Week in review: COVID-19 vaccine and corneal grafts, nutrition app for AMD, socioeconomics and teenage vision

A weekly roundup of ophthalmic news from around the web.

What effect does the COVID-19 vaccine have on corneal grafts? Investigators conducted a systematic review of 13 published studies across 8 countries to evaluate findings related to corneal graft rejections following COVID-19 vaccination. The mean time between COVID-19 vaccination and allograft rejection ranged from 1 day to 6 weeks, with corneal edema, conjunctival or ciliary injections, and keratic precipitates being the primary ocular clinical manifestations (87%, 61%, and 61% of eyes, respectively). While medications such as corticosteroids and immunosuppressants were administered, 39% of eyes still developed corneal graft failure, indicating the need to monitor and follow up with patients who have received corneal allografts. Journal of Clinical Medicine

In the future, patients with AMD could manage their nutrition plans on their smartphone. A Chinese pilot study developed and tested a smartphone app to aid patients with AMD in formulating an optimal diet. Eighteen patients with AMD participated in the usability testing phase, and while most found the app easy to use, some found the nutrition information difficult to understand. The app was updated based on the feedback, and 33 patients beta-tested the improved version. Usability was rated good, and scores for knowledge, decision self-efficacy, and preparation significantly increased after the app was used. This app has the potential to help patients become more involved in their treatment plans and AMD management. Patient Preference and Adherence

In American adolescents, race/ethnicity and socioeconomic status affect visual outcomes. Data from 2833 adolescents aged 12–18 years enrolled in the 2005–2008 National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys were reviewed to assess potential disparities in visual function due to race, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status. Participants who identified as Black or Mexican American were more likely to have poorer subjective visual outcome than participants who identified as non-Hispanic White (odds ratio [OR] 2.85 and 2.83, respectively). Risk of poor subjective visual function was also higher in those of lower income (OR 2.44). Similar findings were seen for low presenting visual acuity. The authors conclude that “Improving access to vision care services may decrease the burden of preventable visual impairment extending into adulthood.” JAMA Ophthalmology