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Diagnosis of dysthyroid optic neuropathy (DON) typically relies on a set of diagnostic clinical features, including decreased visual acuity, impaired color vision, presence of relative afferent pupillary defect, optic disc swelling and ancillary tests including visual field (VF), pattern visual evoked potential (pVEP), and apical crowding or optic nerve stretching on neuroimaging. We summarize various diagnostic methods to establish or rule out DON. A total of 95 studies (involving 4619 DON eyes) met the inclusion criteria. All of the studies considered clinical features as evidence of DON, while most of the studies confirmed DON diagnosis by combining clinical features with ancillary tests. Forty studies (42.1%) used at least 2 out of the 3 tests (VF, pVEP and neuroimaging) and 13 studies (13.7%) used all 3 tests to diagnose DON. In 64 % of the published studies regarding DON, the diagnostic methods of DON were not specified. It is important to note the limitations of relying solely on clinical features for diagnosing DON. On the other hand, since some eyes with optic neuropathy can be normal in one ancillary test, but abnormal in another, using more than one ancillary test to aid diagnosis is crucial and should be interpreted in correlation with clinical features. We found that the diagnostic methods of DON in most studies involved using a combination of specific clinical features and at least 2 ancillary tests. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aims: To evaluate the macular thickness profile and central subfoveal choroidal thickness in patients with thyroid‐associated orbitopathy (TAO) compared to healthy subjects. Methods: We used the convenience sampling method and divided all participants into the patients and control groups. Based on the clinical activity score (CAS) in the first examination, the patient group was divided to two subgroups: the patients with CAS < 3 and the patients with CAS ≥ 3. Complete ophthalmologic examinations and optical coherence tomography imaging were performed for all participants. Results: The mean ± SD of central choroidal thickness was 277 ± 76.58 microns for the control and 326.07 ± 56.574 micron for the patient group which was statistically significant (p = 0.003). We also found that the parafoveal inner thickness is significantly lower in patients compared to healthy subjects (p = 0.02). A comparison of neuro‐structural data between the two subgroups of patients showed a significant difference in central choroidal thickness (p = 0.05). Conclusion: This study showed that central choroidal thickness in patients with CAS ≥ 3 compared to those with CAS < 3 and also in the patient group compared to healthy individuals have a significantly increasing trend. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background and Aims To evaluate the macular thickness profile and central subfoveal choroidal thickness in patients with thyroid‐associated orbitopathy (TAO) compared to healthy subjects. Methods We used the convenience sampling method and divided all participants into the patients and control groups. Based on the clinical activity score (CAS) in the first examination, the patient group was divided to two subgroups: the patients with CAS

Purpose: To elucidate the clinical implications of corneal striae (CS) in thyroid associated orbitopathy (TAO) patients. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, the presence of CS was confirmed after topical fluorescein staining on a slit lamp for consecutive treatment-naive TAO patients. Orbital parameters, including margin reflex distances, lagophthalmos, exophthalmos, intraocular pressure and radiological measurements, were compared between eyes with and without CS. The largest cross-sectional areas of each rectus muscle were measured by segmenting the T1-weighted (T1W) magnetic resonance images (MRI). The logistic regression analyses were used to evaluate the associations between CS and orbital parameters and rectus muscle measurements. Results: Fifty-three consecutive TAO patients (presenting age 46.47 ± 14.73 years, clinical activity score 1.77 ± 1.25) who had unilateral CS were enrolled. In univariate analysis, both the degree of lagophthalmos and the area of the levator palpebrae superioris–superior rectus complex (LPS/SR) on T1W MRI were significantly larger in CS eyes compared to eyes without CS (p < 0.05). Multivariate analyses showed that CS in TAO patients were significantly associated with the degree of lagophthalmos (OR = 1.75, 95% CI: 1.18–2.61, p < 0.05) and LPS/SR area (OR = 19.27, 95% CI: 1.43–259.32, p < 0.05) but not with the other parameters. CS could predict LPS/SR enlargement and larger lagophthalmos in TAO (p < 0.05). The largest cross-sectional areas of LPS/SR and inferior rectus were positively correlated with clinical activity scores (p < 0.05). Conclusions: The presence of CS in TAO eye is significantly associated with LPS/SR enlargement and worse lagophthalmos. CS might be evaluated further as a potential ocular surface biomarker to identify upper lid and LPS/SR involvement in TAO. