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Biomedical subjects

Ching-Hsi Hsiao

Publications and source records attributed to Ching-Hsi Hsiao.

At least 19 recordsLinked to original sources

Interleukin-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1RA) prevents apoptosis in ex vivo expansion of human limbal epithelial cells cultivated on human amniotic membrane.

Stem cells of the corneal epithelium have been found to be located exclusively at the anatomical junction between the cornea and the conjunctiva, the limbus. Ex vivo expanded limbal epithelial cells on amniotic membrane (AM) are capable of restoring the corneal surface with limbal stem cell deficiency. Recent studies indicate that intact AM preserves the limbal epithelial phenotype and that distinct epithelial morphology is noted among various culture matrix. However, the factors in response to the interaction between limbal epithelial cells and AM were not well understood. Using Annexin V-fluorescein isothiocyanate staining, we found that human limbal epithelial cells expanded on intact human AM demonstrated fewer apoptotic cells as compared with those on plastic dishes. To identify the anti-apoptotic factors, we performed cDNA microarray analysis and showed that interleukin-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1RA) was overexpressed in cultures on intact AM, which was confirmed by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), real-time quantitative PCR (Q-PCR) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. In addition, we also noted that the phenomenon of apoptosis detected in cultures on plastic dishes could be reversed by adding recombinant IL-1RA protein into the media, whereas apoptosis of limbal epithelial cells cultivated on intact AM could be induced by exogenous neutralizing IL-1RA neutralizing antibody. These results demonstrated that intact human AM may prevent cultured human limbal epithelial cells from undergoing apoptosis. IL-1RA might be a candidate mediator to exert as an anti-apoptotic molecule during the interaction between human limbal epithelial cells and intact human AM.

Adolescent↗

Central corneal iron deposition after myopic laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis.

PURPOSE: To describe central corneal iron deposition after myopic laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis (LASIK). METHODS: Patients visiting our outpatient clinics between February 2003 and January 2004 and displaying post-LASIK corneal iron deposits were retrospectively enrolled in the study. RESULTS: Forty-two eyes of 24 patients developed corneal iron deposition after myopic LASIK surgery. All eyes displayed a small, spotty iron deposit located in the center of the corneal flap. The median interval between LASIK and diagnosis of corneal iron deposition was 22.5 months. The spherical equivalents of achieved correction ranged from 4.00 D to 17.50 D. CONCLUSION: Spotty corneal iron deposition can develop in the center of the corneal flap after myopic LASIK surgery. Because it is asymptomatic, the condition may have been hitherto underestimated in patient populations.

Adult↗

Ulcerative keratitis caused by Haemophilus influenzae.

PURPOSE: To report the clinical course, treatments, antibiotic sensitivities, and visual outcomes for eyes with ulcerative keratitis caused by Haemophlilus influenzae. METHODS: The medical records of 10 patients with culture-proven H. influenzae-associated corneal ulcer in a tertiary referral center in a 5-year period (1998-2003) were retrospectively reviewed. RESULTS: The median age was 61 years (range, 2-83 years). The mean follow-up time was 9.4 months (range, 2-31 months). Risk factors such as previous surgeries (5), herpes simplex keratitis (2), leukoma adherens with calcification (1), and exposure keratitis (1) were identified in 9 patients. In vitro testing of the H. influenzae isolates showed that 6 of 10 were resistant to ampicillin; all were sensitive to amoxicillin/clavulanic acid, ceftriaxone, and cefuroxime. All cases responded well to medical antibiotic treatment. Final best spectacle-corrected visual acuity ranged from no light perception to 20/30. CONCLUSION: H. influenzae is a rare cause of corneal ulceration. Predisposing factors for infection are usually present. Accurate diagnosis and treatment may preserve ocular integrity and visual acuity.

Adult↗

Amniotic membrane transplantation for persistent corneal ulcers and perforations in acute fungal keratitis.

