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Andaluz-Scher LE, Farhat OJ, Ness PJ, Simon JW. Late Recurrence of Anisometropic Amblyopia. J Pediatr Ophthalmol Strabismus 2024; 61:e11-e12. [PMID: 38306235 DOI: 10.3928/01913913-20231214-05] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2024]
Abstract
A 15-year-old boy whose anisometropic amblyopia was effectively treated with glasses was examined. Despite years of stability, his visual acuity decreased from 20/20 to 20/60 with poor glasses compliance. Although amblyopia recurrence is well recognized, this case emphasizes potential late recurrence after prolonged success. Fortunately, he improved to 20/20 after improved compliance. [J Pediatr Ophthalmol Strabismus. 2024;61(1):e11-e12.].
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Ridder III WH, Patel R, Li YX, Staubli U. Standard Amblyopia Therapy in Adults with Longstanding Amblyopia Improves Visual Acuity and Contrast Sensitivity. Clin Ophthalmol 2023; 17:1847-1858. [PMID: 37405009 PMCID: PMC10317545 DOI: 10.2147/opth.s410800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2023] [Accepted: 06/15/2023] [Indexed: 07/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose Perceptual learning or dichoptic training may result in improved acuity in adult amblyopes. However, for amblyopic children (<18 years), most clinicians recommend standard part-time patching. The purpose of this study was to determine if standard amblyopia therapy results in an enhancement in vision in the amblyopic eye of adults. Patients and Methods Fifteen amblyopes (20/30 or worse) were recruited and nine (age (SD) 32.9 (16.31)) with anisometropia or anisometropia and strabismus (ie, combined mechanism amblyopia) completed the study. Previous therapy did not exclude subjects. The subjects received a comprehensive eye exam and wore their best correction for at least four weeks prior to baseline testing. The non-amblyopic eye was patched for 2 hours per day (Amblyopia iNET training for 30 minutes and near/distance activities for 1.5 hours). The subjects had a baseline amblyopia evaluation followed by one visit per week for 12 weeks. At 12 weeks, the treatment was tapered off over one month and the subjects had a final amblyopia evaluation at 24 weeks. Contrast sensitivity was measured at baseline and 12 weeks with the Quick CSF system. Results The subjects had a significant improvement in visual acuity across the weeks (p < 0.001). At baseline, weeks 12 and 24, the average logMAR acuities (SE) were 0.55 (0.09), 0.41 (0.08), and 0.38 (0.09), respectively. Weeks 4 to 24 were significantly different (p < 0.001) from baseline. The average acuity improvement over the 24 weeks was 1.7 logMAR lines. There was a significant increase in the area under the log contrast sensitivity function (p = 0.002) and its estimated acuity (p = 0.036) from baseline to 12 weeks. Conclusion Standard amblyopia treatment can result in an improvement in visual acuity and contrast sensitivity in adults with longstanding anisometropic or combined mechanism amblyopia even if they had prior therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- William H Ridder III
- Southern California College of Optometry, Marshall B. Ketchum University, Fullerton, CA, USA
| | - Reena Patel
- Southern California College of Optometry, Marshall B. Ketchum University, Fullerton, CA, USA
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Bui Quoc E, Kulp MT, Burns JG, Thompson B. Amblyopia: A review of unmet needs, current treatment options, and emerging therapies. Surv Ophthalmol 2023; 68:507-525. [PMID: 36681277 DOI: 10.1016/j.survophthal.2023.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2022] [Revised: 01/03/2023] [Accepted: 01/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Amblyopia is a global public health issue with extensive, multifaceted impacts on vision and quality of life (QoL) for both patients and families. Geographical variation exists in the management of amblyopia, with traditional mainstay treatments, optical correction, and fellow eye occlusion most successful when implemented at an early age. In recent years, however, studies demonstrating meaningful improvements in older children and adults have challenged the concept of a complete loss of visual processing plasticity beyond the critical period of visual development, with growing evidence supporting the potential efficacy of emerging, more engaging, binocular therapies in both adults and children. Binocular approaches aim to restore deficits in amblyopia that extend beyond monocular visual acuity impairment, including binocular fusion and visuomotor skills. In view of this, incorporating outcome measures that evaluate the visual performance and functional ability of individuals with amblyopia will provide a clearer understanding of the effect of amblyopia on QoL and a more comprehensive evaluation of amblyopia therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emmanuel Bui Quoc
- Ophthalmology Department, Robert Debré University Hospital, Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Paris, Paris, France.
| | | | | | - Benjamin Thompson
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, University of Waterloo, Canada; Centre for Eye and Vision Research, Hong Kong
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Jia Y, Liu J, Ye Q, Zhang S, Feng L, Xu Z, Zhuang Y, He Y, Zhou Y, Chen X, Yao Y, Jiang R, Thompson B, Li J. Factors predicting regression of visual acuity following successful treatment of anisometropic amblyopia. Front Med (Lausanne) 2022; 9:1013136. [PMID: 36388932 PMCID: PMC9659723 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2022.1013136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2022] [Accepted: 10/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective To identify factors associated with visual acuity regression following successful treatment of anisometropic amblyopia. Design and method This was a retrospective cohort study. Database records for 100 and 61 children with anisometropic amblyopia who met at least one criterion for successful treatment proposed by the Pediatric Eye Disease Investigator Group (PEDIG) and had at least 1 year of follow-up data available after the criterion was met were analyzed. The study sample was split into two groups, those who regressed within 1 year of successful treatment (no longer met any of the PEDIG criteria for successful treatment) and those who did not. A two-step analysis involving a least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression and a logistic regression were used to identify predictor variables for increased risk of regression. A broad range of clinical, perceptual, and demographic variables were included in the analyses. Results Sixty-eight (42.5%) children regressed within 1 year of successful treatment. Among the 27 predictor variables considered within the statistical modeling process, the three most important for predicting treatment regression were the extent of amblyopic eye visual acuity improvement, age at first hospital visit and sex. Specifically, lower risk of regression was associated with larger amblyopic eye visual acuity improvement with treatment, younger age at initiation of treatment and female sex. Conclusion Patients who received treatment at a younger age and responded well to treatment had a lower risk of treatment regression. This pattern of results suggests that early detection of amblyopia and strategies that enhance treatment adherence may reduce the risk of treatment regression. The higher risk of regression in boys than girls that we observed may reflect known sex differences in brain development and /or sex differences in environment within our sample of children from South China.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Jia
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Centre for Eye and Vision Research, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Jing Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qingqing Ye
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shenglan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lei Feng
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zixuan Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yijing Zhuang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yunsi He
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yusong Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaolan Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ying Yao
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Rengang Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Benjamin Thompson
- Centre for Eye and Vision Research, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada
- Liggins Institute, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
- Benjamin Thompson
| | - Jinrong Li
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Jinrong Li
