The EMA’s CHMP has recommended marketing authorization for voretigene neparvovec for inherited retinal dystrophy caused by RPE65 gene mutations in adults and children. International Approvals
Author: Medscape
FDA Clears New Form of Latanoprost (Xelpros) for Glaucoma
Xelpros is the first and only form of latanoprost that is not formulated with benzalkonium chloride, a preservative commonly used in topical ocular preparations. FDA Approvals
(S)pot Check on Alternative Treatments for Glaucoma
Does marijuana, gingko biloba, or bilberry effectively manage symptoms of glaucoma? Medscape Ophthalmology
Ocular Allergy as a Risk Factor for Dry Eye
Ocular allergy and dry eye are different conditions, yet there are complex interactions between them. Find out what there is to know. Current Opinion in Allergy and Clinical Immunology
Famous Names in Medicine
We’ve all heard of them–Johns Hopkins, Henry Gray, Walter Reed–but who were they, and why do their names have a place in the history of medicine? Medscape
Anti-VEGF Effective in Persistent Diabetic Macular Edema
A recent analysis associated three different anti-VEGF agents with meaningful vision gains through 2 years of follow-up. Medscape Ophthalmology
Anti-VEGF vs PRP for Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy
Five-year data from DRCR.net Protocol S provides needed comparative data on the efficacy, safety, and burden of these treatments. Medscape Ophthalmology
NIH Vision Researcher Among Seven to Receive Top Global Award
T. Michael Redmond and six others were honored for developing gene therapy for the blinding disorder Leber congenital amaurosis. It is the only pharmacologic treatment for an inherited retinal disease. Medscape Medical News
Alcon Pulls CyPass Glaucoma Micro-Stent Off the Global Market
The company cites 5-year safety data that show statistically significant endothelial cell loss in patients who received the CyPass stent at the time of glaucoma surgery. News Alerts
Keep an ‘Eye’ on Curcumin for Ocular Neuroprotection
A new topical delivery system allows curcumin, the main active ingredient of turmeric, to be used for ocular neuroprotection. Medscape Optometry
Keep an ‘Eye’ on Curcumin for Ocular Neuroprotection
A new topical delivery system allows curcumin, the main active ingredient of turmeric, to be used for ocular neuroprotection. Medscape Optometry
AI Speeds Diabetic Retinopathy Diagnosis Without Specialist
The first-of-its-kind solution, fast-tracked by the FDA, can be used to detect the disease in primary care and retail clinics without requiring a physician, shows a prospective study. Medscape Medical News
A 5-Year-Old Boy’s Failing Vision
A boy comes to your clinic with myopia in the right eye. Can you determine the cause? Medscape Ophthalmology
FDA OKs First Twice-Daily Steroid for Postsurgery Eye Pain
The nanoparticle formulation of loteprednol etabonate ophthalmic suspension (Inveltys, Kala Pharmaceuticals) is dosed two times daily rather than four times daily, with similar efficacy and safety. FDA Approvals
FDA Clears First Drug for Neurotrophic Keratitis
Cenegermin eye drops (Oxervate) are a recombinant form of human nerve growth factor that stimulate growth and survival of corneal epithelial cells. FDA Approvals
Blue Light Damages Retinal Cells in Lab Study
A cell-based experiment shows how blue light can damage retinal cells, but it’s unclear whether the results translate to humans or if blue light exposure from computers and cell phones harms vision. Medscape Medical News
AI in Ophthalmology: A Brave New World Coming
There’s a lot of hype about autonomous artificial intelligence systems, but are they anywhere near ready for prime time? Medscape Ophthalmology
FDA Clears Hydrus Microstent for Glaucoma
The Hydrus microstent used in conjunction with cataract surgery achieves significant and sustained lowering of intraocular pressure in patients with primary open-angle glaucoma. FDA Approvals
Three Eye Conditions Linked to Higher Alzheimer’s Risk
More insight into the eye as a ‘window into the brain’ comes from a study linking glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration, and diabetic retinopathy to a higher risk for Alzheimer’s disease. Medscape Medical News
Ocular Abnormalities in Congenital Zika Syndrome
This report details ocular abnormalities associated with Zika infection, underscoring the need for an early eye-screening exam for infants in which congenital Zika syndrome is suspected. Journal of Medical Case Reports