Omega-3 fatty acids are critical components of cell membranes, including those in the retina. Specifically, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) are the primary omega-3 fatty acids that have been studied for their potential benefits in retinal health, preventing the progression of retinopathy. Several studies have shown that a higher intake of omega-3 fatty acids is associated with a lower risk of developing diabetic retinopathy and age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Reviewing clinical trials and observational studies that support the protective role of omega-3s in retinal disorders is essential. This comprehensive review aims to evaluate the current literature on the role of omega-3 fatty acids, exploring their mechanisms of action and anti-inflammatory, anti-angiogenic, and neuroprotective roles in the retina. Omega-3s have been shown to inhibit abnormal blood vessel growth in the retina, which is a significant factor in proliferative diabetic retinopathy and neovascular AMD. Furthermore, omega-3 fatty acids are often studied with other nutrients, such as lutein, zeaxanthin, and vitamins, for their synergistic effects on retinal health. Reviewing these combinations can help understand how omega-3s can be part of a comprehensive approach to preventing or treating retinopathies, especially in diabetic patients. This review emphasizes the preventive function of EPA and DHA in alleviating oxidative stress-related damage in retinal diseases, concentrating on their antioxidative mechanisms.

Background: Glaucoma is a major cause of incurable ocular morbidity and poses significant challenges in its management due to the limited treatment options and potential adverse effects. Nicotinamide, a naturally occurring diet-rich nutrient, has emerged as a promising therapeutic agent for glaucoma, offering neuroprotective effects and the potential modulation of intraocular pressure (IOP) regulation pathways. This comprehensive review sought to analyze the current literature on nicotinamide in glaucoma management, exploring its mechanisms of action, efficacy, and safety profile. Methods: A systematic search of the PubMed database was conducted to identify relevant records on the therapeutic actions of nicotinamide in ocular hypertension and glaucoma. Publications evaluating nicotinamide’s effects on retinal ganglion cells (RGCs), optic nerve function, IOP regulation, and neuroinflammatory pathways were included. Results: The literature review revealed the preclinical evidence supporting nicotinamide’s neuroprotective effects on RGCs, the preservation of optic nerve integrity, and the modulation of glaucoma-associated neuroinflammation. Additionally, nicotinamide may exert IOP-lowering effects through its influence on ocular blood flow and aqueous humor dynamics. Conclusions: Nicotinamide holds promise as a novel therapeutic approach in glaucoma management, offering potential neuroprotective and IOP-lowering effects. The authors recommend more research to determine the nicotinamide efficacy, safe dosing parameters, and any long-term safety concerns in glaucoma patients.

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the incidence, risk factors and clinical significance of microcystic macular edema (MME) after pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) for rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD). Interventional case series. Clinical charts of patients who underwent PPV for RRD were retrospectively reviewed. MME was diagnosed with optical coherence tomography in presence of small, nonconfluent elliptical cystoid spaces located at the level of the inner nuclear layer and sparing other retinal layers and the foveal center. The potential relationship between clinical and surgical variables and the occurrence of MME was evaluated with a multiple logistic regression. A total of 318 eyes which underwent PPV for RRD were included. In total, 35 eyes (11.0%) presented cystoid changes consistent with MME, while 93 (29.2%) showed "typical" cystoid macular edema. Silicone oil tamponade was significantly associated with the occurrence of MME (P = .010). Best-corrected visual acuity did not differ significantly between eyes with and without MME (0.44 ± 0.54 versus 0.71 ± 0.76 logMAR; P = .103). This study found an incidence of 11% of MME following vitrectomy for RRD. Although MME was significantly associated with silicone oil tamponade, it showed no relationship with postoperative visual outcomes. Thus, no anti-inflammatory treatment may be required.