PURPOSE: To report the therapeutic effect and complications of amniotic membrane transplantation (AMT) in acute fungal keratitis. METHODS: Diagnosis of fungal keratitis was confirmed by cultures in 23 eyes of 23 patients. The indications to perform AMT were to promote reepithelialization in non-healing ulcers or to prevent corneal perforation. Antifungal agents were administered throughout the whole course of hospitalization. Repeated cultures were performed immediately before AMT. The main outcome measurements were epithelial healing rate, necessity of therapeutic penetrating keratoplasty (TPK), and persistence of infection. RESULTS: During a mean follow-up time of 20.6 months +/- 23.22 (6-65 months) AMT was performed during the active phase of the keratitis (fungal culture was still positive) in 16 patients (69.6%), and during the inactive phase (fungal culture negative) in 7 patients (30.4%). Single-layer AMT was performed in 17 patients, and double-layer AMT was performed in 6 patients with corneal perforation and anterior chamber collapse. Complete epithelialization was observed in 12 patients (75%) in the active group and in 7 patients (100%) in the inactive group. Treatment failure requiring TPK was experienced in 4 patients (25%) in the active group. Persistent fungal keratitis was noted in 2 patients (8.7%) in that group. The final visual acuity improved in 17 cases, worsened in 2 cases, and remained unchanged in 4 cases. Twelve of the 23 eyes (52.2%) in this study preserved useful vision (20/400 and better) with or without subsequent surgeries. CONCLUSION: AMT is effective in promoting epithelialization and preventing corneal perforations in acute fungal keratitis, and there is no risk of rejection. However, the risk of persistent or recurrent infection necessitates continued antifungal treatment and patient monitoring.

Acute Disease↗

Camphor-related self-inflicted keratoconjunctivitis complicating delusions of parasitosis.

PURPOSE: To report a case of camphor-related self-inflicted keratoconjunctivitis secondary to delusions of parasitosis. METHODS: A 61-year-old man with delusions of parasitosis suffered from camphor-related self-inflicted ocular trauma that manifested with corneal epithelial defects and secondary anterior chamber reaction. Two episodes of exacerbation of the ocular conditions related to the use of camphor occurred. The left eye had secondary infection with Sternotrophomonas maltophilia and Staphylococcus aureus in the second episode of exacerbation. RESULTS: The right eye recovered well with the treatment of topical lubricants and corticosteroids and had best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) of 20/25. The infection of the left eye led to corneal perforation, necessitating penetrating keratoplasty; BCVA was hand motions because of a mature cataract. Olanzapine therapy for 1 month to decrease the delusions of parasitosis and 24-hour watch to prevent the use of camphor led to the resolution of self-inflicted keratoconjunctivitis in the patient. CONCLUSIONS: Delusions of parasitosis may lead to vision-threatening self-inflicted ocular trauma. This may be the first case report of pure camphor-related self-inflicted toxic keratoconjunctivitis.

Anterior Chamber↗

Multiphoton fluorescence and second harmonic generation imaging of the structural alterations in keratoconus ex vivo.

PURPOSE: To demonstrate the application of multiphoton fluorescence (MF) and second harmonic generation (SHG) microscopy for ex vivo characterization of the structural alterations of human corneas due to keratoconus. METHODS: Buttons of keratoconic corneas derived from penetrating keratoplasty were sent for structural analysis with a custom-built multiphoton microscope. Fluorescence detected within the cytoplasm and the SHG signal obtained from collagen were used to demonstrate the morphologic changes in the corneal specimens. RESULTS: The fluorescent epithelial cells around the apical area were elongated and were aligned parallel to the adjacent collagen fibers. Parallel and centripetal distribution patterns of stromal collagen bundles were demonstrated at different depths within the keratoconic corneas. CONCLUSIONS: MF and SHG microscopy provides three-dimensional structural analysis of keratoconus ex vivo. It may provide important morphologic information for the investigation of the pathogenesis of keratoconus and may have potential in a clinical setting as an in vivo diagnostic and monitoring system for advancing keratoconus.

