What's trending in vision sciences?

Every fortnight, our Library and Information Services Manager, Shirley Hart, identifies the articles in our collection that optometrists are talking about. 

In this edition of What’s Trending…, we take a look at the factors that affect age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and the efficacy of topical ivermectin-metronidazole combined therapy in the management of Demodex-associated blepharitis.

Seen in: Ophthalmology 

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a common multifactorial disease in the elderly with a prominent genetic basis. Many risk variants have been identified, but the interpretation remains challenging. This study investigated the genetic distribution of AMD-associated risk variants in a large European consortium, calculated attributable and pathway-specific genetic risks, and assessed the influence of lifestyle on genetic outcomes. Genetic risk variants were found to contribute to late AMD in most patients. However, lifestyle factors were also found to have a strong influence on the outcome of genetic risk, and the study recommends that this should also be a strong focus in patient management.

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Seen in:  Contact Lens and Anterior Eye

Two distinct Demodex mite species have been confirmed as a cause of blepharitis. This study evaluates the efficacy of topical ivermectin-metronidazole combined therapy in the management of Demodex-associated blepharitis in sixty patients diagnosed with the condition. Demodex spp. was completely eradicated in 96.6% of patients in the treatment group, and no adverse effects were observed. The researchers conclude that the application of this gel for the treatment of different parasitic infections of the eyelids is viable, and further exploration is recommended.

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