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Thyroid-associated orbitopathy (TAO) is the most frequent cause of extraocularmuscle enlargement, with consecutive restrictive strabismus. The main muscles involved are inferior and medial rectus, resulting in horizontal esotropia and/or vertical strabismus. Surgery may either establish or improve binocular single vision. The aim of the present study is to describe long-term follow-up of patients who underwent horizontal or vertical TAO strabismus surgery. Methods: This observational retrospective study included 29 patients suffering from either vertical or horizontal TAO strabismus and diplopia, of whom 11 underwent bilateral medial recti muscle recession (Group A) and 18 underwent unilateral inferior rectus muscle recession (Group B). The endpoint of the study was the assessment of changes in deviation angle and diplopia across four time points (baseline, 7 days, 6 months, and 24 months) in each group. Results: In Group A, the horizontal deviation angle significantly decreased 7 days after intervention (p < 0.001), without modifications overtime. In Group B, both deviation angles in primary and down-gaze position significantly decreased from baseline, both 7 days after surgery (p < 0.001) and at 6 months (p = 0.040). An overcorrection, with an inversion of vertical deviation angle, was observed across the different time points. Conclusions: Horizontal TAO strabismus correction leads to significant improvements of deviation angle and diplopia, with a stable undercorrection overtime. Inferior rectus recession leads to more unstable results, with a trend towards overcorrection limited to the first 6 months after surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The coexistence of thyroid-associated orbitopathy (TAO) and idiopathic orbital inflammatory diseases (IOID) is rare. They mimic each other clinically, and it is challenging to differentiate the two. We are presenting a case of bilateral proptosis resulting from concomitant TAO and IOID. Case Report: A 44-year-old female presented with swelling, pain, and protrusion of both eyes for one month. She had a past history of trauma in the right eye (RE) 15 years ago. Her best-corrected visual acuity in RE was hand movements and 20/30 in the left eye (LE). There was lid edema, conjunctival congestion, chemosis with axial proptosis, and restricted extraocular movements in both eyes (BE). The anterior segment of RE revealed sequels of old anterior traumatic uveitis and it was normal in the LE. The B scan done in BE showed enlargement of all extraocular (EOM). CT scan orbit showed enlargement of all the EOM belly and tendon insertions. Thyroid profile found to have high anti-TPO (thyroid peroxidase) suggestive of Hashimoto's thyroiditis. The patient was started on intravenous methylprednisolone and showed significant improvement. Conclusion: TAO and IOID can present together. This case report highlights the need for clinicians to be aware of this condition.

ObjectiveThyroid-associated orbitopathy (TAO) is the most frequent cause of extraocular muscle enlargement, with consecutive restrictive strabismus. The main muscles involved are inferior and medial rectus, resulting in horizontal esotropia and/or vertical strabismus. Surgery may either establish or improve binocular single vision. The aim of the present study is to describe long-term follow-up of patients who underwent horizontal or vertical TAO strabismus surgery.MethodsThis observational retrospective study included 29 patients suffering from either vertical or horizontal TAO strabismus and diplopia, of whom 11 underwent bilateral medial recti muscle recession (Group A) and 18 underwent unilateral inferior rectus muscle recession (Group B). The endpoint of the study was the assessment of changes in deviation angle and diplopia across four time points (baseline, 7 days, 6 months, and 24 months) in each group.ResultsIn Group A, the horizontal deviation angle significantly decreased 7 days after intervention (p < 0.001), without modifications overtime. In Group B, both deviation angles in primary and down-gaze position significantly decreased from baseline, both 7 days after surgery (p < 0.001) and at 6 months (p = 0.040). An overcorrection, with an inversion of vertical deviation angle, was observed across the different time points.ConclusionsHorizontal TAO strabismus correction leads to significant improvements of deviation angle and diplopia, with a stable undercorrection overtime. Inferior rectus recession leads to more unstable results, with a trend towards overcorrection limited to the first 6 months after surgery.

