Recently Published Research from the Department of Ophthalmology

Physicians and researchers from the UPMC Vision Institute, UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh, and the University of Pittsburgh Department of Ophthalmology continuously produce and publish new research in a variety of medical journals throughout the year. Recent research published in July and August include topics such as optogenetic vision restoration, diabetic retinopathy, pediatric ophthalmology, retinal gene therapy, and more. We invite you to explore the selection of our physicians’ recently published work below.

Optogenetic Vision Restoration - PubMed (nih.gov)

Featured UPMC/Pitt authors: José-Alain Sahel, MD

Summary: This review provides insight into the development of therapeutic strategies aimed at restoring some level of vision in blinding retinal conditions. It also discusses promising preclinical and initial clinical data that support expectations of restoration, as well as challenges that still need to be resolved for future effectiveness.

A Journey through the World of Vitreous - PubMed (nih.gov)

Featured UPMC/Pitt authors: José-Alain Sahel, MD; Jay Chhablani, MD

Summary: Researchers provided a comprehensive overview of the current understanding of the development, morphology, biochemical composition, and function of the vitreous. The analysis reviews imaging techniques and challenges in visualizing vitreous structures, as well as what it could look like to combine the latest technologies and machine learning to enhance understanding of vitreous structures.

Current Status of Clinical Trials Design and Outcomes in Retinal Gene Therapy - PubMed (nih.gov)

Featured UPMC/Pitt authors: Boris Rosin, MD, PhD; José-Alain Sahel, MD

Summary: In this review, authors evaluate the existing methods for quantification of clinical trial outcomes in retinal gene therapy, describe the key considerations in trial design, and outline patient safety principles in retinal gene therapy clinical trials.

Coagulase-negative Staphylococcal Endophthalmitis: Clinical Severity and Outcomes Based on Speciation - PubMed (nih.gov)

Featured UPMC/Pitt authors: Regis P Kowalski, MS, M(ASCP); Jay Chhablani, MD; Joseph N. Martel, MD; Alexander Anetakis, MD; Kunal K. Dansingani, MD; Boris Rosin, MD, PhD; Denise S. Gallagher, MD; Colin Prensky, MD; Andrew W. Eller, MD; Thomas Friberg, MD; José-Alain Sahel, MD; Marie-Hélène Errera, MD, PhD

Summary: The objective of this study was to identify characteristics and visual outcomes of coagulase-negative staphylococcal (CoNS) endophthalmitis in the era after the Endophthalmitis Vitrectomy Study. The research team found that patients with S. epidermidis endophthalmitis may benefit similarly from either early vitrectomy or intravitreal antibiotic injections regardless of visual acuity.

Calcified Sclero-Choroidal Choristomas in Mosaic RASopathies: A Description of a New Imaging Sign - PubMed (nih.gov)

Featured UPMC/Pitt authors: Karl Olsen, MD; Amgad Eldib, MD; Hannah L. Scanga; Matthew S. Pihlblad, MD; Ken K. Nischal, MD

Summary: This study evaluated the imaging and clinical features of unusual, calcified lesions seen in the fundus of patients with mosaic RASopathy. After evaluating research, the team proses that lesions seen in this cohort are calcified sclero-choroidal choristomas and should be suspected in mosaic RASopathies when creamy-yellow lesions are seen in the fundus.

Descemet Stripping Only: Long-Term Outcomes - PubMed (nih.gov)

Featured UPMC/Pitt authors: Deepinder K. Dhaliwal, MD

Summary: Researchers evaluated the long-term outcomes of patients who had Descemet Stripping Only (DSO) at a single institution. Specifically, chart reviews of patients with Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy who underwent DSO in 2016 and 2017 were assessed. The study found that 10 of 13 eyes (77%) responded to DSO and maintained clear central corneas for at least five years.

Comprehensive Insights into a Decade-long Journey: The Evolution, Impact, and Human Factors of an Asynchronous Telemedicine Program for Diabetic Retinopathy Screening in Pennsylvania, United States - PubMed (nih.gov)

Featured UPMC/Pitt authors: Denise S. Gallagher, MD; Andrew W. Eller, MD; Evan L. Waxman, MD, PhD

Summary: This study reviews the Point-of-Care Diabetic Retinopathy Examination Program at the University of Pittsburgh and UPMC. Researchers conducted an analysis of its composition, evolution, challenges, solutions, and improvement opportunities. Insights were also gathered from key stakeholders, including ophthalmologists and staff from primary care clinics.

Corneal Collagen Cross-linking for Keratoconus in Pediatric and Developmentally Delayed Patients - PubMed (nih.gov)

Featured UPMC/Pitt authors: Meghal Gagrani, MD; Vishal Jhanji, MD; Ken K. Nischal, MD

Summary: This retrospective review provides a technique for assessment and treatment of keratoconus in children and those with developmental delay. Specifically, researchers detailed their clinical decision-making algorithm, corneal cross-linking surgical technique, and outcomes.

Understanding the Relationship Between Pachychoroid Spectrum Disorders and Retinitis Pigmentosa: A Review of the Evidence - PubMed (nih.gov)

Featured UPMC/Pitt author: Jay Chhablani, MD

Summary: This study investigated the relationship between pachychoroid spectrum disorders and retinitis pigmentosa through a comprehensive literature review, with the goal of exploring the association between these disorders, understanding their underlying mechanisms, and summarizing the existing hypotheses and opinions.