Cornea↗

Effects of SV40 T antigen transduction on human corneal endothelial cell wound healing in vitro.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to investigate the endothelial wound healing effects of SV40 large T and small t antigen transduction on cultured human corneal endothelial cells (HCEC). METHODS: Human corneal endothelial cells were infected with either mock solution, Ad green fluorescent protein (GFP), or Ad SV40 T/t antigen/GFP, then mechanically wounded 48 h later. The endothelial wound healing rate was quantified by an analysis of the photographs taken every 12 h after wounding. The characteristics of Ad SV40 T/t Ag/GFP-infected human corneal endothelial cells were evaluated with cell morphology, cell density, contact inhibition, and cytoskeletal features using rhodamine phalloidin to stain F-actin. DNA synthesis was assessed using 5-Bromo-2'-deoxy-uridine (BrdU) labeling. RESULTS: Wound healing rates in the first 12 and 24 h after wounding were significantly faster in the Ad SV40 T/t antigen/GFP-infected group than the other two groups. In all three groups, the morphology, cell density, and cytoskeletal features of cells at confluency was similar and contact inhibition retained. There were no differences in the pattern of F-actin and endothelial cell density 4 d after wound closure. However, during the process of wound healing, prominent stress fibers in migrating cells near the wound edge were noted in normal cells at 36 h after wounding, whereas the Ad SV40 T/t Ag/GFP-infected cells showed similar changes as early as 12 h after wounding. BrdU staining results revealed that the Ad SV40 T/t antigen/GFP-infected group had labeled cells showing DNA synthesis in the wound area at 12 h after wounding, while no labeled cells were found in the other two groups. CONCLUSIONS: In an in vitro model, transduction of human corneal endothelial cells using a recombinant adenoviral vector expressing SV40 T/t antigen enhanced both the wound healing rate and proliferative capacity, especially in the first 12 h after wounding, and the characteristic morphologic features of the infected cells were maintained.

Actins↗

Mycobacterium keratitis after laser in situ keratomileusis.

PURPOSE: We present a case of Mycobacterium keratitis after laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK). METHOD: A retrospective case report. RESULTS: A 40-year-old woman developed Mycobacterium chelonae keratitis in the right eye 2 weeks after bilateral LASIK. The diagnosis was made by acid-fast staining of corneal scrapings on admission and confirmed by culture results 2 weeks later. Intensive treatment with topical amikacin (25 mg/mL) and ciprofloxacin and partial excision of the flap led to resolution of the infection after 2 months of therapy. In addition, topical methylprednisolone (1 mg/mL) was necessary to control inflammation and pain. No recurrence was found during the 1-year follow-up period. The final uncorrected and corrected visual acuity in the right eye was 20/25 and 20/20, respectively. CONCLUSION: Mycobacterium keratitis is a potentially vision-threatening complication after LASIK. Early recognition of the organisms and aggressive treatment if infection develops may improve the outcome. When surgery is indicated, partial flap amputation, which may help to resolve the infection and preserve better vision, may be considered.

Administration, Topical↗

Recurrent Alcaligenes xylosoxidans keratitis.

PURPOSE: To describe a case of postkeratoplasty recurrent Alcaligenes xylosoxidans keratitis. METHODS: A 33-year-old man with a history of penetrating keratoplasty developed corneal infiltrate with intact epithelium and then was treated with broad-spectrum antibiotics. Corneal scraping was taken for microbiologic study. RESULTS: The culture result identified A. xylosoxidans, sensitive to piperacillin and ceftazidime. There were 3 recurrent episodes within 2 months after each apparent resolution achieved after the instillation of topical piperacillin (10 mg/mL). During the fourth attack, the lesion responded poorly to piperacillin and ceftazidime (25 mg/mL), so therapeutic penetrating keratoplasty was performed to eradicate the recalcitrant infection. CONCLUSIONS: A. xylosoxidans has probably been underreported as a cause of ocular infection. It does not respond to conventional antibiotic therapy and may be difficult to eradicate. Therapeutic penetrating keratoplasty might be necessary if medical treatment fails.