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Tailor V, Ludden S, Bossi M, Bunce C, Greenwood JA, Dahlmann-Noor A. Binocular versus standard occlusion or blurring treatment for unilateral amblyopia in children aged three to eight years. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2022; 2:CD011347. [PMID: 35129211 PMCID: PMC8819728 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd011347.pub3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Current treatments for amblyopia, typically patching or pharmacological blurring, have limited success. Less than two-thirds of children achieve good acuity of 0.20 logMAR in the amblyopic eye, with limited improvement of stereopsis, and poor adherence to treatment. A new approach, based on presentation of movies or computer games separately to each eye, may yield better results and improve adherence. These treatments aim to balance the input of visual information from each eye to the brain. OBJECTIVES: To determine whether binocular treatments in children, aged three to eight years, with unilateral amblyopia result in better visual outcomes than conventional patching or pharmacological blurring treatment. SEARCH METHODS We searched CENTRAL (which contains the Cochrane Eyes and Vision Trials Register), MEDLINE, Embase, ISRCTN, ClinicalTrials.gov, and the WHO ICTRP to 19 November 2020, with no language restrictions. SELECTION CRITERIA Two review authors independently screened the results of the search for relevant studies. We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) that enrolled children between the ages of three and eight years old with unilateral amblyopia. Amblyopia was classed as present when the best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was worse than 0.200 logMAR in the amblyopic eye, with BCVA 0.200 logMAR or better in the fellow eye, in the presence of an amblyogenic risk factor, such as anisometropia, strabismus, or both. To be eligible, children needed to have undergone cycloplegic refraction and ophthalmic examination, including fundal examination and optical treatment, if indicated, with stable BCVA in the amblyopic eye despite good adherence with wearing glasses. We included any type of binocular viewing intervention, on any device (e.g. computer monitors viewed with liquid-crystal display shutter glasses; hand-held screens, including mobile phones with lenticular prism overlay; or virtual reality displays). Control groups received standard amblyopia treatment, which could include patching or pharmacological blurring of the better-seeing eye. We included full-time (all waking hours) and part-time (between 1 and 12 hours a day) patching regimens. We excluded children who had received any treatment other than optical treatment; and studies with less than 8-week follow-up. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS We used standard methodological procedures expected by Cochrane. The primary outcome of the review was the change from baseline of distance BCVA in the amblyopic eye after 16 (± 2) weeks of treatment, measured in logMAR units on an age-appropriate acuity test. MAIN RESULTS We identified one eligible RCT of conventional patching treatment versus novel binocular treatment, and analysed a subset of 68 children who fulfilled the age criterion of this review. We obtained data for the mean change in amblyopic eye visual acuity, adverse events (diplopia), and adherence to prescribed treatment at 8- and 16-week follow-up intervals, though no data were available for change in BCVA after 52 weeks. Risk of bias for the included study was considered to be low. The certainty of evidence for the visual acuity outcomes at 8 and 16 weeks of treatment and adherence to the study intervention was rated moderate using the GRADE criteria, downgrading by one level due to imprecision. The certainty of evidence was downgraded by two levels and rated low for the proportion of participants reporting adverse events due to the sample size. Acuity improved in the amblyopic eye in both the binocular and patching groups following 16 weeks of treatment (improvement of -0.21 logMAR in the binocular group and -0.24 logMAR in the patching group, mean difference (MD) 0.03 logMAR (95% confidence interval (CI) -0.10 to 0.04; 63 children). This difference was non-significant and the improvements in both the binocular and patching groups are also considered clinically similar. Following 8 weeks of treatment, acuity improved in both the binocular and patching groups (improvement of -0.18 logMAR in the patching group compared to -0.16 logMAR improvement in the binocular-treatment group) (MD 0.02, 95% CI -0.04 to 0.08). Again this difference was statistically non-significant, and the differences observed between the patching and binocular groups are also clinically non-significant. No adverse event of permanent diplopia was reported. Adherence was higher in the patching group (47% of participants in the iPad group achieved over 75% compliance compared with 90% of the patching group). Data were not available for changes in stereopsis nor for contrast sensitivity following treatment. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS Currently, there is only one RCT that offers evidence of the safety and effectiveness of binocular treatment. The authors are moderately confident that after 16 weeks of treatment, the gain in amblyopic eye acuity with binocular treatment is likely comparable to that of conventional patching treatment. However, due to the limited sample size and lack of long term (52 week) follow-up data, it is not yet possible to draw robust conclusions regarding the overall safety and sustained effectiveness of binocular treatment. Further research, using acknowledged methods of visual acuity and stereoacuity assessment with known reproducibility, is required to inform decisions about the implementation of binocular treatments for amblyopia in clinical practice, and should incorporate longer term follow-up to establish the effectiveness of binocular treatment. Randomised controlled trials should also include outcomes reported by users, adherence to prescribed treatment, and recurrence of amblyopia after cessation of treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vijay Tailor
- NIHR Biomedical Research Centre at Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust and UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London, UK
- Experimental Psychology, University College London, London, UK
- Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Siobhan Ludden
- NIHR Biomedical Research Centre at Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust and UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London, UK
- Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
- HSE DNCC Grangegorman Eye Clinic, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Manuela Bossi
- Department of Visual Neurosciences, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London, UK
| | - Catey Bunce
- The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | | | - Annegret Dahlmann-Noor
- NIHR Biomedical Research Centre at Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust and UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London, UK
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Sen S, Singh P, Saxena R. Management of amblyopia in pediatric patients: Current insights. Eye (Lond) 2022; 36:44-56. [PMID: 34234293 PMCID: PMC8727565 DOI: 10.1038/s41433-021-01669-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2021] [Revised: 06/04/2021] [Accepted: 06/22/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Amblyopia is a cause of significant ocular morbidity in pediatric population and may lead to visual impairment in future life. It is caused due to formed visual deprivation or abnormal binocular interactions. Several risk factors in pediatric age group may lead to this disease. Author groups have tried managing different types of amblyopia, like anisometropic amblyopia, strabismic amblyopia and combined mechanism amblyopia, with optical correction, occlusion therapy, penalization, binocular therapy and surgery. We review historical and current management strategies of different types of amblyopia affecting children and outcomes in terms of visual acuity, binocularity and ocular deviation, highlighting evidence from recent studies. Literature searches were performed through Pubmed. Risk factors for amblyopia need to be identified in pediatric population as early in life as possible and managed accordingly, as visual outcomes in amblyopia are best if treated at the earliest. Although, monocular therapies like occlusion or penalization have been shown to be quite beneficial over the years, newer concepts related to binocular vision therapy are still evolving.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sagnik Sen
- Department of Neuroophthalmology and Strabismus, Dr R.P. Centre for Ophthalmic Sciences, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Pallavi Singh
- Department of Neuroophthalmology and Strabismus, Dr R.P. Centre for Ophthalmic Sciences, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Rohit Saxena
- Department of Neuroophthalmology and Strabismus, Dr R.P. Centre for Ophthalmic Sciences, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India.
