Biomedical subjects
Publications and source records attributed to T Harkins.
Noninfectious retinopathy is the most commonly observed condition of the retina in patients with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). The hallmark of this microvasculopathy is the cotton-wool spot, which is seen with greater frequency as the immune system becomes more suppressed. Noninfectious retinopathy does not threaten vision, but clinically it must be differentiated from infectious retinitis, which can cause blindness.
In the last decade, the incidence of sexually transmitted diseases in the United States has significantly increased. This paper discusses the systemic and ocular manifestations of several of them, specifically AIDS, syphilis, gonorrhea, and chlamydia. Its primary objective is to assist the clinician in establishing an accurate diagnosis and recommending appropriate therapy.
Two cases of suspected cytomegalovirus (CMV) retinitis treated with ganciclovir and followed for 18 and 5 months are presented. Each patient developed optic neuropathy and experienced reduced vision despite effective control of their retinitis. In addition to objective ocular findings, subjective visual function changes (perimetry, contrast sensitivity and accommodation) in long term follow up of AIDS patients are reported for the first time. A discussion of CMV, its treatment and complications follows.
Patients with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) may become infected by a number of different opportunistic pathogens. Treatment to control the Human Immune Virus (HIV) and its associated infections can be complex, and the medications required are not commonly used on patients with normal immunity.
The Bilevel Telemicroscope Apparatus (BITA) is a new galilean telescope designed to offer improved cosmesis, weight, field of view and spatial orientation over more traditional spectacle-mounted telescopic systems. This paper describes the characteristics of the new telescope and presents two cases where the BITA was successfully prescribed.