Abscess↗

Infectious keratitis related to overnight orthokeratology.

PURPOSE: To report the microbial culture results, clinical course, and visual outcomes for infectious keratitis related to overnight orthokeratology. METHODS: The records of patients with infectious keratitis related to overnight orthokeratology who presented to a tertiary referral center from April 2000 to March 2003 were retrospectively reviewed. RESULTS: Twenty patients (21 eyes) were included; 1 patient had bilateral infections. The average age of the patients was 14 years. The average period between the time the patient started the overnight orthokeratology program and the onset of infectious keratitis was 23 months. Thirteen of the 21 eyes were culture positive. Organisms cultured were Pseudomonas aeruginosa (n = 9), coagulase-negative Staphylococcus species (n = 2), Serratia marcescens (n = 1), and Acathamoeba species (n = 1). All patients responded well to medical antimicrobial treatment. Final best spectacle-corrected visual acuity ranged from 20/20 to 20/100. CONCLUSIONS: Infectious keratitis is a potential complication of overnight orthokeratology that may cause significant visual impairment. Parents of children who consider overnight orthokeratology should evaluate the benefit of temporary myopia reduction and the risk of infection.

Acanthamoeba↗

Stenotrophomonas maltophilia keratitis and scleritis.

BACKGROUND: Stenotrophomonas maltophilia is a seldom-reported pathogen in ocular infections. The report describes six cases of Stenotrophomonas maltophilia (S. maltophilia) keratitis and scleritis. To our knowledge, this is the foremost report of S. maltophilia scleritis. METHODS: Laboratory reports of patients diagnosed with S. maltophilia ocular infections were collected from the ophthalmic department of Chang-Gung memorial hospital from January 1, 2000, through December 31, 2003. On evaluation of risk factors, isolates, antibiotic sensitivities, and response to the treatment ensued. RESULTS: Of the 6 reported cases, 5 related bacterial keratitis and 2 scleritis. (One case reported S. maltophilia keratitis and secondary scleritis.) The primary risk factor in such cases is ocular surgery. The organism cultured was the single isolate in three cases (50%). The susceptibility test showed that 50%, 83%, and 100% of the isolates were sensitive to ceftazidime, a combination of trimethoprim and sulfamethoxazole, and ciprofloxacin respectively. DISCUSSION: Ocular surface compromise such as penetrating keratoplasty was a primary risk factor of S. maltophilia keratitis in our study. The results of isolates and the antibiotic sensitivities were different from previously published results. Our cases responded well to antibiotic therapy and antibiotic therapy combined with conjunctival autografting. One case of S. maltophilia keratitis and secondary scleritis had a poor prognosis, arguably associated with a co-infection of Mycobacteria chelonae.

Adult↗

Pseudomonas aeruginosa corneal ulcer related to overnight orthokeratology.

BACKGROUND: Overnight orthokeratology was thought to be a safe and non-invasive alternative for low-grade myopia and astigmatism correction. We assessed histories, clinical courses, and visual outcomes of the patients with pseudomonal keratitis related to overnight orthokeratology. METHODS: The records of six patients with pseudomonal keratitis related to overnight orthokeratology were reviewed from January 2001 through December 2002. RESULTS: The average age of the patients was 13 years. The average period between the time that the patient started the overnight orthokeratology program and the onset of infectious keratitis was 17 months. All patients presented with painful red eyes. The area of the corneal ulcer was central in three, and paracentral in three eyes. The corneal infiltrate was small in one eye, and medium in five eyes. The corneal scrapings from these six patients revealed Pseudomonas aeruginosa. All patients responded well to topical antibiotic treatment. Two of six eyes had a final visual acuity within two lines of the pre-infection vision at the last follow-up. Four of the eyes examined lost their best-corrected visual acuity due to central corneal scar or irregular astigmatism. CONCLUSIONS: Overnight orthokeratology contact lens wear has the potential complication of pseudomonal keratitis and may cause significant visual impairment.