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Gao TY, Guo CX, South J, Black J, Dai S, Anstice N, Thompson B. Resolution of anisometropic amblyopia in a 48‐year‐old with refractive correction alone. Clin Exp Optom 2021; 100:392-395. [DOI: 10.1111/cxo.12457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2016] [Revised: 06/08/2016] [Accepted: 06/20/2016] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Tina Y Gao
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand,
| | - Cindy X Guo
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand,
| | - Jayshree South
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand,
| | - Joanna Black
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand,
| | - Shuan Dai
- Department of Ophthalmology, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand,
- Starship Children's Hospital and Greenlane Clinical Centre, Auckland District Health Board, Auckland, New Zealand,
| | - Nicola Anstice
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand,
| | - Benjamin Thompson
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand,
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada,
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Hertle RW, Curtis M, Boydstun I, Juric A, Evliyaoglu F, Ricker I. Clinical and Electrophysiological Outcomes After Eye Muscle Surgery in 81 Adults With Infantile Nystagmus Syndrome. J Pediatr Ophthalmol Strabismus 2021; 58:93-104. [PMID: 34038269 DOI: 10.3928/01913913-20210105-01] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To characterize the effects of eye muscle surgery on patients older than 18 years with infantile nystagmus syndrome (INS) who have had only optical treatment. METHODS This was a prospective, single-center, interventional case series analysis of clinical and electro-phyisological data before and after surgery. Outcome measures included: clinical characteristics, surgical procedure, and preoperative and postoperative binocular best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) in the null position, anomalous head posture (AHP), contrast sensitivity, strabismic deviation, and nystagmus acuity function (NAFX). Postoperative data used were collected for a minimum of 12 months after surgery. Parametric and non-parametric statistical analysis of the outcome measures was performed. RESULTS Ages ranged from 18 to 72 years (average: 36 years) and follow-up from 12 to 74 months (average: 26 months). A surgical algorithm of nine separate procedures involving at least two recti muscles on each eye was used for each patient. Most patients had associated systemic and/or ocular diagnoses, including albinism (35%), amblyopia (23%), optic nerve or retinal disorders (48%), refractive error (80%), AHP (44%), aperiodicity (27%), and strabismus (69%). There were no serious surgical complications, with a reoperation rate of 12%. There were significant group mean increases in BVCA, AHP, contrast sensitivity, strabismic deviation, and NAFX after surgery. Sixty percent of patients who were legally ineligible for driving prior to surgery became eligible after eye muscle surgery. CONCLUSIONS Adult patients with INS showed sustained improvement in many afferent and efferent measures of visual function after eye muscle surgery. [J Pediatr Ophthalmol Strabismus. 2021;58(2):93-104.].
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Kadhum A, Simonsz‐Tóth B, Rosmalen J, Pijnenburg SJM, Janszen BM, Simonsz HJ, Loudon SE. Long-term follow-up of an amblyopia treatment study: change in visual acuity 15 years after occlusion therapy. Acta Ophthalmol 2021; 99:e36-e42. [PMID: 32657530 PMCID: PMC7891344 DOI: 10.1111/aos.14499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2019] [Accepted: 05/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Purpose To determine change in visual acuity (VA) in the population of a previous amblyopia treatment study (Loudon 2006) and assess risk factors for VA decrease. Methods Subjects treated between 2001 and 2003 were contacted between December 2015 and July 2017. Orthoptic examination was conducted under controlled circumstances and included subjective refraction, best corrected VA, reading acuity, binocular vision, retinal fixation, cover‐uncover and alternating cover test. As a measure for degree of amblyopia, InterOcular VA Difference (IOD) at the end of occlusion therapy was compared with IOD at the follow‐up examination using Wilcoxon’s signed‐rank test. Regression analysis was conducted to determine the influence of clinical and socio‐economic factors on changes in IOD. Results Out of 303 subjects from the original study, 208 were contacted successfully, 59 refused and 15 were excluded because of non‐amblyopic cause of visual impairment. Mean IOD at end of therapy (mean age 6.4 years) was 0.11 ± 0.16 logMAR, and IOD at follow‐up examination (mean age 18.3 years) was 0.09 ± 0.21 logMAR; this difference was not significant (p = 0.054). Degree of anisometropia (p = 0.008; univariable analysis), increasing anisometropia (p = 0.009; multivariable), eccentric fixation (p < 0.001; univariable and multivariable); large IOD (p < 0.001; univariable and multivariable) and non‐compliance during therapy (p = 0.028; univariable) were associated with IOD increase. Conclusion Long‐term results of occlusion therapy were good. High or increasing anisometropia, eccentric fixation and non‐compliance during occlusion therapy were associated with long‐term VA decrease. Subjects with poor initial VA had a larger increase despite little patching, but often showed long‐term VA decrease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aveen Kadhum
- Department of Ophthalmology Erasmus University Medical Center Rotterdam The Netherlands
| | - Brigitte Simonsz‐Tóth
- Department of Ophthalmology Haaglanden Medical Center Westeinde Hospital The Hague The Netherlands
| | - Joost Rosmalen
- Department of Biostatistics Erasmus University Medical Center Rotterdam The Netherlands
| | - Sanne J. M. Pijnenburg
- Department of Optometry and Orthoptics University of Applied Sciences Utrecht The Netherlands
| | - Bronte M. Janszen
- Department of Optometry and Orthoptics University of Applied Sciences Utrecht The Netherlands
| | - Huibert J. Simonsz
- Department of Ophthalmology Erasmus University Medical Center Rotterdam The Netherlands
| | - Sjoukje E. Loudon
- Department of Ophthalmology Erasmus University Medical Center Rotterdam The Netherlands
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Scaramuzzi M, Murray J, Nucci P, Shaikh AG, Ghasia FF. Fixational eye movements abnormalities and rate of visual acuity and stereoacuity improvement with part time patching. Sci Rep 2021; 11:1217. [PMID: 33441575 PMCID: PMC7806581 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-79077-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2020] [Accepted: 12/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Residual amblyopia is seen in 40% of amblyopic patients treated with part-time patching. Amblyopic patients with infantile onset strabismus or anisometropia can develop fusion maldevelopment nystagmus syndrome (FMNS). The purpose of this study was to understand the effects of presence of FMNS and clinical subtype of amblyopia on visual acuity and stereo-acuity improvement in children treated with part-time patching. Forty amblyopic children who had fixation eye movement recordings and at least 12 months of follow-up after initiating part-time patching were included. We classified amblyopic subjects per the fixational eye movements characteristics into those without any nystagmus, those with FMNS and patients with nystagmus without any structural anomalies that do not meet the criteria of FMNS or idiopathic infantile nystagmus. We also classified the patients per the clinical type of amblyopia. Patching was continued until amblyopia was resolved or no visual acuity improvement was noted at two consecutive visits. Children with anisometropic amblyopia and without FMNS have a faster improvement and plateaued sooner. Regression was only seen in patients with strabismic/mixed amblyopia particularly those with FMNS. Patients with FMNS had improvement in visual acuity but poor stereopsis with part-time patching and required longer duration of treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matteo Scaramuzzi
- Cole Eye Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, Unit of Ophthalmology, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, Genoa, Italy
- DISCCO, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Jordan Murray
- Cole Eye Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | | | - Aasef G Shaikh
- Daroff-Dell'Osso Ocular Motility Laboratory, Cleveland, OH, USA
- Case Medical Center, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Fatema F Ghasia
- Cole Eye Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA.
