Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 12, 2026
11:20
Retinal Pigment Epithelium Transplantation in a Non-human Primate Model for Degenerative Retinal Diseases
Published on: June 14, 2021
Vitreo-retinal disorders at high altitude in Nepal
R Thapa1, G Poudyal, A S Crandall
1Vitreo-retinal Unit, Tilganga Institute of Ophthalmology, Kathmandu, Nepal.
Summary
High altitude living in Nepal is associated with vitreo-retinal disorders like age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and hypertensive retinopathy. These findings highlight the importance of regular eye screenings for mountain communities.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- High-altitude medicine
- Public health
Background:
- Nepal's mountainous terrain necessitates understanding health challenges for high-altitude dwellers.
- Mountain climbing and high-altitude living are common occupations and lifestyles in Nepal.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence and patterns of vitreo-retinal disorders among individuals residing at high altitudes in Nepal.
- To identify common eye conditions affecting the older population in a high-altitude region.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study was conducted at a micro-surgical eye camp in Lukla, Nepal (2,860m).
- Included were 81 consecutive patients aged 40 years and older.
- Ocular and systemic histories were collected, followed by comprehensive eye examinations, including dilated fundus evaluation.
Main Results:
- Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) affected 19.6% of patients, hypertensive retinopathy 12.2%, and retinal vein occlusion (RVO) 7.1%.
- Dilated and tortuous retinal vessels were observed in 25.9% of cases, often concurrent with AMD or hypertensive retinopathy.
- Hypertension was the most common systemic issue (28%), and agriculture was the primary occupation (51.9%).
Conclusions:
- Age-related macular degeneration (AMD), hypertensive retinopathy, and retinal vein occlusion (RVO) are significant vitreo-retinal disorders in Nepal's high-altitude population.
- The presence of dilated and tortuous retinal vessels is notable in this demographic.
- Findings underscore the need for targeted eye care interventions in high-altitude communities.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
01:22Photoreceptors and Visual Pathways
At the molecular level, visual signals trigger transformations in photopigment molecules, resulting in changes in the photoreceptor cell's membrane potential. The photon's energy level is denoted by its wavelength, with each specific wavelength of visible light associated with a distinct color. The spectral range of visible light, classified as electromagnetic radiation, spans from 380 to 720 nm. Electromagnetic radiation wavelengths exceeding 720 nm fall under the infrared category, whereas...
01:27Diabetic Retinopathy
DefinitionDiabetic retinopathy is a microvascular complication of diabetes affecting the retinal blood vessels.Risk FactorsDiabetic retinopathy is present in almost all individuals with type 1 diabetes and more than 60% of those with type 2 diabetes after two decades of disease.The risk increases with poor glycemic control, hypertension, dyslipidemia, smoking, pregnancy, and puberty.Although cataracts and glaucoma are also more frequent in people with diabetes, retinopathy remains the leading...
01:25Glaucoma: Overview
Glaucoma is an eye condition characterized by increased intraocular pressure that damages the retina and optic nerve, leading to irreversible blindness if left untreated. The human eye has various components, including the cornea, iris, pupil, lens, and optic nerve. Aqueous humor is secreted by the epithelium of the ciliary body in the posterior chamber and flows through the trabecular meshwork and canal of Schlemm, maintaining normal intraocular pressure. The trabecular meshwork and the canal...
01:28Angle Closure Glaucoma: Treatment
Angle-closure glaucoma, or closed-angle glaucoma, is an eye condition where the iris bulges out and blocks the iridocorneal angle, resulting in a buildup of aqueous humor and increased intraocular pressure. Immediate medical attention is necessary due to the sudden onset of symptoms. The treatment for angle-closure glaucoma includes short-term and long-term approaches. Short-term treatment involves using eye drops like pilocarpine to lower intraocular pressure by increasing aqueous humor...
01:27Open Angle Glaucoma: Treatment
In open-angle glaucoma, the iridocorneal angle remains open, but the trabecular meshwork becomes stiff, slowing down the outflow of aqueous humor. This causes a buildup of aqueous humor in the anterior chamber, leading to a sudden increase in intraocular pressure. The treatment for open-angle glaucoma focuses on reducing the elevated intraocular pressure by either decreasing the secretion of aqueous humor or increasing its outflow.
Drugs such as carbonic anhydrase inhibitors, α2- and...
Drugs such as carbonic anhydrase inhibitors, α2- and...