One in 150 Australians have retinal scars caused by the Toxoplasma parasite, according a new Flinders University analysis that has prompted calls for increased awareness about the risks of eating raw and undercooked meat. Read more
Longer-acting implant may be better for Aboriginal DMO patients – study
A pioneering study out of Western Australia has shown that a longer acting intravitreal dexamethasone implant (DEX-implant) may lead to better outcomes in some Aboriginal patients with diabetic macular oedema (DMO) compared with the standard of care, anti-VEGF injections. Read more
Aussie parent perceptions of ECPs revealed in new survey
A survey of more than 500 Australian parents of children who see eyecare professionals has revealed the biggest barriers to care during COVID-19, common reasons for seeking a second opinion and perceptions about the expertise of ophthalmologists and optometrists, including the level of care in corporate vs independent settings. Read more
Glaukos commences trials for its third-generation keratoconus therapy
Glaukos has commenced a Phase 2 clinical program for its third-generation iLink therapy designed to treat keratoconus. Read more
Sydney engineers develop smart glove to train young surgeons
Australian engineers have invented a surgical smart glove built with low-cost sensors that can record hand movements in fine detail, giving trainees and mentors data to evaluate and improve on intricate procedures. Read more
Australian Eye and Ear Health Survey officially launched
About 5000 people are expected to participate in Australia’s first national survey combining ear and eye health, launched on 3 March to coincide with World Hearing Day. Read more
Hope for ‘better’ contact lens wearers in new UNSW trial
Dropout, hygiene compliance and other issues associated with contact lens wear will be the focus of a new study by UNSW researchers who are asking their optometry colleagues to assist in a recruitment drive. Read more
Combination drug therapy demonstrates potential to treat AMD subtype
Data from patients with a subtype of AMD enrolled in Opthea’s Phase 2b clinical trial of OPT-302 in combination with ranibizumab (Lucentis), compared to ranibizumab alone, have been presented virtually at a conference in Miami. Read more
Glaucoma suspects: More frequent reviews cost Australian health system less
A new paper by Australian and US investigators examining glaucoma suspects has found more frequent six-monthly reviews actually cost the health system less and result in a higher number of diagnoses compared with annual reviews. Read more
Study: Third of nAMD patients safely stopped eye injections
A new study has shown up to a third of neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) patients may safely be able to stop intravitreal injections after a year, while also highlighting a potential biomarker to identify the best candidates. Read more