therapy For Inherited Blindness Proves Safe In Animal Studies

Thu, 04 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

PHILADELPHIA - Gene therapy for a severe inherited blindness, which produced dramatic improvements last year in 12 children and young adults who received the treatment in a clinical trial, has cleared another hurdle. The same research team that conducted the human trial now reports that a study in animals has shown that a second injection of genes into the opposite, previously untreated eye is safe and effective, with no signs of interference from unwanted immune reactions following the earlier injection.

Statement From Paul A. Sieving, M.d., Ph.d., Director Of The National Eye Institute, National Institutes Of Health, During World Glaucoma Week, March 7-13, 2010

Thu, 04 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Glaucoma is one of the world's leading causes of vision loss and blindness. Vision organizations around the globe highlight this disease as a research and public health priority during World Glaucoma Week. The National Eye Institute (NEI), part of the National Institutes of Health, takes this opportunity to reaffirm its commitment to supporting research that will identify risk factors for the condition and develop treatments to preserve the sense of sight.

NicOx And Bausch + Lomb Announce Worldwide Licensing Agreement For NCX 116

Wed, 03 Mar 2010 05:28:00 GMT

NicOx S.A. and Bausch + Lomb, a leading eye health company, today announced the companies have entered into a licensing agreement which grants Bausch + Lomb exclusive worldwide rights to develop and commercialize NCX 116 (previously PF-03187207), a nitric oxide-donating prostaglandin F2-alpha analog.

Sunridge Receives Approval For Its Non-Invasive Glaucoma Treatment In China

Tue, 02 Mar 2010 06:04:00 GMT

Sunridge International , announced today that China's State Food and Drug Administration, (SFDA), had approved the firm's Pneumatic Trabeculoplasty (PNT) treatment in China.

Brain Holds Early Signs Of Glaucoma

Tue, 02 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Researchers at the Vanderbilt Eye Institute are now a step closer to deciphering a leading cause of blindness in the United States - glaucoma.

Photopic Negative Response Of Focal Electroretinogram Effective In Detecting Early Glaucoma

Fri, 26 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Using the photopic negative response of focal electroretinograms to detect glaucomatous change is a promising method of glaucoma detection, a study found.

Aqueous Shunt May Be Effective As First-Line Treatment For Uveitic Glaucoma

Thu, 25 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMT

An aqueous shunt used as a primary treatment reduced IOP in eyes with uveitic glaucoma, according to a study.

Vision Problems Linked To Higher Dementia Risk

Wed, 24 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Elderly adults with poor vision, particularly untreated vision problems, may have a higher risk of developing dementia than those with better vision, a new study suggests.

New Evidence That Green Tea May Help Fight Glaucoma And Other Eye Diseases

Fri, 19 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Scientists have confirmed that the healthful substances found in green tea - renowned for their powerful antioxidant and disease-fighting properties - do penetrate into tissues of the eye. Their new report, the first documenting how the lens, retina, and other eye tissues absorb these substances, raises the possibility that green tea may protect against glaucoma and other common eye diseases. It appears in ACS's bi-weekly Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry.

Glaucoma Implant In Ciliary Sulcus Effective In Pseudophakic Eyes

Wed, 10 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Follow-up of a glaucoma case series found that inserting the silicone tube of the Baerveldt glaucoma implant into the ciliary sulcus in pseudophakic eyes lowered IOP and reduced medications.

Glaucoma Medications May Be Associated With Reduced Risk Of Death Over 4-Year Period

Tue, 09 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Glaucoma patients who take medication for the condition appear to have a reduced likelihood of death, according to a report in the February issue of Archives of Ophthalmology, one of the JAMA/Archives journals.

American Board of Ophthalmology Appoints Three New Directors

Thu, 04 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Keith H. Baratz, MD, is Associate Professor in the Department of Ophthalmology at the Mayo Clinic School of Medicine in Rochester, MN and serves on the editorial board of Archives of Ophthalmology. He is also the former Residency Director and former Director of Research in Mayo's Department of Ophthalmology.

Pfizer CEO Jeffrey Kindler Honored With Catalyst Award At Glaucoma Research Foundation Benefit

Mon, 01 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Jeffrey B. Kindler received the 2010 Catalyst Award, the Glaucoma Research Foundation's highest honor, acknowledging his exemplary leadership in sustaining innovative research and education.

Very Deep Sclerectomy With Collagen Implant Effectively Controls IOP

Mon, 01 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMT

At 2 years, an IOP of 18 mm Hg or less and a 20% IOP drop without medication was achieved by 57% of patients who had very deep sclerectomy with collagen implants.

Wide-Field Imaging Comparable To Gonioscopy In Detecting Angle Closure

Wed, 27 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Wide-field imaging compared favorably with gonioscopy in detecting angle closure, according to a study, and detected more closed angles than standard gonioscopy in all quadrants.

Volk SLT Lens Provides Clear Chamber Angle Views

Tue, 26 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Tailored to the unique needs of Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty procedures, Volk Optical's new SLT Lens provides detailed, high resolution views of the anterior chamber angle for examination and laser spot placement.

Particulates In Long-Stored Bevacizumab May Cause Spike In IOP

Thu, 21 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Bevacizumab stored for long periods of time showed evidence of increased large particulate matter, possibly resulting in increased IOP, a presenter here said.

Down Economy Has Forced A Revaluation Of Worth Of Health Care

Tue, 19 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Calls for health care reform have brought about a change in the perceived value of health care, and ophthalmologists should brace for some uncertainty as the physician payment landscape is reset, according to a speaker here.

Normal Tension Glaucoma Progresses In Central Visual Field Faster Than Exfoliative High-Tension Glaucoma

Fri, 15 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Normal tension glaucoma cases showed higher rates of progression in the central visual field than exfoliative high-tension glaucoma cases, according to a study.

AUDIO From Medialink And Pfizer: Glaucoma - The Sneak Thief Of Sight

Fri, 08 Jan 2010 13:49:00 GMT

January is Glaucoma Awareness Month. Here are some eye-opening facts to share about the world's second-leading cause of preventable blindness.

Can-Fite BioPharma To Initiate Phase II Clinical Trial With CF101 For The Treatment Of Glaucoma

Wed, 16 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Can-Fite BioPharma (TASE:CFBI), a biotechnology company traded on the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange, announced on December 13 the initiation of the regulatory process for a Glaucoma Phase II clinical study in Israel. Leading Medical Centers in Israel will enroll 44 patients with Ocular Hypertension or Glaucoma for the first segment of the trial, who will be treated for 16 weeks with CF101 or placebo. The study will be expanded by up to an additional 88 patients upon successful conclusion of an interim analysis of the first segment. The study protocol was developed with the assistance of Dr. Paul Kaufman, a noted glaucoma researcher at the University of Wisconsin. The study will investigate the efficacy of CF101, as manifest by a decrease in intraocular pressure, as well as the safety of CF101 in this population.

Diurnal IOP Fluctuates More In Primary Angle-Closure Glaucoma, Primary Angle-Closure Asian Subjects

Wed, 16 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Subjects with primary angle-closure glaucoma and primary angle-closure had double the risk of the occurrence of IOP fluctuation of more than 3 mm Hg when compared with a combined group of primary angle-closure suspects and normal eyes, a study found.

Santen CEO Adrienne Graves Joins Board of ASCRS Foundation

Mon, 30 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

NAPA, CA - November 30, 2009 - Santen Inc. announced today that its President and CEO, Adrienne L. Graves, Ph.D. has been appointed to the Board of Directors of the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery (ASCRS) Foundation. Santen Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Japan's Santen Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. (Tokyo Stock Exchange: 4536).

Clarity Medical Systems, Inc. Appoints New Board Member

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Pleasanton, CA- November 17, 2009-Clarity Medical Systems, Inc., a rapidly-growing, commercial-stage, pediatric ophthalmic imaging and informatics company, is pleased to announce the appointment of Doug Post to its Board of Directors. Mr. Post's addition further strengthens Clarity's leadership and provides diversity given his extensive experience in the anterior segment and adult ophthalmology - an area into which the company will expand in the coming years.

Study Finds OCT Evaluations Are Reproducible For Retinal Vein Occlusion Trials

Mon, 16 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Excellent annual regrades for intergrader agreement of optical coherence tomography quality were found in the SCORE Study.

Santen CEO Adrienne Graves Joins Board of Glaucoma Research Foundation

Sun, 08 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

San Francisco - November 4, 2009 - The Glaucoma Research Foundation announced today that Adrienne L. Graves, PhD has been appointed to its Board of Directors. Dr. Graves is President and CEO of Santen Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Japan's Santen Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. (Tokyo Stock Exchange: 4536).

Study Finds Low Hypotony Rate From Overfiltration In Eyes With Glaucoma Drainage Devices

Thu, 05 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Less than 2% of patients who had a glaucoma drainage device implanted developed hypotony that could not be medically managed, demonstrating a low rate of the complication from overfiltration, a study found.

Study Refutes Link Between Central Retinal Artery Occlusion And Neovascular Glaucoma

Tue, 03 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Central retinal artery occlusion is not a direct cause of neovascular glaucoma, according to a study.

AAO: Poor Clinic Management Tops Causes Of Missed Glaucoma Visits

Thu, 29 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Long waits and other clinic management problems, and not finances, may underlie the majority of missed follow-up appointments for glaucoma in safety-net hospitals.

AAO: Intravitreal Shots Carry Risk Of Persistent Glaucoma

Tue, 27 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

SAN FRANCISCO -- Intravitreal injections of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) inhibitors can cause persistent hypertension in the eye after only one treatment, researchers found.

AMD Medication Raises Eye Pressure In Some Patients; Low-Cost Vision Testing Could Benefit Millions Worldwide

Tue, 27 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

A first-time finding of intraocular pressure increases in patients with no personal or family history of glaucoma following anti-VEGF treatment for wet age-related macular degeneration (AMD), and a report on a simple, low-cost method that could revolutionize vision screening and treatment in developing countries, are highlights of today's Scientific Program of the 2009 Joint Meeting of the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) and the Pan-American Association of Ophthalmology (PAAO).

Treating ROP- In Tiny Preemies; Better Glaucoma Follow-Up In Urban Clinic

Sun, 25 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Highlights of today's Scientific Program of the 2009 American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) - Pan-American Association of Ophthalmology (PAAO) Joint Meeting include: John T. Flynn, MD, Columbia University School of Medicine, discussing the ever-tougher challenges Eye M.D.s face in caring for the vision of the tiniest premature babies; and a report by Bradford W. Lee, MD, Stanford University School of Medicine, on barriers to glaucoma follow-up as perceived by patients in an urban, culturally diverse clinic.

Aerie Pharmaceuticals' ROCK Inhibitor, AR-12286, Demonstrates Positive Results in Glaucoma Patients in a Phase 2a Study

Thu, 22 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

BRIDGEWATER, N.J. & RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, N.C.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Aerie Pharmaceuticals, a biotechnology company focused on the discovery and development of novel treatments for glaucoma, today announced positive results from a Phase 2a study of its Rho-kinase (ROCK) inhibitor, AR-12286. The study evaluated the safety, tolerability and efficacy of three different doses of AR-12286 in 88 patients with primary open angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension.

New Non-Penetrating Surgical Treatment For Glaucoma Patients

Tue, 20 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Glaucoma has been nicknamed the "sneak thief of sight" because the loss of vision normally occurs gradually over a long period of time and is often only recognised when the disease is quite advanced. New surgical techniques, such as those that use non-penetrating methods rather than traditional surgery, mean that patients are less at risk of

Comlite Systems Surpasses 10,000 Users Worldwide

Wed, 14 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Comlite Systems, the number one selling wireless light-signaling system since 1984, surpassed the 10,000th user milestone in 2009.

Eyes With Damage To Both Hemifields Show Fastest Glaucoma Progression

Mon, 12 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Patients with initial superior defect and initial inferior defect did not experience glaucoma progression as quickly as those who had damage to both hemifields, a study found.

World's Largest Ocular Research Center To Improve Quality Of Life For Blind And Visually Impaired

Wed, 07 Oct 2009 11:28:00 GMT

Lions Eye Institute for Transplant & Research Sets Sights on Advances in Macular Degeneration and Glaucoma

Toronto Researchers Discover Novel Circulation In Human Eye, New Glaucoma Treatment Target

Tue, 06 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Researchers at the University of Toronto, St. Michael's Hospital and Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre have discovered a previously unidentified form of circulation within the human eye which may provide important new insights into glaucoma, a leading cause of blindness.

Posterior Auricular Muscle Complex Graft Can Be Used For Ocular Implants

Mon, 28 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Optimal cosmetic reconstruction can often be achieved with the use of a hydroxyapatite ocular implant. It has a lower rate of infection and implant extrusion as compared with other implants. These implants are made up of calcium phosphate, a normal constituent of bone.

Researchers Identify Gene Variant Linked To Glaucoma

Tue, 22 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

An international team, led by researchers from the University of California, San Diego School of Medicine and the National Eye Institute, has discovered gene variants for glaucoma in a black population. The finding could lead to future treatments or a cure for this disease, which leads to blindness in two million Americans each year.

Volk Recognized For Global Reach

Fri, 11 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Volk Optical, the leader in aspheric optics, has been awarded a Governor's Excellence in Exporting Award by Ohio Governor Ted Strickland. The award recognizes Ohio companies who have shown superior performance in exporting, as it is a vital component of the state's economy.

Glaucoma? That's No Excuse To Skip Your Workout

Tue, 08 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

People who suffer from vision-impairing glaucoma can exercise without fear of making the condition worse, according to a new study.

Selenium Influences Risk Of Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma

Fri, 04 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Plasma and aqueous humor levels of selenium influence the risk of developing primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG), according to research from the University of Arizona.

Envision Eyes LLC, Makers Of The Spec-Tac Eye Speculum, Offering Investment Opportunity

Mon, 24 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

EnVision Eyes LLC ("EnVision") has successfully designed, developed and launched its Spec-Tac External Eye Speculum Spec-Tac� external eye speculum in the United States and other countries. The Spec-Tac� external eye speculum - being a disposable, single-use, and hands-free external eye speculum - uniquely fills a need in the ophthalmic industry. The product has various uses and applications, such as eye examinations, photography and retinal imaging, retinal injections, foreign body removal, visual field testing, and other applications. It is estimated that the annual volume of these procedures exceeds 17,000,000 in the U.S. alone.

Healing Impaired In Leaking Blebs After Glaucoma Surgery

Fri, 21 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

After filtration surgery for glaucoma, mitomycin C-treated filtering blebs with persistent leaks often display aberrant wound healing, according to a study in the August issue of the Archives of Ophthalmology.

Aton Pharma Launches Expanded Distribution And Marketing For Preservative-Free TIMOPTIC� In OCUDOSE�

Tue, 18 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Lawrenceville, NJ - August 19, 2009 - Aton Pharma, Inc., a diversified specialty pharmaceutical company, today announced it has launched new education, distribution, sampling and reimbursement programs for TIMOPTIC� in OCUDOSE�, the only preservative-free medication for glaucoma available in the United States. Aton acquired the U.S. marketing rights in February to the TIMOPTIC product line from Merck & Co., Inc. TIMOPTIC (timolol maleate) is a non-selective beta-adrenergic receptor blocking agent indicated for the treatment of elevated intraocular pressure in patients with ocular hypertension or open-angle glaucoma. As many as 2.25 million Americans suffer from open-angle glaucoma.

Bleb Revision Surgery After Trabeculectomy Adequately Addresses Bleb-Related Complications

Tue, 18 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

More than half of glaucoma patients who had bleb revision surgery after trabeculectomy to repair hypotony without leak, bleb leak or bleb dysesthesia demonstrated successful results, a study found.

Volk Specialty Lenses Support Pioneer's Making Strides Promotion

Mon, 17 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Mentor, Ohio (August 14, 2009) - Volk Optical has developed an exclusive line of pink-ringed lenses to support the philanthropic efforts of ophthalmic products distributor Pioneer International. Pioneer is celebrating its 10th anniversary by giving back and has chosen The American Cancer Society's - Making Strides in Breast Cancer as recipient of the anniversary event. During its "Making Strides" promotion, $30 will be donated to breast cancer research for each Volk specialty lens purchased.

OcumatRx Announces Promising Clinical Trial Results For Implant With Potential To Permanently Treat Glaucoma

Fri, 14 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

OcumatRx, an early stage company that is developing a medical device that represents a new concept for the permanent treatment of patients with Glaucoma, has announced the successful completion of clinical trials for their first device with favorable preliminary safety and tolerability. As a result, the company is now moving forward with a more sophisticated design of the device, with plans to launch new clinical trials later this year.

NicOx To Reacquire From Pfizer Rights To Experimental Glaucoma Drug

Wed, 12 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

NicOx announced an agreement to reacquire the development and commercialization rights to an experimental glaucoma medicine from partner company Pfizer.

Eye Drops 'may Reverse Glaucoma'

Fri, 07 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

A new type of medicated eye drop may be able to reverse symptoms of glaucoma, an Italian study has suggested.

Besifloxacin Approved For Use Against Ocular Infections

Tue, 04 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

A new topical ophthalmic antibacterial, besifloxacin ophthalmic suspension 0.6% (Besivance, Bausch & Lomb), administered via sterile ophthalmic drops, treats a broad range of eye pathogens including those that most commonly cause bacterial conjunctivitis.

Study: Open-Angle Glaucoma Patients at Higher Risk of Having a Stroke

Mon, 03 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Patients with open-angle glaucoma showed a significantly higher risk of suffering a stroke, according to a large cohort study.

Time Domain OCT Measures Of Retinal Nerve Fiber Layer May Not Correlate With Spectral Domain OCT

Tue, 28 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Time domain optical coherence tomography generally measures a thicker retinal nerve fiber layer than spectral domain optical coherence tomography, but the measurement may be skewed by thin nerve fiber layers, as may be present in glaucoma patients.

Minor Strokes May Worsen Vision In Glaucoma Patients

Tue, 28 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Glaucoma patients are likely to lose more of their vision if they suffer minor strokes, a three-year study in Hong Kong has found.

Quark Pharmaceuticals Announces Data Indicating Potential Utility Of QPI-1007 For Treatment Of Glaucoma

Mon, 27 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Quark Pharmaceuticals, Inc., a development-stage pharmaceutical company discovering and developing novel RNA interference (RNAi)-based therapeutics, today announced data suggesting that QPI-1007 prevents progressive retinal ganglion cell (RGC) loss in an increased ocular pressure (IOP) rat model of glaucoma. The experiments performed by Prof. Adriana Di Polo of the Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Universite de Montreal, indicate that QPI-1007 has the potential to treat patients with glaucoma. QPI-1007 is being evaluated in advanced IND-enabling preclinical studies as a neuroprotective agent for eye diseases.

Medicare Payments For Glaucoma Surgery Decreased Amid Rise In Procedures

Mon, 27 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Medicare payments for glaucoma surgery decreased, whereas the number of glaucoma operations increased in a 9-year period, according to a study.

Alcon And AstraZeneca To Collaborate On Eye Drug Development

Wed, 22 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Alcon (NYSE: ACL) announced today that it has entered into a five-year collaborative research agreement with AstraZeneca for the exclusive ophthalmic discovery and potential development rights to AstraZeneca's compound library. The agreement matches Alcon's specific ophthalmic research capability with AstraZeneca's rich drug libraries and covers multiple classes of small molecules with lead compounds that already have been identified to have a strong scientific rationale for utility in ophthalmic disease. The two companies are targeting development of drugs to treat sight-threatening conditions such as glaucoma, wet and dry age-related macular degeneration and other retinal diseases, as well as ocular allergy, dry eye and other inflammatory eye conditions.

Zeltia Eye Drug Cleared For First Trials In Spain

Wed, 22 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Zeltia (ZEL.MC) affiliate Sylentis has been cleared by Spanish health authorities to begin phase 1 clinical trials of a drug for the treatment of ocular hyper-tension associated with glaucoma.

House Democrat's Health Care Reform Bill Is a 1,018-Page Nightmare

Wed, 15 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

SOLX Receives Gold Shunt Clearance in Canada

Wed, 15 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Waltham MA, July 8, 2009 - SOLX announced today that it has received clearance from Health Canada for the use of the SOLX Gold Shunt in the surgical treatment of glaucoma.

Glaucoma Vision Loss Linked To Blocked Blood Vessels; Inflammation Thwarts Corneal Transplants In Herpes Patients

Wed, 15 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Two studies that may influence clinical treatment of serious eye conditions are reported in the July issue of Ophthalmology, the journal of the American Academy of Ophthalmology. One correlates the incidence of silent cerebral infarcts (SCI) and visual field loss in patients with normal-tension glaucoma; the other investigates inflammation biomarkers in relation to corneal transplant rejection in herpes simplex patients.

Photocoagulation Result May Mimic Glaucoma

Wed, 15 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Photocoagulation for diabetic retinopathy may cause abnormal thinning of the retinal nerve fiber layer that can be mistaken for glaucoma, data from an observational case series suggest.

Expert: Early Glaucoma Detection, Assessment Of Risk Factors Improve Treatment

Tue, 14 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

If glaucoma is diagnosed and treated early, patients benefit in numerous ways, including prevention of vision loss and enhancement of treatment regimens and physician-patient relationships.

Medicare Expenditures Decrease For Glaucoma Surgery As Number Of Procedures Increases

Tue, 14 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The overall number of glaucoma surgical procedures appears to be increasing, but payments by Medicare for the procedures have been decreasing, according to a report in the July issue of Archives of Ophthalmology, one of the JAMA/Archives journals.

IOP Control Index Shows Promise As A Prognostic Tool For Phaco, Phaco-Trabeculectomy Procedures

Mon, 13 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

An "IOP control index" was significantly associated with postoperative IOP control after both phacoemulsification and a combined phaco-trabeculectomy procedure for chronic angle-closure glaucoma patients with coexisting cataract.

Rising Global Rate Of Glaucoma Poses Challenge To Effective Treatment

Mon, 13 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

With an estimated 80 million to 105 million glaucoma patients around the world - a number that is likely to rise - viewing the treatment of the disease from a global perspective is key to effectively treating it, a glaucoma expert said here.

Major Firms Eyeing CBMS Development Of New Glaucoma Treatment

Tue, 07 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

NEW YORK, MONTREAL and SAN DIEGO, CA, July 7 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ - Canadian Bio Med Systems Inc., a subsidiary of ICBS Ltd., (OTCPK: ICBT), and Ocular Therapeutics Inc. of San Diego California, announced that Ocular Therapeutics has signed non-disclosure agreements with two of the largest pharmaceutical firms in the world. These unnamed companies are interested in a new treatment approach in the largest of the ophthalmic markets.

Glaucoma Patients Overrate Their Eyedrop Skills

Fri, 03 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Although more than 90 percent of patients taking ocular medication reported feeling confident about their eyedrop instillation technique, less than one third actually demonstrated adequate skills, researchers report in the Archives of Ophthalmology.

Alcon Discontinues Development Of Anecortave Acetate For Intraocular Pressure Reduction

Thu, 02 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Alcon, Inc. (NYSE:ACL) announced today that it has discontinued development of anecortave acetate for the reduction of intraocular pressure (IOP) associated with glaucoma.

Study Calls Deep Sclerectomy With Collagen Implant Reasonable For Exfoliative Glaucoma

Wed, 01 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Deep sclerectomy with collagen implant provides long-term control of IOP and reduces medication dependence in patients with exfoliative glaucoma, according to a study.

Clue To Normal-Tension Glaucoma; Herpes Infection And Corneal Transplants

Wed, 01 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The July issue of Ophthalmology, the journal of the American Academy of Ophthalmology, includes two studies that may influence clinical treatment of serious eye conditions. One study reports on silent cerebral infarcts (SCI) incidence and visual field loss in patients with normal-tension glaucoma; the other correlates inflammation biomarkers with corneal transplant rejection in herpes simplex patients.

Study Details Risk Factors For Blebitis, Endophthalmitis After Filtration Surgery

Mon, 22 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Bleb leak, bleb manipulation and race were the leading risk factors for infection after filtration surgery for glaucoma management, according to a study.

JustAnswer(R) And Glaucoma Research Foundation Help Individuals See The Light In Preventing Blindness

Wed, 17 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

JustAnswer(R), the website where people go when they need answers from Doctors, Lawyers, Mechanics or other Experts, today announced it is partnering with the Glaucoma Research Foundation (GRF), as part of Vision Research Month. The collaboration is to help the non-profit educate, identify and treat individuals with glaucoma. This disease, diagnosed in 2.4 million people per year worldwide, leads to blindness if untreated.

EyeIC Receives FDA 510(k) Clearance For MatchedFlicker(TM) Retinal Aid Detection Technology

Wed, 10 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

New technology to address issue of interpretation, storage and documentation of photograph files focused on progression of glaucoma

Precursors To Corneal Transplant Failure; Patients Who Skip Glaucoma Treatment; Antibiotic-Resistant Bugs And LASIK

Wed, 10 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The June issue of Ophthalmology, the journal of the American Academy of Ophthalmology, includes new insights on why some corneal transplants fail, why some patients skip their glaucoma medications, and why preventing infections after LASIK is a growing concern.

STAAR Surgical Receives CE Mark Approval For KS-X Preloaded Hydrophobic Acrylic Lens Injector System

Tue, 09 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

STAAR Surgical Company, a leading developer, manufacturer and marketer of minimally invasive ophthalmic products, today announced that it has received CE Mark approval for its KS-X Preloaded Hydrophobic Acrylic Injector for use in minimally invasive cataract surgical procedures. The CE Mark allows STAAR Surgical to market this foldable intraocular (IOL) KS-X lens delivery system in the European Union as well as other countries that recognize the CE Mark. It also signifies that STAAR's preloaded acrylic lens delivery system complies with applicable safety and quality standards.

Patient-Specific Factors May Lower Chance Of Success After Trabeculectomy With MMC

Tue, 09 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Younger patients and those with a history of vitrectomy may be at higher risk for surgical failure after trabeculectomy with mitomycin C for neovascular glaucoma.

Glaucoma Medication Adherence Linked To Age And Ethnicity, According To Study

Mon, 08 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Studies covering a range of chronic disease consistently show that only about 70% of prescribed medications are taken. Patients with glaucoma may not take their eye drops because they often have no pain, few symptoms, and treatment benefits are apparent over years rather than immediately.

