Optical coherence tomography is designed to evaluate in vivo qualitative and quantitative changes of the anterior segment, optic nerve and the retina. Initial applications of this technology were confined mainly to ophthalmic diseases. However recently, numerous studies have evaluated its use in systemic conditions and in therapeutics where, optic nerve and retinal architecture can be assessed to monitor progression of systemic conditions and its response to treatment. This is a narrative review aimed at evaluating the debate surrounding the role of spectral domain optical coherence tomography, in systemic conditions where optic nerve affection can be measured and be used in the diagnosis, monitoring and assessment of treatment effect as a non-invasive, quick, novel technique.

Background: To compare visual function and structural improvements in pseudophakic eyes with diabetic macular oedema (DMO) treated with the 0.19mg Fluocinolone Acetonide (FAc) intravitreal implant (Iluvien (TM)) in a 'real world' setting. Methods: A single centre retrospective evaluation of patients with DMO unresponsive to conventional treatment treated with the FAc implant according to UK guidelines. Primary efficacy endpoint was best corrected visual acuity (BCVA); secondary endpoints included optical coherence tomography evaluations of the macula (a) central retinal and (b) peak macular thickness collected at annual time points. Primary safety endpoint was new rise in IOP >27mmHg or glaucoma surgery. Patients with <1 year follow-up were excluded. Results: Twenty-nine eyes were included, with mean(SD) follow up of 792(270) days. Improvement in BCVA and reduction in macular oedema was noted at all timepoints. Mean improvement in BCVA from baseline was 6 ETDRS letters at year 1(n=29), 6.5L at year 2(n=22) and 11L at year 3(n=6). Mean central retinal thickness at baseline was 451 microns, 337 microns at year 1, 342 microns at year 2 and 314 microns at year 3. Two eyes required IOP-lowering drops post implant. Supplementary treatment for persistence or recurrence of DMO was necessary in 18 eyes over the total study period of 3 years with mean time to supplementary treatment being 12 months. Conclusions: Our evaluation of the 0.19mg FAc implant delivered in a real-world setting, provides additional evidence that it is effective and safe in the treatment of patients with DMO, and can provide sustained benefit for patients with previously refractory disease.

To discuss diagnostic strategies and management options in cases with suspected valsalva maculopathy (VM), to optimize visual outcome. We describe six cases with suspected VM. The preretinal hemorrhage resolved spontaneously in four out of six patients, without any intervention. One patient underwent neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet hyaloidotomy and the other proceeded to have a vitrectomy for persistent diffuse vitreous hemorrhage. Considering the evidence available and the outcomes of our patients, we have devised a treatment algorithm for treating VM, which is elaborated in this article.

Background: Uveitis involving the posterior segment is a significant and potentially blinding condition. The diagnosis and treatment of patients with uveitis associated with tuberculosis remains controversial, and commonly, patients are systemically well. Use of the interferon-gamma release assays has added to the controversy, as the significance of a positive test may be uncertain. We aim to report the outcomes of anti-tuberculous treatment in a cohort of patients treated in Birmingham, for presumed "ocular tuberculosis", based on clinical findings, systemic assessment and specific testing for tuberculosis. Results: We found that in our cohort of 41 patients treated between 2010 and 2014, the majority achieved disease-free remission, even in cases where anti-tuberculous treatment was delayed. Conclusions: Despite controversy, this study strongly supports the use of anti-tuberculous therapy in such patients and highlights the need for formal prospective trials and treatment protocols.

Our survey looked at current practice amongst GPs in the West Midlands where there is a high percentage of ethnic minorities who are predisposed to VDD as well as being diabetics. Clinicians need to be aware of the relationship between VDD and DR, with a view to tackling both where possible. We recommend investigating VD levels and commencing treatment early, in the light of the literature reviewed.

Ranibizumab is a monoclonal antibody fragment that inhibits angiogenesis by inhibiting vascular endothelial growth factor A, used as a treatment for patients with wet aged-related macular degeneration (ARMD). Adverse effects from intravitreal Ranibizumab injections are well recognised. Macular hole formation following Ranibizumab injection is a complication that has been recently reported in few case reports. We present a larger case series of five patients, who developed full thickness macular holes (FTMH) after intravitreal Ranibizumab injections for treatment of wet ARMD that we were aware of between 2009 and 2013.

Introduction: Orbital cellulits following cataract surgery is extremely rare. We describe a case of orbital and facial cellulitis that occurred after routine cataract operation with peribulbar anaesthesia. There were no preoperative systemic or ocular risk factors for postoperative infection. Case description: An 89-year-old man presented to eye casualty, the day after he underwent an uneventful phacoemulsification and posterior chamber lens implantation in the left eye under peribulabr anaesthesia, with soreness, swelling and reduced visual acuity (6/18) in the operated eye. On initial presentation periorbital swelling was noted, the eye was minimally tender, intraocular pressure was raised at 28 mHg and fundoscopy was limited due to a hazy cornea. The patient was discharged on topical medication with a diagnosis of allergic reaction to postoperative drops. The following day, the patient re-presented with worsening orbital swelling involving the left cheek. Ocular findings remained unchanged. CT scan revealed left orbit soft tissue swelling and a locule of air medial to the medial rectus. There were no signs of sinus infection or periosteal inflammation. A diagnosis of left orbital and facial cellulitis was made and the patient was treated with intravenous antibiotics. Discussion: Our patient did not have any predisposing risk factors, therefore most likely cause of cellulitis is surgical trauma during administration of the peribulbar block. This case illustrates the need for adequate skin preparation before the administration of peribulbar anaesthesia and minimal tissue trauma during the procedure.