- Case Medical Center, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA.
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Abstract
Republished with written permission granted from the American Optometric Association, October 2, 2020.
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12
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Stimulus deprivation amblyopia (SDA) develops due to an obstruction to the passage of light secondary to a condition such as cataract. The obstruction prevents formation of a clear image on the retina. SDA can be resistant to treatment, leading to poor visual prognosis. SDA probably constitutes less than 3% of all amblyopia cases, although precise estimates of prevalence are unknown. In high-income countries, most people present under the age of one year; in low- to middle-income countries, people are likely to be older at the time of presentation. The mainstay of treatment is correction of the obstruction (e.g., removal of the cataract) and then occlusion of the better-seeing eye, but regimens vary, can be difficult to execute, and traditionally are believed to lead to disappointing results. OBJECTIVES To evaluate the effectiveness of occlusion therapy for SDA in an attempt to establish realistic treatment outcomes and to examine evidence of any dose-response effect and assess the effect of the duration, severity, and causative factor on the size and direction of the treatment effect. SEARCH METHODS We searched CENTRAL (2018, Issue 12), which contains the Cochrane Eyes and Vision Trials Register; Ovid MEDLINE; Embase.com; and five other databases. We used no date or language restrictions in the electronic searches. We last searched the databases on 12 December 2018. SELECTION CRITERIA We planned to include randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and controlled clinical trials of participants with unilateral SDA with visual acuity worse than 0.2 LogMAR or equivalent. We specified no restrictions for inclusion based upon age, gender, ethnicity, comorbidities, medication use, or the number of participants. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS We used standard Cochrane methodology. MAIN RESULTS We identified no trials that met the inclusion criteria specified in the protocol for this review. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS We found no evidence from RCTs or quasi-randomized trials on the effectiveness of any treatment for SDA. RCTs are needed in order to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of occlusion, duration of treatment, level of vision that can be realistically achieved, effects of age at onset and magnitude of visual defect, optimum occlusion regimen, and factors associated with satisfactory and unsatisfactory outcomes with the use of various interventions for SDA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aileen Antonio‐Santos
- Hauenstein Neurosciences, Mercy Health Saint Mary's245 Cherry Street SESuite 204Grand RapidsMichiganUSA49503
| | - S Swaroop Vedula
- Johns Hopkins University3400 N. Charles StreetBaltimoreMarylandUSA21218
| | - Sarah R Hatt
- Mayo ClinicDepartment of OphthalmologyGuggenheim 9200 1st St. SWRochesterMinnesotaUSA55905
| | - Christine Powell
- Royal Victoria InfirmaryDepartment of OphthalmologyClaremont WingQueen Victoria RoadNewcastle upon TyneUKNE1 4LP
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Amblyopia is defined as impaired visual acuity in one or both eyes without demonstrable abnormality of the visual pathway, and is not immediately resolved by wearing glasses. OBJECTIVES In performing this systematic review, we aimed to synthesize the best available evidence regarding the effectiveness and safety of conventional occlusion therapy compared to atropine penalization in treating amblyopia. SEARCH METHODS We searched the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) (which contains the Cochrane Eyes and Vision Trials Register) (2018, Issue 8); Ovid MEDLINE; Ovid Embase; LILACS BIREME; ClinicalTrials.gov; ISRCTN; and the WHO ICTRP on 7 September 2018. SELECTION CRITERIA We included randomized/quasi-randomized controlled trials comparing conventional occlusion to atropine penalization for amblyopia. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two review authors independently screened abstracts and full-text articles, abstracted data, and assessed risk of bias. MAIN RESULTS We included seven trials (five randomized controlled trials and two quasi-randomized controlled trials) conducted in six countries (China, India, Iran, Ireland, Spain, and the United States) with a total of 1177 amblyopic eyes. Three of these seven trials were from the original 2009 version of the review. We assessed two trials as having a low risk of bias across all domains, and the remaining five trials as having unclear or high risk of bias for some domains.As different occlusion modalities, atropine penalization regimens, and populations were used across the included trials, we did not conduct any meta-analysis due to clinical and statistical heterogeneity. Evidence from six trials (two at low risk of bias) suggests that atropine penalization is as effective as conventional occlusion in improving visual acuity. Similar improvement in visual acuity was reported at all time points at which it was assessed, ranging from five weeks (improvement of 1 line) to 10 years (improvement of greater than 3 lines). At six months, although most participants (363/522) come from a trial rated as at low risk of bias with a precise estimate (mean difference (MD) 0.03, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.00 to 0.06), two other trials rated as at high risk of bias produced inconsistent estimates and wide confidence intervals (MD -0.02, 95% CI -0.11 to 0.07 and MD -0.14, 95% CI -0.23 to -0.05; moderate-certainty evidence). At 24 months, additional improvement was found in both groups, but there continued to be no meaningful difference between those receiving occlusion and those receiving atropine therapies (moderate-certainty evidence).We did not find any difference in ocular alignment, stereo acuity, or sound eye visual acuity between occlusion and atropine penalization groups (moderate-certainty evidence). Both treatments were well tolerated. Atropine was associated with better adherence (moderate-certainty evidence) and quality of life (moderate-certainty evidence), but also a higher reported risk of adverse events in terms of mild reduction in the visual acuity of the sound eye not requiring treatment and light sensitivity (high-certainty evidence). Skin, lid, or conjunctival irritation were more common among participants receiving patching than those receiving atropine (high-certainty evidence). Atropine penalization costs less than conventional occlusion. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS Both conventional occlusion and atropine penalization produce visual acuity improvement in the amblyopic eye. Atropine penalization appears to be as effective as conventional occlusion, although the magnitude of improvement differed among the trials we analyzed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianjing Li
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public HealthDepartment of Epidemiology615 North Wolfe Street, E6011BaltimoreMarylandUSA21205
| | - Riaz Qureshi
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public HealthDepartment of Epidemiology615 North Wolfe Street, E6011BaltimoreMarylandUSA21205
| | - Kate Taylor
- Royal Victoria InfirmaryDepartment of OphthalmologyClaremont WingQueen Victoria RoadNewcastle upon TyneUKNE1 4LP
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Piano MEF, Simmers AJ. 'It's too late'. Is it really? Considerations for amblyopia treatment in older children. Ther Adv Ophthalmol 2019; 11:2515841419857379. [PMID: 31259304 PMCID: PMC6585235 DOI: 10.1177/2515841419857379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2019] [Accepted: 05/17/2019] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
