News

Nicox S.A. has entered into an exclusive agreement with Immco Diagnostics Inc., which manufactures autoimmune diagnostic products and services, to promote a proprietary laboratory test targeted at early detection and diagnosis of Sjögren’s syndrome.

Sigma-Tau Pharmaceuticals Inc. has launched cysteamine ophthalmic solution 0.44% (Cystaran), the first and only FDA-approved therapy for the treatment of corneal cystine crystal accumulation in patients with cystinosis.

Perrigo Co. has acquired the ophthalmic portfolio of Fera Pharmaceuticals, a Long Island, NY-based specialty pharmaceutical company, for an upfront payment of $93 million.

The immediate postoperative period after PRK and LASIK can be difficult for patients because of refractive variations, surface irregularities, and poor optical clarity. However, a novel eye shield (Nexis Vision Corneal Shield, Nexis Vision) appears to help patients who have undergone PRK and LASIK by providing rapid visual and functional recovery.

Many Americans more than 50 years are not consuming enough specific nutrients in their daily diet to support their eye health. This was the conclusion from a recent review published in the Journal of Clinical Interventions in Aging.

The association of aspirin use and age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is controversial, considering the varying study results. The totality of evidence, however, from observational studies and randomized, controlled clinical trials suggests there is no major harmful association of aspirin use with AMD, said Emily Y. Chew, MD.

Vision-related diseases are costing patients, insurance companies, and the U.S. government more than ever. According to the new report commissioned by Prevent Blindness America (PBA) from researchers at the University of Chicago, vision diseases are among the costliest health problems to the U.S. economy.

The Appraisal Committee of the United Kingdom's National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) has issued a positive Appraisal Consultation Document (ACD) for the 190 µm fluocinolone acetonide intravitreal implant in applicator (Iluvien, Alimera Sciences) for the treatment of pseudophakic patients with chronic diabetic macular edema (DME) and who are unresponsive to existing therapies.

Using the strengths of both peristaltic and venturi phaco, a modified chop technique increases efficiency and safety in denser nuclei.

Outcomes from use of a proprietary femtosecond laser system (Catalys Precision Laser System, OptiMedica) to perform cataract surgery in a series of 850 eyes, of which 25% have some comorbidity, are testament to its reliability and safety.

Red Herring, a global media company that covers high-technology innovation, has chosen WaveTec Vision to receive the “Red Herring Top 100 North America Tech Startup” award.

Topcon Medical Systems has released its new KR/RM-800 auto refractor series. The company begins delivering the new products at the end of June.

Regeneron Pharmaceuticals Inc. and Bayer HealthCare reported positive top-line results for aflibercept injection (Eylea) from the phase III MYRROR study in myopic choroidal neovascularization (mCNV).

Ethnic differences in anterior chamber angle anatomy exist and may explain the increased risk for angle-closure glaucoma among Chinese, said Shan C. Lin, MD, professor of ophthalmology and co-director of the glaucoma service, University of California San Francisco School of Medicine.

Eye-care professional across the United States are expected to converge on the nation’s capital for the 2nd Annual Focus on Eye Health National Summit.

Secondary IOL implantation is widely accepted, especially in aphakic patients who have become contact lens intolerant or noncompliant. A number of studies on the topic, mostly from Western countries, have had small sample sizes, and the safety and efficacy of the procedure have not been well studied.

ThromboGenics NV has started research and development of innovative protein therapeutics to address a biologic target implicated in a range of diabetic eye diseases, such as diabetic macular edema.

Transitions Optical Inc. continues to support the American Diabetes Association (ADA) by educating consumers about the importance of regular eye care for the early detection and treatment of diabetes during ADA Expo events.

Prevent Blindness America (PBA) along with its affiliates and partners is joining forces to promote a national “AMD: Awareness Makes a Difference” program to educate adults on the disease and the steps that can be taken, including regular eye exams, to protect their vision.

Now an ophthalmologist, she travels the world helping restore sight to the needy

Findings point to improvements in cleaning procedures, less reuse of cannulas

Higher-concentration drug statistically superior to vehicle for achieving resolution of inflammation

Patient comfort, minimal foreign body sensation support routine use for cataract surgery

Phase IIb, III data show anti-inflammatory/mydriatic agent reduces miosis

Loteprednol etabonate 0.5% provides enhanced safety, efficacy, comfort for refractive surgery

How one practice uses protocol, point-of-care testing for effective diagnosis, management

PRK less invasive; procedure more compatible in patients with suspected keratoconus