Thyroid-associated orbitopathy (TAO) is one of the most common autoimmune inflammatory disorders of the orbit. The presence of anti-thyroid antibodies is believed to play a role in the pathogenesis and clinical status of the TAO patients. Herein, we review the usefulness of TPOAb as a biomarker for TAO. A systematic search in MEDLINE library was conducted. Results: Twenty studies were included. TPO is expressed in orbital tissues, and the polymorphism rs11675434 SNP has proven to be associated with clinically evident TAO. Studies in pediatric patients have shown a positive correlation between high TPOAb levels and TAO. In contrast, results in adults are inconsistent. Some studies imply a protective role of TPOAb, yet the majority did not find any association. Some authors have suggested an implication of TPOAb in the pathophysiology of TAO in TRAb-negative patients. The role of TPOAb in TAO remains unclear and controversial. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

PurposeTo describe the effect of tocilizumab in two patients with thyroid associated orbitopathy (TAO).ObservationsWe present two patients with TAO who could not tolerate corticosteroids and had a reduction in clinical and laboratory markers of inflammatory activity with subsequent tocilizumab therapy.Conclusions and importanceThe IL-6 receptor antibody tocilizumab is a promising candidate for the treatment of TAO because it selectively targets a key inflammatory mediator and has a favorable side effect profile. Our report demonstrates that tocilizumab can achieve further reduction in inflammatory activity after treatment with corticosteroids. Importantly, we and others have observed a decrease in the level of thyroid stimulating immunoglobulin (TSI) with tocilizumab treatment. This suggests an upstream effect in the inflammatory cascade. Although the impact of tocilizumab on long-term outcome is unknown at this time, we believe that early disruption of the inflammatory process may prevent late complications and decrease the need for rehabilitative surgery.

Abstract Thyroid associated orbitopathy (TAO) is a common diagnosis encountered by ophthalmologists and oculoplastic surgeons. TAO has a varying clinical presentation that can include upper eyelid retraction, restrictive strabismus, proptosis, exposure keratopathy, and optic neuropathy. In this review, we discuss the most recent literature on and the current understanding of the pathophysiology of TAO. We also review available and potential future treatment options for the management of TAO.

Introduction: The diagnostic value of the level of TSH receptor antibodies (TSHR-Ab) in the population of children with autoimmune thyroid diseases (AITDs) is still unknown. The aim of this cross-sectional study was to investigate the prevalence of TSHR-Ab in a paediatric cohort with AITD and healthy controls. Materials and methods: A total of 240 serum samples were obtained from 205 patients with AITD, type 1 diabetes (T1D), juvenile arthritis (JA), and healthy controls (C). TSHR stimulating (TSI) and -blocking (TBI) immunoglobulins were measured in cell-based bioassays using CHO cells expressing a chimeric TSHR and a c-AMP response-element-dependent luciferase. TSI was reported as percentage of specimen-to-reference ratio (cutoff 140SRR%). Blocking activity was defined as percent inhibition of luciferase expression relative to induction with bovine TSH alone (40% inhibition). Results: C as well as children with JA and T1D were both TSI and TBI negative. In contrast, children with Graves’ disease (GD) were positive for TSI in 47/53 samples (88.7%) while those with thyroidal and orbital GD showed TSI positivity in 95.8% (23/24 samples). Serum TSI levels were SRR% 320 ± 157 and 417 ± 135 in GD and GD + orbitopathy, respectively (p = .02). Children with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis (HT) were TSI positive in 4/83 (4.8%) samples, including two with orbital involvement. TSI levels were increased in HT children with vs. those without eye disease (SRR% 177 vs. 51, p

Thyroid associated orbitopathy (TAO) is a common diagnosis encountered by ophthalmologists and oculoplastic surgeons. TAO has a varying clinical presentation that can include upper eyelid retraction, restrictive strabismus, proptosis, exposure keratopathy, and optic neuropathy. In this review, we discuss the most recent literature on and the current understanding of the pathophysiology of TAO. We also review available and potential future treatment options for the management of TAO. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Klio I Chatzistefanou,1 Christianna Samara,2 Ioannis Asproudis,3 Dimitrios Brouzas,1 Marilita M Moschos,1 Elisabeth Tsianta,1 George Piaditis4 1First Department of Ophthalmology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens Medical School, Athens, Greece; 2Department of Radiology and Endocrinology, 3Department of Ophthalmology, University of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece; 4Athens General Hospital “G. Gennimatas”, Athens, Greece Background: Thyroid associated orbitopathy (TAO) comprises a spectrum of well-recognized clinical signs including exophthalmos, eyelid retraction, soft tissue swelling, ocular misalignment, keratopathy as well as a number of less common manifestations. Subconjunctival fat prolapse is a rare clinical condition occurring typically spontaneously in elderly patients with a mean age of 65–72 years. We describe subconjunctival prolapse of orbital fat as an uncommon clinical association of TAO. Materials and methods: Observational study of six patients