Recording Of Intraocular Pressure Curve With The PASCAL� Dynamic Contour Tonometer Is Now A Billable Procedure

Wed, 27 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Dynamic contour Tonometry (DCT) is a novel measuring technique, which was designed to more accurately measure IOP, largely independent of the cornea's thickness, curvature or biomechanical properties. In vitro and in vivo invasive studies have demonstrated a nearly linear relationship of DCT to manometric IOP, independent of corneal thickness or curvature. Additionally, DCT values have been shown to remain unchanged in individuals, before and after LASIK surgery. While this device is similar in appearance to Goldmann Applanation Tonometry, the PASCAL� is not a variable force tonometer. PASCAL implements a miniature piezoelectric pressure sensor, which is embedded within a contourmatched tonometer tip. The tonometer tip rests on the cornea with a constant appositional force of one gram. The contour matched tip has a concave surface that approximates the cornea's shape when no external forces are acting on it. Once a portion of the central cornea has taken up the shape of the tip, the integrated pressure sensor begins to acquire pressure readings.

Paradigm Medical Industries Plans To Begin Clinical Work To Upgrade Its CPT Code For Its Blood Flow Analyzer From An Investigational To A Reimbursable Level

Wed, 27 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Paradigm Medical Industries, Inc. (OTCBB: PDMI) announced today that the Company plans to begin the important process of upgrading its CPT code (0189T) for its Blood Flow Analyzer from the American Medical Association from an investigational level (Class III) to one that will enable public and private medical centers to be reimbursed by their regional medical insurance companies for testing patients using the Blood Flow Analyzer. The Blood Flow Analyzer is used to detect glaucoma and aid in managing the disease.

Thumbs Up At ARVO For Diaton Tonometer - New Through Eyelid Glaucoma Test Clinical Study Presented, Results As Accurate As Gold Standard

Wed, 27 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Transpalpebral and Transcleral Diaton Tonometry is a unique approach to measuring intraocular pressure (IOP) THROUGH THE EYELID - without contact with the cornea, no anesthetic drops or sterilization is required.

Cost-Effectiveness Dependent On Glaucoma Diagnostic Costs, Treatment Efficacy

Thu, 21 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Routine glaucoma treatment proved cost-effective when diagnostic assessment costs were omitted and optimistic treatment efficacy was assumed, a study showed.

Stanford's Kuldev Singh, MD Elected To Chair The Glaucoma Research Foundation

Tue, 19 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Kuldev Singh, MD, MPH, Professor of Ophthalmology and Director of the Glaucoma Service at the Stanford University School of Medicine, was elected to Chair the Board of the Glaucoma Research Foundation at the Board of Directors Annual Meeting held April 29. The Glaucoma Research Foundation (GRF) is America's oldest national institution dedicated solely to preventing vision loss from glaucoma.

Goal Of Glaucoma Specialists Should Be Not Only Diagnosis, But Also Retention

Sun, 17 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Glaucoma specialists both in developed and developing countries must aim to not only diagnose the disease, but retain patients through ongoing follow-up, a surgeon said here.

Combined Index Of Optic Nerve Structure, Function, And Anatomy Promising For Detection Of Glaucoma

Mon, 11 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Researchers at the Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, have developed a combined index of optic nerve structure, function, and anatomy to improve the detection of glaucoma. The structure function index (SFI) might perform better than either structure or function alone, said Michael V. Boland, MD, PhD, assistant professor of ophthalmology at the institute.

Race Appears To Influence Decrease In Glaucoma Medication Following Trabeculoplasty: Presented At ARVO

Tue, 05 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Patients who undergo a <1-minute laser procedure to control glaucoma appear to gain similar results regardless of race, but black patients are able to decrease postsurgery medication to a greater extent than white patients after undergoing selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT), researchers stated here at the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology (ARVO) 2009 Annual Meeting.

Combined Dietary Factors Impact AMD Risk; Study Finds Glaucoma Care Cost-Effective

Fri, 01 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

SAN FRANCISCO, CA - Highlights of May's Ophthalmology, the journal of the American Academy of Ophthalmology (Academy), include a new analysis of dietary factors and risks for age-related macular degeneration (AMD), and a landmark study on glaucoma treatment cost-effectiveness as linked to vision improvement and quality of life.

Inotek Pharmaceuticals' Novel Glaucoma Candidate, INO-8875, Selected For Presentation At The ARVO 2009 Annual Meeting

Wed, 29 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Inotek Pharmaceuticals today announced that preclinical data supporting the Company's lead clinical-stage drug candidate in glaucoma, INO-8875, will be presented in a poster session at the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc. (ARVO) 2009 Annual Meeting in Fort Lauderdale, FL.

Hundreds Of Ophthalmologists Meet With Congressional Leaders As Health Care Debate Begins

Tue, 28 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

More than 300 ophthalmologists met with members of Congress in Washington, D.C., April 22-23 as legislators prepare what may be the most significant health care legislation in over a decade. The office visits took place during the American Academy of Ophthalmology's annual Congressional Advocacy Day to discuss health care issues.

IOPtima: Successful Long-Term Results In The Use Of Its Novel Laser System For The Treatment Of Glaucoma

Tue, 28 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

IOPtima, a subsidiary of Bio-Light (TASE:BOLT), the developer of an innovative laser-based surgical device for reducing intra ocular pressure (IOP) for the treatment of glaucoma, successfully completed and analyzed the results of its first 12-month follow-up period of human clinical trials conducted in Mexico and India.

Sucampo Acquires Rights To Rescula For U.S. And Canada

Fri, 24 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Sucampo Pharmaceuticals, Inc., (SCMP:8.00, -0.04, -0.5%) and R-Tech Ueno, Ltd. (RTU) (Osaka Exchange Hercules code: 4573), today announced that Sucampo Pharma Americas, Inc. (SPA), a wholly owned subsidiary of Sucampo Pharmaceuticals Inc., licensed from RTU the commercialization rights to Rescula(R) (unoprostone isopropyl) in the United States and Canada, including all associated patents and other intellectual property. In addition, RTU will be the exclusive supplier of finished product to Sucampo.

NICE Issues Guidelines For Diagnosis, Management Of Open Angle Glaucoma

Wed, 22 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) and the National Clinical Guideline Centre will issue a guideline to improve the diagnosis and management of chronic open angle glaucoma (COAG) and ocular hypertension (OHT).

Chinese Ministry Of Health Adopts American Academy Of Ophthalmology Preferred Practice Patterns As National Standard

Wed, 22 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) today announced that the Chinese Ministry of Health has endorsed the AAO's Preferred Practice PatternsT as the national standard for ophthalmic practice and training in China. The decision by the Ministry is the first time China has mandated standards of patient care and professional training for any medical specialty.

Surgery May Delay Or Halt Glaucomatous Optic Disc Progression More Than Medication

Mon, 20 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Surgery reversed progression of optic disc cupping more often than medication, according to 5-year data from the Collaborative Initial Glaucoma Treatment Study.

Merck & Co., Inc. And Santen Sign Licensing Agreement In Ophthalmology

Thu, 16 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Merck & Co., Inc. and Santen Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. today announced a worldwide licensing agreement for tafluprost, a prostaglandin analogue under investigation in the U.S. Tafluprost, preserved and preservative-free formulations, has received marketing approval for the reduction of elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) in open-angle glaucoma and ocular hypertension in several European and Nordic countries as well as Japan and has been filed for approval in additional European and Asia Pacific markets.

Retina Undamaged By Long-Term Use Of Impotence Drugs

Wed, 15 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

NEW YORK (Reuters Health) - Healthy men who use drugs to treat impotence may be able to stop worrying - at least for now -- about a loss of vision caused by the drugs. A new study, published in the Archives of Ophthalmology, detected no changes in visual function, signs of retina damage or intraocular pressure after the daily use for 6 months of sildenafil (Viagra) or tadalafil (Cialis).

Glaucoma Survey: Half Unaware Of Preservative-Free Beta-Blocker

Mon, 06 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Lawrenceville, NJ - April 6, 2009 - In a recent survey of ophthalmologists across the nation, virtually all (97%) believe preservative-free glaucoma medications can enhance the ocular comfort of glaucoma patients, while 86% believe that preservative-free glaucoma medications can enhance patient quality of life. Nine out of ten (89%) feel there are not enough preservative-free glaucoma medications available, and nearly half (47%) do not know a preservative-free beta-blocker is available.

Glaucoma Survey: Half Unaware Of Preservative-Free Beta-Blocker, Ophthalmologists Cite Benefits Of Preservative-Free Medications On Ocular Comfort And Quality Of Life

Mon, 06 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In a recent survey of ophthalmologists across the nation, virtually all (97%) believe preservative-free glaucoma medications can enhance the ocular comfort of glaucoma patients, while 86% believe that preservative-free glaucoma medications can enhance patient quality of life. Nine out of ten (89%) feel there are not enough preservative-free glaucoma medications available, and nearly half (47%) do not know a preservative-free beta-blocker is available.

Three Experts Weigh In With Advice For The President On Health-Care Reform

Sat, 04 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

San Francisco-What advice would you give to President Obama to help navigate health-care reform? Three people well acquainted with the challenges that the president will face answered that question here at Glaucoma Day. William L. Rich, III, MD, FACS, medical director of health policy, American Academy of Ophthalmology, said the best thing for President Obama to do is ignore what happened during the Clinton Administration, when health-care reform was addressed using an insular, academic approach.

Race And Presence Of Glaucoma May Increase Risk Of Graft Failure After DSEK

Tue, 31 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The risk of graft rejection after Descemet's stripping endothelial keratoplasty is low, but patient-specific characteristics may contribute to increased risk.

Glaucoma Linked to Several Different Gene Variations, According to Researchers

Thu, 26 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

While researching the long-suspected gene linked to glaucoma, WDR36, Michael Walter, PhD, and team discovered that the gene STL1 is only one of many other genes in which mutations must take place in order for WDR36 to cause glaucoma.

Genetic Sleuth Solves Glaucoma Mystery

Sun, 22 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Dr. Michael Walter is one good gumshoe. The University of Alberta medical geneticist has cracked the case of WDR36, a gene linked to glaucoma.

World's First Wireless Digital Indirect Ophthalmoscope From Keeler

Thu, 19 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Broomall, Pennsylvania (March 19, 2009) - The new Digital VantagePlus LED indirect ophthalmoscope from Keeler is the world's first wireless indirect ophthalmoscope able to produce digital images. The instrument delivers true digital imaging, capturing video and sharp still pictures, with the convenience and mobility of wireless technology.

Successful Awareness of Glaucoma Generated; More Needed, Christensen Says

Fri, 13 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

As president and chief executive officer of the World Glaucoma Foundation, and president of the World Glaucoma Patient Association (WGPA), Scott R. Christensen has been extensively involved in planning and coordinating efforts around the world to raise awareness about the critical need to detect glaucoma in its earliest stages possible.

On World Glaucoma Day, Keep An Eye On The Future: VIDEO From Medialink And Pfizer Ophthalmics

Thu, 12 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

On the second annual World Glaucoma Day (March 12), leading global glaucoma experts are working together to help educate patients diagnosed with glaucoma and those who may be at risk for the condition. Glaucoma is a worldwide epidemiological challenge affecting approximately four percent of the global population, with an estimated 50 percent of glaucoma cases remaining undiagnosed. Research shows that by 2010, an estimated 60.5 million people globally will be living with either angle closure glaucoma (ACG) or primary open angle glaucoma (POAG).

World Glaucoma Day Highlights The Need To Know Your Risks, Save Your Sight

Thu, 12 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

SAN FRANCISCO, CA - Glaucoma's special danger is that it can significantly damage the optic nerve before a person notices problems with his eyesight. To get a jump on glaucoma -- the second leading cause of preventable blindness worldwide -- you need to know your general and familial risks and see Eye M.D. (ophthalmologist) for regular exams.

CME Dinner Symposium Held During The ASCRS 2009 Annual Meeting: "Addressing Antimicrobial Resistance With New Fluoroquinolones"

Thu, 12 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

South San Francisco, CA - MARCH 5, 2009 - Acuity Medical Education today announced they are jointly sponsoring a CME Dinner Symposium at the 2009 ASCRS/ASOA Symposium & Congress with Medical Education Resources, Inc. The continuing medical education symposium is supported through an unrestricted education grant from Bausch & Lomb. The program is aimed at the Comprehensive Ophthalmologist and focuses on educating physicians on the increasing antimicrobial resistance to current fluoroquinolones and the studies being done now to demonstrate the clinical efficacy of new fluoroquinolone analogs.

Multiple Trabecular Microstents Combined With Phaco Reduce IOP

Thu, 12 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Implantation of two or three trabecular microstents in combination with phacoemulsification safely diminished IOP, according to a study presented here.

Imaging, Optic Nerve Rating Systems Comparable In Diagnosing Glaucoma

Wed, 11 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The disc damage likelihood scale, optical coherence tomography and the Heidelberg Retina Tomograph 3 compare well in diagnosing open-angle glaucoma, a speaker said here.

IScience Interventional Launches Surgeon Web Site

Wed, 11 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

iScience Interventional, developers of the microcatheter technology used for innovative therapies such as canaloplasty for primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG), announced the launch of a new surgeon support Web site called iForumT. iForumT provides canaloplasty-trained surgeons a tool to facilitate the adoption of canaloplasty into their practice by establishing a resource center and forum for peer-to-peer interaction on this new technique.

Trabeculectomy Associated With Transient, Early Postop Complications In TVT Study

Tue, 10 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Trabeculectomy and tube shunt surgery were similarly effective in reducing IOP in the Tube Versus Trabeculectomy Study, but trabeculectomy yielded more early postoperative complications than tubes, a researcher said here.

AGS Sees Record Attendance, Honors Ophthalmologists

Mon, 09 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

San Diego-The 2009 annual meeting of the American Glaucoma Society (AGS) is experiencing record-setting total attendance, according to officers of the organization, with 619 members and an additional 75 attendees participating. This number represents an increase of more than 20% in total attendance over last year's annual meeting.

Glaucoma Valve Associated With Short Survival Of PK Grafts

Mon, 09 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Long-term survival of penetrating keratoplasty grafts with an existing glaucoma tube shunt appears to be low, according to a poster presented at the American Glaucoma Society meeting here.

Statement From Paul A. Sieving, M.D., Ph.D., Director Of The National Eye Institute, National Institutes Of Health, On World Glaucoma Day, March 12, 2009

Sun, 08 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

On the second annual World Glaucoma Day, the National Eye Institute (NEI), part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), joins with groups around the globe to recognize this blinding visual condition as a scientific research priority and a public health concern. We at NEI reaffirm our commitment to support research that will identify glaucoma risk factors and lead to treatments that will prevent vision loss and blindness.

Experts Examine Causes, Treatment And Prevention Of Glaucoma

Thu, 05 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Although scientists know progressive degeneration of retinal ganglion cells and their axons is the primary cause of glaucoma, researchers have yet to identify a way to stop or prevent the degeneration.

USAID Blindness Program Assists One Million Children In 23 Countries

Wed, 04 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In the past year, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) Child Blindness Program assisted over one million people through eye health education, comprehensive vision screening, refractive error correction, sight-restoring surgery, and education for blind children.

Pfizer Inc. (PFE) (JOBS) , Bausch & Lomb (BOL) Team Up To Promote Eye Drugs

Wed, 04 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Pfizer Inc and Bausch & Lomb announced today a co-promotion agreement involving both companies' prescription ophthalmic pharmaceuticals in the United States. The agreement will allow both companies to greatly increase the level of eye care industry support for these important medications that treat serious ophthalmic conditions.

Glaucoma Device Implanted Under Scleral Flap Has Good Results With Or Without Cataract Surgery

Mon, 02 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Implanting an Ex-PRESS miniature glaucoma device under a scleral flap resulted in surgical success in more than 90% of patients at 3 years in a single implantation or combined phacoemulsification procedure.

Novagali Pharma Presents Results Of Its Innovative Latanoprost Formulation For Glaucoma

Fri, 27 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Novagali Pharma, a French pharmaceutical ophthalmic company, announced the results of its first set of data pertaining to Nova21027, its innovative BAK-free latanoprost formulation for glaucoma.

Abbott Completes Acquisition Of Advanced Medical Optics

Thu, 26 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Abbott today announced that it has completed its acquisition of Advanced Medical Optics (AMO). AMO is now a wholly owned subsidiary of Abbott and has been renamed Abbott Medical Optics Inc.

Aton Pharma Acquires U.S. TIMOPTIC�

Wed, 25 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Aton Pharma, Inc., a diversified specialty pharmaceutical company, today announced it has acquired the U.S. marketing rights to the TIMOPTIC(R) product line from Merck & Co., Inc. TIMOPTIC (timolol maleate) is a non-selective beta-adrenergic receptor blocking agent indicated for the treatment of elevated intraocular pressure in patients with ocular hypertension or open-angle glaucoma. As many as 2.25 million Americans suffer from open-angle glaucoma.

Abbott Successfully Completes Tender Offer For Shares Of Advanced Medical Optics

Wed, 25 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Abbott today announced the successful completion of the tender offer by its wholly owned subsidiary Rainforest Acquisition Inc. to purchase all of the outstanding shares of common stock of Advanced Medical Optics (AMO). The tender offer expired at midnight Eastern time on Tuesday, Feb. 24, 2009, and was not extended.

Ophthalmologists With AAO's New Tools Can Avoid Wrong-Site Surgery

Wed, 25 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Two new tools are being offered by the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) to help members avoid wrong site or wrong IOL errors. Included with the tools is a new protocol with a simple checklist to follow prior to and on the day of surgery as well as a new continuing medical education (CME) course.

Standard Automated Perimetry, Clinical Findings May Predict Glaucomatous Optic Neuropathy

Sun, 22 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

A classification tree model that uses standard automated perimetry thresholds and their location in the visual field may help determine which patients are most at risk for poor outcome from progressive glaucomatous optic neuropathy.

Ophthalmic Imaging Systems Comments On Potential Impact Of U.S. Government's Stimulus Package On Electronic Health Records Market

Fri, 20 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

SACRAMENTO, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Ophthalmic Imaging Systems (OIS) (OTCBB: OISI - News) and Abraxas Medical Solutions, Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of OIS and a provider of state of the art Electronic Health Record (EHR) solution, commented on a portion of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, the U.S. Government's stimulus package (the "Stimulus Package"), that pertains to healthcare IT.

Topical Cyclosporine Improves Quality Of Life, Is Cost-Effective For Dry Eye Patients

Thu, 19 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Topical cyclosporine emulsion 0.05% improved quality of life and proved cost-effective for patients with moderate to severe dry eye syndrome that did not respond to conventional therapy.

SOLX Announces 1000th Gold Shunt Implantation Milestone For Glaucoma Treatment

Thu, 19 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

SOLX, Inc. announced today that it has surpassed 1000 implantation procedures with its proprietary SOLX Gold Shunt�, a drainage device that reduces intraocular pressure (IOP) for the treatment of glaucoma.

ORBIS And FedEx Launch Sight-Saving Programs To Combat Avoidable Blindness In Latin America & The Caribbean

Tue, 17 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

ORBIS International and FedEx are delivering four weeks of eye health training to local ophthalmic communities in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic and Trujillo, Peru between February 9 - March 6, 2009.

Pediatric Poisoning With Brimonidine May Carry Serious Consequences

Tue, 17 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Children unintentionally poisoned with brimonidine tartrate, an alpha-2 adrenergic agonist used in glaucoma eye drops, exhibit several adverse effects and may require hospitalization, new research shows.

World Glaucoma Day Set For March 12, 2009

Fri, 13 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In an effort to combat one of the leading causes of blindness worldwide, the World Glaucoma Association and the World Glaucoma Patient Organization have set March 12, 2009, as the second annual World Glaucoma Day. The day will be marked by awareness and educational events organized by eye care institutions and local patient support groups on every continent, as listed on www.wgday.net.

Canadian Bio Med Systems, Inc., A Division Of ICBS Ltd., Enters Billion Dollar Market With Two New Ophthalmic Drugs

Thu, 12 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Canadian Bio Med Systems Inc., a subsidiary of ICBS Ltd., (OTCPK: ICBT), and Ocular Therapeutics Inc. of San Diego California, announced that it has acquired the licensing rights to two new potentially revolutionary drugs in the billion dollar ophthalmic arena.

Anecortave Acetate Reduces Ocular Hypertension

Wed, 11 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In eyes with uncontrolled steroid-related ocular hypertension, treatment with anecortave acetate results in a safe and rapid reduction of hypertension that persists for up to six months or more, according to the results of a small study published in the February issue of the Archives of Ophthalmology.

Self-Report Questionnaire May Aid in Screening for Depression in Patients with Low Vision

Thu, 05 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

A questionnaire based on self-reported symptoms may help clinicians identify patients with warning signs of depression, and the test may be especially useful for patients with low vision because they are at high risk of poor mental health status.

February Ophthalmology Research Highlights

Tue, 03 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

SAN FRANCISCO, CA--- Does cataract surgery increase the risk of vision loss in people with age-related macular degeneration (AMD)? How do people read faces to judge age or fatigue? Which has a larger impact on the "normal" decline of visual function as we age, genetic or environmental factors? These questions are explored in the February issue of Ophthalmology, the journal of the American Academy of Ophthalmology.

Eye-Care Community Collaborates On HIT Standard Certification Effort

Fri, 30 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Washington, D.C. - The American Academy of Ophthalmology and the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery hosted a summit that included the American Optometric Association and others Jan. 16 to unify the eye-care community around a new joint vision health information technology (HIT) agenda to develop certification standards. HIT certification is a way for physicians and providers to feel more secure about their electronic health record (EHR) system purchase, because there are standards and test processes in place for functionality and security.

OPKO Receives FDA 510(k) Clearance For Spectral OCT SLO Combination Imaging System

Mon, 26 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

OPKO Health, Inc. (NYSE Alternext US:OPK) announced that it has received 510(k) clearance from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration ("FDA") to begin marketing in the United States its Spectral OCT SLO Combination Imaging System. Currently marketed internationally by the Company's subsidiary, OPKO Instrumentation, LLC, the Spectral OCT SLO is the product of more than a decade of innovation in the field of combination imaging.

OPKO Health Initiates Clinical Trial Of The Aquashunt(TM) To Treat Glaucoma

Fri, 23 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

OPKO Health, Inc. (AMEX:OPK) announced today that it has begun treating patients in a clinical trial of its Aquashunt(TM), a device for the treatment of refractory open angle glaucoma. The study, at two academic departments of ophthalmology, is designed to assess the safety and efficacy of the Aquashunt(TM) and will enroll up to 20 patients with significantly impaired visual acuity.

Three-Year TVT Study Results Influencing Glaucoma Patient Care, Surgeon Says

Fri, 23 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

A surgeon said here the information from the Tube Versus Trabeculectomy Study is influencing his treatment of glaucoma patients.

Two Physicians Will Be Honored At GRF Benefit

Wed, 21 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

San Francisco - During their 31st anniversary benefit Jan. 28, the Glaucoma Research Foundation (GRF) will honor two physicians for their contributions to glaucoma research. The President's Award will be presented to Rohit Varma, MD, from the Doheny Eye Institute, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, for his groundbreaking research related to the Latino community being among those at the highest risk for developing glaucoma.

VisionRx GlaucomaCheck™ Is The First Patented, Clinical-Grade Online Glaucoma Test

Tue, 20 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In support of National Glaucoma Awareness Month, VisionRx has launched its groundbreaking online glaucoma test, known as GlaucomaCheckT. Now anyone can screen for glaucoma in the convenience of their own home. Glaucoma is one of the two leading causes of blindness.

Glaucoma Technology-Driven Adherence Program To Be Tested

Mon, 19 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

A clinical trial will be conducted by Johns Hopkins University's Wilmer Eye Institute on patient adherence and clinical outcomes for people with glaucoma using technology (Memotext).

Topcon Receives FDA Clearance For 3D OCT Measurement Software

Fri, 16 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

PARAMUS, NJ, January 15, 2009 - Topcon Medical Systems, Inc. (TMS), the leading supplier of ophthalmic diagnostic equipment and image management solutions, is pleased to announce that it has received FDA clearance for its enhanced 3D OCT-1000 TrueMapT Measurement Software as an addition to its previously cleared 3D OCT-1000 Optical Coherence Tomography System.

Children's Vision Bill Introduced In Congress

Fri, 16 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The American Academy of Ophthalmology today applauded the introduction of legislation in both the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives this week to combat undiagnosed and untreated vision problems in children. The legislation, known as the Vision Care for Kids Act of 2009, passed the House during the last Congress but stalled in the Senate.

NovaBay's NVC-422 Cleared By FDA For Human Clinical Trials In Ophthalmology

Wed, 14 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

EMERYVILLE, Calif., Jan 13, 2009 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- NovaBay Pharmaceuticals, Inc., announces the clearance of an Investigational New Drug application (IND) submitted by Alcon to the FDA to permit the clinical development of NovaBay's NVC-422 for infections of the eye. The IND clearance has triggered the immediate payment of the first milestone of $1,000,000 from Alcon to NovaBay.

Glaucoma Less Likely To Hinder Reading Unless It Is Bilateral

Tue, 13 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Glaucoma patients are not likely to develop problems reading unless the disease becomes bilateral with reduced visual acuity, researchers here said.

Glaucoma May Be Linked To Higher Rates Of Reading Impairment In Older Adults

Tue, 13 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Glaucoma appears to be associated with slower spoken reading and increased reading impairment in older adults, according to a report in the January issue of Archives of Ophthalmology, one of the JAMA/Archives journals.

Abbott Expands Its Growing Medical Device Business With Acquisition Of Advanced Medical Optics (AMO)

Mon, 12 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

ABBOTT PARK, Ill., and SANTA ANA, Calif., Jan. 12, 2009 - Abbott (NYSE: ABT) and Advanced Medical Optics (AMO) (NYSE: EYE) announced today a definitive agreement for Abbott to acquire AMO for $22 per share in cash, for a total transaction value of approximately $2.8 billion, inclusive of estimated net debt at the time of closing. Based in Santa Ana, Calif., AMO is a global leader in ophthalmic care, comprised of three segments: cataract surgery, laser vision correction (LASIK), and eye care products.

Glaucoma Awareness Not Just For Humans

Fri, 09 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In recognition of National Glaucoma Month, Florida Veterinary Specialists (FVS) are spreading the word and increasing awareness of animal glaucoma because pets are as susceptible as humans.

Vision Problems Prompt Older Drivers To Put Down The Keys

Tue, 06 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Rockville, MD - With 30 million drivers in the US aged 65 and over, we count on older Americans to recognize when they can no longer drive safely and decide that it's time to stay off the road. A new study finds that a decrease in vision function is a key factor in bringing about this decision.