Adolescent↗

Idiopathic subconjunctival abscess.

Subconjunctival abscess is a relatively rare cause of ocular infection. It is usually associated with predisposing factors such as previous trauma or surgery. We report a case of subconjunctival abscess in a 61-year-old woman with no known risk factors. The subconjunctival abscess resolved completely after surgical excision and treatment with topical ciprofloxacin. The final vision preserved 20/20.

Abscess↗

Retained Descemet's membrane after penetrating keratoplasty.

Retained Descemet's membrane is a rare complication of penetrating keratoplasty (PKP). The membrane can become progressively opaque and threaten the health of the corneal graft. We report such a case involving a 53-year-old man. Simultaneous surgical removal of the membrane and phacoemulsification with intraocular lens implantation were performed 3 months after PKP. The graft remained clear and best corrected visual acuity was 20/20 2 years after secondary surgery.

Cataract↗

Expression of tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-4 in normal human corneal cells and experimental corneal neovascularization.

PURPOSE: To study the expression of TIMP-4 in cultured corneal cells and in corneal neovascularization. METHODS: Human limbo-corneal epithelial cells, fibroblasts, and endothelial cells were cultured in serum-free, PMA- or basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF)-treated condition. Neovascularization in rat cornea was induced by suturing. The expression of TIMP-4 was examined by immunohistochemistry, Western blot and RT-PCR. RESULTS: TIMP-4 was constitutively expressed in cultured human corneal cells. The expression was only mildly enhanced after mitogen treatment. TIMP-4 immunoreactivity was predominantly expressed in normal rat corneal epithelium, and also in ingrowing blood vessels following suturing, which persisted up to day 28. Increased staining in corneal epithelium and blood vessels were also noted in vascularized human corneas. CONCLUSIONS: TIMP-4 is expressed in the cornea, which may play a role in modulating extracellular matrix remodeling associated with corneal wound healing and angiogenesis.

Animals↗

Mid-term follow-up of Nd:YAG laser iridotomy in Asian eyes.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: To assess the long-term results of Nd:YAG laser iridotomy in the treatment of patients with primary angle-closure glaucoma and occludable angles to evaluate the risk-benefit ratio and the role of gonioscopy in predicting the outcome after Nd:YAG laser iridotomy. PATIENTS AND METHODS: The records of 138 consecutive patients (231 eyes) who underwent Nd:YAG laser iridotomy in one hospital during 3 years (from 1989 to 1991) were reviewed. The mean follow-up period was 51 months. RESULTS: Of all eyes, 25.1% were treated for chronic angle-closure glaucoma and 10.8% were treated for acute angle-closure glaucoma; most eyes (64.1%) underwent prophylactic iridotomy for occludable angles. Decreased intraocular pressure (IOP) was noted in most eyes after Nd:YAG laser iridotomy; only 10 eyes required further filtration surgery. Visual acuity was unchanged or improved in 97.9% of all eyes at the 6-month visit. Cataract progression was primarily responsible for those eyes with decreased acuity. Ninety-seven percent of eyes had quantitatively wider angles after laser treatment; 8 of 14 eyes with peripheral anterior synechiae of more than 270 degrees underwent further surgery to control IOP. Transient elevated IOP and iris bleeding occurred in 23.5% and 12.2% of the eyes, respectively; other complications were rare. CONCLUSION: Nd:YAG laser iridotomy is a safe and effective procedure for the treatment and prevention of angle-closure glaucoma. Gonioscopy is useful to predict the outcome after Nd:YAG laser iridotomy.

Adult↗