presenting with a subconjunctival protrusion under the lateral canthus in a series of 198 consecutive cases with TAO examined at a tertiary care referral center. Results: A superotemporally located yellowish, very soft, freely mobile subconjunctival protrusion developed unilaterally in two and bilaterally in four patients with TAO (incidence 3.03%). It was one of the presenting manifestations of TAO in four of ten eyes studied and incited the diagnostic work-up for TAO in two of six patients in this series. Magnetic resonance imaging of the orbit indicated fat density in continuity with intraorbital fat in the area of protrusion. A male to female preponderance of 4:2 and an advanced mean age at onset of TAO is noteworthy for these six patients compared to the pool of 192 patients (64.8 versus 51.8 years, respectively, P=0.003) not bearing this sign. Conclusion: Subconjunctival orbital fat prolapse, a clinically impressive age-related ocular lesion, may occasionally predominate amid other clinical manifestations of TAO. It is a nonspecific sign developing most commonly among patients with a relatively advanced age at presentation. Awareness of this association may alert to the diagnosis of thyroid orbitopathy and reassure the patient and physician as to the benign character of the lesion. Keywords: subconjunctival orbital fat prolapse, elderly, age-related, Graves ophthalmopathy, thyroid associated orbitopathy, autoimmune thyroidopathy

Background: Thyroid associated orbitopathy (TAO) is the principal extrathyroidal manifestation of Graves' disease (GD). TAO is described as chronic inflammation of orbital and periorbital tissue. Environmental risk factors variably influence development of TAO and risk factors vary with ethnicity and geographical region. Aims: To evaluate the clinical factors for TAO in patients with GD. Setting and Design: This was a hospital-based cross-sectional study done on consecutive 76 newly diagnosed patients of GD documented by thyroid 99mTechnetium-pertechnetate scan. Materials and Methods: Patients were subjected to complete clinical workup and thyroid profile. The diagnosis of TAO was based on the criteria of Bartley and Gorman. Fifty two TAO patients were compared with twenty four non TAO patients (controls) for risk. Statistical Analysis Used: All analyses were performed with SPSS software (version 21.0). Results: TAO was present in 52 (68%) of patients with GD. TAO was bilateral in 50 (96%) of patients. Majority of patients had mild orbitopathy 34 (65.4%) and none of the patients showed any signs of sight-threatening disease. Clinical activity score (CAS) was active in 13.5% of the study group. There was significant female preponderance in TAO. Current smoking increased the risk of TAO (P = 0.023). Total triiodothyronine (T3) and mean intraocular pressure (IOP) in primary and upward gaze was significantly elevated at baseline in TAO patients. Braley's sign was seen in 30.7% of patients with TAO and in 8.3% of patients in the control group (P = 0.033). Current smoking, total T3 > 4ng/dl and differential IOP > 6 mmHg were found to be associated with risk of TAO. Conclusion: TAO was clinically inactive and of mild severity in most cases. This study identified current smoking, total T3 > 4 ng/dl and differential IOP > 6 mmHg as risk factors for TAO. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AIM: To determine the relevance of the objective parameters addressing the altered biomechanical properties of cornea for glaucoma monitoring in patients with mild or moderate thyroid associated orbitopathy (TAO), and in healthy individuals. METHODS: Twenty-five patients with TAO (group 1) and 25 healthy adults (group 2) were included to the study. Both groups were of a similar age and the ratio women:man. For each patient, the following parameters of both eyes were measured with ocular response analyzer (ORA): corneal hysteresis (CH), corneal resistance factor (CRF), Goldmann correlated intraocular pressure (IOPg) and corneal compensated intraocular pressure (IOPcc). In both groups participating in our study, all measurements were performed within minutes to reduce the diurnal effects. RESULTS: The mean age in group 1 was 56±11y and 76% were women, 24% were men. The mean age in group 2 was 64±11y and 68% were women, 32% were men. CH correlated negatively with IOPg in group 1 (r2=0.10, P0.05) and also no significant correlation in group 2 (r2=0.04, P>0.05). CRF mean value in group 2 (11.51±1.72 mm Hg) was higher than in group 1 (10.85±1.45 mm Hg) (P

Purpose: To describe the effect of tocilizumab in two patients with thyroid associated orbitopathy (TAO). Observations: We present two patients with TAO who could not tolerate corticosteroids and had a reduction in clinical and laboratory markers of inflammatory activity with subsequent tocilizumab therapy. Conclusions and importance: The IL-6 receptor antibody tocilizumab is a promising candidate for the treatment of TAO because it selectively targets a key inflammatory mediator and has a favorable side effect profile. Our report demonstrates that tocilizumab can achieve further reduction in inflammatory activity after treatment with corticosteroids. Importantly, we and others have observed a decrease in the level of thyroid stimulating immunoglobulin (TSI) with tocilizumab treatment. This suggests an upstream effect in the inflammatory cascade. Although the impact of tocilizumab on long-term outcome is unknown at this time, we believe that early disruption of the inflammatory process may prevent late complications and decrease the need for rehabilitative surgery.

