A small group of patients with severe Graves' eye disease saw improvement of symptoms and vision following treatment with the drug rituximab. Inflammation around the eyes and optic nerve damage were greatly reduced.

Rituximab has been used to treat patients with other autoimmune diseases. It works by depleting B cells the body's normal antibody-producing cells that appear to go awry in autoimmune diseases.

Learn more about Graves' Eye Disease.

_{Source: University of Michigan Health System. Researchers Find New Way To Attack Inflammation In Graves' Eye Disease. Medical News Today, 07 Nov 2009.}

Thinking of trying Latisse? If you want to try Latisse eyelash treatment for longer, lusher lashes, it will come at a price.

This November, during Diabetic Eye Disease Awareness Month, the AOA (American Academy of Ophthalmology) is reminding people that a yearly dilated eye exam can help prevent vision loss in people with diabetes. Along with its partners, the American Society of Retina Specialists, the Macula Society and the Retina Society, the AOA has launched EyeSmart: EyeCommitted, a social media campaign to encourage people with diabetes to get an annual eye exam.

Diabetes can have a devastating impact on vision, but the good news is that regular dilated eye exams by an ophthalmologist and timely treatment, if needed, can save vision for the vast majority of diabetics," said David W. Parke II, MD, executive vice president and CEO of the Academy. "That is why we're urging people with diabetes to get EyeCommitted. By taking charge of their eye health, Americans can greatly reduce their risk of losing their sight from diabetes."

Suggested Reading:

• All About Diabetic Retinopathy
• What Causes Diabetic Retinopathy?
• Symptoms of Diabetic Eye Disease

_{Source: American Academy of Ophthalmology (AOA). American Academy Of Ophthalmology Announces New Drive For Thousands To Get Diabetic Eye Exam. Medical News Today, 01 Nov 2009.}

Latisse is an FDA-approved prescription eyelash treatment that claims to make your eyelashes longer, fuller and darker. Although rare, potential side effects may occur while using the treatment including allergic reactions, excess hair growth outside the treatment area, and permanent changes in iris and eyelid pigmentation.

If you would consider using it, despite the known risks and side effects, why would you do so? If you've used Latisse, why did you decide to use it?

_{Photo © Photodisc / Getty Images}