Diabetes, Eye Disease Expected To Increase, According To Study

Tue, 06 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The number of Americans with major eye diseases is expected to increase drastically over the next several decades as more people are diagnosed with diabetes, according to a new study.

IOP Significantly Reduced In Myopic And Hyperopic Eyes After LASIK

Fri, 02 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

IOP was significantly reduced in myopic and hyperopic patients who underwent LASIK. The reduction was attributed to flap cutting and thinning of the central cornea, particularly in myopic eyes.

Eyelash Enhancer Gains Approval

Fri, 02 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Allergan Inc. said it received Food and Drug Administration approval to market Latisse, a beauty treatment that increases the length, thickness and darkness of eyelashes by using a drug the company developed to treat glaucoma.

Topcon Introduces New SL-3G Slit Lamp

Wed, 31 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

PARAMUS, NJ, December 30, 2008 - Topcon Medical Systems, Inc. (TMS), of Paramus, NJ, is pleased to introduce the new SL-3G Slit Lamp. This innovative instrument combines classic versatility with unsurpassed image clarity and color rendition.

Glaucoma Research Foundation Celebrates National Glaucoma Awareness Month

Mon, 29 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

In celebration of National Glaucoma Awareness Month, Glaucoma Research Foundation (GRF) will commemorate its 31st Anniversary with a benefit at the historic Palace Hotel in San Francisco, Jan. 28, 2009. The annual event serves as the showcase for recent advances in GRF-funded research.

X-GEN Pharmaceuticals Receives FDA Approval For Acetazolamide For Injection USP

Tue, 23 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

X-GEN Pharmaceuticals announced that it will begin marketing Acetazolamide for Injection USP. The product is AP rated and equivalent to Diamox�(1) by Duramed Pharmaceuticals. Acetazolamide for Injection USP is indicated for adjunctive treatment of: edema due to congestive heart failure; drug-induced edema; centrencephalic epilepsies (petit mal, unlocalized seizures); chronic simple (open-angle) glaucoma, secondary glaucoma, and preoperatively in acute angle-closure glaucoma where delay of surgery is desired in order to lower intraocular pressure.

Akorn, Inc. Announces FDA Approval Of Ciprofloxacin HCl Ophthalmic Solution
USP, 0.3%

Sun, 14 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Akorn, Inc. (NASDAQ: AKRX) today announced that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has granted approval for Akorn's Abbreviated New Drug Application (ANDA) for Ciprofloxacin HCl Ophthalmic Solution USP, 0.3%.

Diabetes Epidemic Signals An Increase In Blindness, Too

Thu, 11 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The number of Americans who could lose their vision to diabetes-related eye diseases is going to skyrocket over the next four decades, with elderly Hispanics and blacks hit hardest because of higher rates of Type 2 diabetes, according to a new study from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Rising Tide Of Diabetic Eye Complications Predicted

Tue, 09 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Prevalence of retinopathy, glaucoma, and other vision problems related to diabetes are projected to rise dramatically over the next four decades.

Occurrence Of Major Eye Disease Projected To Increase Among Patients With Diabetes

Tue, 09 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Based on projected increases in the prevalence of diabetes, the number of people with diabetes-related retinal disease, with glaucoma and with cataracts is estimated to increase significantly by 2050, according to a report in the December issue of Archives of Ophthalmology, one of the JAMA/Archives journals.

Progression Of Retinal Disease Linked To Cell Starvation

Mon, 08 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Rods and cones coexist peacefully in healthy retinas. Both types of cells occupy the same layer of tissue and send signals when they detect light, which is the first step in vision. The incurable eye disease Retinitis Pigmentosa, however, reveals a codependent relationship between the two that can be destructive. When flawed rods begin to die, otherwise normal cones follow them to the grave, leading to blindness. A new study might explain why.

US Panel Supports Allergan Drug For Longer Lashes

Sun, 07 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

A prescription eye drug originally used to treat glaucoma is also safe and effective for adults who want the longer, thicker eyelashes, a U.S. advisory panel said on Friday.

European Union Approves Brinzolamide/Timolol Suspension For The Treatment Of Glaucoma, Ocular Hypertension

Thu, 04 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The European Medicines Agency has approved the fixed combination brinzolamide 10 mg/mL plus timolol 5 mg/mL (Azarga) ophthalmic suspension for the treatment of elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) associated with open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension in adult patients for whom monotherapy provides insufficient IOP reduction.

Alcon Announces AZARGA� Ophthalmic Suspension Approved For Treatment Of Patients With Glaucoma Or Ocular Hypertension In The European Union

Tue, 02 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

-Alcon, Inc. (NYSE:ACL) announced today that the European Medicines Agency (EMEA) has approved Alcon's fixed combination eye drop, AZARGA� (brinzolamide 10mg/ml+timolol 5mg/ml) ophthalmic suspension, for treatment of elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) associated with open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension in adult patients for whom monotherapy provides insufficient IOP reduction.

Tracking Eye Disorders In Statin Users; Predicting Visual Outcomes For Wounded Soldiers; Improving Glaucoma Tests With Patient Input

Tue, 02 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

This month's Ophthalmology, the journal of the American Academy of Ophthalmology, reports on eye disorders that may occur in people taking statins, on a new system that predicts soldiers' visual recovery after combat eye trauma, and on use of glaucoma patients' opinions to improve testing and treatment.

Phacoemulsification Reduces IOP In Eyes With Pseudoexfoliation

Mon, 01 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Phacoemulsification with posterior chamber IOL implantation reduced IOP and slowed the progression of glaucoma in eyes with pseudoexfoliation. The retrospective analysis included 1,122 eyes with pseudoexfoliation that underwent phacoemulsification with IOL insertion; 882 eyes did not have glaucoma and 240 eyes had glaucoma.

NLH Eyes & Vision Specialist Library Presents The - Annual Evidence Update On Glaucoma, 24th To 30th November 2008

Tue, 25 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The term "glaucoma" for the purposes of the annual evidence update (AEU) is used to cover primary open angle glaucoma (POAG) and normal tension glaucoma (NTG). Ocular hypertension is also included here as it is a strong risk factor for developing glaucoma.

Mammals Can Be Stimulated To Regrow Damaged Inner Retina Nerve Cells

Mon, 24 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Researchers at the University of Washington (UW) have reported for the first time that mammals can be stimulated to regrow inner nerve cells in their damaged retinas. Located in the back of the eye, the retina's role in vision is to convert light into nerve impulses to the brain.

Abu Dhabi To Host World Ophthalmology Congress 2012

Mon, 24 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Abu Dhabi city, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, is to host the World Ophthalmology Congress (WOC) 2012, which is expected to attract in excess of 12,000 international delegates. WOC is the world's longest running and largest international medical meeting having been established in 1857 with the Abu Dhabi event representing the 33rd congress of its type.

Significant Carotid Artery Narrowing Present In Some Glaucoma Patients

Thu, 20 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Significant carotid artery stenosis presented in 17% of patients with asymmetric, low-tension or progressive glaucoma, even though those cases had good IOP control, indicating that potential at-risk patients should have a carotid artery Doppler scan, a study found.

Will Glaucoma Be The First Neurodegenerative Disease To Be Cured?

Wed, 19 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

"More than in any preceding year," says Glaucoma Research Foundation (GRF) President and CEO Thomas M. Brunner, "there is a heightened sense of anticipation around the annual Research Overview by the four principal investigators of the GRF-funded Catalyst For a Cure (CFC) research consortium that opens GRF's 31st Anniversary Benefit and Celebration at 5 pm, Wednesday, January 28, 2009, in San Francisco's legendary Palace Hotel.

ThromboGenics Announces Promising Six Month Follow-Up Results From Its Phase IIb Trial Of Microplasmin (MIVI III) For Treatment Of Visual Disorders

Fri, 14 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

ThromboGenics NV (Euronext Brussels: THR), a biotechnology company focused on eye disease, vascular disease and cancer, announces promising six month follow-up results from its Phase IIb MIVI III trial, which was designed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of microplasmin in vitrectomy.

Novel Punctal Plug Approach To Glaucoma Drug Delivery Well-Tolerated, Lowers IOP

Fri, 14 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Using a punctual plug to deliver glaucoma medication could safely reduce the need for patient compliance while enhancing overall drug delivery.

DurezolT In The Treatment Of Uveitis And Ganciclovir In The Treatment Of Herpetic Keratitis

Fri, 14 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

TAMPA, FL, November 3, 2008 - Sirion Therapeutics, Inc., a privately held ophthalmic-focused biopharmaceutical company, announced today that studies of two investigational drugs in development for treatment of potentially blinding eye diseases will be presented at upcoming ophthalmology meetings. Durezol was approved by the US Food and Drug Administration in June 2008 for the treatment of inflammation and pain associated with ocular surgery.

American Academy Of Ophthalmology Joint Meeting Marked By Strong Turnout And Rich Scientific Program

Wed, 12 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Strong turnout and a robust scientific program marked the largest and most comprehensive ophthalmic educational meeting in the world, the American Academy of Ophthalmology's (Academy) 2008 Joint Meeting in conjunction with the European Society of Ophthalmology (SOE), held in Atlanta November 8 to November 11. Preliminary figures for attendance at the meeting were approximately 22,000.

Vision Screening Law For Older Floridians Associated With Lower Fatality Rates In Car Crashes

Tue, 11 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

A vision screening law targeting Florida drivers age 80 and older appears to be associated with lower death rates from motor vehicle collisions in this age group, despite little evidence of an association between vision and car crashes, according to a report in the November issue of Archives of Ophthalmology, one of the JAMA/Archives journals.

Research Hightlights, AAO-SOE Joint Meeting, Nov. 9 Sessions

Mon, 10 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The 2008 Joint Meeting of the American Academy of Ophthalmology (Academy) and European Society of Ophthalmology (SOE ), the largest and most comprehensive ophthalmic educational meeting in the world, is in session November 8 to 11 at the Georgia World Congress Center, Atlanta. Offerings include 277 continuing medical education courses, 179 "Breakfast with the Experts" roundtables, 95 skills transfer courses, and more than 100 hours of scientific presentations, at no charge.

Eye Conditions Linked With Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Mon, 10 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

If a good night's sleep helps the brain and body perform better, it's a good guess that sleep problems can cause more than just fatigue. Numerous studies have shown a connection between sleep disorders and medical conditions such as cardiovascular disease, cerebrovascular disease, and metabolic disorders, including the risk of obesity and diabetes mellitus. In the November issue of Mayo Clinic Proceedings, Mayo Clinic researchers outline several interesting associations between sleep disorders and eye disease.

In Certain Cases, DSEK Succeeds When Combined With Glaucoma, Cataract Procedures

Mon, 10 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Descemet's stripping endothelial keratoplasty offers several advantages over penetrating keratoplasty, even in cataract and glaucoma cases, a surgeon said here.

Lumenis Targets Ophthalmology With Four New Lasers At AAO Meeting

Mon, 10 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Lumenis Ltd. (Yokneam, Israel) has introduced four new ophthalmic lasers and delivery devices at the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) annual meeting, which began Friday (November 7-12, Atlanta, GA). The company is demonstrating two Selecta lasers: a small-footprint unit that enables retinal, cataract and advanced glaucoma therapies, and an anterior-segment laser that combine YAG and SLT technologies; plus a powerful dual-port photocoagulator; and a family of endo photocoagulation laser probes for retinal applications.

AAO-SOE Joint Meeting Research Highlights

Sun, 09 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Heidelberg Engineering Introduces Advanced Diagnostic Technologies At AAO

Sun, 09 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Vista, California and Heidelberg, Germany-November 09, 2008- Heidelberg Engineering today announces three new additions to the SPECTRALIS product family - two economical SD-OCT models and RNFL Analysis Software. All are debuting at the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) in Atlanta.

Glaucoma Research And Patient Care Highlighted At American Academy Of Ophthalmology Meeting

Sun, 09 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

ATLANTA, Nov 09, 2008 -- Glaucoma-related highlights of today's scientific program of the 2008 Joint Meeting of the American Academy of Ophthalmology (Academy) and European Society of Ophthalmology (SOE) include a study that correlates optic nerve damage in glaucoma patients with carotid artery narrowing and potentially elevated risk for stroke, and a survey that looks at how the practice of fasting, common to the world's seven major religions, may affect patient compliance with treatment for glaucoma and other eye diseases.

Optonol Announces New APC For Ex-PRESS Mini Glaucoma Shunt At AAO

Sun, 09 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Atlanta: November 8, 2008 - Optonol, Ltd. (Neve Ilan, Israel) announced today a new APC under which the Ex-PRESS Mini Glaucoma Shunt will be paid beginning January 1, 2009. The official announcement was made at the Glaucoma Subspecialty Day as part of the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) in Atlanta, Ga.

Missed Case Of Axenfeld-Rieger Syndrome: A Case Report

Fri, 07 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Anterior segment dysgenesis is a failure of normal development of the anterior segment of the eye. The structural anomalies are associated with glaucoma and corneal opacity which may lead to blindness.

Clues To Cause Of Pediatric Glaucoma Found In DNA Fragments

Thu, 06 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

A spectrum of recombination, DNA repair and replication underlie chromosome 6p25 rearrangements, researchers have found. Chromosome 6p25 is associated with some types of childhood glaucoma.

Prestigious Global Ophthalmic Research Award To Be Provided By ARVO Foundation And Merck

Wed, 05 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The ARVO Foundation for Eye Research (AFER) and Merck & Co., Inc. are pleased to announce a series of awards that honor young scientists throughout the world for their innovative contributions to ophthalmology research. Each award cycle is worth a total of $70,000 in grants.

Study: Adjusting IOP For CCT Does Not Appear To Affect Glaucoma Prevalence

Tue, 04 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Calculating the impact of central corneal thickness on IOP levels through correction algorithms appears to not affect the prevalence of open-angle glaucoma, but CCT remains an important risk factor for the disease, a study found.

November Ophthalmology Journal Research Highlights

Mon, 03 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

This month's Ophthalmology, the journal of the American Academy of Ophthalmology, reports on the conclusions from a population-based study of risk factors related to progression or regression of diabetic retinopathy over a 25 year period in people with Type 1 diabetes, and on the associations found between night vision symptoms and progression of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) in a cohort study within the Complications of Age-related Macular Degeneration Prevention Trial (CAPT), a multi-center randomized clinical trial.

High Number Of Mast Cells Might Contribute To More Conjunctival Scarring After Trabeculectomy

Mon, 03 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The number of mast cells in glaucoma patients was significantly higher in those who had previous trabeculectomy than those who had not. This could possibly be associated with an increased risk of excessive conjunctival scarring after surgery.

Study Sheds Light On Genetic Differences That Cause A Childhood Eye Disease

Sun, 02 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Medical researchers at the University of Alberta have unlocked part of the mystery underlying a childhood eye disease. New research shows how children with some types of glaucoma end up with missing or extra pieces of DNA.

Allergan To Use Polyphor's Protein Epitope Mimetics Technology In Ophthalmology For $7M

Fri, 31 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Allergan is paying Polyphor $7 million upfront to use the latter's protein epitope mimetics technology (PEM) to find drugs for eye diseases. This license and discovery partnership is worth about $68 million in milestones. Allergan and Polyphor will conduct a research program to identify PEM cytokine inhibitors suited for local delivery to the eye using Allergan's drug delivery systems.

QLT Reports Positive 12-Week Results From Trial Of Punctal Plug Delivery System

Wed, 29 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

VANCOUVER, CANADA-QLT Inc. today announced data from its CORE study, a Phase II trial being conducted by QLT's wholly-owned subsidiary, QLT Plug Delivery, Inc. (QPD), to evaluate the safety and efficacy of its Latanoprost Punctal Plug Delivery System (L-PPDS) for the treatment of open angle glaucoma (OAG) and ocular hypertension (OH).

Study: Thyroid Disorders May Be A Risk Factor For Glaucoma

Wed, 29 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Thyroid disorders might increase the risk of developing glaucoma, a study found, demonstrating the need for further research into the link between the diseases and whether treatment options for thyroid disorder might help reduce glaucomatous risk.

Study: Latent Asymmetric IOP May Predict Glaucoma, Visual Field Defects

Fri, 24 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Latent asymmetric IOP may be both a predictor of undiagnosed open-angle glaucoma and a risk factor for visual field deterioration, according to a study.

Bascom Palmer Gains Top Spot In Annual Survey

Wed, 22 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The economic downturn might have the nation feeling a little unsettled these days, but one thing that remains in focus is the commitment by America's ophthalmology programs to provide quality patient care, train excellent physicians, and dig deep for treatments for vision problems.

Sirion Therapeutics Announces Positive Pivotal Uveitis Data For DurezolT

Tue, 14 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

TAMPA, Fla., October 14, 2008 - Sirion Therapeutics, Inc., a privately held ophthalmic-focused biopharmaceutical company, announced today preliminary results from a pivotal anterior uveitis trial that compared DurezolT (difluprednate ophthalmic emulsion) 0.05% dosed four times daily (QID) to Pred Forte� (prednisolone acetate ophthalmic suspension) 1%, dosed eight times daily.

Glaucoma Cure Not A National Priority

Mon, 13 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

With a growing threat of blindness from glaucoma looming, "finding a cure or therapies that can avert this threat is simply not an urgent national imperative," reports Allen Poirson, PhD, the new Director of Scientific Programs and Licensing for the Glaucoma Research Foundation (GRF), previewing the results of his "Glaucoma Research and Development Efforts" (GRaDE) as the Daniel Scott Weston Glaucoma Research Lecturer of GRF's Silicon Valley chapter fall event.

Study: Glaucoma Drainage Device Increases Risk For Postoperative Hemorrhage

Fri, 10 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Delayed suprachoroidal hemorrhage may occur more commonly after glaucoma drainage device procedures than after trabeculectomy, a study suggests. Because outcomes after delayed suprachoroidal hemorrhage are poor, surgeons should understand the potential ocular and systemic risk factors for the condition.

Eye Drops Linked To Depression

Fri, 10 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Eye drops used to treat glaucoma can cause depression in some people. Glaucoma, a disease of the eye in which the pressure inside the eye is too high, damages the optic nerve and leads to loss of peripheral vision and blindness.

Structural Testing Effective In Monitoring Glaucoma Cases

Fri, 10 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Using a tomograph on borderline and other challenging glaucoma cases can assist physicians in monitoring structural changes and abnormalities that could affect disease classification, a glaucoma expert said.

Inspire Initiates Phase 1 Trial Of INS117548 For Glaucoma

Fri, 10 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Inspire Pharmaceuticals, Inc. announced that it has initiated a Phase 1 clinical trial with INS117548 Ophthalmic Solution for the treatment of glaucoma.

Kowa AP-5000C Automatic Perimeter Has Raised The Gold Standard For Perimetry

Tue, 07 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Automatic Perimeter Makes Appearance on Emmy Award Winning Television Series
Los Angeles, CA ‐ Kowa Optimed, innovator of automated perimeters and optical technology, has again raised the standard of automatic perimeters. Kowa automated perimeters have evolved in such a way as to make equipment increasingly user friendly and the AP‐5000C Automatic Perimeter offers the highest level of ease and usability yet.

Kowa Announces New Digital Slit Lamp Imaging System Software

Tue, 07 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

New Digital Slit Lamp Software Ideal for Paperless Documentation
Los Angeles, CA- Kowa, the forerunner in advanced ophthalmic diagnostic instrumentation, introduces its new VK Digital Slit Lamp imaging solution. The system adds image capture capability to all Marco, Zeiss, HS 900BQ, Topcon SL-2EF, SL-7EFT and SL-7E slit lamp systems. Kowa's revolutionary software features live video display and video capture replay, as well as still frame capture from both live and recorded video. This offers practitioners the ability to have frame-by-frame image comparison, and provides a historical record of digital images for diagnosis and legal documentation.

Kowa Offers New Functionality And Accessibility To VK2 Users

Tue, 07 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Ophthalmic Diagnostic Innovator to Introduce New VK-2 Satellite Office System Software
Los Angeles, CA- Kowa has just announced its new VK-2 Satellite Office Software. The system will premiere at the 2008 American Academy of Ophthalmology in Atlanta. Physicians and key representatives of the media will have an opportunity to see actual demonstrations of the product. In today's healthcare environment most large ophthalmic practices have satellite offices linked through VPNs (Virtual Private Networks).

Kowa Announces Newest Enhancements To VK2 Ophthalmic Imaging Solution

Tue, 07 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Los Angeles, CA - Kowa is excited to release version 5.030 of the VK2 Digital Imaging Software Solution. VK2 is designed to provide physicians with the ability to access current patient data across multiple workstations, quickly review information with patients and have complete data to make decisions that will enhance patient care and reduce data redundancy. This next-generation diagnostic and data management solution delivers real time data availability, increased patient data protection, system scalability,

Retinal Specialist Urges Cooperation Among Anterior, Posterior Segment Surgeons

Tue, 07 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

As subspecialty encroachment becomes a more contentious issue between anterior and posterior segment surgeons, a retinal specialist here urged greater cooperation between the two groups.

Sirion Therapeutics Launches Durezol For Postoperative Ocular Inflammation And Pain

Tue, 07 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Sirion Therapeutics, Inc., a privately held ophthalmic-focused biopharmaceutical company, announced today that DurezolT (difluprednate ophthalmic emulsion) 0.05% is now commercially available. Durezol, which was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in June 2008, is a topical ophthalmic corticosteroid indicated for the treatment of inflammation and pain associated with ocular surgery.

Rates Of Treatment Compliance In Patients With Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma

Fri, 03 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Chronic conditions, including glaucoma, are often associated with high rates of poor treatment compliance.

Research Highlights Of The October 2008 Issue Of Ophthalmology

Wed, 01 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

This month's Ophthalmology, the journal of the American Academy of Ophthalmology, includes reports on the first large-scale visual acuity assessment of preschool children, the Baltimore Pediatric Eye Disease Study. Surprisingly, researchers found that one commonly-used vision test was so inaccurate that its usefulness is questionable

A New 10-Year Vision For Glaucoma

Tue, 30 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

A 10-year outlook for innovative and forward-looking glaucoma management, and the future of research into the condition: key topics put under the spotlight in a new supplement to International Glaucoma Review (IGR).

Cup Shape Measurement Useful For Evaluating Optic Nerve Head Changes Associated With Glaucoma

Tue, 30 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Small optic nerve head variations associated with progression of retinal nerve fiber layer defects may be detectable using Heidelberg Retina Tomograph parameters, according to a retrospective study. However, most of the parameters correlated with detecting these defects differ from parameters used for detecting glaucoma.

Bioinformatic And Statistical Analysis Of The Optic Nerve Head In A Primate Model Of Ocular Hypertension

Mon, 29 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The nonhuman primate model of glaucomatous optic neuropathy most faithfully reproduces the human disease. We used high-density oligonucleotide arrays to investigate whole genome transcriptional changes occurring at the optic nerve head during primate experimental glaucoma.

EU Drugs Agency Endorses Alcon Glaucoma Treatment

Mon, 29 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The European Medicines Agency has recommended approval of Alcon's (ACL.N: Quote, Profile, Research, Stock Buzz) glaucoma treatment Azarga.

Programs Tackle High Rate Of Blindness Among Women

Thu, 25 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

They are mothers, daughters and grandmothers, and they share one health factor in common: Around the world, two out of every three people who are blind from preventable causes are women.

Risk Of Depression Increases With Severity Of Glaucoma, Age

Thu, 25 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Geriatric glaucoma patients who have greater visual loss are more prone to depression than nonglaucoma patients of the same age, an increased risk that physicians should be aware of when treating patients, a study found.

Researchers Identify Systemic Conditions Linked To Glaucoma-Related Mortality

Thu, 25 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Systemic conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, neurodegenerative disorders and respiratory disease appear to be common among mortality rates of glaucoma patients, a large study found. In addition, the investigators identified a slight association between accidents and glaucoma.

Solx Wins FDA Approval For New Glaucoma Laser

Mon, 22 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The 510(k) clearance was based on the results of a multi-center, international clinical trial that established equivalency of titanium:sapphire laser trabeculoplasty (TLT) to argon laser trabeculoplasty (ALT) in the ability to reduce intraocular pressure (IOP) in patients having primary open angle glaucoma and poorly controlled IOP on maximally tolerated medications or prior failed trabeculoplasty.

Manipulation Of Schlemm's Effective In Treating Glaucoma

Mon, 22 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

According to Manfred Tetz and colleagues, Germany, dilation and tensioning of Schlemm's canal may be an effective, non-penetrating surgical method for the treatment of open angle glaucoma (OAG).

SLT Recommended As First Line Therapy

Mon, 22 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) offers good long-term reductions in intraocular pressure (IOP), according to the results of a study performed by Rahul Yadav, MD and colleagues of the Mid Yorkshire Hospitals NHS Trust, Wakefield, UK.

SOLX Receives FDA 510(k) Clearance For New Glaucoma Laser

Fri, 19 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

SOLX 790 laser equivalent to argon laser trabeculoplasty (ALT) for IOP reduction while preserving trabecular meshwork
WALTHAM, Mass., Sept 18, 2008 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ -- SOLX, Inc. announced today U.S. Food and Drug (FDA) 510(k) clearance for the SOLX 790 to perform Titanium:Sapphire laser trabeculoplasty (TLT). The 510(k) clearance was based on the results of a multi-center, international clinical trial that established equivalency of TLT to ALT in the ability to reduce intraocular pressure (IOP) in patients having primary open angle glaucoma and poorly controlled IOP on maximally tolerated medications and/or prior failed trabeculoplasty. The laser had previously been approved for sale in Europe and Canada.

Othera Initiates Phase I/II Clinical Trial Of OT-730 In Ocular Hypertension And Glaucoma

Wed, 17 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Othera Pharmaceuticals, Inc., today announced that it has initiated dosing in a Phase I/II clinical trial to determine the safety and efficacy of topical OT-730 in patients with ocular hypertension and glaucoma. The study is a randomized, multi-center, investigator-masked, timololand placebo-controlled evaluation of the safety and efficacy of OT-730 in reducing the intraocular pressure in subjects with ocular hypertension or open-angle glaucoma.

Performing Angle Viscodissection With Phaco Surgery Reduces IOP In Glaucoma Patients

Wed, 17 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The addition of viscodissection during phacoemulsification can help significantly reduce IOP and medications in narrow-angle and angle-closure glaucoma patients while maintaining good visual outcomes, an 8-year study found.