Sang Beom HanDepartment of Ophthalmology, Kangwon National University Hospital, Kangwon National University Graduate School of Medicine, Chuncheon, KoreaI read with interest the article entitled “Subconjunctival orbital fat prolapse and thyroid associated orbitopathy: a clinical association” by Chatzistefanou et al.1 The case-series study was undoubtedly well designed and conducted, in which the authors successfully revealed that subconjunctival orbital fat prolapse may occasionally be a predominant clinical manifestation of thyroid-associated orbitopathy (TAO) and suggested that the presence of subconjunctival orbital fat prolapse can alert the diagnosis of thyroid orbitopathy.However, I would like to point out that the mechanism underlying the association between the two conditions is still unclear. Subconjunctival fat prolapse is usually caused by forward herniation of intraconal fat tissue due to dehiscence of tenon capsule precipitated by aging process or trauma.2 In TAO, swelling and inflammation of orbital fat can lead to separation of the orbital septum from the capsulopalpebral fascia, which can cause fat prolapse into the orbit.3 Previous studies showed that intraorbital inflammation in TAO can lead to apical crowding in orbit and intracranial fat prolapse.4,5 Therefore, as the authors postulated, it would be plausible that elevated intraorbital pressure and increase in orbital fat in TAO can also allow anterior herniation of intraorbital fat.Authors’ replyKlio I Chatzistefanou,1 Christianna Samara,2 Ioannis Asproudis,3 Dimitrios Brouzas,1 Marilita M Moschos,1 Elisabeth Tsianta,1 George Piaditis41First Department of Ophthalmology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens Medical School, Athens, Greece; 2Department of Radiology and Endocrinology, 3Department of Ophthalmology, University of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece; 4Athens General Hospital “G. Gennimatas”, Athens, GreeceWe appreciate Dr Han’s comments and interest in our article. Intracranial herniation of intraorbital fat through the superior orbital fissure has been reported at an incidence of 19% in patients with thyroid ophthalmopathy in one study,1 and its prevalence may vary between 24% and 82% in different studies1–3 among patients with dysthyroid ophthalmopathy.We reviewed again data from the patients’ charts for symptoms and signs of compressive optic neuropathy upon presentation with subconjunctival fat prolapse.4 There were no afferent pupillary defects or optic nerve head swelling or atrophy noted on fundoscopy in any of the patients reported in this series. Clinical suspicion for possible compressive optic neuropathy, prompting paraclinical investigation with visual field testing, had been raised for patient #2 who had a slight decrease in visual acuity to 0.9 in the right eye. Visual field testing by automated perimetry was within normal limits. Visual acuity improved to 1.0+ in the involved eye with a change in astigmatic correction.View original paper by Chatzistefanou et al

Introduction: The diagnostic value of the level of TSH receptor antibodies (TSHR-Ab) in the population of children with autoimmune thyroid diseases (AITDs) is still unknown. The aim of this cross-sectional study was to investigate the prevalence of TSHR-Ab in a paediatric cohort with AITD and healthy controls.Materials and methods: A total of 240 serum samples were obtained from 205 patients with AITD, type 1 diabetes (T1D), juvenile arthritis (JA), and healthy controls (C). TSHR stimulating (TSI) and -blocking (TBI) immunoglobulins were measured in cell-based bioassays using CHO cells expressing a chimeric TSHR and a c-AMP response-element-dependent luciferase. TSI was reported as percentage of specimen-to-reference ratio (cutoff 140SRR%). Blocking activity was defined as percent inhibition of luciferase expression relative to induction with bovine TSH alone (40% inhibition).Results: C as well as children with JA and T1D were both TSI and TBI negative. In contrast, children with Graves’ disease (GD) were positive for TSI in 47/53 samples (88.7%) while those with thyroidal and orbital GD showed TSI positivity in 95.8% (23/24 samples). Serum TSI levels were SRR% 320 ± 157 and 417 ± 135 in GD and GD + orbitopathy, respectively (p = .02). Children with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis (HT) were TSI positive in 4/83 (4.8%) samples, including two with orbital involvement. TSI levels were increased in HT children with vs. those without eye disease (SRR% 177 vs. 51, p < .01). In comparison, TBI were negative in all tested samples of children with GD but positive in one HT sample.Conclusions: In conclusion, TSI is prevalent in children with GD while the highest serum TSI levels were noted in children with AITD and orbitopathy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: To investigate the extraocular muscle (EOM) changes in thyroid-associated orbitopathy (TAO) on DTI and the correlations between DTI parameters and clinical features. Methods: Twenty TAO patients and 20 age- and sex-matched controls provided informed consent and were enrolled. Ten-directional DTI was acquired in orbit. Fractional