Contrast sensitivity in patients with Beta-thalassemia major and sickle cell disease under regular transfusions and treatment with desferrioxamine.

Purpose: Evaluation of contrast sensitivity in patients with beta-thalassemia major and sickle cell disease which undergo regular transfusions and chelation therapy with desferrioxamine (DFX).

Materials And Methods: We studied contrast sensitivity in 48 eyes (24 patients) with beta-thalassemia major (group A) and in 42 eyes (21 patients) with sickle cell disease (group B), compared to 60 eyes of 30 healthy individuals (control group). Contrast sensitivity was measured using B-VAT II-SG Mentor Video Aquity Tester.

Juvenile idiopathic arthritis-associated uveitis: Data from a region in western Greece.

Objective: To evaluate the characteristics and visual prognosis of juvenile idiopathic arthritis-associated uveitis (JIA).

Methods: A retrospective review was performed on 56 patients who met the criteria for JIA to identify those with uveitis and related complications. Patients were referred to and were examined in the Pediatric Department of the University Hospital of Ioannina, between 1995 and 2007.

Orbital cavernous hemangioma in an infant with intracranial lesions: a case report.

Introduction: Cavernous hemangiomas of the orbit are benign vascular malformations, commonly encountered in adults. Although they are infrequent in pediatric population their diagnosis and course are of a great significance, mainly because they can cause visual disturbances such as amblyopia that can ensue, and secondarily due to their cosmetic and psychological effect. Special attention is required in follow up and treatment.

Protein Z Plasma Levels are Not Elevated in Patients with Non-Arteritic Anterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy.

Background: Protein Z is a glycoprotein that acts as a co-factor for the inhibition of activated coagulation factor X. Protein Z circulating in abnormal levels has been associated with increased risk for acute ischemic events. Non-arteritic Anterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy (N-AION) is caused by acute ischemic infarction of the optic nerve head, supplied by the posterior ciliary arteries.

Shaken baby syndrome: intending to harm or attempting to help?

Purpose: To describe the role of ophthalmologists in shaken baby syndrome evaluation.

Methods: Case report.

Results: A 3.