Inspire Announces Plans For Clinical Testing Of New Compound INS117548 For The Treatment Of Glaucoma

Fri, 12 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

DURHAM, NC, USA | September 11, 2008 | Inspire Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (NASDAQ: ISPH) announced today that the standard 30-day review period by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) relating to Inspire's Investigational New Drug Application (IND) for INS117548 Ophthalmic Solution for the treatment of glaucoma has concluded and clinical testing can proceed

Pain Killing Drug Can Prevent Diabetes Induced Retinal Destruction

Fri, 12 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

While diabetes can make the beautifully stratified retina look like over-fried bacon, scientists are claiming that a drug, called pentazocine, known for its pain-relieving power can prevent the retinal damage that leads to vision loss. The drug is also believed to stimulate memory. The study has indicated that compounds that bind with the sigma receptor in the eye may be good treatments for the top two causes of vision loss: diabetic retinopathy and glaucoma.

Follow-Up Key To Safe Refractive Surgery In Glaucoma

Fri, 12 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Glaucoma patients who undergo LASIK or PRK need careful monitoring of IOP and other parameters to ensure that refractive surgery does not affect the disease, according to two glaucoma specialists.

Despite Slow Adoption Rate, Ophthalmologists Report High Satisfaction With EHR Systems

Mon, 08 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Ophthalmologists have been slow to adopt electronic health record systems into their practices, but those who have begun using these technologies are highly satisfied with their systems, according to a study.

September Ophthalmology Research Highlights

Mon, 01 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Doctors and medical centers across the United States are debating the use of electronic health records (EHR). This month's Ophthalmology, the journal of the American Academy of Ophthalmology, provides a look at Eye M.D.s' actions and opinions on the issue. Also highlighted this month are two research studies that will help doctors identify patients who are most vulnerable to advanced age-related macular degeneration (AMD), the leading cause of severe vision loss in the United States and most Western countries.

Early Postop IOP May Predict Success After Combined Cataract, Glaucoma Surgery

Mon, 01 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

An IOP of 9 mm Hg or less on the first postoperative day after combined phacoemulsification and deep sclerectomy may be considered a positive prognostic gauge of success, a retrospective study suggests.

Study: Bimatoprost Does Not Induce Macular Changes In Glaucoma Patients With Phakic Eyes

Fri, 29 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

A study by researchers in South Korea has found that applying topical bimatoprost to the phakic eyes of glaucoma patients is effective for reducing IOP without inducing clinical or structural changes in the macula.

Interventional Ophthalmology Procedure Indicated For Treatment Of Glaucoma

Wed, 27 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Patients with glaucoma have a promising new treatment option for the reduction of elevated pressure inside the eye. Very small, complex catheters can now be inserted into small drainage structures within the eye, enabling glaucoma surgeons to enlarge these compromised outflow passages for the treatment of glaucoma.

ORBIS And Alcon Train China's Next Generation Of Sight-Savers

Tue, 26 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

ORBIS International's flagship Flying Eye Hospital has arrived in Harbin, China with its global team of volunteer eye care specialists and global Alliance for Sight partner, Alcon, Inc, the world's leading eye care company. Invited by the Heilongjiang Provincial Government, Heilongjiang Provincial Health Bureau, and the Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, ORBIS is conducting an intensive two-week program (Aug. 25 - Sep. 5) focusing on training and equipping the next generation of Chinese eye care professionals and biomedical engineers. The ORBIS program in Harbin is being sponsored by Alcon.

Ahmed Valve Implantation With MMC, 5-FU Shows Positive Long-Term Results

Tue, 26 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

In the long term, the adjunctive use of intraoperative mitomycin-C and postoperative 5-fluorouracil with Ahmed glaucoma valve implantation appears to produce high success rates with well-controlled IOP, according to a retrospective study by researchers in California.

Physicians Should Assist In Raising Awareness Of Glaucoma, Funding

Mon, 25 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

With the number of glaucoma cases projected to rise significantly as the population ages, physicians should be aware of the financial aspects of treating and researching the disease, experts say. They will also need to heighten public awareness of glaucoma.

Study Reports 20-Year Trends In Glaucoma Prevalence, Treatment

Fri, 22 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Ophthalmologists are more likely to initiate glaucoma treatment at lower baseline IOP levels now than they were 20 years ago, according to a new analysis of data from the Marshfield Clinic Personalized Medicine Research Project. In addition, the study found that prostaglandin analogs have become the most frequently prescribed IOP-lowering drug in the past 2 decades.

Study: Disc Hemorrhages Linked To Progression Of Optic Neuropathy, Visual Field Defects In PACG Patients

Wed, 20 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Despite the relative infrequency of disc hemorrhage among patients with primary angle-closure glaucoma, there appears to be an association between these hemorrhages and both the progression of glaucomatous optic neuropathy and visual field defects, a retrospective study suggests.

Canadian Bio Med Systems, Inc., Today Announced That It Has Completed An $80,000,000 Share Sale Agreement With Ocular Therapeutics, Inc.

Wed, 20 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Canadian Bio Med Systems Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of ICBS Limited (OTCPK: ICBT),) is pleased to announce that it has acquired the licensing rights to two new potentially revolutionary drugs in the ophthalmic arena.

Examine The Glaucoma Market: Can Orphan-Drug Status Offer An Entry Into A Mature Market?

Tue, 19 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Research and Markets ( http://www.researchandmarkets.com/research/fb87cf/orphan_disease_ser) has announced the addition of Decision Resources, Inc.'s new report "Orphan Disease Series - Glaucoma: Can Orphan-Drug Status Offer an Entry into a Mature Market?" to their offering.

IRIDEX Announces FDA Clearance For New Product Family Of IRIDEX IQ Laser Systems

Fri, 15 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

IRIDEX Corporation (Nasdaq: IRIX - News) announces receipt of FDA 510(k) clearance for its Family of IRIDEX IQ Laser Systems. This clearance covers the IRIDEX IQ 532, IQ 577, IQ 630-670, and IQ 810 Laser Systems and their associated delivery devices to deliver laser energy in either CW-Pulse(TM), MicroPulse(TM) or LongPulse(TM) mode. These Laser Systems are intended for a wide range of specific applications in the medical specialties of ophthalmology, ear, nose and throat (ENT)/otolaryngology and dermatology.

Lexicon Pharmaceuticals Identifies New Drug Candidate For Glaucoma

Thu, 14 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Lexicon Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (Nasdaq: LXRX), a biopharmaceutical company focused on discovering and developing breakthrough treatments for human disease, announced today that it has initiated formal preclinical development of LX7101, a new drug candidate for glaucoma. LX7101 is a small molecule compound that may have application in treating glaucoma by lowering fluid pressure in the eye through a new mechanism of action. Glaucoma is a disease of the eye which gradually impairs vision and is a leading cause of blindness in the United States.

Study: Corneal Hysteresis Linked To Optic Nerve Surface Deformation In Glaucoma Patients

Wed, 13 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Among glaucoma patients, corneal hysteresis measurements may be associated with more deformation of the optic nerve surface during transient IOP elevations than other anterior segment parameters, a prospective study found.

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Expanding Fields Of Vision - New Virtual Reality Goggles Create An Equal Opportunity Eye Test

Sun, 10 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Visual field tests are widely used by eye doctors and neurologists. By determining the health of the retina, optic nerve and the visual pathway throughout the brain, the test can uncover glaucoma and conditions such as optic neuritis or brain damage. Essential to undergo before one can drive a car or fly a plane, the visual field test is also used to pinpoint neurological damage after an accident or surgery.

High-Tech Contact Lenses Dispense Glaucoma Meds

Tue, 05 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Biomedical engineers at the University of California (UC) Davis have devised materials they plan to turn into contact lenses outfitted with pressure sensors and medication stores. When the sensors detect changes in eye pressure that signal the need for medications, the contact lenses will dispense the medications themselves.

Study Links Exfoliation Syndrome With Decreased Uveoscleral Outflow

Tue, 05 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

In eyes with either normal ocular tension or ocular hypertension, exfoliation syndrome appears to be associated with a decrease in aqueous outflow through the uveoscleral pathway, according to a prospective study by researchers in Nebraska. However, exfoliation syndrome only appears to reduce outflow facility in eyes with ocular hypertension.

Rgcs1, A Dominant QTL That Affects Retinal Ganglion Cell Death After Optic Nerve Crush In Mice

Fri, 01 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Intrinsic apoptosis of neuronal somas is one aspect of neurodegenerative diseases that can be influenced by genetic background. Genes that affect this process may act as susceptibility alleles that contribute to the complex genetic nature of these diseases.

Smart Contact Lenses

Thu, 31 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

"Smart" contact lenses that measure pressure within the eye and dispense medication accordingly could be made possible using a new material developed by biomedical engineers at UC Davis.

Othera Files IND Application For OT-730 In Glaucoma

Thu, 31 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Othera Pharmaceuticals, Inc., announced today the submission of an Investigational New Drug (IND) application to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for OT-730, an oculoselective beta-blocker, as a potential treatment for glaucoma. A Phase 1-2 safety and efficacy trial is planned for completion by the end of 2008.

FDT Perimetry Combined With Eye Health Testing Can Be Reliable Glaucoma Screening Strategy

Wed, 23 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

When used in conjunction with eye health screening, frequency doubling technology perimetry can be considered a reliable glaucoma screening strategy for identifying abnormalities in high-risk people, according to results from a community vision screening study.

Novartis Unit Recalling Prescription Eye Drops

Tue, 22 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Canada's national public health department on Friday warned consumers not to use a certain type of generic prescription eye drop made by Novartis AG's Sandoz unit because of a heightened safety risk.

One- and Two-Site Phacotrabeculectomy Show Similar IOP Reductions At 2 Years

Fri, 18 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

There appears to be no statistically significant difference in IOP between one- and two-site phacotrabeculectomy with 2 years of follow-up, a prospective, randomized, controlled study found.

EyeGate Pharma Initiates Landmark Clinical Study Employing The EyeGate(R) II Non-Invasive Ocular Delivery System In Acute Anterior Uveitis

Wed, 16 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

EyeGate Pharma, a privately held specialty pharmaceutical company using iontophoresis technology to safely and non-invasively deliver therapeutics into the front and back of the eye to treat serious ocular diseases, today announced the initiation of patient dosing in a prospective, multi-center, randomized, double-masked U.S. Phase II proof-of-concept study of the EyeGate(R) II Ocular Drug Delivery System. This landmark Phase II proof-of-concept study of EGP-437 and the EyeGate(R) II represents the first U.S. study under an open IND to employ iontophoresis technology to deliver an active compound into the eye.

The Glaucoma Foundation Creates New Award

Wed, 16 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The Glaucoma Foundation (TGF) announced the creation of an annual Award for Innovation and Excellence in Glaucoma. This new honor recognizes the contributions of individuals who have played a significant and unique role in promoting the medicine and science of glaucoma.

Paradigm Medical Industries Records Initial Sales Of Early Glaucoma Detection Device

Tue, 15 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Paradigm Medical Industries, Inc. has begun selling the Glaid-PERG electrophysiology instrument for the early detection of glaucoma. Pricing and volumes were not disclosed.

Study Finds Glaucoma Drainage Device Implantation Has More Adverse Outcomes

Mon, 14 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The risk for adverse outcomes after incisional glaucoma surgery appears higher after glaucoma drainage device implantation than after primary trabeculectomy surgery or trabeculectomy with scarring, according to a large multicenter study of Medicare beneficiaries.

Glaucoma Surgery Techniques Compared In Large-Scale Medicare Patient Study

Fri, 11 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The claims records of 14,491 Medicare beneficiaries with glaucoma who were treated with an incisional surgery, either primary trabeculectomy (PT), trabeculectomy in the presence of scarring from previous ocular surgery or trauma (TS), or implantation of a glaucoma drainage device (GDD) between 1994 and 2003 were evaluated by Frank A. Sloan, PhD, and colleagues.

Smart Contact Lens Feels The Pressure Of Glaucoma

Thu, 10 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

A contact lens with a built-in pressure sensor that could help monitor conditions such as glaucoma has been made by researchers in the US.

Mergent, Inc. Announces Changes To The HealthShares(TM) Ophthalmology Index

Thu, 03 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Mergent, Inc., administrator for the HealthShares(TM) Indexes, a series of 20 underlying indexes for the HealthShares(TM) Exchange Traded Funds, today announced the following change effective on the opening of trading on Wednesday July 9, 2008: ISTA Pharmaceuticals (Nasdaq: ISTA) will replace Jerini AG (Frankfurt, Germany: JI4) in the HealthShares(TM) Ophthalmology Index. Jerini AG is being acquired by Shire Limited (London Main Market, U.K.: SHP LO).

FDA Gives Thumbs Up To Eye Drug

Thu, 03 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The FDA has approved Sirion Therapeutics' Durezol, a topical steroid used to treat postoperative ocular inflammation and pain.

Glaucoma Surgery Studied In Medicare Patients, New Hope For People

Wed, 02 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Ophthalmologists (Eye M.D.s) continue to develop treatments to help the more than three million Americans with glaucoma. The July issue of Ophthalmology includes a large, national study of outcomes of incisional surgeries, used to reduce pressure inside the eye, in Medicare patients. Also covered is research that may brighten the outlook for patients with end-stage glaucoma.

Clarification Of Medicare Claims Processing Pending Congressional Intervention On The 10.6% Reduction

Tue, 01 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Yesterday afternoon, CMS hosted a private call for the medical specialty societies on the pending 10.6% reduction in Medicare Physician Fees scheduled to take effect on July 1, 2008, and CMS' actions related to this reduction.

Medicare Puts Brief Hold On All Payments To Physicians

Tue, 01 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON, June 30 -- Medicare officials said today that the agency will not process any payments to physicians until July 15 at the earliest, leaving the congressionally mandated 10.6% reimbursement reduction in limbo.

Phaco For Primary Angle Closure Glaucoma Could Change Disease Severity

Tue, 01 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

In patients with uncontrolled primary angle closure glaucoma, phacoemulsification alone may be a sufficient surgical option.

Microscopic Needles Could Revolutionise Eye Treatment

Mon, 30 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT

A new technique that effectively delivers drugs to the eyes, using microscopic needles, could offer hope to the millions of patients worldwide suffering from common eye diseases that threaten vision such as glaucoma, macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy.

Methicillin-Resistant Ocular Infections Of Increasing Concern

Mon, 30 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The rate of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus eye infections appears to be increasing, experts say, and surgeons are encountering more cases, particularly after refractive and cataract surgeries.

Glaucoma Procedure Now Available At Mayo Clinic Aims To Prevent Further Eye Damage

Wed, 25 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT

For the first time in Florida, patients with glaucoma have a new treatment option known as the Trabectome. The minimally invasive procedure, which is available at Mayo Clinic and takes about 20 minutes, is designed to decrease pressure within the eye and stabilize the vision.

Sirion Therapeutics Announces FDA Approval Of Durezol For Treatment Of Postoperative Ocular Inflammation And Pain

Tue, 24 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Sirion Therapeutics, Inc., a privately held ophthalmic-focused biopharmaceutical company, announced today that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved its new drug application for Durezol(TM) (difluprednate ophthalmic emulsion) 0.05%, a topical steroid for the treatment of postoperative ocular inflammation and pain. The approval came after a six month priority review.

Announcement of New President And CEO Of Nidek Co., Ltd.

Tue, 24 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Gamagori, JAPAN, -- NIDEK Co., Ltd. announced that Mr. Hideo Ozawa was appointed Chairman of the Board, and Mr. Motoki Ozawa was promoted to President and CEO. This decision was approved at the Board Meeting, after the Annual Shareholders Meeting on June 24, 2008. Under this new management, NIDEK will continue to target further growth in ophthalmic and aesthetic markets as well as optical systems and the coating business.

Imaging Method Identifies Glaucoma Risk

Fri, 20 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT

A team at Duke University has shown for the first time that a full-range Fourier-domain optical coherence tomography (FDOCT) system can provide high-speed high-resolution in vivo imaging of the eye's anterior drainage chamber.

Serum Autoantibody Predicts Outcome Of Recurrent Optic Neuritis

Thu, 19 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Patients with recurrent optic neuritis who are seropositive for the autoantibody neuromyelitis optica-immunoglobulin G (NMO-IgG) are at high risk for poor visual outcome and the development of neuromyelitis optica, research shows.

Allergan Receives U.S. Food And Drug Administration Approval For TRIVARIST (triamcinolone Acetonide Injectable Suspension) 80 Mg/mL

Thu, 19 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Allergan, Inc. (NYSE: AGN) today announced that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved TRIVARIST (triamcinolone acetonide injectable suspension) 80 mg/mL, a synthetic glucocorticoid corticosteroid with anti-inflammatory action. Delivered via intravitreal injection, the ophthalmic indications for TRIVARIST include sympathetic ophthalmia, temporal arteritis, uveitis, and ocular inflammatory conditions unresponsive to topical corticosteroids. These are inflammatory conditions that can result in vision loss.

Inotek Commences Phase 1 Trial In Glaucoma With Selective Adenosine 1 (A1) Agonist

Thu, 19 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Inotek Pharmaceuticals Corporation announced today that it has begun enrollment in a Phase 1 clinical trial with the Company's selective Adenosine 1 agonist, INO-8875, for the treatment of glaucoma. In March, Inotek received approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to advance INO-8875 into clinical trials. The initial study will evaluate the safety, tolerability, and the potential of INO-8875 to lower intraocular pressure (IOP) in glaucoma patients. Glaucoma patients typically have elevated levels of IOP which can damage the optic nerve of the eye and lead to partial or complete loss of vision.

Study: Latanoprost Safe For Long-Term Treatment Of Glaucoma, Ocular Hypertension

Fri, 13 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Study: Latanoprost Safe for Long-Term Treatment of Glaucoma, Ocular Hypertension

IOPtima Successfully Completes Initial Clinical Study For Glaucoma Using Novel Laser-Based Therapy

Thu, 12 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT

IOPtima, a subsidiary of Bio-Light Life Science Investments (TASE:BOLT), announced today that it has successfully completed the 3 month follow-up period for an initial human clinical study using the company's OT134 device and procedure. The novel, laser-based therapy enables eye surgeons to operate and reduce internal eye pressure without penetrating the eye membrane.

Bimatoprost Timolol Fixed Combination Therapy Demonstrates Significantly Better IOP Control Over 12 Hours Compared To Latanoprost Timolol Combination

Wed, 11 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Greater intra-ocular pressure (IOP) lowering benefit can be achieved for glaucoma patients treated with a fixed combination of bimatoprost and timolol (Ganfort(R), Allergan), new data presented today has revealed. The results, presented today at the European Glaucoma Society (EGS), show that patients can achieve significantly greater IOP-lowering effect after 12 weeks' treatment with Ganfort compared to Xalacom (Xalacom(R), Pfizer)(1). IOP is the major risk factor for glaucoma, and lowering IOP is currently the only proven means of preserving the patient's visual field. Glaucoma is the second most common cause of blindness globally(2).

Study: Long-Term Visual Outcomes Favorable For Optic Neuritis Patients, Even If MS Develops

Tue, 10 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The majority of optic neuritis patients can expect good long-term visual outcomes, even if they develop multiple sclerosis, according to 15-year results from the Optic Neuritis Treatment Trial.

Allergan Announces Intent To File New Drug Application For Bimatoprost As Novel Treatment To Stimulate Natural Eyelash Growth

Fri, 06 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Allergan, Inc. (NYSE:AGN) announced today that it intends to file a New Drug Application by end of the third quarter of 2008 with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for bimatoprost, a synthetic prostaglandin analog, as a treatment to stimulate eyelash growth. Allergan has completed its clinical trial program demonstrating that its patented formulation of bimatoprost, when applied directly to the base of the eyelashes, results in significant eyelash growth.

Glaucoma Report Points To Increased Costs

Thu, 05 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT

A new Centre for Eye Research Australia/ Access Economics report shows the cost of glaucoma will more than double in the next two decades.

Santen And MacuSight Announce Collaboration And License Agreement For Sirolimus In Ocular Diseases And Conditions

Wed, 04 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Santen Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. and MacuSight, Inc. today announced that the two companies have entered into a research and development collaboration and license agreement for the Japanese and Asian development and commercialization of sirolimus for the treatment of ocular diseases and conditions including wet age related macular degeneration (wet AMD) and diabetic macular edema (DME). Sirolimus, originally known as rapamycin, is a highly-potent, broad-acting compound that has demonstrated the ability to combat a broad range of ocular diseases and conditions. MacuSight is presently initiating a Phase 2 clinical trial of sirolimus in DME and preparing to initiate a Phase 2 study in wet AMD in the second half of 2008.

A Genetic Marker For Nearsightedness? Update On Vitamins And AMD

Tue, 03 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The June 2008 issue of Ophthalmology, the journal of the American Academy of Ophthalmology, includes a groundbreaking study on genetic factors and nearsightedness, a cautionary tale on age-related macular degeneration (AMD) patients' vitamin use, and good news for people who have had an acute attack of optic neuritis.

Pipex Pharmaceuticals Executes Option To License Oral Flupirtine Patent Estate For Diabetes, Diabetic Retinopathy, Retinitis Pigmentosa And Glaucoma

Wed, 28 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Pipex Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (AMEX: PP), a specialty pharmaceutical company developing innovative late-stage drug candidates for the treatment of neurologic and fibrotic diseases, today announced that it has entered into an option to acquire an exclusive worldwide license to issued and pending patent applications related to additional uses of oral flupirtine for the treatment of a range of ophthalmic, diabetes and diabetes-related therapeutic indications.

Caffeine May Be Linked To POAG Risk In Patients With Family History Of The Disease

Tue, 27 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Overall caffeine intake does not appear to be associated with increased risk of primary open-angle glaucoma, but caffeine may elevate risk of the high-tension form of the disease among patients with a family history of glaucoma, a study by researchers in Boston suggests.

QLT Reports Positive Results From Proof-Of-Concept Trial For Punctal Plug Delivery System

Thu, 22 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT

VANCOUVER, CANADA-QLT Inc. (NASDAQ: QLTI; TSX: QLT) announced today results from a proof-of-concept trial conducted by QLT's wholly-owned subsidiary, QLT Plug Delivery, Inc., of its punctal plug drug delivery technology. The results demonstrated that QLT's drug elution technology was effective in controlling intraocular pressure (IOP) and was well tolerated.

Indevus Pharmaceuticals Licenses Canadian Rights For SANCTURA XR(TM) To Allergan, Inc.

Thu, 22 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Indevus Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (Nasdaq: IDEV) today announced the signing of a License Agreement with Allergan Inc., a Canadian affiliate of Allergan, Inc., based in Irvine, CA, granting Allergan the right to market SANCTURA XR(TM) (trospium chloride extended release preparation) throughout Canada.

Glaucoma Patients With Poor Health Literacy May Have Greater Disease Progression

Mon, 12 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Glaucoma patients in urban areas who have poor health literacy appear to miss more appointments and to have worse disease understanding and greater disease progression than patients with adequate health literacy, according to a report in the May issue of Archives of Ophthalmology, one of the JAMA/Archives journals.

CIGTS Data: Large IOP Reductions, Initial Trabeculectomy Values Validated

Mon, 12 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT

New Orleans-Researchers involved in the Collaborative Initial Glaucoma Treatment Study (CIGTS) have revealed several important findings on the relationship between large reductions in IOP and disease progression, the outcomes of surgical and medical treatment, and the quality of life of glaucoma patients.

Cataract Surgery May Be Best Glaucoma Surgery, Expert Says

Mon, 12 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT

NAPLES, Italy - Cataract extraction alone may be the best and most appropriate procedure for patients with controlled or moderately uncontrolled glaucoma, according to one surgeon.

OPKO Health Acquires Company Developing Novel Glaucoma Therapy

Thu, 08 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT

OPKO Health, Inc. (Amex: OPK) today announced that it has acquired Vidus Ocular, Inc., a privately held company that is developing Aquashunt(TM), an innovative shunt to treat glaucoma, the second leading cause of blindness in the U.S., in an all-stock transaction. Aquashunt is an implantable physiologic device that is designed to address the shortcomings of current glaucoma treatments. Glaucoma is presently treated with drugs, lasers and surgery, but each has limitations, including efficacy, safety and cost issues.

NicOx Announces U.S. Phase 2a Results For PF-03187207 And Gives An Update On Continuing NO-Prostaglandin Program

Wed, 07 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT

NicOx S.A. (Euronext Paris: COX) today announced the results of a U.S. phase 2 study, conducted by its partner Pfizer Inc, which compared the safety and efficacy of various doses of PF-03187207 to Xalatan� (latanoprost) 0.005% in patients with primary open-angle glaucoma and ocular hypertension. The higher doses of PF-03187207 demonstrated a clinically significant reduction in diurnal intraocular pressure (IOP) from baseline and the highest dose showed consistently more IOP lowering than Xalatan� 0.005%, at all study visits and at all in dividual time points, suggesting a beneficial effect of nitric oxide donation. PF-03187207 is a nitric oxide-donating prostaglandin analog, which is covered by the companies' August 2004 agreement.

Statins Linked With Neuroprotection

Tue, 06 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Statin drugs could act as a neuroprotective agent for glaucoma suspect patients, preventing progression of optic nerve head parameters, a study found. Shan C. Lin, MD, and colleagues conducted a retrospective chart review, published in Clinical & Experimental Ophthalmology, that examined the role of statins and aspirin on reducing progression of optic nerve parameters in glaucoma suspects.

NicOx Shares Fall Most In 5 Years On Study Failure

Tue, 06 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT

May 6 (Bloomberg) -- NicOx SA, the French drugmaker developing treatments with Pfizer Inc. and Merck & Co., fell the most in five years in Paris trading after an experimental glaucoma medicine failed in a mid-stage study.

Optos Device Supports Scientists In Gene Therapy Research

Sun, 04 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Optos plc (LSE: OPTS), a leading medical technology company for the design, development, manufacturing and marketing of retinal imaging devices, is today announcing that its P200 device has supported a team of scientists led by The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) and The University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine in a clinical trial where gene therapy has been used to safely restore vision in three young adults with a rare form of congenital blindness.

Biovitrum Presents Detailed Results From Clinical Neuropathic Pain And Glaucoma Projects

Wed, 30 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Biovitrum invites press and analysts to a meeting on May 7th from 3 - 5 p.m. (CET) at SwedenBio, Wallingatan 24, Stockholm, Sweden. We have recently completed two patient studies with new unique treatments. One study involved the treatment of glaucoma (5-HT2A receptor antagonist) and the other neuropathic pain in diabetes patients (pH selective A2A receptor agonist). We would now like to give journalists and analysts the opportunity to learn more about the details of the design of the studies and the results.