In recent years, media coverage has demonstrated instances in which families of children aged 7 and older, newly diagnosed with strabismic and/or anisometropic amblyopia through community eyecare services, were told it was 'too late' for their child to effectively respond to conventional amblyopia treatment (occlusion or atropine penalisation). Formal guidance pertaining to binocular vision anomalies from eyecare professional bodies does not specifically make reference to a child's age, beyond stating the importance of early diagnosis and treatment of strabismus/amblyopia. However, there have been many changes in the way we view the recovery period for amblyopia, and it is well demonstrated both within literature and clinical practice that conventional treatment can improve amblyopic eye visual acuity in children beyond the age of 7 years. The occurrence of these media described cases within the community eyecare sphere would suggest it is worthwhile revisiting the literature on the subject of amblyopia treatment in older children (aged 7+ years), to address misconceptions and place in the spotlight current considerations facing clinicians when treating newly diagnosed amblyopia within this age group. This perspective review provides an evidence-based update covering the various considerations associated with treatment of amblyopia in older children, along with recent amblyopia treatment advances that could have an impact on treatment prospects for this patient group. Considerations include the risks, benefits and efficacy of treating newly diagnosed amblyopia in older children, monitoring density of suppression to mitigate intractable diplopia risk, and recent findings regarding binocular treatments for amblyopia.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Anita J Simmers
- Department of Vision Sciences, School of Health and Life Sciences, Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow, UK
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Refractive adaptation and efficacy of occlusion therapy in untreated amblyopic patients aged 12 to 40 years. Graefes Arch Clin Exp Ophthalmol 2018; 257:379-389. [DOI: 10.1007/s00417-018-4170-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2018] [Revised: 09/11/2018] [Accepted: 10/16/2018] [Indexed: 10/27/2022] Open
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Gao TY, Anstice N, Babu RJ, Black JM, Bobier WR, Dai S, Guo CX, Hess RF, Jenkins M, Jiang Y, Kearns L, Kowal L, Lam CSY, Pang PCK, Parag V, South J, Staffieri SE, Wadham A, Walker N, Thompson B. Optical treatment of amblyopia in older children and adults is essential prior to enrolment in a clinical trial. Ophthalmic Physiol Opt 2018; 38:129-143. [PMID: 29356022 DOI: 10.1111/opo.12437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2017] [Accepted: 12/03/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Optical treatment alone can improve visual acuity (VA) in children with amblyopia, thus clinical trials investigating additional amblyopia therapies (such as patching or videogames) for children require a preceding optical treatment phase. Emerging therapies for adult patients are entering clinical trials. It is unknown whether optical treatment is effective for adults with amblyopia and whether an optical correction phase is required for trials involving adults. METHODS We examined participants who underwent optical treatment in the Binocular Treatment for Amblyopia using Videogames (BRAVO) clinical trial (ANZCTR ID: ACTRN12613001004752). Participants were recruited in three age groups (7 to 12, 13 to 17, or ≥18 years), and had unilateral amblyopia due to anisometropia and/or strabismus, with amblyopic eye VA of 0.30-1.00 logMAR (6/12 to 6/60, 20/40 to 20/200). Corrective lenses were prescribed based on cycloplegic refraction to fully correct any anisometropia. VA was assessed using the electronic visual acuity testing algorithm (e-ETDRS) test and near stereoacuity was assessed using the Randot Preschool Test. Participants were assessed every four weeks up to 16 weeks, until either VA was stable or until amblyopic eye VA improved to better than 0.30 logMAR, rendering the participant ineligible for the trial. RESULTS Eighty participants (mean age 24.6 years, range 7.6-55.5 years) completed four to 16 weeks of optical treatment. A small but statistically significant mean improvement in amblyopic eye VA of 0.05 logMAR was observed (S.D. 0.08 logMAR; paired t-test p < 0.0001). Twenty-five participants (31%) improved by ≥1 logMAR line and of these, seven (9%) improved by ≥2 logMAR lines. Stereoacuity improved in 15 participants (19%). Visual improvements were not associated with age, presence of strabismus, or prior occlusion treatment. Two adult participants withdrew due to intolerance to anisometropic correction. Sixteen out of 80 participants (20%) achieved better than 0.30 logMAR VA in the amblyopic eye after optical treatment. Nine of these participants attended additional follow-up and four (44%) showed further VA improvements. CONCLUSIONS Improvements from optical treatment resulted in one-fifth of participants becoming ineligible for the main clinical trial. Studies investigating additional amblyopia therapies must include an appropriate optical treatment only phase and/or parallel treatment group regardless of patient age. Optical treatment of amblyopia in adult patients warrants further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tina Y Gao
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Nicola Anstice
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Raiju J Babu
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
| | - Joanna M Black
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - William R Bobier
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
| | - Shuan Dai
- Department of Ophthalmology, Auckland City Hospital and Starship Children's Hospital, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Cindy X Guo
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Robert F Hess
- Department of Ophthalmology, McGill Vision Research, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Michelle Jenkins
- National Institute for Health Innovation, School of Population Health, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Yannan Jiang
- National Institute for Health Innovation, School of Population Health, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Lisa Kearns
- Centre for Eye Research Australia, Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Ophthalmology, Department of Surgery, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Lionel Kowal
- Centre for Eye Research Australia, Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Ophthalmology, Department of Surgery, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Carly S Y Lam
- School of Optometry, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Peter C K Pang
- School of Optometry, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Varsha Parag
- National Institute for Health Innovation, School of Population Health, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Jayshree South
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Sandra Elfride Staffieri
- Centre for Eye Research Australia, Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Ophthalmology, Department of Surgery, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Angela Wadham
- National Institute for Health Innovation, School of Population Health, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Natalie Walker
- National Institute for Health Innovation, School of Population Health, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Benjamin Thompson
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand.,School of Optometry and Vision Science, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