anisotropy (FA), mean, axial, and radial diffusivities were obtained at medial and lateral EOMs in both orbits. EOM thickness was measured in patients using axial CT images. FA and diffusivities were compared between patients and controls. The relationships between DTI values and muscle thickness and exophthalmos were evaluated. DTI values compared between patients in active and inactive phases by clinical activity score of TAO. DTI values were also compared between acute and chronic stages by the duration of disease. Results: In medial EOM, FA was significantly lower in patients ( p < 0.001) and negatively correlated with muscle thickness ( r = −0.604, p < 0.001). Radial diffusivity was significantly higher in patients ( p = 0.010) and correlated with muscle thickness ( r = 0.349, p = 0.027). In lateral EOM, DTI values did not differ between patients and controls. In the acute stage, the diffusivities of the medial rectus EOM were increased compared with the chronic stage. DTI values of the medial and lateral rectus EOM did not differ significantly between active and inactive phases. Conclusion: DTI can be used to diagnose TAO with FA and radial diffusivity change in EOM. Diffusivities can be used to differentiate acute and chronic stage of TAO. However, DTI values showed limitation in reflecting TAO activity according to the CAS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to assess a piezosurgical device as a novel tool for bony orbital decompression surgery. At a multidisciplinary orbital center, 62 surgeries were performed in 40 patients with thyroid associated orbitopathy (TAO). Within this retrospective case-series, we analyzed the medical records of these consecutive unselected patients. The reduction of proptosis was the main outcome measure. Indications for a two ( n = 27, 44%) or three wall (35, 56%) decompression surgery were proptosis ( n = 50 orbits, 81%) and optic neuropathy ( n = 12, 19%). Piezosurgery enabled precise bone cuts without intraoperative complications. Proptosis decreased from 23.6 ± 2.8 mm (SD) by 3 mm (95% CI: −3.6 to −2.5 mm) after surgery and stayed stable at 3 months (−3 mm, 95% CI: −3.61 to −2.5 mm, p < 0.001, respectively). The effect was higher in those with preoperatively higher values (>24 mm versus ≤24 mm: −3.4 mm versus −2.81 mm before discharge from hospital and −4.1 mm versus −2.1 mm at 3 months: p < 0.001, respectively). After a mean long-term follow-up period of 14.6 ± 10.4 months proptosis decreased by further −0.7 ± 2.0 mm ( p < 0.001). Signs of optic nerve compression improved after surgery. Infraorbital hypesthesia was present in 11 of 21 (52%) orbits 3 months after surgery. The piezosurgical device is a useful tool for orbital decompression surgery in TAO. By cutting bone selectively, it is precise and reduces the invasiveness of surgery. Nevertheless, no improvement in outcome or reduction in morbidity over conventional techniques has been shown so far. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: The aims of this study were to examine trends over time and geographical variation in the annual incidence of surgical orbital decompression for thyroid-associated ophthalmopathy (TAO) in England. Methods: Data on hospital admissions for orbital decompression surgery in patients with thyroid disease were analysed using English national Hospital Episode Statistics for admissions from 1991-2011. Results: Annual rates of orbital decompression surgery performed for patients with thyroid disease increased from 0.06 (95% confidence interval, 0.04--0.09) per 100,000 population in 1991, to 0.62 (0.54--0.67) in 2008, and then fell to 0.56 (0.48--0.60) in 2011. The surgical rate was highest in women aged 45--64 years. Geographical analysis showed significant variation across strategic health authority areas in surgical rates, from 0.22 (0.14-0.35) to 1.04 (0.79-1.34) people per 100,000 population per year in 2007-2011. Conclusion: The incidence of orbital decompression surgery performed annually in England has increased substantially over the past two decades, but peaked in 2008 and decreased since then. Significant geographical variation exists in surgical rates. Potential reasons for the decline include improved management of thyroid disease itself, but altered threshold in medical versus surgical management of TAO may also have played a role. The Amsterdam Declaration and EUGOGO treatment guidelines may also have influenced decisions about whether to operate on these patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graves’ Orbitopathy (GO) is an immune-mediated disorder causing inflammation and expansion of orbital fat and muscle. The resulting spectrum of ocular and orbital changes may cause significant visual and cosmetic morbidity and are graded as disease severity. The disease follows a biphasic course with an active or progressive phase followed by a quiescent or stable phase: the temporal status is graded as disease activity. Grading systems for GO include Werner’s NO SPECS and European Group on Graves’ Orbitopathy (EUGOGO)’s severity scales, the Clinical Activity Score (CAS) and the VISA Classification (for severity and activity). Diagnosis