Anecortave Acetate Shown To Lower IOP In Different Forms Of Glaucoma

Tue, 29 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. - A study in Brazil has concluded that an anterior juxtascleral depot of anecortave acetate can significantly reduce IOP for at least 3 months in several types of glaucoma. "These are all severe cases, all patients without controlled IOP, despite using medication," Tiago S. Prata, MD, told Ocular Surgery News, in an interview at his poster at the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology meeting here. "Most of them required surgery or additional medication, and instead of doing the surgery, we enrolled them in the study."

Fourier-Domain 3D OCT Shows Substantially More Retinal Details Than Time-Domain OCT

Tue, 29 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Fourier-domain three-dimensional (3D) optical coherence tomography (OCT) covers 100% of the mapped area and detected 19% more pathologies such as cystoid macular edema (CME) and subretinal fluid compared with time-domain (TD) OCT, that if left undetected might have changed management in patients with retinal pathologies, said Alexander Walsh, MD, from the Keck School of Medicine, Doheny Eye Institute, University of Southern California, Los Angeles

Optic Nerve Physician Resource Center Unveiled

Tue, 29 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The development of an optic nerve physician resource center, in conjunction with the "All Eyes on Glaucoma" campaign, was announced during the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology (ARVO) annual meeting. The resource center, available to eye-health professionals at www.alleyesonglaucoma.com, will provide the tools needed for the better diagnosis and management of patients with glaucoma including information on newer diagnostic technologies that assess the optic nerve.

Inspire Pharma To Have Four Poster Presentations At 2008 Association For Research In Vision And Ophthalmology Annual Meeting [ISPH]

Fri, 25 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

4/25/2008 1:26:57 PM Inspire Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (ISPH) on Friday said it would present information in four poster presentations at the 2008 Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology annual meeting April 27 - May 1, 2008 in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida.

Alcon Reports 16.2% Increase In First-Quarter Sales

Thu, 24 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

HUENENBERG, Switzerland - Alcon reported global sales of $1.54 billion for the first quarter, a 16.2% increase - or 9.4% excluding the impact of foreign exchange fluctuations - compared with the first quarter of 2007, the company announced in a press release.

Circadian Control Of IOP Comparable With A Single Drop Of Bimatoprost, Travoprost, Study Suggests

Thu, 24 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Single drops of bimatoprost and travoprost appear to provide comparable control of circadian IOP in patients with glaucoma or ocular hypertension when applied while lying in bed or sitting, a small, 36-hour clinical study found. "This marks the first time a single drop has been used for this type of evaluation," the study authors said.

Is There A Link Between Diabetes And Glaucoma?

Thu, 24 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Although the most important identified risk factor for open-angle glaucoma (OAG) is elevated intraocular pressure, a number of other factors, including ethnicity and systemic conditions, may come into play. Ethnicity has proved a potent risk factor, with blacks having a higher risk for OAG and developing more severe optic neuropathy than whites.

OphthalmologyWeb And GE Healthcare Financial Services Partner To Streamline Financing For Eyecare Professionals

Tue, 22 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

SOUTH SAN FRANCISCO, Calif., April 22, 2008 - OphthalmologyWeb is pleased to announce an exclusive partnership with GE Healthcare Financial Services that will allow users of OphthalmologyWeb's leading online medical product directory to quickly access GE Healthcare Financial Services' financing solutions when they inquire about the pricing and availability of today's latest diagnostic and surgical equipment used by eye care professionals. Learning how to finance the purchase is as easy as checking a box in OphthalmologyWeb's secure information and quote request system. In addition, GE Healthcare Financial Services will provide OphthalmologyWeb users with information on a broad array of financing solutions ranging from equipment financing to start-up or acquisition financing.

Glaucoma - Tentative Approval For Dorzolamide Hydrochloride With Timolol Maleate Ophthalmic Solution

Mon, 14 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Hi-Tech Pharmacal Co., Inc. (NASDAQ: HITK) announced that the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has granted tentative approval to the Company's Abbreviated New Drug Application (ANDA) for dorzolamide hydrochloride with timolol maleate ophthalmic solution.

Hi-Tech Pharmacal Rises After FDA Oks Company's ANDA For Generic Glaucoma Drug

Thu, 10 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Shares of Hi-Tech Pharmacal (NASDAQ:HITK) Co. rallied Thursday after the company said the Food and Drug Administration had granted tentative approval for the Abbreviated New Drug Application for its dorzolamide hydrochloride with timolol maleate ophthalmic solution.

Topcon Introduces New TRC-NW8 Non-Mydriatic Retinal Camera

Thu, 10 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

PARAMUS, NJ, April 9, 2008 - Topcon Medical Systems, Inc. (TMS), of Paramus, NJ, is pleased to introduce the new TRC-NW8 Non-Mydriatic Retinal Camera. This fullyautomatic camera is the ideal instrument for the growing market in Telemedicine and Diabetic Screening.

Sirion Therapeutics Highlights Pivotal Trial Results Of Durezol At The American Society Of Cataract And Refractive Surgery Annual Symposium

Wed, 09 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Sirion Therapeutics, Inc., a privately held ophthalmic-focused biopharmaceutical company, announced today the presentation of data from two Phase 3 clinical trials of Durezol(TM) (difluprednate ophthalmic emulsion) 0.05%, a topical steroid in the treatment of postoperative ocular inflammation. The results were given in a presentation by Michael Korenfeld, MD during the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery Annual Symposium in Chicago, Illinois.

Optonol Launches Updated Mini Glaucoma Shunt To Enhance Placement Precision

Mon, 07 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

A new mini glaucoma shunt model launched here offers accurate centration in the angle with increased precision in the implantation site, a physician said.

With Reimbursement Cuts Looming, Physicians Must Master Financial Aspects of Glaucoma Treatment

Sat, 05 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

CHICAGO - With the number of glaucoma cases expected to rise significantly in the next several years, and government funding facing possible cuts, physicians will need to focus more energy on the financial aspects of their practices, a physician said here. Bradford J. Shingleton, MD, spoke at Glaucoma Day, held prior to the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery meeting.

Eye Disease Continuing To Increase Among Americans

Thu, 03 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Millions of Americans are currently living with age-related eye disease and, according to the latest research from Prevent Blindness America and the National Eye Institute, that number is continuing to climb. With more than 130 million Americans aged 40 and older, more than 30 million suffer from leading causes of vision loss such as cataract, diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration and glaucoma, according to the newly revised edition of the "Vision Problems in the U.S." study.

New Research On How Season Of Birth May Affect Nearsightedness And On Cornea Donor Sources

Tue, 01 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Does season of birth play a role in the development of nearsightedness? Do corneas from older donors meet quality standards for transplant surgery? These are among the topics explored in the April 2008 issue of Ophthalmology, the journal of the American Academy of Ophthalmology.

New Welsh 'Self-Test' To Cure Glaucoma, The Leading Cause Of Preventable Blindness

Tue, 01 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

According to the World Health Organization, more than five million people, mostly elderly blacks, but many Latinos and a few elderly Whites with their Glaucoma family members, needlessly suffer horribly from total incurable Glaucoma-Blindness ("White-Canes"). Most lack the opportunity to get tested for Earlier Glaucoma before Glaucoma slowly robbed them of all their sight. Dr. Robert Welsh, a Rotarian, a world-renowned Eye Surgeon and a leading Medical Missionary can help prevent 80,000 new totally blind Glaucoma cases a year through administering his new unique invention: The Welsh Glaucoma "Self-Test," and the New Welsh "T.V. Self-Test for Earlier Glaucoma," on all USA T.V. Stations.

QLT Initiates Phase II Study Of Punctal Plug Drug Delivery System For Glaucoma & Ocular Hypertension

Sun, 30 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT

NCOUVER, March 31 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ - QLT Inc. announced today the initiation of patient recruitment into its "CORE" study, a phase II trial being conducted by QLT's wholly-owned subsidiary, QLT Plug Delivery, Inc. ("QPD"), to evaluate the preliminary efficacy and safety of its latanoprost punctal plug delivery system for the treatment of glaucoma and ocular hypertension. The punctal plug delivery system is a non-invasive drug delivery system that is being developed with a goal of being capable of delivering a variety of drugs to the eye over time through sustained release to the tear film.

Glaucoma And Cardiovascular Death Linked In Black Patients

Fri, 28 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Patients who are black have an increased risk of death from cardiovascular diseases if they have high pressure in the eyes or if they have been diagnosed with and treated for glaucoma, according to a report in the March 2008 issue of Archives of Ophthalmology, one of the JAMA/Archives journals.

Digital Series And H-R Wide Field Lenses From Volk Optical At ASCRS: Lenses Deliver Best Resolution And Views For Non-Contact Or Laser Work

Wed, 26 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Mentor, Ohio (March 26, 2008) - Volk Optical, the industry leader in aspheric optics, will be exhibiting at the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery (ASCRS) Annual Meeting, April 4 through 9 at the McCormick Center in Chicago, Illinois.

More Women Losing Sight To Eye Disease Than Men

Wed, 26 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT

More women than men are diagnosed with vision threatening eye disease every year. Potentially blinding diseases such as glaucoma, cataracts, macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy strike women in some cases almost twice as much as men. Although the theories for the cause of this vary, the numbers illustrate a disturbing truth.

Free Screenings For Glaucoma And Diabetic Retinopathy Available May 10 In Santa Ana

Tue, 25 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT

"Ver es Poder" - Seeing is Empowerment - is the theme for a Latino Glaucoma Awareness Day and Screening to be held Saturday, May 10, 9 am to 5 pm at the Delhi Center, 505 East Central Avenue, Santa Ana, presented by the Glaucoma Research Foundation (GRF) announced GRF President and CEO Thomas M. Brunner today at the formation meeting of the initiative's Leadership Group. Jose Molina, Spanish-language broadcasting pioneer in the Southwestern states and chair of the Leadership Group, convened the formation meeting at the Irvine headquarters of the project sponsor, Allergan.

Orbis Flying Hospital Lands in Da Nang to Train Medical Staff

Mon, 24 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT

DA NANG - The US-based Orbis Flying Eye Hospital, which will offer training to local doctors, nurses and technicians onboard a DC-10 aircraft, arrived in Da Nang on Monday. The aircraft and medical team will be based at Da Nang Airport until April 4. On board are 14 leading ophthalmologists from Australia, Italy, the US, the UK and other countries, assisting 100 Vietnamese doctors and nurses in eye treatment and restoration.

Scientists Successfully Awaken Sleeping Stem Cells

Tue, 18 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Boston, MA-Scientists at Schepens Eye Research Institute have discovered what chemical in the eye triggers the dormant capacity of certain non-neuronal cells to transform into progenitor cells, a stem-like cell that can generate new retinal cells. The discovery, published in the March issue of Investigative Ophthalmology and Visual Science (IOVS), offers new hope to victims of diseases that harm the retina, such as macular degeneration and retinitis pigmentosa.

New Study Points to Mechanism of Rho-Kinase Inhibitor Efficacy in Glaucoma Therapy

Fri, 14 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Rho-kinase inhibitors are known to affect actomyosin cytoskeletal networks and have been shown to significantly increase outflow facility in several non-human in vitro and in vivo models. But a recent study may suggest why (Exp Eye Res. 2008 Feb;86(2):271-81). Researchers Lu, Overby, et al, used a bovine system to explore the effects of rho-kinase inhibitor Y-27632 on hydrodynamic outflow patterns, inner wall morphology, and juxtacanalicular connective tissue. Their data suggest that the underlying mechanism of efficacy for this novel IOP-lowering agent is by opening up the junction between the inner wall and juxtacanalicular connective tissue, thereby increasing aqueous outflow.

Sirtris Pharmaceuticals Collaborator Presents Neuroprotective Data For Oral Drug Candidate SRT501 At North American Neuro-Ophthalmology Society Meeting

Tue, 11 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Sirtris Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (NASDAQ: SIRT), a biopharmaceutical company focused on discovering and developing small molecule drugs to treat diseases of aging, announced today that drug candidate SRT501, when orally administered, suppressed neurological dysfunction in a preclinical model of multiple sclerosis. Kenneth Shindler, MD, PhD, Assistant Professor of Ophthalmology at the University of Pennsylvania Scheie Eye Institute and lead investigator, will present the data today at the North American Neuro-Ophthalmology Society annual meeting.

Glaucoma Associated With Increased Risk Of Cardiovascular Death In Black Patients

Mon, 10 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Black patients with diagnosed and treated glaucoma and those with high pressure in their eyes appear to have an increased risk of death from cardiovascular causes, according to a report in the March issue of Archives of Ophthalmology, one of the JAMA/Archives journals.

Alcon Presents Clinical Trial Data On Anecortave Acetate For Glaucoma

Mon, 10 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Alcon, Inc. (NYSE: ACL) released today the primary efficacy and safety results of the second controlled proof of concept clinical study of anecortave acetate administered as an anterior juxtascleral depot in the sub-Tenon's space to reduce intraocular pressure in patients with open-angle glaucoma. These initial data were presented at a clinical investigator's meeting held in association with the annual meeting of the American Glaucoma Society in Washington, DC.

Statement Of Paul A. Sieving, M.D., Ph.D., Director, National Eye Institute, National Institutes Of Health, On World Glaucoma Day

Thu, 06 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The National Eye Institute (NEI), one of the federal government's National Institutes of Health (NIH), joins today with other groups around the globe to observe World Glaucoma Day. NEI reaffirms its commitment to support ongoing research to better understand glaucoma, to identify risk factors that lead to the development of the disease, and to prevent vision loss and blindness.

BiCOM Inc. Strives To Reach 2,000,000 Eyes On World Glaucoma Day Through Global Awareness Campaign

Thu, 06 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT

BiCOM Inc., a global distributor of Diaton tonometer (non-invasive tonometry through eyelid) has responded to the call for action from World Glaucoma Association (WGA) and World Glaucoma Patient Association (WGPA) by advising and guiding all of its distributors located in over 30 countries in North and South America, Europe, Asia and Middle East to participate in the World Glaucoma Day on March 6 through either Screening or Awareness campaigns.

UC San Diego Ophthalmologist Joins International Awareness Effort At First-Ever World Glaucoma Day

Wed, 05 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Glaucoma is often described as "the silent blinding disease." That's precisely why a University of California, San Diego Distinguished Professor is helping to deliver a very loud message to Capitol Hill: Blindness caused by glaucoma can be prevented.

Study Finds Variations In CCT Between Pseudoexfoliation Glaucoma, Ocular Hypertension

Fri, 29 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Central corneal thickness can vary between patients with different types of glaucomas and may be particularly important when evaluating cases of pseudoexfoliation glaucoma or ocular hypertension, according to a study by researchers in Greece.

Spiridon Gorezis, MD, and colleagues at the University of Ioannina measured the central corneal thickness (CCT) for 60 eyes with primary open-angle glaucoma and 50 eyes with pseudoexfoliation glaucoma and compared the measurements with those for 60 normal control eyes.

Sirion Therapeutics Receives NDA Acceptance And Priority Review From The FDA For Durezol(TM) In The Treatment Of Postoperative Ocular Inflammation

Thu, 28 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Sirion Therapeutics, Inc., a privately held ophthalmic-focused biopharmaceutical company, today announced that its New Drug Application (NDA) for Durezol(TM) has been accepted by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and granted priority review. Sirion Therapeutics is seeking approval from the FDA for its investigational compound Durezol(TM) (difluprednate ophthalmic emulsion) 0.05%, a twice-daily steroid, as a treatment for postoperative ocular inflammation.

New Research On Cataract Prevalence, Alternative Glaucoma Therapies Online, Seatbelts Vs. Airbags, And Hearing Loss In Glaucoma Patients

Thu, 28 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Are cataract rates on the decline? Should glaucoma patients seeking alternative therapies trust what they find online? Are seatbelts still important to protect eyes in auto accidents, now that most cars have airbags? What's the connection between hearing loss and one form of glaucoma? These are among the topics explored in the March 2008 issue of Ophthalmology, the journal of the American Academy of Ophthalmology.

ESBATech's Antibody Fragments Demonstrate Penetration Into The Eye With Topical Delivery Via Eye Drops

Tue, 26 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMT

ESBATech AG, a leading developer of antibody fragment therapeutics, today announced that it has achieved high concentrations of its antibody fragments in all segments of the eye with topical delivery via eye drops. These data were confirmed in several independent preclinical in vivo tests. Anticipated therapeutic concentrations of ESBATech's antibody fragments were observed in the anterior chamber (front of the eye) and in the posterior segments (back of the eye) including vitreous humour, retina, and choroid. ESBATech's lead antibody fragment ESBA105 is a TNFa antagonist that is scheduled to enter clinical development later in 2008.

Role Identified For Glaucoma Gene And Related Signaling Pathway

Thu, 14 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Researchers have found that a gene and a related signaling pathway play a role in the development of glaucoma, which is a common cause of visual impairment and blindness worldwide. The team was led by Alcon Research and included investigators from the University of Iowa and the National Cancer Institute (NCI), part of the National Institutes of Health.

Biovitrum Has Completed An Exploratory Clinical Phase II Study In Glaucoma

Wed, 13 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Biovitrum has completed a first explorative clinical Phase II study with the candidate drug BVT.28949, a 5-HT2A antagonist intended for the treatment of glaucoma. The preliminary results show a dose dependent reduction of the intraocular pressure; a reduction that amounted to 10 % as compared to the pressure before treatment after four weeks at the highest dose.

Fatty Acids Beneficial In Treatment For Dry Eye Syndrome

Mon, 11 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Research conducted by Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary (MEEI) Cornea Service Director and Harvard Medical School Professor Reza Dana, M.D., M. Sc., MPH, and colleagues at the Schepens Eye Research Institute have found for the first time that topical drop application of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) led to a significant decrease in clinical signs of dry eye syndrome (DES) in animal models. ALA is a fatty acid that cannot be made by the body and must be supplied in the diet. The study will be published in the February 2008 issue of Archives of Ophthalmology.

Journal Highlights New Findings On Age-Related Macular Degeneration And Nutrition, Eye Injuries In The Iraq War, And Quality Of Life For Glaucoma Patients

Wed, 06 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMT

SAN FRANCISCO, CA- What nutrients are under investigation for their possible role in age-related macular degeneration (AMD)? What is the incidence of eye trauma among troops serving in Iraq? How does glaucoma affect the quality of life of patients? These are among the issues addressed in the February 2008 issue of Ophthalmology, the journal of the American Academy of Ophthalmology.

Company Banking On 'Pacemaker For The Eye'

Fri, 01 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Electricity has been used to shock hearts, ease pain and even treat depression. Now, apparently, it can even thwart blindness. ScyFix, a start-up, has developed a device that treats diseases such as glaucoma and macular degeneration by shooting electric currents into the eye. The company, which is conducting clinical trials in India and the United States, hopes to sell the first device approved by the Food and Drug Administration designed to restore eyesight.

Glaucoma Research Foundation Gains $1.55M Gift To Launch Capital Drive

Fri, 01 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The Glaucoma Research Foundation said Friday it has received a donation of $1.55 million to kick off its $12 million capital campaign. The gift, from the Houston-based Melza M. and Frank Theodore Barr Foundation, will jumpstart fundraising as the Glaucoma Research Foundation begins the first year of implementing a new three-year strategic plan, GRF President and CEO Thomas Brunner said Feb. 1.

Researchers Query FDA About Updating Requirements For Drug Approval

Thu, 31 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Scientists and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) are discussing how new technologies in ophthalmology, which make it possible to collect better data about experimental treatments, might affect FDA clinical trials requirements.

Optos Partner Publishes Panoramic Ophthalmoscopy: Optomap� Images And Interpretation

Thu, 31 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMT

MARLBOROUGH, MA, January 31, 2008 - Optos, a leading medical technology company for the design, development, manufacturing, and marketing of retinal imaging devices is pleased to announce Optos Partner, Jerome Sherman, OD, FAAO, and his colleagues Gulshan Karamachandani, William L. Jones, OD, FAAO, Sanjeev Nath, MD, Lawrence Yannuzzi, MD recently published Panoramic Ophthalmoscopy: Optomap� Images and Interpretation.

World Glaucoma Day Set For March 6th

Thu, 31 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMT

In an effort to combat one of the main causes of blindness around the globe, the World Glaucoma Association and the World Glaucoma Patient Organization have announced the first annual World Glaucoma Day, to be observed on March 6, 2008. The day will be marked by awareness and educational events organized by glaucoma institutions and local patient support groups worldwide, as listed on www.wgday.net. As well as striking the residents of developing countries at alarming rates, glaucoma is the second leading cause of blindness in the United States and the leading cause for African-Americans.

Mobius TherapeuticsT Granted Orphan Drug Designation

Wed, 23 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Mobius Therapeutics, Inc.T has been granted orphan drug designation for its platform product, TrabomycinT, by the Office of Orphan Products Development of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. This approval grants seven years of U.S. market exclusivity to Mobius, once its New Drug Application is approved.

American Academy Of Ophthalmology Mourns Loss Of Judah Folkman, MD, Pioneering Researcher

Thu, 17 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The American Academy of Ophthalmology expresses its sadness at the death of Judah Folkman, MD, (Moses Judah Folkman, MD) whose research on angiogenesis inhibitors sparked major advances in the treatment of eye diseases and other illnesses that involve excessive or abnormal angiogenesis, or blood vessel development.

Congress Delays 10.1% Fee Cut Until July

Thu, 10 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Washington, DC-In the final days of its 2007 session, Congress passed a temporary fix to delay a scheduled 10.1% Medicare fee cut to physicians for 6 months and provided physicians with a positive 0.5% update.

Jan Marini Eyelash Product Is Taken Off The U.S. Market

Mon, 07 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Jan Marini Skin Research, a small California company that sells a popular cosmetic product to make eyelashes look longer, is suspending U.S. sales of the product to avoid further conflict with the Food and Drug Administration as well as a costly patent battle with drug maker Allergan Inc.

David W. Parke II, MD, Assumes Presidency Of American Academy Of Ophthalmology

Fri, 04 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMT

David W. Parke II, MD, became the new president of the American Academy of Ophthalmology on Jan. 1, 2008, taking over from departing president C.P. Wilkinson, MD. Dr. Parke is the Edward L. Gaylord Professor and chairman of the Department of Ophthalmology at the University of Oklahoma. He is also president and CEO of the Dean A. McGee Eye Institute in Oklahoma City, Okla.

NicOx Announces Pfizer Initiates Phase 2 Clinical Development for PF-03187207 in Japan

Fri, 04 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMT

NicOx S.A. (Euronext Paris: COX) today announced that Pfizer Inc has initiated a dose-ranging phase 2 clinical study for PF-03187207 in Japan. PF-03187207 is a new experimental medicine for the treatment of glaucoma, which is currently in an ongoing phase 2 proof-of-concept study in the United States (see press releases of March 28 and 29, 2007).

Glaucoma Medications: A Cost Evaluation

Thu, 27 Dec 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Glaucoma medications can range from $150 to $875 annually depending on class and whether they are brand name or generic. A prescribing doctor should be mindful of these expenses because of the relationship between pharmaceutical cost and patient compliance. A research article in the January 2008 issue of the American Journal of Ophthalmology (AJO) by Nathan Rylander and Steven Vold calculated the theoretical yearly cost of glaucoma medications using the average wholesale price and common dosing patterns. Cosopt, Alphagan P, Timoptic, Betoptic S, Azopt, Trusopt, Lumigan, and Travatan were some of the brand names they evaluated. They found that nonselective β-blockers remain the most inexpensive class of glaucoma medications. They also concluded that a detailed knowledge of the pricing of these pharmaceuticals may aid in the medical management of glaucoma patients.

Doctors Now Do It Though The Eyelid

Thu, 27 Dec 2007 00:00:00 GMT

About a year ago no doctor would believe that it was possible, but today it is becoming a mainstream procedure. Inpatient & Outpatient Clinics such as Hospitals, Emergency Rooms, Nursing & Elderly Homes, General & Specialty Practitioners are joining Ophthalmologists and Optometrists with "Provocative Test for Glaucoma".

Allergan: Looking Pretty

Thu, 20 Dec 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Allergan Chief Executive David Pyott has transformed a sleepy maker of eye-care products into a fast-growing company known for products that are synonymous with the American quest for beauty and youth: Botox and silicone breast implants. Net sales have doubled in four years.

Penn State Hershey Eye Center Forms

Tue, 18 Dec 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Penn State Milton S. Hershey Medical Center and Penn State College of Medicine today announced the formation of Penn State Hershey Eye Center.

The eye center combines the clinical care offered by the department of ophthalmology with research and education programs, which makes it easier for the physicians and researchers to work together.

Glaucoma Research Foundation 30th Anniversary Gala Set For Jan. 23, 2008

Fri, 07 Dec 2007 00:00:00 GMT

During National Glaucoma Awareness Month, Glaucoma Research Foundation (GRF) celebrates its 30th Anniversary on January 23, 2008, with a gala benefit at the Westin St. Francis Hotel Tower in San Francisco. The annual event, "Speeding the Cure. Spreading the Word." showcases recent advances in GRF-funded research. The Gala includes presentation of the Catalyst Award, GRF's most prestigious honor, to Cary Rayment, chairman, president and CEO of Alcon Laboratories in Fort Worth, Texas.

Preop Bevacizumab Injection Boosts IOP Reduction Achieved By Surgery For Neovascular Glaucoma

Tue, 04 Dec 2007 00:00:00 GMT

INDIAN WELLS, Calif. - Administering bevacizumab to patients with neovascular glaucoma before they undergo surgery appears effective for improving the reduction in IOP, according to a surgeon speaking here. At the annual meeting of the American Society of Retina Specialists, Rohit Ross Lakhanpal, MD, presented the results of a retrospective study of 112 consecutive eyes treated for neovascular glaucoma. All eyes underwent pars plana vitrectomy, laser photocoagulation and Ahmed glaucoma valve implantation (New World Medical).

Drug That Lengthens Eyelashes Sets Off Flutter

Sat, 01 Dec 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Doctors and patients alike have noticed that eyelash growth is a side effect of a glaucoma drug called Lumigan, sold by California drug maker Allergan Inc. That phenomenon has set off a race among cosmetics companies to create new eyelash treatments that contain either bimatoprost -- the active ingredient in Lumigan -- or other so-called prostaglandins found in glaucoma drugs.