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Wallace DK, Repka MX, Lee KA, Melia M, Christiansen SP, Morse CL, Sprunger DT. Amblyopia Preferred Practice Pattern®. Ophthalmology 2018; 125:P105-P142. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ophtha.2017.10.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2017] [Accepted: 10/03/2017] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
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Abstract
A case of an autistic child, aged 8 years, who reported binocular diplopia following just 2 hours total occlusion per day for 6 weeks for strabismic/anisometropic amblyopia is reported. There was a history of known long-standing reduced uniocular acuity without treatment. Pretreatment Sbisa bar assessment suggested moderate suppression. The diplopia was treated over 6 months including occluding the amblyopic eye and gradually reducing the density of the occluder until fixation with the nonamblyopic eye could be maintained and diplopia ignored. Possible contributing factors are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janice Hoole
- a Orthoptics and Children's Eye Clinic , Leeds Teaching Hospitals , Leeds , UK
| | - Natasha Barrow
- a Orthoptics and Children's Eye Clinic , Leeds Teaching Hospitals , Leeds , UK
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Risk factors for treatment failure and recurrence of anisometropic amblyopia. Int Ophthalmol 2016; 37:835-842. [PMID: 27620472 DOI: 10.1007/s10792-016-0345-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2016] [Accepted: 09/06/2016] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of this study was to identify factors associated with failed vision improvement and recurrence following occlusion therapy for anisometropic amblyopia in children aged 7-9 years. METHODS We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of 64 children aged 7-9 years who had been diagnosed as having anisometropic amblyopia and were treated with patching. Functional treatment failure was defined as final visual acuity in the amblyopic eye of worse than 20/32. Improvement of fewer than two logMAR lines was considered relative treatment failure. Recurrence was defined as the reduction of at least two logMAR levels of visual acuity after decreased or discontinued patching. RESULTS Functional and relative success rates were 51.6 and 62.5 %, respectively. The most important factor for functional treatment failure [adjusted odds ratio (OR) (95 % confidence interval, CI) 11.57 (1.4-95.74)] and the only risk factor for recurrence [adjusted OR (95 % CI) 3.04 (1.13-8.12)] were the same: high spherical equivalent (SE) of the amblyopic eye. A large interocular difference in the best-corrected visual acuity was found to be a risk factor for both functional and relative failure. CONCLUSION High SE of the amblyopic eye was the most influential risk factor for treatment failure and recurrence in compliant children aged 7-9 years.
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Abstract
AIMS The proportion of patients seen by the paediatric eye service that attend for reasons related to amblyopia has not been quantified. The purpose of this study was to quantify the proportion of patients seen in the paediatric eye service attending for reasons related to amblyopia. METHODS Records of all eye appointments of children attending the Hillingdon Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust and St Mary's Hospital Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust over one month in 2009 were examined to determine the diagnosis and reason for attendance. RESULTS Seven hundred and four patients had appointments booked at St Mary's and Hillingdon in March 2009. The fail-to-attend rates were not significantly different at the 2 sites (19% at St Mary's and 9% at Hillingdon; P=0.75). Of the 704 patients, 533 (St Mary's, 252 [75%]; Hillingdon, 281 [76%]) were attending for amblyopia-related reasons. Of the overall 982 booked appointments, 770 (79%) were amblyopia-related. CONCLUSIONS Amblyopia diagnosis and management is clearly the most common cause of attendance to the paediatric eye service, accounting for over three-quarters of outpatient visits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine E Stewart
- a Division of Optometry and Visual Sciences , City University London , London , United Kingdom
| | - Shaheen Shah
- b London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine , Department of Infectious and Tropical Diseases , London , United Kingdom
| | - Siobhan Wren
- c Department of Ophthalmology , The Hillingdon Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust , Uxbridge , United Kingdom
| | - Clare J Roberts
- d Moorfields Eye Hospital Dubai, branch of Moorfields Eye Hospital London , Dubai , United Arab Emirates
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Chen AM, Cotter SA. The Amblyopia Treatment Studies: Implications for Clinical Practice. ADVANCES IN OPHTHALMOLOGY AND OPTOMETRY 2016; 1:287-305. [PMID: 28435934 PMCID: PMC5396957 DOI: 10.1016/j.yaoo.2016.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Angela M Chen
- Southern California College of Optometry at Marshall B. Ketchum University, 2575 Yorba Linda Blvd. Fullerton, CA 92831, , Phone number: (714) 449-7432
| | - Susan A Cotter
- Southern California College of Optometry at Marshall B. Ketchum University, 2575 Yorba Linda Blvd. Fullerton, CA 92831, , Phone number: (714) 449-7488
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Tailor V, Bossi M, Bunce C, Greenwood JA, Dahlmann‐Noor A. Binocular versus standard occlusion or blurring treatment for unilateral amblyopia in children aged three to eight years. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2015; 2015:CD011347. [PMID: 26263202 PMCID: PMC6718221 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd011347.pub2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Current treatments for amblyopia in children, occlusion and pharmacological blurring, have had limited success, with less than two-thirds of children achieving good visual acuity of at least 0.20 logMAR in the amblyopic eye, limited improvement of stereopsis, and poor compliance. A new treatment approach, based on the dichoptic presentation of movies or computer games (images presented separately to each eye), may yield better results, as it aims to balance the input of visual information from each eye to the brain. Compliance may also improve with these more child-friendly treatment procedures. OBJECTIVES To determine whether binocular treatments in children aged three to eight years with unilateral amblyopia result in better visual outcomes than conventional occlusion or pharmacological blurring treatment. SEARCH METHODS We searched the Cochrane Eyes and Vision Group Trials Register (last date of searches: 14 April 2015), the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL; 2015, Issue 3), Ovid MEDLINE, Ovid MEDLINE In-Process and Other Non-Indexed Citations, Ovid MEDLINE Daily, Ovid OLDMEDLINE (January 1946 to April 2015), EMBASE (January 1980 to April 2015), the ISRCTN registry (www.isrctn.com/editAdvancedSearch), ClinicalTrials.gov (www.clinicaltrials.gov), and the World Health Organization (WHO) International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (ICTRP) (www.who.int/ictrp/search/en). We did not use any date or language restrictions in the electronic searches for trials. SELECTION CRITERIA Two review authors independently screened the results of the search in order to identify studies that met the inclusion criteria of the review: randomised controlled trials (RCTs) that enrolled participants between the ages of three and eight years old with unilateral amblyopia, defined as best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) worse than 0.200 logMAR in the amblyopic eye, and BCVA 0.200 logMAR or better in the fellow eye, in the presence of an amblyogenic risk factor such as anisometropia, strabismus, or both. Prior to enrolment, participants were to have undergone a cycloplegic refraction and comprehensive ophthalmic examination including fundal examination. In addition, participants had to have completed a period of optical treatment, if indicated, and BCVA in the amblyopic eye had to remain unchanged on two consecutive assessments despite reportedly good compliance with glasses wearing. Participants were not to have received any treatment other than optical treatment prior to enrolment. We planned to include any type of binocular viewing intervention; these could be delivered on different devices including computer monitors viewed with LCD shutter glasses or hand-held screens including mobile phone screens with lenticular prism overlay. Control groups were to have received standard amblyopia treatment; this could include occlusion or pharmacological blurring of the better-seeing eye. We planned to include full-time (all waking hours) and part-time (between 1 and 12 hours a day) occlusion regimens. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS We planned to use standard methodological procedures expected by The Cochrane Collaboration. We had planned to meta-analyse the primary outcome, that is mean distance BCVA in the amblyopic eye at 12 months after the cessation of treatment. MAIN RESULTS We could identify no RCTs in this subject area. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS Further research is required to allow decisions about implementation of binocular treatments for amblyopia in clinical practice. Currently there are no clinical trials offering standardised evidence of the safety and effectiveness of binocular treatments, but results from non-controlled cohort studies are encouraging. Future research should be conducted in the form of RCTs, using acknowledged methods of visual acuity and stereoacuity assessment with known reproducibility. Other important outcome measures include outcomes reported by users, compliance with treatment, and recurrence of amblyopia after cessation of treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vijay Tailor
- NIHR Biomedical Research Centre at Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust and UCL Institute of Ophthalmology162 City RoadLondonUKEC1V 2PD
| | - Manuela Bossi
- UCL Institute of OphthalmologyDepartment of Visual NeurosciencesLondonUK
| | - Catey Bunce
- Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation TrustResearch and Development DepartmentCity RoadLondonUKEC1V 2PD
| | - John A Greenwood
- University College LondonExperimental Psychology26 Bedford WayLondonUKWC1H 0AP
| | - Annegret Dahlmann‐Noor
- NIHR Biomedical Research Centre at Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust and UCL Institute of Ophthalmology162 City RoadLondonUKEC1V 2PD
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Progressive maturation of silent synapses governs the duration of a critical period. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2015; 112:E3131-40. [PMID: 26015564 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1506488112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
During critical periods, all cortical neural circuits are refined to optimize their functional properties. The prevailing notion is that the balance between excitation and inhibition determines the onset and closure of critical periods. In contrast, we show that maturation of silent glutamatergic synapses onto principal neurons was sufficient to govern the duration of the critical period for ocular dominance plasticity in the visual cortex of mice. Specifically, postsynaptic density protein-95 (PSD-95) was absolutely required for experience-dependent maturation of silent synapses, and its absence before the onset of critical periods resulted in lifelong juvenile ocular dominance plasticity. Loss of PSD-95 in the visual cortex after the closure of the critical period reinstated silent synapses, resulting in reopening of juvenile-like ocular dominance plasticity. Additionally, silent synapse-based ocular dominance plasticity was largely independent of the inhibitory tone, whose developmental maturation was independent of PSD-95. Moreover, glutamatergic synaptic transmission onto parvalbumin-positive interneurons was unaltered in PSD-95 KO mice. These findings reveal not only that PSD-95-dependent silent synapse maturation in visual cortical principal neurons terminates the critical period for ocular dominance plasticity but also indicate that, in general, once silent synapses are consolidated in any neural circuit, initial experience-dependent functional optimization and critical periods end.
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Aldebasi YH. Prevalence of amblyopia in primary school children in Qassim province, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Middle East Afr J Ophthalmol 2015; 22:86-91. [PMID: 25624680 PMCID: PMC4302483 DOI: 10.4103/0974-9233.148355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To determine the prevalence and causes of amblyopia in primary school children in Qassim province, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). MATERIALS AND METHODS In this cross sectional study, 5176 children, aged 6 to 13 years (mean - 9.53 ± 1.88 years) were evaluated. There were 2573 (49.71%) males and 2603 (50.29%) females. Distance visual acuity (V/A) was tested monocularly using a logMAR chart with and without correction. Cycloplegic refraction was performed in children with reduced vision. To determine the etiology of amblyopia, children were enrolled if there was a difference in V/A of two or more lines between eyes or an absolute reduction in acuity <20/30 in either eye, that could not be corrected by refraction. P ≤ 0.05 was considered statistically significant. RESULTS There 202 out of 5176 (3.90%) with ambylopia. There are 98 (1.88%) amblyopic females. There was no statistical difference in gender for amblyopes (P > 0.05). The prevalence of amblyopia was statistically significant higher in the older age group (10-13 year) compared to younger age group (6 to 9 years) (P < 0.05). Unilateral amblyopia (3.24%) was more frequent than bilateral amblyopia (0.66%). The most frequent causes of amblyopia were refractive error (94.56%), of which anisometropic amblyopia was present in 77.72%, isoametropic amblyopia in 16.84% and strabismus in 5.44%. CONCLUSION The prevalence of amblyopia in Qassim province, KSA, is 3.9% which is similar or higher than other published studies on amblyopia. Anisometropic refractive errors are the most common underlying cause for this population. We recommend implementation of visual screening programs for children with appropriate clinical and social settings for early detection and proper management of amblyopia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yousef Homood Aldebasi
- Department of Optometry, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Qassim University, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
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Compliance and patching and atropine amblyopia treatments. Vision Res 2015; 114:31-40. [PMID: 25743080 DOI: 10.1016/j.visres.2015.02.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2014] [Revised: 02/05/2015] [Accepted: 02/16/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
In the past 20 years, there has been a great advancement in knowledge pertaining to compliance with amblyopia treatments. The occlusion dose monitor introduced quantitative monitoring methods in patching, which sparked our initial understanding of the dose-response relationship for patching amblyopia treatment. This review focuses on current compliance knowledge and the impact it has on patching and atropine amblyopia treatment.