of GO is based on recognition of clinical features and may be supported by thyroid function and immune testing, and orbital imaging. The endocrinologist or internist may play an important role in early recognition and diagnosis of GO, in grading severity and activity, and in arranging appropriate referral to an ophthalmologist based on this evaluation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To describe a new technique for deep lateral (single) wall orbital decompression surgery, developed by Mr. Geoffrey Rose, for proptosis in patients with thyroid-associated orbitopathy and to analyse the results achieved in our series. Methods: The study is an interventional, retrospective, non-comparative case series. Twenty-one eyes of seventeen patients underwent the described technique of deep lateral wall orbital decompression for thyroid-associated orbitopathy. All patients had controlled thyroid functions and underwent surgery for cosmetic rehabilitation, with analysis of the reduction in proptosis, changes in visual acuity and post-operative complications. The surgery involved removing the lateral orbital wall whilst preserving the lateral rim, the lateral wall being approached through a horizontal skin incision placed lateral to the lateral canthus. After reflecting the periosteum, most of the bone (deep lateral wall) between the skull base and inferior orbital fissure is removed. Results: A mean reduction in proptosis of 4.81 mm ±1.23 (SD) ( p < 0.0001) with a median of 5.0 mm (range 3-7 mm) was achieved and the best-corrected visual acuity was maintained in all patients. There were no complications during surgery, and post-operative complications included worsening of pre-existing diplopia in one patient (6%) and transient cheek/temple numbness seen in three patients (18%). Conclusions: This technique of deep lateral wall orbital decompression developed by Mr. Rose is a safe and effective procedure for patients with mild to moderate proptosis. It carries a low risk of morbidity and avoids complications associated with decompressing the floor and medial wall, including new onset of motility disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To evaluate the tear function tests and the ocular surface damage in Graves' disease (GD) patients either with or without thyroid associated orbitopathy (TAO). Methods: Forty-two eyes of 21 randomly selected patients with GD, and 30 eyes of 15 healthy subjects were included in this prospective study. The presence of TAO was evaluated clinically. The palpebral fissure height, degree of proptosis, ocular surface disease index (OSDI), Schirmer tear test, tear break-up time (TBUT), and conjunctival impression cytology were assessed. The results were first compared between the patient and the control groups. Results were then compared between the patients with TAO (group I) and without TAO (group II). Results: The mean OSDI score in the patient group was 44.79 ± 11.83 and it was 21.17 ± 9.89 in the control group ( p = 0.001). The mean Schirmer tear test score was 14.4 ± 8.32 mm and 24.9 ± 3.57 mm in the patient and control group, respectively ( p = 0.001). The mean TBUT in the patient group was 7.1 sec. In the control group it was significantly increased to 10 sec ( p = 0.003). The mean proptosis and interpalpebral distance did not show any difference between the GD patients and controls ( p > 0.05). The patients with GD showed significant ocular surface damage in which 75.71% had grade 2-3 squamous metaplasia in temporal interpalpebral conjunctiva. Twenty-four (57%) eyes composed group I. There were no differences in the mean OSDI score, Schirmer tear test score, TBUT, and the amount of ocular surface damage between group I and group II ( p > 0.05). Conclusions: Dry eye findings and the ocular surface damage in GD were most likely associated with the ocular surface inflammation. Before the development of the classic findings of TAO, ocular surface inflammation can be the only presenting clinical sign in GD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract. Purpose: To analyse horizontal extraocular muscle findings by ultrasound and exophthalmometry in a tertiary endocrinology centre series of patients with thyroid associated orbitopathy (TAO). Methods: The 90 thyroid patients included underwent ultrasonic measurement of horizontal eye muscle thickness by a B-scan based technique carried out in addition to their general ophthalmic evaluation. As an indicator of mainly advanced TAO, longterm prednisone or cyclosporine A was given to many of the patients, and drug-resistant visual loss indicated decompression surgery in four of the 90 patients. Thirty-four patients underwent repeated muscle recordings over 15–49 months; this allowed for cross-sectional analysis and the outlining of longitudinal trends. Results and Conclusions: (A) Although marginally overlapping, all four muscle groups were significantly thicker in the study group than in normal control subjects. The mean of the sum of all four muscles was 16.8 mm (range 13.6–21.7 mm) in the control group versus 22.6 mm (range 15.5–36.4 mm) in the thyroid group. (B) Using the clinical NOSPECS