Screening Systems For Open Angle Glaucoma Assessed

Thu, 22 Nov 2007 00:00:00 GMT

[U.K.] Screening Systems For Open Angle Glaucoma Assessed

Thu, 22 Nov 2007 00:00:00 GMT

New research published by the National Institute for Health Research's Health Technology Assessment (NIHR HTA) programme suggests that screening the general population for open angle glaucoma (OAG) would not be cost-effective, but that a system of targeted screening may be. Glaucoma is the leading cause of irreversible blindness worldwide. OAG, the most common form of glaucoma, is without symptoms in the early stages. Early detection and treatment may reduce the burden of sight loss and consequent disability associated with the condition.

Studies From Wilmer Eye Institute Add New Findings In The Area Of Glaucoma

Thu, 22 Nov 2007 00:00:00 GMT

New investigation results, 'Using pharmacy claims data to study adherence to glaucoma medications: methodology and findings of the Glaucoma Adherence and Persistency Study (GAPS),' are detailed in a study published in Investigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science (see also Glaucoma).

Eye Surgery Errors Uncommon But Preventable

Mon, 19 Nov 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Surgical mix-ups may be uncommon in ophthalmology and cause little permanent harm, but most could be avoided by following simple protocols, researchers said.

Prostaglandins Generally Safe for Patients With Ocular Inflammation but Caution Should Be Used: Presented at AAO

Thu, 15 Nov 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Using prostaglandins to control glaucoma in patients with either uveitis or inflamed eyes appears to be safe with no increase in the number of new cases or recurrences of uveitis and apparently no reduction in the efficacy of the drug.

Ranibizumab Injections Cause Spikes in Intraocular Pressure: Presented at AAO

Thu, 15 Nov 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Patients who receive injections of ranibizumab to treat age-related macular degeneration could run the risk of dangerous spikes in intraocular pressure (IOP). This effect of the drug could put these patients at risk of damage to the optic nerve head, researchers reported here at the annual meeting of the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO).

Adjunctive Medications to Lower Intraocular Pressure Go Head-to-Head: Presented at AAO

Tue, 13 Nov 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Researchers report that adding brimonidine Purite to a prostaglandin lowers intraocular pressure (IOP) better than either dorzolamide 2% or brinzolamide 1% in patients with glaucoma.

Multiple New Mechanisms of Action Greatly Expand Lpath's Ability to Treat Ocular Disease

Tue, 13 Nov 2007 00:00:00 GMT

The strength of recent pre-clinical data has given Lpath, Inc. (OTCBB: LPTN) a broader vision for its lead drug candidate, sonepcizumab, in the ophthalmic arena. As recognized category leader in therapeutic agents against bioactive lipids, Lpath now considers sonepcizumab as a potential treatment for a broad range of ocular diseases that extend well beyond "wet" Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD).

Genentech President Defends Company's Decision To Embargo Avastin Sales To Compounding Pharmacies

Tue, 13 Nov 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Susan Desmond-Hellmann, MD, MPH, president of product development for Genentech, said she came to speak at today's Retina Subspecialty Day program to assure physicians of two things: "One, Genentech will not interfere with your prescribing choice. Two, Genentech will do everything possible to ensure patients have access to Lucentis," she said.

Ophthalmic Imaging Systems to Launch Three New Products at the American Academy of Ophthalmology's (AAO) 111th Annual Meeting

Sun, 11 Nov 2007 00:00:00 GMT

SACRAMENTO, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Ophthalmic Imaging Systems (OIS) (OTCBB:OISI), a leading provider of ophthalmic digital imaging and informatics solutions, announced today that it will launch three new products at the American Academy of Ophthalmology's (AAO) 111th Annual Meeting being held November 10th - 13th, at Ernest N. Morial Convention Center in New Orleans.

Clarity Medical Systems Inc. To Present China Telemedicine Demonstrations At AAO Conference In New Orleans November 10 - 12, 2007

Fri, 09 Nov 2007 00:00:00 GMT

NEW ORLEANS--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Clarity Medical Systems, Inc., manufacturer of the RetCamT II and the RetCamT Shuttle Digital Imaging Systems, will present several global telemedicine events from China on Saturday, November 10, Sunday, November 11, and Monday, November 12, at the company's theater tradeshow booth #1058 at the 2007 annual conference of the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) in New Orleans. Conference attendees are invited to witness China's leading ophthalmic practitioners diagnosing and directing treatment, direct from three hospitals in China, before a live audience in real-time in New Orleans.

Angiotech To Participate In The American Academy Of Ophthalmology (AAO) 2007 Annual Meeting

Fri, 09 Nov 2007 00:00:00 GMT

VANCOUVER, Nov. 8 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ - Angiotech Pharmaceuticals, Inc. , a global specialty pharmaceutical and medical device company, today announced that it plans to exhibit its SharpGuard(TM) product line as well as all of its Sharpoint(TM) brand ophthalmic disposable surgical instruments at the upcoming American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) annual meeting.

Abbott Study Examines Rates of Uveitis (Inflammation of the Eye) in Ankylosing Spondylitis Patients Treated with HUMIRA(R) (adalimumab)

Thu, 08 Nov 2007 00:00:00 GMT

ABBOTT PARK, Ill. A study of ankylosing spondylitis (AS) patients treated with Abbott's HUMIRA(R) showed a decrease in the rate of uveitis flares by approximately half compared to patients treated with placebo.

Glaucoma Creeps Up on More Americans

Mon, 05 Nov 2007 00:00:00 GMT

It is called the "sneak thief of sight" for a reason: Years pass before patients notice vision loss - an absence of symptoms while damage is done and sight is stolen with no way to get it back.

Allergan, Inc. Receives FDA Approval For COMBIGAN(TM) (brimonidine Tartrate/timolol Maleate Ophthalmic Solution) 0.2%/0.5%

Wed, 31 Oct 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Allergan, Inc. (NYSE:AGN) today announced that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved COMBIGAN(TM) (brimonidine tartrate/timolol maleate ophthalmic solution) 0.2%/0.5%, an alpha adrenergic receptor agonist with a beta adrenergic receptor inhibitor, for the reduction of elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) in patients with glaucoma or ocular hypertension who require adjunctive or replacement therapy due to inadequately controlled IOP. COMBIGAN(TM) is the newest addition to Allergan's comprehensive glaucoma portfolio, which also includes LUMIGAN(R) (bimatoprost ophthalmic solution) 0.03% and ALPHAGAN(R) P (brimonidine tartrate ophthalmic solution) 0.1% and 0.15%.

FDA Approves Combo Eye Drop For Glaucoma

Wed, 31 Oct 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Regulators approved a new glaucoma treatment -- Combigan, an eye drop that treats the potentially blinding eye condition with two drugs that work through different mechanisms, Allergan Inc said Wednesday.

Sen. Kohl Queries Medicare On Genentech Drugs

Mon, 22 Oct 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Herb Kohl, the chairman of the Senate's Special Committee on Aging, asked the federal agency that runs Medicare some tough questions about the billions of dollars it may have to spend if lots of Medicare patients with a serious eye disease use Genentech's Lucentis instead of the company's Avastin.

Kohl's letter, sent yesterday, cites a story that ran in the WSJ last week (and first appeared, in shorter form, in the Health Blog), describing a move by Genentech to block sales of the the drug to certain specialized pharmacies. That could make it more difficult for some patients to be treated with Avastin for an eye disease called wet macular degeneration.

QLT Completes Acquisition of ForSight Newco II, Inc.

Thu, 18 Oct 2007 00:00:00 GMT

QLT Inc. (NASDAQ: QLTI; TSX: QLT) announced today the successful completion of its acquisition of privately held ForSight Newco II, Inc. Through this acquisition, QLT, through its wholly-owned subsidiary, will obtain rights to commercialize ForSight Newco II's proprietary ocular punctal plug drug delivery system, and will lead and fund future development efforts in this program.

International Survey Shows People Over Forty Ignore Risk Of Blindness

Thu, 18 Oct 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Results of a new international survey reveal that eye exams are being ignored by many aged over 40. Only two fifths of respondents had visited an eye specialist in the last year to have their eyes checked, even though twice as many people feared going blind compared to heart disease or early death.

Medical Conference to Debate National Screening Guidelines for Glaucoma

Wed, 17 Oct 2007 00:00:00 GMT

The Potomac Institute for Policy Studies and The Glaucoma Foundation announced today that they will be sponsoring a policy conference entitled, "Glaucoma screening and treatment: Driving towards a unified federal and private sector policy approach." The conference is in direct response to the publication of a report by the United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) that states that there is insufficient scientific evidence to support the practice of screening for and treating glaucoma in the U.S. population.

Early Results Show Canaloplasty Can Reduce IOP In Patients With Open-Angle Glaucoma

Wed, 10 Oct 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Canaloplasty is the circumferential viscodilation and tensioning of the inner wall of Schlemm's canal to treat open-angle glaucoma. First, a nonpenetrating dissection technique is used to expose Schlemm's canal. Then a flexible microcatheter (iTrack 250A, iScience Interventional) is used to dilate the full circumference of the canal by injecting sodium hyaluronate 1.4 percent (Healon GV) during catheterization. A suture loop is then placed in the canal to apply tension to the trabecular meshwork.

Verizon Awards $1.5 Million Grant to Expand American Foundation for the Blind's Web Site for Seniors With Age-Related Vision Loss

Wed, 03 Oct 2007 00:00:00 GMT

The Verizon Foundation today announced a $1.5 million grant to the American Foundation for the Blind to fund and expand an AFB Web site designed to help aging adults with low vision continue to lead more independent and comfortable lives.

Can a T Cell-Based Neuroprotective Vaccination Prevent Glaucoma Progression?

Wed, 03 Oct 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Schwartz et al. recently demonstrated that a T cell-based vaccination, using synthetic antigens (glatiramer acetate, also known as Copolymer-1 or Cop-1) that cross-react weakly with retinal and optic nerve antigens, reduces the loss of retinal ganglion cells in a rat model of chronic glaucoma.1 This vaccine not only boosted the T-cell response, it did it without causing an autoimmune disease.

Drugs That Lower Cholesterol Also Beneficial For Eye Disease

Thu, 20 Sep 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Statin drugs that help lower cholesterol may also be beneficial in preventing glaucoma progression according to the Wiley-Blackwell journal - Clinical & Experimental Ophthalmology.

Surgeon: Glaucoma Should be Studied as a Central Nervous System Disease

Wed, 19 Sep 2007 00:00:00 GMT

In studying glaucoma, its effects and possible treatments, researchers should look at the entire central nervous system and not focus solely the eye, according to a surgeon speaking here.

Volk Optical Allies With Synergetics USA, Inc.

Tue, 11 Sep 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Mentor, Ohio (September 11, 2007) - Volk Optical has entered into two new distribution agreements with Synergetics USA, Inc. (NASDAQ: SURG), granting Synergetics rights over the next three years to sell Volk's products to vitreoretinal surgeons in the United States. The agreements cover Volk's line of ophthalmic lenses, used for detailed examination and treatment of the retina, and exclusive right to sell the company's new OptiflexT Surgical Assistant. This revolutionary new vitreoretinal system, compatible with all leading surgical microscopes, enhances surgeon's visual ability with precision focus and control.

Fluctuating Eye Pressure Associated with Visual Field Deterioration in Glaucoma Patients

Mon, 13 Aug 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Fluctuations in eye pressure may be associated with a decreasing peripheral field of vision in patients with glaucoma, even if their eye pressure remains low overall, according to a report in the August issue of Archives of Ophthalmology, one of the JAMA/Archives journals.

DeCODE Discovers Cause of Major Subtype of Glaucoma

Thu, 09 Aug 2007 00:00:00 GMT

In a paper published today in the journal Science, scientists from deCODE genetics (Nasdaq:DCGN) and academic colleagues from the National University Hospital in Reykjavik and Uppsala University in Sweden report the discovery of two common single letter variations (SNPs) in the sequence of the human genome that appear to account for virtually all cases of a major subtype of glaucoma. The SNPs are located in the LOXL1 gene on chromosome 15, and confer respectively 26-fold and 8-fold increases in risk of exfoliation glaucoma compared to the low-risk versions of the same markers.

Glaucoma Could Be Treated With Alzheimer's Drugs, New Study

Wed, 08 Aug 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Scientists from the UK, France and Italy have suggested that drugs normally used to treat Alzheimer's Disease could be effective in treating glaucoma, a leading cause of irreversible blindness in the world. So far the tests have only been carried out on animals but human tests are planned for later this year or early next year.

IOPtima Completes Development of Novel Laser-Based Therapy for Glaucoma

Wed, 08 Aug 2007 00:00:00 GMT

IOPtima announced today that it has completed development of its OT134 device, a novel laser-based therapy for the treatment of glaucoma. The second-generation OT134 is based on IOPtima's smart laser-based technology known as LNPDS (CO2 Laser Non-Penetrating Deep Sclerectomy) that has already been successfully tested on 23 glaucoma patients in clinical trials. The OT134 upgrades the previous prototype with improved efficacy and ergonomic features.

Miniature Implanted Devices Could Treat Epilepsy, Glaucoma

Tue, 07 Aug 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Purdue University researchers have developed new miniature devices designed to be implanted in the brain to predict and prevent epileptic seizures and a nanotech sensor for implantation in the eye to treat glaucoma.

Link Identified Between Alzheimer's Disease and Glaucoma

Mon, 06 Aug 2007 00:00:00 GMT

UK scientists have shown for the first time that key proteins involved in Alzheimer's disease are also implicated in glaucoma, the major cause of irreversible blindness worldwide. Research carried out at the UCL Institute of Ophthalmology and funded by the Wellcome Trust has also shown that novel drugs being trialled for Alzheimer's disease which target this protein may be used to treat glaucoma.

Alcon's Treatment of Glaucoma and Ocular Hypertension, TRAVATANZT Solution, Approved in Japan

Fri, 03 Aug 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Alcon, Inc. (NYSE: ACL) announced today that the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare in Japan has approved TRAVATANZT (travoprost ophthalmic solution) 0.004% for the treatment of glaucoma and ocular hypertension. TRAVATANZT solution is the first prostaglandin analogue that is free of benzalkonium chloride (BAC), a commonly used preservative in topical ocular medications. Research suggests that chronic use of ophthalmic solutions containing BAC could negatively affect the ocular surface.

New Treatment for Glaucoma Shows Promise in Laboratory, Say Iowa State Researchers

Thu, 02 Aug 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Iowa State University researchers have developed a new technique that successfully treated rats for blindness caused by glaucoma. Their experimental treatment will be used on canine patients in the next year. If successful, it is expected to move to human trials.

Bimatoprost May Provide Better Intraocular Pressure Control Than Latanoprost

Fri, 27 Jul 2007 00:00:00 GMT

In patients with exfoliative glaucoma, better diurnal intraocular pressure (IOP) control is obtained with bimatoprost than with latanoprost, according to Greek researchers.

Anecortave Acetate Clinical Trial Data for Glaucoma Presented at World Congress of Glaucoma

Wed, 18 Jul 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Alcon, Inc. (NYSE: ACL) released today the three-month interim results of the first controlled clinical study of anecortave acetate administered as an anterior juxtascleral depot in the sub-Tenon's space to reduce intraocular pressure in patients with open-angle glaucoma. The data were presented in a poster at the World Glaucoma Congress in Singapore.

Alternative Technique for Drainage Device Implantation Could Limit Complications

Tue, 26 Jun 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Inserting a glaucoma drainage device in the posterior chamber sulcus rather than in the anterior chamber can be effective for controlling IOP, a retrospective study found. The technique may also reduce endothelial cell loss and the need for pars plana vitrectomy, the study authors noted.

OCT Can Be Used for Anterior Segment Imaging

Tue, 26 Jun 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Optical coherence tomography can be used as a non-contact means for visualizing the anterior chamber, according to a small study by researchers in England. The technology may be particularly helpful for assessing glaucoma patients for whom gonioscopy cannot be performed or is difficult to interpret, the authors noted.

Blood Pressure Linked to Development of Glaucoma

Tue, 19 Jun 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Glaucoma is more likely to occur in people with an elevated pulse pressure -- the difference between the high blood pressure number (when the heart beats) and the low number (when the heart is relaxed) -- Dutch researchers report.

UCF Nanoparticle Offers Promise For Treating Glaucoma

Mon, 18 Jun 2007 00:00:00 GMT

A unique nanoparticle made in a laboratory at the University of Central Florida is proving promising as a drug delivery device for treating glaucoma, an eye disease that can cause blindness and affects millions of people worldwide.

Measuring Multifocal Visual Evoked Potentials Can Help Manage Glaucoma

Tue, 12 Jun 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Measuring multifocal visual evoked potentials can effectively be used for detecting glaucoma in patients for whom visual field evaluations cannot be reliably obtained or who have visual fields that are not completely clear, according to a presentation here.

High Arterial Pulse Pressure Associated with High-Tension Open-Angle Glaucoma

Mon, 11 Jun 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Individuals with a high pulse pressure (the difference between the systolic [top number] and diastolic [bottom number] blood pressure), appear to have an increased risk for high-tension open-angle glaucoma, according to a report in the June issue of Archives of Ophthalmology, one of the JAMA/Archives journals.

Glaucoma Surgery Reverses Optic Disc Cupping in Some Patients

Wed, 06 Jun 2007 00:00:00 GMT

An analysis of 5-year data of patients in the Collaborative Initial Glaucoma Treatment Study found that 14% of patients treated surgically experienced a "reversal of cupping" compared with just 1% of patients treated medically, according to a surgeon speaking here.

Scientists Plan Stem Cell Cure for Blindness

Tue, 05 Jun 2007 00:00:00 GMT

LONDON (Reuters) - British scientists plan to use stem cells to cure a common form of blindness, with the first patients receiving test treatment in five years. The pioneering project, launched on Tuesday, aims to repair damaged retinas with cells derived from human embryonic stem cells. Its backers say it involves simple surgery that could one day become as routine as cataract operations.

Volk Optical Colored Lens Rings

Thu, 31 May 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Mentor, Ohio - Volk Optical, the leader in aspheric optics, offers select styles of non-contact, diagnostic slit lamp and BIO lenses with colored rings for easy identification and organization.

New Technologies May Help In The Early Detection Of Glaucoma

Thu, 17 May 2007 00:00:00 GMT

New functional and structural tests can allow an earlier and more accurate diagnosis of glaucoma, helping prevent the silent progression of undetected glaucomatous damage, according to a specialist speaking here at the French Society of Ophthalmology annual meeting.

Glaucoma Experts Determine That Reducing Intraocular Pressure Fluctuation Plays A Key Role In Glaucoma Treatment

Fri, 11 May 2007 00:00:00 GMT

A panel of leading global glaucoma specialists reveals today the first consensus on intraocular pressure (IOP) assessment and control in patients with glaucoma. The panel concluded that monitoring and reducing peak IOP in patients with glaucoma, in combination with assessing and reducing long-term IOP fluctuation are crucial factors in providing optimal patient care.

Many Older Americans Not Treated For Glaucoma

Mon, 07 May 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Almost one-third of older Americans diagnosed with primary open angle glaucoma (POAG) are not treated medically or surgically for the condition according to a study to be presented at the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology (ARVO) Annual Meeting in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. The presentation will be held on Monday, May 7, 2007, at 11:45 a.m. in the Grand Floridian H of the Greater Fort Lauderdale/Broward County Convention Center.

Pseudoexfoliation Has Important Implications For Cataract And Glaucoma Patients, Long-Term Study Shows

Mon, 30 Apr 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Pseudoexfoliation is a "ubiquitous disorder" that requires special care and attention in patients with both cataract and glaucoma, the results of large-scale retrospective study have found.

Canaloplasty Lowers IOP, Medications Needed In Glaucoma Patients

Mon, 30 Apr 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Canaloplasty lowers IOP as well as need for medications in glaucoma patients out to 1 year, one surgeon said.

ASCRS Welcome Reception At SeaWorld Adventure Park

Sat, 28 Apr 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Medcompare joined hundreds of other meeting attendees at the ASCRS-ASOA welcoming reception at SeaWorld Adventure Park on Friday evening. This even was generously supported by grants from AMO and ASCRS-ASOA. The highlight for most was a performance by the famed Shamu and a subsequent fireworks display. The event afforded a relaxing environment for the reunion of colleagues and former classmates. Though we may have kept the beluga whales, polar bears, megellanic penguins, walruses, and sharks awake well past their bedtime, the chance to explore SeaWorld and learn about these animals from the highly experienced docents was a refreshing way to get the ASCRS sessions underway. Thank you to all who help put this event on.

Certain Glaucoma Patients Showed Suppressed Adrenal Response In Study

Wed, 25 Apr 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Patients with ocular hypertension and open-angle glaucoma showed below-normal levels of plasma cortisol in response to intramuscular adrenocorticotropic hormone, a study found. The finding suggests such patients may have a suppressed adrenal gland, the authors said.

GDx ECC Shows Stronger Structure-Function Relationship Over VCC In Study

Wed, 18 Apr 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Retinal nerve fiber layer images obtained using enhanced corneal compensation show a stronger structure-function relationship with standard automated perimetry visual field sensitivity compared with variable corneal compensation, according to a study.

Watch Out For Eye Trouble During Pregnancy

Mon, 09 Apr 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Vision problems can occur during pregnancy, and women should talk to their doctor if they do notice any vision changes, say experts at Prevent Blindness America.

IOP Measurements In Kids More Accurate Using Ketamine Vs. Sevoflurane Gas Sedation

Wed, 04 Apr 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Sedating children using sevoflurane gas significantly lowers the IOP measured during ophthalmic examination while under anesthesia, a prospective study found. However, sedation achieved using intramuscular ketamine hydrochloride showed no effect on IOP, the study authors noted.

Laser Iridotomy Shows Efficacy As Prophylactic Treatment For PAC Suspects

Mon, 02 Apr 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Laser peripheral iridotomy significantly lowered IOP and increased angle width in most patients with suspected primary angle closure, a prospective study found. However, one-fifth of patients had residual angle closure postoperatively, the authors noted.

Glaucoma May Not Progress In Certain People

Thu, 29 Mar 2007 00:00:00 GMT

A small subgroup of Chinese men with suspected or diagnosed glaucoma may not need aggressive treatment, because the condition does not appear to progress, a new study suggests.

Study Finds Impaired Posterior Ciliary Artery Blood Flow In Exfoliation Syndrome, Glaucoma

Wed, 28 Mar 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Patients with exfoliation syndrome or exfoliation glaucoma can have impaired blood flow in the long posterior ciliary artery, according to a study by researchers in Greece.

Glaucoma Diagnosis May Be Mistaken In Some Younger Chinese People

Wed, 21 Mar 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Many young and middle-aged people of Chinese ancestry told they are at risk of going blind from glaucoma may be getting incorrect information, say researchers at the Stanford University School of Medicine.

Phaco May Reduce IOP In Some Glaucoma Patients, Surgeon Says

Wed, 14 Mar 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Cataract surgery can be an effective option for treating some patients with glaucoma, according to a glaucoma specialist speaking here.

Goniosurgery Decreases Risk Of Childhood Aniridic Glaucoma, Surgeon Says

Wed, 07 Mar 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Goniosurgery helps hereditary aniridia patients reduce their risk of developing glaucoma secondary to progressive abnormalities of filtration angle structures, according to a surgeon speaking here.

Watch This Video: The ORBIS Mission Carries On After 25 Years

Tue, 06 Mar 2007 00:00:00 GMT

As a nonprofit humanitarian organization, ORBIS International strives to eliminate avoidable blindness and restore sight in the developing world. ORBIS works closely with local communities, governments and hospitals to design programs that increase local skills, improve health care facilities and foster awareness of eye health. With their new wide-body DC-10, maintained by FedEx, and staffed with an international team of over 400 surgeons, the ORBIS flying eye hospital continues to spread practical medical knowledge to the practitioners of over 80 countries. Have a look at this short video to learn more.

Watch This Video: Mayo Clinic InTouch

Tue, 06 Mar 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Digital Cyclone has developed Mayo Clinic InTouch, an application for cellphones that stores all sorts of useful, everyday medical tips. It includes First Aid tips, a Symptom Checker and other tools, including an Emergency Room finder that will help you find nearby medical help when traveling. The application costs $2.99 per month and works on Verizon, AT&T/Cingular, and Sprint networks.

The video below is a demo of the application in use on a mobile phone. It starts off simple enough, toggling through windows of information, but then leads the user to helpful video content where applicable. Take a look...

This is a hint towards where publicly available medical information is heading. Expect to see even more "informed" patients in your practice.

Glaucoma Patients At Significantly Higher Risk For Falls, Motor Vehicle Accidents

Wed, 28 Feb 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Persons affected by glaucoma are over three times more likely to have been involved in falls and motor vehicle accidents than persons of the same age without the condition, say researchers from Dalhousie University in Canada. Their findings are published in the March 2007 issue of Investigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science.

Watch This Video: Addressing The Problem Of Patient Compliance In Glaucoma Management

Wed, 21 Feb 2007 00:00:00 GMT

This public service announcement is a fantastic example of the outreach efforts to enhance compliance in this patient population. The estimated social and financial impact of patients' failure to take their prescribed medications can be measured in discrete terms. But calculating the effect of non-compliance on the individual patient who isn't rigorously adherent to the treatment regime is more vague. Often the urgency is not obvious to them. Many ask themselves, "Why take this pill or use this eyedrop if I feel fine?"

This video shows the lurking dangers of untreated glaucoma in a comical but persuasive way.

We came across this video in our continuing effort to bring you the latest information regarding all aspects of eyecare; from emerging technologies, to new products and public health issues like this. By sharing it with you, we hope we brought a smile to your face while reinforcing the idea that monitoring patient compliance is crucial.

- The Medcompare Editorial Team

NicOx Presents Promising Pre-Clinical Results On An NO-Donating Latanoprost Derivative From Its Glaucoma Collaboration With Pfizer

Mon, 12 Feb 2007 00:00:00 GMT

NicOx S.A. (Eurolist: COX) today announced the presentation of promising preclinical results from its August 2004 collaboration agreement with Pfizer Inc (NYSE: PFE), which is focused on the research and development of nitric oxide-donating derivatives of latanoprost for the treatment of glaucoma. The nitric oxide- donating compound was shown to have an improved ability to lower Intraocular Pressure (IOP) in validated preclinical models when compared to Pfizer's latanoprost, the leader in world wide glaucoma sales, with approximately $1.5 billion of franchise sales in 2006 (see NOTE). These preclinical results were presented on Saturday, February 10, at the Association for Ocular Pharmacology and Therapeutics 8th Scientific Meeting in San Diego (United States).

Samaritan Pharma Aims At SP-6300 As New Innovative Treatment For Cushing's Syndrome

Tue, 06 Feb 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Samaritan Pharmaceuticals Inc. (AMEX:LIV) a developer of innovative drugs, announced today its drug candidate SP-6300 has shown the ability to modulate excessive cortisol levels by lowering the hormone-stimulated corticosteroid formation in adrenal cells, and as a result could be a potentially new treatment for Cushing's Syndrome.

Latanoprost Favored Over Brimonidine For Lowering Intra-Ocular Pressure

Wed, 31 Jan 2007 00:00:00 GMT

A meta-analysis of 14 clinical trials evaluating the efficacy of latanoprost and brimonidine in lowering intra-ocular pressure (IOP) shows that the prostaglandin E2 analogue is more effective than the alpha-2-adrenergic agonist.

Facts And Figures On Glaucoma

Tue, 16 Jan 2007 00:00:00 GMT

According to the World Health Organization, glaucoma is the second leading cause of blindness throughout the world.

Thousands Ignore Glaucoma Advice

Tue, 16 Jan 2007 00:00:00 GMT

People with glaucoma who fail to use prescribed medication regularly are losing their sight unnecessarily, according to a leading charity.

Bausch & Lomb Announces Strategic Alliance With AcuFocus For Presbyopic Correction Technology

Mon, 15 Jan 2007 00:00:00 GMT

ROCHESTER, N.Y. - Bausch & Lomb announced today that it has made an equity investment in - and secured an exclusive option to purchase - AcuFocus, Inc., a privately held company located in Irvine, California that is developing corneal inlay technology for the treatment of presbyopia. The announcement was made at the Hawaiian Eye 2007 Meeting held on Kauai, Hawaii and attended by several hundred ophthalmic surgeons.

Prevent Blindness In 80,000 People A Year With New Welsh 'Self-Test' To Cure Glaucoma

Tue, 09 Jan 2007 00:00:00 GMT

The Leading Cause of Preventable-Blindness is Glaucoma.

Glaucoma: Silently Stealing Sight From Millions

Thu, 07 Dec 2006 00:00:00 GMT

As you read this sentence, you could be going blind and not know it. Silently, without symptoms, Glaucoma could be stealing your sight, and there is no cure.

Research Suggests New Treatment Approaches For Glaucoma

Thu, 07 Dec 2006 00:00:00 GMT

New research from Children's Hospital Boston and the Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary may help explain how glaucoma causes blindness, revealing the chain of events that ultimately prevent visual information from getting to the brain. The study indicates possible targets for intervention, including one for which there are already approved drugs.

Fluctuations In Blood Pressure May Contribute To Visual Field Loss In Glaucoma Patients: Presented At AAO

Wed, 15 Nov 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Fluctuations in nighttime versus daytime blood pressure may be a causal factor for visual field loss in glaucoma patients, according to research presented at the Annual Meeting of the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO).

Results Of New Combined Analysis Concludes Patients At Risk For Glaucoma Will Benefit From Risk Assessment Tool

Wed, 15 Nov 2006 00:00:00 GMT

A combined analysis of two landmark clinical glaucoma trials -- the Ocular Hypertension Treatment Study (OHTS) and the European Glaucoma Prevention Study (EGPS) -- confirms the benefit of a five-year risk assessment model to help ophthalmologists better predict which patients have an increased risk of developing glaucoma. Glaucoma is the second leading cause of blindness in the world, affecting approximately 70 million people, and can lead to blindness if left untreated. These new data were presented this week at the annual American Academy of Ophthalmology meeting.

Model Can Predict Risk Of Glaucoma In Patients With Elevated Eye Pressure

Tue, 14 Nov 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Investigators at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis have developed a model to identify patients at high risk of developing glaucoma. Their research was presented at the annual meeting of the American Academy of Ophthalmology in Las Vegas.

Glaucoma Clinical Study Re-Commences

Fri, 10 Nov 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Seeing Machines (AIM: SEE), a leading developer of advanced computer based imaging software systems, announces today the commencement of the next phase of the second clinical study (CT2b) for its glaucoma testing device, Truefield, as foreshadowed in the announcement of 30 August 2006 headed 'Glaucoma Project Clinical Study Results'.

IRIDEX Unveils Two New Laser Systems At The American Academy Of Ophthalmology

Thu, 09 Nov 2006 00:00:00 GMT

IRIDEX Corporation today announced the introduction of two new ophthalmic laser systems and six new disposable products at the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) being held in Las Vegas, NV on November 10-14, 2006.

Used As A Glaucoma Treatment, Beta-Blocker Eye Drops May Cause Serious Adverse Reactions In Some

Thu, 09 Nov 2006 00:00:00 GMT

New studies of beta-blocker eye drops, which are used to treat blindness-causing glaucoma, show that the eye drops may cause deaths, heart attacks, serious drops in blood pressure, fainting spells and other complications in patients.

Women With Type 2 Diabetes Face Risk Of Glaucoma

Thu, 09 Nov 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Women with Type 2 diabetes face a much greater risk of glaucoma, according to a new study. KMBC's Kelly Eckerman reported that Nurses' Health Study highlighted the importance of regular eye exams to reduce the potential for blindness.

Breakthrough On Glaucoma Near

Wed, 08 Nov 2006 00:00:00 GMT

A breakthrough therapy for glaucoma is less than a decade away thanks to genetic advancements in the field, says a renowned eye specialist.

Eye Diseases Prevalent In Older People

Wed, 08 Nov 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Visual changes that accompany aging, such as presbyopia and floaters, are natural and gradual. However, several eye diseases are more likely to occur in older people, and with older baby boomers now shifting into their 60s, the incidence of these diseases is likely to increase.

Biovitrum Initiates Clinical Phase II Study Of Glaucoma Treatment

Sun, 15 Oct 2006 00:00:00 GMT

-The biopharma company Biovitrum (STO:BVT), listed on the Stockholm Stock Exchange since September 15, 2006, has initiated a clinical Phase II study with the candidate drug BVT.28949, a 5-HT2A antagonist for the treatment glaucoma. The results are expected to be available midyear of 2007.

Preclinical Studies Underway On Advanced Refractive Technologies Novel Glaucoma Treatment

Wed, 13 Sep 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Preclinical testing has begun on the novel glaucoma treatment recently licensed by Advanced Refractive Technologies . This first step in clinical trials will assess the safety and efficacy of the compound before the initiation of human trials. The in vitro portion of this testing will require approximately six months to complete at which time the in vivo testing will begin. After six months of this in vivo testing, the Phase One human trials should be underway.

Weightlifting Increases Pressure Within The Eye

Mon, 11 Sep 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Weightlifting may cause a temporary increase in pressure within the eye, with higher pressure occurring with breath-holding during a weightlifting exercise, according to a report in the September issue of Archives of Ophthalmology, one of the JAMA/Archives journals.

Sabinsa Secures Approval From Government Of India To Use Its OcuforsT Eye Drop Solution For Glaucoma Treatment

Tue, 05 Sep 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Sabinsa Corporation, a manufacturer and supplier of high quality herbal extracts, cosmeceuticals, minerals and specialty fine chemicals, has been granted permission by the Drugs Controller General of India to manufacture and market Ocufors(TM), an ophthalmic solution containing one percent forskolin, for the treatment of glaucoma. This is the first time that the government of India has approved a product developed from natural sources for use as a pharmaceutical grade drug.

Glaucoma Can Worsen During Pregnancy

Mon, 21 Aug 2006 00:00:00 GMT

For women with glaucoma, pregnancy usually has no effect on their eye condition, but in some cases it does. Glaucoma is characterized by increased pressure within the eyeball, which can lead to vision loss or even blindness if it's left untreated.

Determining Glaucoma Progression Can Be Tricky Task

Wed, 09 Aug 2006 00:00:00 GMT

There currently is no accepted standard for determining progression of optic disc defects in patients with glaucoma. However, investigators may have hit upon an approach to make that difficult task easier.

High-Speed, High-Resolution Imaging Of Eye In Sight

Tue, 08 Aug 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Ultra-high-speed, ultra-high-resolution spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) seems to have surpassed the slow-speed, low-resolution OCT and provides video images of the minute structural changes in the glaucomatous eye.

InSite Vision To Present Results From Second Of Two Pivotal Phase 3 Clinical Trials

Thu, 03 Aug 2006 00:00:00 GMT

InSite Vision Incorporated (AMEX:ISV), an ophthalmic company focused on ocular infections, glaucoma and retinal diseases, announced today the acceptance of two abstracts related to its second pivotal trial of the topical eye drop antibiotic, AzaSite (1% azithromycin in DuraSite(R)).

Diabetes Linked To Higher Glaucoma Risk For Women

Mon, 17 Jul 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Women with type 2 diabetes apparently run an increased risk of developing glaucoma, the eye condition characterized by increased internal pressure that can lead to blindness if left untreated. The finding comes from an analysis of data from more than 76,000 participants in the Nurses' Health Study.

Glaucoma Injury Not Limited To Eyes

Tue, 11 Jul 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Autopsy findings in a 79-year old man, who was diagnosed with glaucoma a year earlier, showed that accompanying degenerative changes in the brain appear to accompany the disease's effects on the retina and optic nerve, Canadian researchers report.

Type 2 Diabetes Increases The Risk Of Glaucoma In Women

Tue, 11 Jul 2006 00:00:00 GMT

A 20-year study of women in the Nurses' Health Study has shown that Type 2 diabetes is associated with primary open angle glaucoma (POAG), the most common form of glaucoma, accounting for about 60 to 70% of all glaucomas. The study is published in the July issue of the journal Ophthalmology.

Global Ophthalmology Market Sets Sights On $13 Billion By 2008

Thu, 29 Jun 2006 00:00:00 GMT

With fierce competition in the refractive vision correction market and rapidly increasing rates of eye disease creating an accelerated demand for newer, better, and more affordable therapeutics, the market for ocular remedies is experiencing hefty growth, with overall global revenues expected to rise from $7.8 billion in 2004 to greater than $13 billion in 2008.

Lumenis� Promotes Worldwide Use Of Non-Invasive Laser Treatment For Glaucoma Patients Struggling To Prevent Irreversible Vision Loss

Thu, 22 Jun 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Lumenis(R) Ltd., a global developer, manufacturer and seller of laser and light-based devices for medical, aesthetic, ophthalmic, dental and veterinary applications, announced today that doctors from all across Europe, the Middle-East and Africa, are meeting in Malaga Spain, to discuss and learn a relatively new laser technique called Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT) for the treatment of glaucoma.

Ista Licenses Rights To Two Glaucoma Compounds

Tue, 20 Jun 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Ista Pharmaceuticals Inc. (ISTA.O: Quote, Profile, Research) said on Monday it has licensed the North American rights to two experimental drugs for the treatment of glaucoma from Senju Pharmaceuticals Co.

Mozart Music Improves Peripheral Vision Of Glaucoma Patients

Tue, 06 Jun 2006 00:00:00 GMT

A Brazilian study has found that Mozart music improved patients' performance in a sight test aimed at checking peripheral vision of people with glaucoma. You can read about this study in the British Journal of Ophthalmology.

Allergan Receives Pan European License For GANFORT(R) (LUMIGAN(R)/Timolol Combination) From European Commission

Tue, 30 May 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Allergan, Inc. (NYSE:AGN) today announced that it has received the license from the European Commission to market GANFORT(R), Allergan's LUMIGAN(R)/timolol combination product (bimatoprost/timolol ophthalmic solution) for the treatment of glaucoma, in the European Union.

Far-Sighted

Tue, 09 May 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Biomedical engineers hope to save the sight of millions by pushing the boundaries of an established imaging device. They aim to use optical coherence tomography (OCT) to detect the very first evidence of glaucoma - an eye condition that, because it progresses so stealthily, leads to blindness.

Eye MDs Urge Americans To Take Eye Health Seriously

Tue, 09 May 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Harry Zink, M.D., president of the American Academy of Ophthalmology, issued the following statement in response to the National Institute of Health (NIH) study on the state of vision among Americans.

NSAIDs Have Some Effect On Intraocular Pressure Therapy

Thu, 20 Apr 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) solutions may lessen the effect of latanoprost on reducing intraocular pressure (IOP), according to Japanese researchers. In the March issue of the British Journal of Ophthalmology, Dr. Kenji Kashiwagi and colleagues at the University of Yamanashi note that they came to this conclusion after studying 16 patients with primary open angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension.

Two Tests Better Than One For Diabetes Control, Johns Hopkins Expert Tells Doctors

Thu, 13 Apr 2006 00:00:00 GMT

In a strongly worded review published in the recent edition of The Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA), the head of the Johns Hopkins Diabetes Center urges physicians and patients to better use the blood-testing tools at hand to manage the disease and prevent most of its dire impact on the heart, kidneys, nerves and vision.

Selective Laser Succeeds On Second Shot For Glaucoma

Mon, 10 Apr 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Repeat selective laser trabeculoplasty provides long-term reduction of intraocular pressure in glaucoma, and allows patients to use fewer medications, an investigator reported here. Among patients who required a repeat selective laser trabeculoplasty to achieve good control of intraocular pressure, the second procedure produced a 32% mean decrease in and a 49% mean decrease in the number of pressure-lowering medications needed, reported ophthalmologist Lawrence F. Jindra, M.D., of Columbia in New York.

Several Problems Inhibit Glaucoma Treatment

Sun, 02 Apr 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Glaucoma patients receiving adjunctive therapy find it hard to follow their medication regime for several reasons, including problems administering eye drops and paying for the medication, according to a study in the March issue of Ophthalmology. Betsy Sleath, Ph.D., of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and colleagues surveyed 324 patients using more than one glaucoma medication to establish whether or not they had fully adhered to their treatment in the previous week.

New Presbyopia And Glaucoma Treatment In Clinical Trials

Sun, 26 Mar 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Nicholas Caro, M.D., president of Clear Sight, Inc. in Chicago is beginning full-scale clinical trails on the Caro clips, a minimally invasive technique to treat presbyopia and a certain type of glaucoma. Dr. Caro, who is also medical director of the St. George Corrective Vision Center, holds several U.S. and foreign patents on his clips.

Allergan Receives Positive Opinion For GANFORT(R) (LUMIGAN(R)/Timolol Combination) In European Union

Sun, 26 Mar 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Allergan, Inc. (NYSE:AGN) today announced that the Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use (CHMP) has recommended that the European Commission approve GANFORT(R), Allergan's LUMIGAN(R)/timolol combination product (bimatoprost/timolol ophthalmic solution) for the treatment of glaucoma. The CHMP opinion serves as the basis for a European Commission approval, which is expected to be finalized in the second quarter of 2006.

Akorn Gets FDA OK For Glaucoma Treatment

Wed, 22 Mar 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Specialty drug maker Akorn Inc. said Monday that it received Food and Drug Administration approval for its glaucoma treatment. The approval covers a solution of brimonidine tartrate, the active ingredient in Allergan Inc.'s Alphagan P. The solution works by decreasing the pressure in the eye that leads to vision loss. The product approval is the company's first since passing a manufacturing facility inspection in the third quarter of 2005.

Akorn, Inc. Announces First Post-Inspection Product Approval For Decatur Manufacturing Facility

Tue, 21 Mar 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Akorn, Inc. (AMEX:AKN - News) today announced that it has received an ANDA approval for Brimonidine Ophthalmic Solution. This is the first new product approval received by the Company since its successful cGMP inspection that occurred in the third quarter of 2005.

NicOx Compound Demonstrates Excellent Preclinical Results In Pfizer Glaucoma Collaboration

Thu, 02 Mar 2006 00:00:00 GMT

NicOx S.A. (Eurolist: NICOX) today announced that it has achieved very promising pre-clinical results in its collaboration with Pfizer Inc , which is focused on the development of more effective treatments for glaucoma using NicOx' proprietary nitric oxide-donating technology. The NicOx compound proved to be significantly more effective than the reference drug in a validated in vivo model of abnormally high intraocular pressure (IOP, pressure within the eye) and was superior to the reference drug in two other validated models. NicOx also announced today that it has signed a major new agreement which grants Pfizer exclusive rights to use its technology across the entire field of ophthalmology (see separate press release).

Optometrists Anticipate 'Boom' In Eye Diseases As Baby Boomers Turn 60

Wed, 01 Mar 2006 00:00:00 GMT

In a year where an estimated 2.8 million baby boomers will celebrate their 60th birthday, age-related eye diseases are becoming increasingly important health issues, according to the American Optometric Association. As part of national Save Your Vision Month in March, the AOA is reminding Americans 60 and older that early detection through a comprehensive eye exam can prevent or slow vision loss due to cataracts and other age-related eye diseases such as macular degeneration, glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy.

Alcon Receives Positive Opinion For DuoTrav(TM) Eye Drops Solution From CHMP

Mon, 27 Feb 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Alcon, Inc. (NYSE:ACL) announced that the Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use (CHMP) has adopted a positive opinion on the initial marketing authorization for DuoTrav(TM) solution (travoprost 0.004%/timolol 0.5%). One daily drop of DuoTrav(TM) eye drops solution lowers intraocular pressure (IOP) in two distinct ways by combining a beta-blocker (timolol) to decrease the production of aqueous humor with a prostaglandin analogue (travoprost) to increase the outflow of aqueous humor.

Pfizer Supports New Electronic Risk Calculator For Glaucoma Introduced At World Ophthalmology Congress; Tool Helps Eye Doctors Assess Risk Of Glaucoma In Patients With Ocular Hypertension

Mon, 27 Feb 2006 00:00:00 GMT

A new tool to help physicians assess the risk of glaucoma in patients with ocular hypertension was presented today at the World Ophthalmology Congress by US researchers Dr Robert Weinreb and Dr Felipe Medeiros. Their research was funded by an independent grant from Pfizer Inc.

Global Toll Of Glaucoma Set To Reach 80 Million By 2020

Wed, 15 Feb 2006 00:00:00 GMT

The global toll of the disabling eye disease glaucoma is set to reach 60 million by 2010, rising to almost 80 million by 2020, finds research in the British Journal of Ophthalmology.

Now, An Eye Exam Online

Wed, 15 Feb 2006 00:00:00 GMT

The first glaucoma test with federal OK can be taken from home - and for free, at least until Feb. 22. A screening billed as the first online glaucoma test to receive federal clearance will be offered for free during the next week to promote low vision awareness month. The test will be available at www.lighthouse.org/glaucoma starting today until Feb. 22, according to Jeanine Moss, communications director for the nonprofit Lighthouse International, based in Manhattan. The organization, which works for vision rehabilitation, and the test developer are sponsoring the site.

First Online Glaucoma Test To Receive FDA Clearance Available FREE From Feb. 15th . Feb. 22nd At Www.lighthouse.org/glaucoma

Wed, 15 Feb 2006 00:00:00 GMT

The first clinically tested online glaucoma test to receive FDA clearance will be offered free of charge at http://www.lighthouse.org/glaucoma for one week (Feb. 15th - Feb. 22nd) during Low Vision Awareness Month by Lighthouse International, a non-profit organization dedicated to helping people of all ages overcome the challenges of vision loss, and Peristat (R) Group, a disease management company committed to public health and sight loss prevention. The week of free testing puts the spotlight on eye disease, which is expected to double by the year 2020 as the baby boom generation ages, people live longer lives, and conditions like diabetes affect even the very young. After February 22nd, the fee for the test will be $15.

Santen Announces Preliminary Results Of Overseas Clinical Trials Of Two Glaucoma Drug Candidates

Tue, 14 Feb 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Santen Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. (President: Takakazu Morita) announced preliminary results of the overseas clinical trials of two drug candidates for lowering intraocular pressure in glaucoma and ocular hypertension: an angiotensin II receptor antagonist, DE-092 (INN: Olmesartan), and a prostaglandin derivative, DE-085 (INN: Tafluprost).

Glaucoma Patients Appear To Have Increased Eye Pressure During Sleep

Mon, 13 Feb 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Some patients with glaucoma appear to have higher pressure in their eyes during sleep at night than during the day when it is usually measured, possibly putting them at higher risk for progression of the disease than previously thought, according to a study in the February issue of Archives of Ophthalmology, one of the JAMA/Archives journals.

Adenoviral Vector Injection Into Schlemm Canal Shows Promise For Glaucoma

Thu, 09 Feb 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Researchers have achieved gene transfer to trabecular meshwork endothelium via direct injection into the Schlemm canal. Investigators in Germany report, "Our aim was to investigate the efficiency of adenoviral gene transfer via direct injection into the Schlemm canal ex vivo in human donor eyes and to examine the effect of human MMP-3 transgene expression in a rat model in vivo. A viscocanalostomy-like operation was performed and adenoviral vector encoding for MMP-3 and green fluorescent protein was injected into human Schlemm canal or rat anterior chamber."

Novel Biodegradable Implant Leads The Way To The New Generation Of Glaucoma Surgery - Anti Scarring Without The Fibroblast Inhibition

Thu, 02 Feb 2006 00:00:00 GMT

OculusGen Biomedical Inc. (OBI) announced that it has 100% acquired Pro Top & Mediking, a Taiwan company that has successfully developed a latest invention -- A Collagen Matrix which significantly increased the success rate for glaucoma and other selective ophthalmic surgeries. This acquisition was made December 2005, detail amount was not disclosed.

Reichert, Inc. Acquires Market-Leading Tono-Pen� XL Tonometer Product Line From Medtronic, Inc.

Wed, 01 Feb 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Both Structure, Function Necessary In Glaucomatous Damage Assessment

Tue, 31 Jan 2006 00:00:00 GMT

While it is generally accepted that optic disc and retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) changes precede visual field changes, this is not always the case, according to Linda M. Zangwill, PhD, who spoke at the glaucoma subspecialty day program during the American Academy of Ophthalmology annual meeting.

Volk Super Macula 2.2-Lightweight Lens With Heavyweight Resolution

Tue, 17 Jan 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Jeepers, Creepers, Take Care Of Those Peepers!

Tue, 10 Jan 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Eat your carrots, they'll make your eyes bright. What may sound like an old wives' tale trotted out to make you eat your vegetables has a firm foundation in truth.

Glaucoma Care Costs More As Vision Worsens

Mon, 09 Jan 2006 00:00:00 GMT

As glaucoma progresses, so do the costs and time associated with treatment, a new Duke University Medical Center study finds.

Glaucoma Treatment Time And Costs Increase As Disease Progresses

Mon, 09 Jan 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Delaying the progression of the eye disease glaucoma from advancing to later stages is associated with lower cost of care, according to a study in the January issue of Archives of Ophthalmology, one of the JAMA/Archives journals.

Treating Glaucoma Early Lowers Economic Burden

Mon, 09 Jan 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Treatments that delay the progression of glaucoma may significantly reduce the economic health burden on people with the disease and on the U.S. health system, according to a new study by researchers at Duke University Eye Center and elsewhere. Their findings appear in the January 9, 2006, issue of Archives of Ophthalmology.

Ophthalmologists Prove Existence Of Geodesic Structures Called CLANs Inside Human Body

Tue, 03 Jan 2006 00:00:00 GMT

A team of ophthalmologists at the University of Liverpool has become the first in the world to image geodesic structures called CLANs inside the human body.

Sibling With Glaucoma Means You're Also At Risk

Mon, 02 Jan 2006 00:00:00 GMT

NEW YORK (Reuters Health) - Brothers and sisters of patients with glaucoma have about a 20 percent chance of having developed the disease by the time they reach age 70, according to results of the Nottingham Family Glaucoma Screening Study.

American Academy Of Ophthalmology Announces Development Of The Ultimate Ophthalmology Curriculum

Wed, 28 Dec 2005 00:00:00 GMT

SAN FRANCISCO - (12/20/2005) The American Academy of Ophthalmology today announced the development of a clinically relevant ophthalmology curriculum containing more than 800 topics, a feat never before attempted or completed by an ophthalmic society or medical society in the United States.

Pop Open A Bottle Of Bubbly The Right Way

Wed, 28 Dec 2005 00:00:00 GMT

SAN FRANCISCO - The American Academy of Ophthalmology-the Eye M.D. Association-and Eye M.D.s across the country are urging Americans to celebrate safely this holiday season. Unfortunately, every year careless celebrating leads to serious injuries, often including eye injuries. Champagne corks are one of the most common holiday-related hazards to the eyes.

Experts Closer To Glaucoma Cure

Wed, 28 Dec 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Experts at the University of Liverpool say they are closer to finding a cure for a disease which is one of the world's leading causes of blindness. More than 65 million people - mainly elderly - suffer from glaucoma. Ophthalmologists at the university say they have found new structures inside the body which cause cells to become rigid and stop working.

A Crucial Role For TGF-Beta Signaling In Congenital Eye Disorders

Thu, 15 Dec 2005 00:00:00 GMT

The lens in the developing eye acts as a TGF-beta signaling center that controls differentiation, survival and formation of multiple eye structures deriving from the neural crest.

A Crucial Role For TGFbeta Signaling In Congenital Eye Disorders

Tue, 13 Dec 2005 00:00:00 GMT

The lens in the developing eye acts as a TGFbeta signaling center that controls differentiation, survival and formation of multiple eye structures deriving from the neural crest. A study published today in the open access journal Journal of Biology shows that neural crest (NC) derived cells contribute to both anterior and posterior parts of the developing mammalian eye.

Glaucoma Treatment From A Different Angle

Wed, 07 Dec 2005 00:00:00 GMT

In a world with a wide variety of glaucoma treatments, SOLX Inc. (Boston) is trying to distinguish itself by ultimately offering not a single new treatment product, but what it calls a new treatment system.

Vision Of Destiny

Thu, 24 Nov 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Colors, faces and a new outlook are just some of the blessings a local girl receives after undergoing pioneering eye surgery

Regular Screenings Protect Against Glaucoma

Fri, 18 Nov 2005 00:00:00 GMT

At first you don't notice a thing. And why should you? Your eyesight seems perfect.

Animal Eyes Inspire New Technology

Thu, 17 Nov 2005 00:00:00 GMT

By Kathleen Wren
Science
Updated: 2:07 p.m. ET Nov. 17, 2005
WASHINGTON - When nanotech researcher Luke Lee is looking for inspiration for the next generation of optical gadgets, he ponders the lobster. And the house fly. And the octopus.