grading, more advanced eye involvement was found to generally result in a higher exophthalmometric measurement of protrusion and eye muscle thickness. However, slender rectus muscles and/or normal exophthalmometric values might occur even in advanced orbitopathy. (C) Over a period of 2–4 years, only a few of 34 patients with satisfactory serial ultrasonic measurements returned to their premorbid ophthalmic status. Typically, the extraocular muscles kept their abnormal size after having become clinically quiescent (fibrotic). (D) We found no safe indication regarding disease stage, active or late, from the ultrasonic appearance of the muscle tissue. (E) Discrepancies between various normative eye muscle studies are discussed with regard to computer tomography and magnetic resonance imaging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Orbital malignancy can mimic thyroid associated orbitopathy (TAO) due to overlap of clinical and radiographic findings, which include proptosis, extraocular muscle (EOM) enlargement on imaging, and EOM restriction with diplopia. We report a case of primary orbital liposarcoma masquerading as TAO which required exenteration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To report the different uncommon pathogenesis of three cases of severe vertical restrictive strabismus associated with progressive unilateral proptosis with similar clinical features., Methods: Case series of three patients who presented to the Orbit Outpatient Service of Policlinico Gemelli with a history of left progressive unilateral proptosis, slowly worsening vertical strabismus and the left eye fixed in downward position. A thorough hematologic work up was performed. All patients underwent complete abdomen ultrasonography, orbital contrast enhanced magnetic resonance imaging, forced duction test under general anesthesia, and orbital biopsy., Results: Patients were 30, 60, and 46 years old respectively. MRI showed left inferior rectus enlargement in two cases and superior rectus enlargement in one case, with contrast enhanced combined muscle belly and tendon enlargement in all cases. Patients underwent forced duction test, muscle weakening (in two cases), and muscle biopsy with histopathologic examination. The superior rectus appeared infiltrated by an undifferentiated high-grade pleomorphic sarcoma, whereas the two inferior recti were positive for idiopathic orbital inflammatory disease with fibrosis areas and neuromuscular choristoma, respectively., Conclusion: Although proptosis and acquired vertical restrictive strabismus are most commonly associated with thyroid associated orbitopathy (TAO), they can also be a manifestation of many other conditions and the differential diagnosis can be particularly challenging. The three reported cases presented indeed with similar clinical features but had three distinct underlying orbital etiologies, two of which were extremely uncommon.

Background: Shear wave elastography (SWE) is an imaging modality using advantage of ultrasound to detect differences of elastic properties (mechanical rigidity) of tissues. SWE increasingly develops across medical specialities and is already used in hematology, urology and oncology. In the field of ophthalmology using SWE to evaluate corneal mechanical properties, peripapillary biomechanical qualities in glaucoma patients several papers were published Also SWE ultrasound mechanical specificity safety studies were published. Aim of this work is to review SWE technique and its potentional using during examination in patients with endocrine orbitopathy (EO). In practical part of this work is evaluated the elasticity of oculomotor rectus muscles in healthy population, in patients with EO in early stage of disease (oculomotor muscles oedema) and in patients with EO in terminal stage of this disease (oculomotor muscles fibrosis) is determinate. Also possibility of using SWE (in comparison with standard ultrasound examination) for measuring thickness of oculomotor muscles is evaluated., Methods: There were 60 eyes in 30 patients with EO examined and the elasticity of oculomotor muscles was determined. Results were compared with values of elasticity in 40 eyes in healthy population of 20 people. All measurements were performed with ultrasonic system Aixplorer of SuperSonic manufacturer in standardized terms and been undertaken by the same performer. Each value was measured several times to reduce measurement errors., Results: Oculomotor rectus muscle elasticity values in healthy population measured by using SWE were as follows: musculus rectus superior (MRS) 19.7 ± 3.2 kPa, musculus rectus medialis (MRM) 20.5 ± 3.6 kPa, musculus rectus inferior (MRI) 20.4 ± 3.1 kPa and musculus rectus temporalis (MRT) 20.2 ± 1.7 kPa. As statistical analysis shows, there is no significant difference between muscles (ANOVA test p &gt; 0.05); overall elasticity of oculomotor muscles in healthy population is 20.3 ± 3.0 kPa. Elasticity of muscles in group of EO patients in oedema stage and EO patients in fibrosis stage is 18.4 ± 3.2 kPa and 34.6 ± 7.5 kPa respectively. Both values show statistical significance in the comparison with healthy population (p.