Lee and other "bioengineers" are borrowing ideas from all corners of the animal kingdom to design artificial vision systems that could be used for high-tech cameras, motion detectors, navigation devices in unmanned vehicles, or perhaps even synthetic retinal implants.

From Snellen To Sinewaves: Pros And Cons Of Measuring Visual Function

Wed, 09 Nov 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Vision is the raison d'�tre of ophthalmology, but how do we measure it? "Not well," said Lawrence F. Jindra, MD. "The first thing an eye doctor does when he or she opens an office is to put up a Snellen visual acuity chart," said Samuel Masket, MD.

InSite Vision To Present At Two October Life Sciences And Biotech Conferences

Wed, 19 Oct 2005 00:00:00 GMT

InSite Vision Incorporated (AMEX:ISV), an ophthalmic products company, is currently focused on developing therapies that treat ocular infection, glaucoma, and retinal disease. The Company's platform technologies include topical drug delivery (DuraSite(R)), genomics and retinal drug delivery.

SOLX Initiates Glaucoma Clinical Trials For The DeepLight(R) Gold Micro-Shunt; First Glaucoma Device To Lower Intraocular Pressure Without A Bleb

Tue, 18 Oct 2005 00:00:00 GMT

SOLX, Inc. today announced Investigational Device Exemption (IDE) approval from the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) to begin studies of the DeepLight Gold Micro-Shunt (GMS) implant for glaucoma. This randomized, multi-center study will evaluate safety and efficacy of the GMS for lowering intraocular pressure (IOP) in primary open-angle glaucoma.

Beneficial Role Of Risk Calculator In Fighting Progression Of Glaucoma

Tue, 18 Oct 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Healthbeat: Glaucoma Laser

Mon, 17 Oct 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Glaucoma is the term used to describe a group of diseases that cause damage to the optic nerve (the nerve that connects the eye to the brain).

Researchers Show Beneficial Role Of Risk Calculator In Fighting Progression Of Glaucoma

Mon, 17 Oct 2005 00:00:00 GMT

A new glaucoma risk calculator, which estimates a patient's risk of converting from high eye pressure, or ocular hypertension, to glaucoma, will help physicians determine whether to initiate therapy for patients. High eye pressure is the leading risk factor for glaucoma, and is the only modifiable one. If glaucoma is untreated, vision loss may continue, leading to blindness in some individuals.

Carl Zeiss Meditec Showcases New Solutions Designed To Enhance Clinical Value

Sat, 15 Oct 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Carl Zeiss Meditec, Inc., a leader in ophthalmic devices and systems, is demonstrating new ways of adding clinical value for vision care professionals worldwide through new products, an enhanced Web site, networking efforts and educational offerings at the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) Annual Meeting, October 15-18 in Chicago.

Coronado Reports Progress On Several Fronts In Marketing Its PNT Glaucoma Treatment; Distributive And Registration Talks Underway In North America, The Caribbean And EU Countries

Thu, 13 Oct 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Coronado Industries Inc. (OTCBB: CDIK), the manufacturer of unique proprietary pneumatic devices for the non-invasive treatment of glaucoma and its wholly owned subsidiary, Ophthalmic International, announced today that the company continues to make significant progress toward the registration and distribution of their unique PNT treatment in several markets including Canada, the United States, Caribbean and European Union countries.

Safety Of Alcon's RETAANE(R) Suspension Confirmed At 24 Months; Data Supports Clinical Equivalence To VISUDYNE

Thu, 13 Oct 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Alcon, Inc. (NYSE:ACL) reported 24 month data from itscomparative study of RETAANE(R) 15 mg (anecortave acetate suspension)versus VISUDYNE(a) photodynamic therapy (PDT) in the treatment of wetage-related macular degeneration (AMD). The data will be presented atthe annual meeting of the American Academy of Ophthalmology thisweekend in Chicago.

Lutein For The Eyes

Sun, 09 Oct 2005 00:00:00 GMT

OCTOBER is World Blindness Awareness Month with World Sight Day falling on the 13th day.

Local Optometrist Offers Free Eye Care Through Clinic

Tue, 04 Oct 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Angel Coleman certainly appreciated the service she got for free Tuesday .

Lumenis Announces Sale Of 1000th Selecta� SLT Laser Worldwide

Tue, 04 Oct 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Lumenis Ltd. (LUME.PK), a global developer, manufacturer and seller of laser and light-based devices for medical, aesthetic, ophthalmic, dental and veterinary applications, announced the sale of the one-thousandth Selecta SLT Laser for selective photo therapy of glaucoma.

Enzyme Calcineurin Contributes To Glaucoma And Use Drug To Block Retinal Ganglion Cell Death

Mon, 03 Oct 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Glaucoma Study Compares Medication With Laser Treatments

Sun, 02 Oct 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Fifty million Americans are at risk for vision loss from glaucoma, according to the National Eye Institute.

Retina Tomography Shown To Predict Glaucoma

Wed, 21 Sep 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Researchers at the Hamilton Glaucoma Center and Department of Ophthalmology at the University of California at San Diego have demonstrated that measurements taken using the Heidelberg Retina Tomograph (HRT) can predict the development of glaucoma. The study was conducted on patients with elevated inner eye pressure whose eyes otherwise appeared normal by standard clinical assessment.

Multicenter Study Establishes Heidelberg Retina Tomograph As Proven Glaucoma Predictor: Research Shows Laser Imaging Device Adds New Diagnostic Information

Wed, 14 Sep 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Heidelberg Engineering GmbH, the leading developer of laser diagnostics for ophthalmic applications, today announced that researchers at the Hamilton Glaucoma Center and Department of Ophthalmology at the University of California at San Diego have demonstrated that measurements taken using the Heidelberg Retina Tomograph (HRT) can predict the development of glaucoma.

Boomers' Vision Grows Blurry

Mon, 12 Sep 2005 00:00:00 GMT

If you're over 40, chances are you're getting a little optical help to read this story.

Healthbeat: Glaucoma Shunt

Tue, 30 Aug 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Glaucoma is a disease marked by damage to the optic nerve, the bundle of nerve fibers that connect the retina to the brain. It's usually caused by increased pressure in the eye.

Scientists Focus On 'dwarf Eye'

Tue, 23 Aug 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Working with an Amish-Mennonite family tree, Johns Hopkins researchers at the Wilmer Eye Institute have discovered what appears to be the first human gene mutation that causes extreme farsightedness.

Keep Your Eye On The Dot

Mon, 22 Aug 2005 00:00:00 GMT

It's as easy as following the little dot.

New technology is making it easy for patients of optometrist Dr. Paul Lobby to have their eye problems diagnosed.

New Formulation Of Allergan's ALPHAGAN(R) P Receives U.S. FDA Approval

Fri, 19 Aug 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Allergan, Inc. (NYSE:AGN) today announced it has received approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to market ALPHAGAN(R) P (brimonidine tartrate ophthalmic solution) 0.1%, indicated for the lowering of intraocular pressure (IOP) in patients with open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension.

Massachusetts Eye And Ear Infirmary Researchers Discover Enzyme Calcineurin Contributes To Glaucoma; Use Drug To Block Retinal Ganglion Cell Death

Mon, 08 Aug 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Glaucoma causes blindness by killing retinal ganglion cells, the cells that make up the optic nerve. The biggest risk factor for developing glaucoma is elevated intraocular pressure, but lowering the pressure alone does not always stop the progression of this blinding disease. Research is underway to identify why the retinal ganglion cell dies and to find ways to stop retinal ganglion cell death. Scientists at the Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary (MEEI) are a step closer to solving the mystery. They have discovered that an enzyme, calcineurin, contributes to retinal ganglion cell death in animal models and have used a drug to inhibit the death of these cells. Their findings will be posted on the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences online early edition the week of Aug. 8.

Assess Car, Health Before Senior Outing

Mon, 01 Aug 2005 00:00:00 GMT

It's summer, and that means seniors across the country are taking to the road. According to the U.S. Department of Transportation's National Household Travel Survey, nine of 10 summer getaways are car trips, and the average jaunt is 284 miles - each way. If you're planning on getting behind the wheel, there are important steps to take before you leave.

Local Doctor Invents New Laser Treatment For Eyes

Thu, 21 Jul 2005 00:00:00 GMT

You'd think getting a laser shot into your eye would be painful, but thanks to one Reading doctor, it's not only safe, but can help patients see better.

Recap Of Local Medicaid/Medicare Rally

Thu, 21 Jul 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Demonstrators at the State Capitol push lawmakers to spare Medicare and Medicaid from budget cuts. As State lawmakers gear up for cuts to the Medicare/Medicaid assistance program, elderly people and people with disabilities from across the state rallied in front of the State Capitol.

Welder Opens New, Larger Office In Town

Wed, 20 Jul 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Dr. William Welder is an optometrist who has been taking care of eyes in the Twin Towns for 10 years. "I took over Dr. Lindberg's practice in the Town Center Square," Welder said.

Eye Clinic Returns Home After Renovations

Fri, 15 Jul 2005 00:00:00 GMT

The Eye Clinic at the Cayman Islands Hospital has returned to its original building following extensive refurbishing in the aftermath of Hurricane Ivan, providing more comfort, convenience and space for additional services which will be introduced this summer.

Optometrist Opens Eyes And Heart To World Need

Fri, 15 Jul 2005 00:00:00 GMT

For Brighton optometrist Mark Cook, the most difficult part of going on humanitarian medical missions around the world is coming back home.

Seniors Need To Take Advantage Of Medicare Preventive Programs

Fri, 15 Jul 2005 00:00:00 GMT

New programs were added to Medicare in January of this year to increase the "preventive services" offered to senior citizens by the healthcare program. The rationale being that preventing disease in beneficiaries will save the cost of expensive treatment programs later, and, or course, help older Americans live healthier, happier lives. The problem, however, is a common one - how to be sure senior citizens "get the word."

For Your Precious Eyes

Wed, 13 Jul 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Every five seconds someone in the world goes blind, yet in 80 per cent of cases this could be prevented or cured.

Facing Blindness, HB Man Gets A Lot Of Help And A Little Luck

Sun, 10 Jul 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Inflammation of the eyes, glaucoma and cataracts threaten avid surfer and painter with loss of vision and two favorite activities.

Responding To Pressure

Sat, 09 Jul 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Glaucoma, the eye disorder that damages the optic nerve and can lead to visual impairment and blindness, has traditionally been linked to abnormally high inner eye pressure. However, although elevated eye pressure is a key risk factor for glaucoma http://www.neovisioneyecenter.com/glaucoma.html, the optic nerve is sometimes susceptible to damage even at pressures that are considered to be normal.

Eye-Dentifying Glaucoma Early Saves Vision

Fri, 08 Jul 2005 00:00:00 GMT

About half of the estimated 4 million Americans with glaucoma aren't aware they have the condition. Not knowing could mean a loss of vision, says the July issue of Mayo Clinic Health Letter.

Eye Test Can Save Your Sight

Mon, 04 Jul 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Thousands of people in the North East have needlessly lost their sight through glaucoma, according to a new report.

Taking Care Of Your Eyes

Sun, 03 Jul 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Most people expect to encounter some gray hairs at a certain age. A wrinkle here and there. Some aches and pains, as arthritis or old sports injuries take their toll. But symptoms of aging eyes have a way of sneaking up on people.

Laser Treatment Can Help With Glaucoma

Thu, 30 Jun 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Dear Readers:

Today, I really do not have a question from a reader, but I have an article from board-certified ophthalmologist Dr. Gregory Bertucci, who is a practicing eye surgeon on the Gulf Coast. He has addressed the disease glaucoma with a very different perspective. Here is his viewpoint and some interesting information about glaucoma.

Clinic Genetics Research Focuses On Glaucoma

Wed, 29 Jun 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Glaucoma is a group of diseases that can damage the eye's optic nerve, but victims may not realize they have a problem because, at first, the disease causes no pain or other symptoms.

It's Often Difficult To See Eye Problems Coming: The Facts On 3 Common Ailments

Tue, 28 Jun 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Most people expect to encounter some gray hairs at a certain age. A wrinkle here and there. Some aches and pains, as arthritis or old sports injuries take their toll.

Govt Shifts Focus From Cataract To Childhood Blindness

Sun, 26 Jun 2005 00:00:00 GMT

After achieving its target of reducing incidence of cataract, the government has recently revised the National Programme for Control of Blindness (NPCB) in the 10th five year plan to shift focus to childhood blindness, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy and strengthening of eye banks.

Govt Shifts Focus From Cataract To Childhood Blindness

Fri, 24 Jun 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Study Documents A Shift In Treatment Patterns For Glaucoma

Wed, 22 Jun 2005 00:00:00 GMT

When it comes to glaucoma treatment patterns, new study results out of Australia suggest that the balance between medical and surgical management may be shifting. In a study published in 2004 in Clinical and Experimental Ophthalmology, Mark J. Walland, M.D., Melbourne, documented changing glaucoma treatment patterns in Australia from 1994 to 2003.

Taking Her Ability To The Next Level

Mon, 20 Jun 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Aubrie Lucas giggled as she hid her face behind a pillow, suddenly shy when she became the center of attention.

FIVE VISION TOPICS ADDED TO NIHSENIORHEALTH WEB SITE

Mon, 20 Jun 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Eye diseases and conditions leading to vision loss increase significantly with age, and the number of people with vision loss is expected to rise as the population grows older. To help older adults learn more about these conditions and vision loss, the NIHSeniorHealth Web site is adding five new topics on vision: glaucoma, cataract, age-related macular degeneration (AMD), diabetic retinopathy, and low vision. Accurate, up-to-date information about these conditions is only a mouse click away at www.nihseniorhealth.gov.

(BPRW) African-Americans At High Risk For Glaucoma - Now Is The Time To Increase Your Visibility Of The Disease

Sat, 18 Jun 2005 00:00:00 GMT

(BLACK PR WIRE) Did you know that glaucoma is the leading cause of blindness in African-Americans? It is a serious disease which requires serious attention! If you're one of those people who do not see the importance of having an eye exam each year, think again! Now is the time to get tested and increase your visibility of the disease!

Thousands 'needlessly' Lose Sight

Thu, 16 Jun 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Thousands of people in Wales are needlessly losing their sight through a treatable condition, a charity has claimed.According to an RNIB Cymru report, more than 25,000 people in Wales have glaucoma and 10,000 people have lost their sight through the condition.

Duska Therapeutics Acquires P2 Receptor-Based Technology For Potential Treatment Of Glaucoma

Wed, 15 Jun 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Duska Therapeutics, Inc. (OTCBB:DSKT) announced today that it has acquired the exclusive rights to novel P2 receptor-based proprietary technology aimed at the development of a new therapeutic modality for the treatment of glaucoma.

Health Northwest: Cloudy Vision Could Mean A Cataract

Wed, 15 Jun 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Cataracts are one of the most common eye problems that affect humans as we age. By age 75, more than 70 percent of Americans have vision problems due to cataracts. Cataracts are even more common than other eye problems such as glaucoma and macular degeneration, but rarely cause blindness in this country because they can be treated.

Questioning Ocular Beta Blockers For Initial Glaucoma Therapy

Wed, 15 Jun 2005 00:00:00 GMT

A growing number of problems stemming from the use of ocular beta blockers have come to light in recent years, causing some to question their continued use for initial glaucoma therapy.

Glaucoma Meds May Have No Impact On Bacterial Growth Before Surgery

Wed, 15 Jun 2005 00:00:00 GMT

The quantity and type of bacteria that colonize the corneal surface right before cataract and glaucoma surgery are quite similar after all, a new study suggests. The study's researchers initially thought glaucoma drops - which tend to have somewhat toxic preservatives - could alter the type of bacteria found on the ocular surface.

Glaucoma: Out Of Sight

Sat, 11 Jun 2005 00:00:00 GMT

SEVENTEENTH century English author John Milton was still in his 30s when he felt his "sight getting weak and dull." Soon his left eye dimmed, starting from the left side. Then his right eye failed, "perceptibly and gradually over three years." By age 43, the man who wrote Paradise Lost completely lost his sight. The cause of his blindness: glaucoma.

InSite Vision Announces Issuance Of An EPO Patent On Azalide Antibiotics For Use In The Eye

Wed, 08 Jun 2005 00:00:00 GMT

InSite Vision Incorporated (AMEX:ISV) -- an ophthalmic therapeutics, diagnostics and drug-delivery company -- today announced that the European Patent Office has issued a patent assigned to InSite Vision titled "Azalide Antibiotics For The Topical Treatment Or Prevention Of Ocular Infections". The issued EPO patent covers azalide antibiotic formulations utilizing DuraSite to topically treat ocular infections alone or in combination with other pharmaceutical compounds.

Weekly Health Tip: Other Things You Can Do If You Have Glaucoma

Wed, 08 Jun 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Using your prescription eye drops daily is the most important part of glaucoma treatment, but a healthy diet can also help control the disease. Vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E, zinc and copper are important nutrients for eye health. Ask your eye doctor if they recommend vitamin supplements for you.

Health Northwest: Glaucoma Can Cause Blindness

Wed, 08 Jun 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Glaucoma is a common eye disease, especially in older people. It is the second most common cause of blindness in the United States (age-related macular degeneration is the most common cause). Glaucoma is another of those sneaky health problems, like high blood pressure, which can cause damage without any symptoms at first.

Princess Margaret Hospital To Get Eye Equipment

Tue, 07 Jun 2005 00:00:00 GMT

A tonometer - eye equipment used in the diagnosis of glaucoma - is to be handed over to the eye clinic at the Princess Margaret Hospital in St Thomas.

Blind To Vision Risks

Tue, 07 Jun 2005 00:00:00 GMT

GUYS AND girls who take passes on eye doctor checkups could face a worse fate than glasses.

Pot Studies Difficult To Organize, Analyze

Tue, 07 Jun 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Advocates of medical marijuana tout its ability to alleviate the symptoms of a number of diseases, from multiple sclerosis, glaucoma, epilepsy and AIDS to nausea caused by chemotherapy. While experts say marijuana may be promising, they note that there hasn't been enough solid research to prove these claims.

Mayo Clinic Pioneers Gene Therapy Delivery System For Glaucoma

Mon, 06 Jun 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Mayo Clinic researchers have demonstrated they can permanently transfer a functioning gene to targeted tissues within the eye. This success in animals is a first step in using gene therapy to treat glaucoma, a major cause of blindness worldwide. The research findings appear in the online issue of the leading vision science journal Investigative Ophthalmology and Visual Science (http://www.iovs.org).

Heavy Computer Use May Be Linked To Development Of Glaucoma In Short-Sighted People

Mon, 06 Jun 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Heavy computer use may be linked to the development of glaucoma, especially among those who are short sighted, suggests a large Japanese study in the Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health.

New Approach To Assessing Glaucoma Risk May Help Physicians Decide Who Needs Treatment

Mon, 06 Jun 2005 00:00:00 GMT

A new approach for assessing glaucoma risk factors could be the first step in helping ophthalmologists determine the risk of progression from ocular hypertension to glaucoma and blindness, according to an article published today in the September issue of the American Journal of Ophthalmology.

Central Corneal Thickness Significantly Impacts Glaucoma Treatment

Mon, 06 Jun 2005 00:00:00 GMT

In a new study, researchers at Columbia University Medical Center demonstrated the significance of central corneal thickness (CCT) on the clinical management of patients with glaucoma and those suspected to have glaucoma. While confirming previous research about the relevance of CCT in glaucoma management, this study represents one of the first attempts to determine exactly how great an impact CCT has on a patient's intraocular pressure (IOP), fluid build-up inside the eye that is a glaucoma risk factor. Results found that CCT affected more than half of the patients in the study.

World's Largest Medical Eye Meeting To Be Held In New Orleans

Mon, 06 Jun 2005 00:00:00 GMT

More than 25,000 people are expected to come together in New Orleans for the world's largest medical eye meeting, the Joint Meeting of the American Academy of Ophthalmology and the European Society of Ophthalmology, Oct. 24 to 26 and the Academy's Subspecialty Day meetings in refractive surgery, retina and glaucoma Oct. 22 to 23.

Cellular Waste To Blame For A Form Of Blinding Eye Disease

Mon, 06 Jun 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Gene mutations that impair the ability of photoreceptor cells to properly dispose of waste - and as a result cause the blinding eye disease retinitis pigmentosa - have been identified by vision researchers at the University of Utah's Moran Eye Center. The discovery raises concerns that carbonic anhydrase inhibitors (medications often used to treat both heart and eye diseases) may adversely affect vision. The study is published in the November 24, 2004 online version of the journal Human Molecular Genetics

City Team Promote Eye Disease Awareness

Fri, 03 Jun 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Members of Wolverhampton City Council's Social Services staff have put together a display to promote awareness of the eye condition glaucoma.

City Losing Sight Of Regular Eye Test Benefits

Thu, 02 Jun 2005 00:00:00 GMT

UP to 80 per cent of glaucoma cases in the Capital could be avoided by regular eye tests, an optician has claimed.

NIH Grants $2 Million To Glaucoma Genomics Research

Wed, 01 Jun 2005 00:00:00 GMT

N.C. State researchers received $2 million from the National Institutes of Health to study the genomics of glaucoma, the progressive degeneration of the optic nerve.

Defying Doctors' Predictions, Kenya Brown Still Has Her Sight

Sun, 29 May 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Kenya Brown's blue eyes shone as she strode down the aisle with her fellow classmates who made up Loyola College Prep's graduating class of 2005.

Cold Laser Therapy Relieves Eye Pressure For Glaucoma Patients

Mon, 23 May 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Nick Petrisko of North Huntingdon Township didn't know an insidious disease had tip-toed into his eyes until six years ago, when a doctor told him he had glaucoma.

Journal Study Suggests Many Glaucoma Patients Don't Take Medication Properly

Mon, 02 May 2005 00:00:00 GMT

A study that appears in the May edition of Ophthalmology, the clinical journal of the American Academy of Ophthalmology, shows that as many as 47 percent of patients receiving glaucoma therapy do not comply with their doctor's prescribed medicine regimen. This is in startling contrast to the 90 percent of doctors who believe that their patients are following the prescribed treatment.

Cambridge Antibody Technology Announces Preliminary Results Of Second Pivotal Trabio� Clinical Trial

Tue, 22 Mar 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Cambridge Antibody Technology today announces that in its second pivotal ('International' Phase III) clinical trial, Trabio(R) failed to meet the primary endpoint of improving the outcome of surgery for glaucoma. This result is consistent with the result of the first pivotal ('European' Phase II/III) clinical trial, which was announced in November 2004.

Bad Handwriting Kills Thousands

Mon, 21 Mar 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Roughly 7,000 people die in the United States annually because they got the wrong prescription medicine, and the medicine was largely misprescribed because of poor handwriting. So said Larry Augustin, CEO of hospital data organization systems maker Medsphere Systems, during a panel presentation at PC Forum. Overall, 100,000 people die annually in the states due to preventable causes, he said. Better databases and automated procedures could put a dent into that.

Blocking Neurodegeneration By Radiation And Bone Marrow Transfer Prevents Inherited Glaucoma In Mice

Thu, 10 Mar 2005 00:00:00 GMT

In a discovery that could point to new treatments for a wide range of neurodegenerative diseases, Jackson Laboratory researchers have found that high-dose radiation and bone marrow transfer treatments on glaucoma-susceptible mice completely blocked the development of glaucoma, by preventing neurodegeneration.

Allon Therapeutics Compounds Show Potential To Treat Eye Disease

Wed, 09 Mar 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Two proprietary compounds of Allon Therapeutics Inc. (TSX-V: "NPC"), "The Neuro Protection Company", have the potential to become new treatments for diseases of the optic nerve and retina -- including glaucoma, the second most common cause of blindness in the United States -- according to results of a preclinical study published in the March issue of Investigative Opthalmology & Visual Science.

Boston University Photonics Center SOLX, Launches New Glaucoma System

Mon, 28 Feb 2005 00:00:00 GMT

SOLX Inc., a Boston University Photonics Center Company that develops glaucoma treatment systems, commenced commercial operations after conducting four years of research and product development in the Photonics Center's Business Acceleration Program. SOLX's DeepLight(R) Glaucoma Treatment System, which combines its Titanium Sapphire Laser and Gold Shunt, provides physicians a new approach to decreasing intraocular pressure (IOP), the primary risk factor for glaucoma. The new treatment system reduces compliance problems common in glaucoma sufferers.

Glaucoma Patients Offered New Treatment Option In Aberdeen

Tue, 15 Feb 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Among the newest treatments for glaucoma is the breakthrough procedure Endoscopic CycloPhotocoagulation, known as ECP, which is now available in Aberdeen.

It's Likely Surgical - Not Conservative - Management Of Late Bleb Leaks That Works

Wed, 26 Jan 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Glaucoma surgeons agree that conservative management of late-onset bleb leaks, unfortunately, almost never fixes them.
"Late bleb leaks should probably be repaired surgically because the more conservative measures tend to get recurrences," said Robert M. Feldman, M.D., associate clinical professor and vice chairman, Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, The University of Texas Medical School at Houston. "So if you get a leak and you fix it, you'll get another leak either at the same place or someplace else."

What Corneal Thickness Means For Glaucoma Practitioners

Wed, 26 Jan 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Central corneal thickness (CCT) assessment should play an increasingly important role in a clinician's plan to diagnose and treat glaucoma cases, according to the senior author of a recent study.

A Search For Links Between Glaucoma And Abnormal Blood Flow

Wed, 19 Jan 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Dr. Pasquale, co-director, Glaucoma Service, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Boston, is also interested in the relationship between abnormal retinal blood flow in the eye and glaucoma. He said there may be a connection between blood flow that is abnormally regulated in the eye and nerve fiber loss, perhaps via splinter hemorrhages.

ASCRS Clinical Committee Insights Pearls For Ocular Hypertension To Glaucoma Progression Detection

Wed, 19 Jan 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Despite the continued description of detecting progression from ocular hypertension to glaucoma as an art as much as a science, several members of the ASCRS Glaucoma Clinical Committee said there are approaches upon which ophthalmologists should particularly focus.

Macular Degeneration Patients Benefit From Self-Management Training

Mon, 10 Jan 2005 00:00:00 GMT

A 12-hour self-management program for individuals with advanced age-related macular degeneration (AMD) leads to lasting improvements in mood and function, especially in depressed patients, and decreases the development of clinical depression in AMD patients over time, according to a University of California, San Diego (UCSD) Shiley Eye Center study published in the January 2005 Archives of Ophthalmology.