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Saxena R, Puranik S, Singh D, Menon V, Sharma P, Phuljhele S. Factors predicting recurrence in successfully treated cases of anisometropic amblyopia. Indian J Ophthalmol 2014; 61:630-3. [PMID: 24343594 PMCID: PMC3959076 DOI: 10.4103/0301-4738.123144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Context: Recurrence after successful treatment of amblyopia is known and understanding the risk factors could help effective management. Aim: To measure incidence of recurrence in successfully treated cases of anisometropic amblyopia and evaluate factors predicting it. Settings and Design: Cohort Study at a tertiary level institution. Materials and Methods: Successfully treated anisometropic amblyopes aged 4−12 years were followed up for 1 year after stopping therapy. Best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), refractive error, stereoacuity and contrast sensitivity were evaluated at baseline and follow-up. Statistical Analysis: Intergroup analysis with appropriate tests: Chi-square test, Fisher's exact test, Wilcoxon rank sum test and paired t-test. Results: One hundred and two patients with mean age at diagnosis 7.06 ± 1.81 years were followed-up for a mean duration of 1.0 ± 0.2 years. The mean pre-treatment BCVA (LogMAR score) at diagnosis was 0.73 ± 0.36 units which improved to 0.20 ± 0.00 with treatment and after 1 year of stopping treatment was 0.22 ± 0.07. Thirteen (12.74%) patients showed amblyopia recurrence during follow-up. Risk of recurrence was higher with older age of onset of treatment (6.64 ± 1.77 years without recurrence v/s 8.53 ± 1.39 years with recurrence, P = 0.0014). Greater extent of improvement of VA (P = 0.048) and final VA at stopping occlusion (P = 0.03) were associated with higher recurrence. Binocularity status or stereoacuity changes were not associated with risk of recurrence. Conclusions: Significant numbers of children suffer recurrence of amblyopia after stopping therapy. Older age, better BCVA after stopping therapy and greater magnitude of improvement in BCVA are important risk factors for recurrence. Careful follow-up is essential for early detection and management of recurrence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rohit Saxena
- Squint and Neuro-Ophthalmology Services, Dr. Rajendra Prasad Centre for Ophthalmic Sciences, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Stimulus deprivation amblyopia (SDA) develops due to an obstruction to the passage of light secondary to a condition such as cataract. The obstruction prevents formation of a clear image on the retina. SDA can be resistant to treatment, leading to poor visual prognosis. SDA probably constitutes less than 3% of all amblyopia cases, although precise estimates of prevalence are unknown. In developed countries, most patients present under the age of one year; in less developed parts of the world patients are likely to be older at the time of presentation. The mainstay of treatment is removal of the cataract and then occlusion of the better-seeing eye, but regimens vary, can be difficult to execute, and traditionally are believed to lead to disappointing results. OBJECTIVES Our objective was to evaluate the effectiveness of occlusion therapy for SDA in an attempt to establish realistic treatment outcomes. Where data were available, we also planned to examine evidence of any dose response effect and to assess the effect of the duration, severity, and causative factor on the size and direction of the treatment effect. SEARCH METHODS We searched CENTRAL (which contains the Cochrane Eyes and Vision Group Trials Register) (The Cochrane Library 2013, Issue 9), Ovid MEDLINE, Ovid MEDLINE In-Process and Other Non-Indexed Citations, Ovid MEDLINE Daily, Ovid OLDMEDLINE (January 1946 to October 2013), EMBASE (January 1980 to October 2013), the Latin American and Caribbean Literature on Health Sciences (LILACS) (January 1982 to October 2013), PubMed (January 1946 to October 2013), the metaRegister of Controlled Trials (mRCT) (www.controlled-trials.com ), ClinicalTrials.gov (www.clinicaltrials.gov) and the WHO International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (ICTRP) (www.who.int/ictrp/search/en). We did not use any date or language restrictions in the electronic searches for trials. We last searched the electronic databases on 28 October 2013. SELECTION CRITERIA We planned to include randomized and quasi-randomized controlled trials of participants with unilateral SDA with visual acuity worse than 0.2 LogMAR or equivalent. We did not specify any restrictions for inclusion based upon age, gender, ethnicity, co-morbidities, medication use, or the number of participants. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two review authors independently assessed study abstracts identified by the electronic searches. MAIN RESULTS We did not identify any trials that met the inclusion criteria specified in the protocol for this review. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS We found no evidence on the effectiveness of any treatment for SDA. Future randomized controlled trials are needed in order to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of occlusion, duration of treatment, level of vision that can be realistically achieved, effects of age at onset and magnitude of visual defect, optimum occlusion regimen, and factors associated with satisfactory and unsatisfactory outcomes with the use of various interventions for SDA.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Sarah R Hatt
- Department of Ophthalmology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Christine Powell
- Department of Ophthalmology, Royal Victoria Infirmary, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
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Abstract
Amblyopia is the most common cause of preventable visual loss in children. This article reviews treatment options, durations, and efficacy in randomized multicentered trials conducted by the Pediatric Eye Disease and Investigator Group in the last decade. Parents and patients should be counseled that many forms of treatment are efficacious, allowing the option of choice of best-tolerated treatment method. Compliance is key to successful treatment. The course of treatment is likely at least 6-12 months, with yearly follow-up suggested once amblyopia has been treated to monitor for regression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kammi B Gunton
- Department of Pediatric Ophthalmology, Wills Eye Institute, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA.
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Prakash G, Sharma N, Saxena R, Choudhary V, Menon V, Titiyal JS. Comparison of higher order aberration profiles between normal and amblyopic eyes in children with idiopathic amblyopia. Acta Ophthalmol 2011; 89:e257-62. [PMID: 20337603 DOI: 10.1111/j.1755-3768.2009.01804.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
AIM To evaluate the higher order aberrations and resultant bilateral wavefront patterns in paediatric patients with idiopathic amblyopia. MATERIAL AND METHODS In this cross sectional observational trial, seventeen consecutive patients of previously diagnosed idiopathic amblyopia underwent wavefront analysis on Zyoptix platform (Bausch and Lomb, Rochester, NY, USA). RESULTS The mean age was 9 ± 3 years. There was no significant difference in comparison with means for the Zernike coefficients between normal and amblyopic eye. However, interrelation between Zernike coefficients, which is responsible for their interaction leading to difference in visual function, was different between amblyopic and fellow eyes. This was noticed using stepwise regression analysis. Predicting variables and R(2) (r squared) values for each Zernike polynomial were calculated. The sets of significantly predicting coefficients were different in most patients, with only seven common pairs and 42 dissimilar dependent-predictor sets. Maximum difference in the R-squared values between amblyopic and normal (fellow) eyes was seen with coma-like and trefoil-like aberrations (third order and fifth order terms). CONCLUSION It seems a strong possibility that a subset of 'idiopathic' amblyopia may be associated with loss of symmetry in wavefront patterns of the two eyes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gaurav Prakash
- Cornea and Refractive Surgery Services, Rajendra Prasad Centre for Ophthalmic Sciences, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Ansari Nagar, New Delhi, India.
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Evans BJW, Yu CS, Massa E, Mathews JE. Randomised controlled trial of intermittent photic stimulation for treating amblyopia in older children and adults. Ophthalmic Physiol Opt 2011; 31:56-68. [PMID: 21158885 DOI: 10.1111/j.1475-1313.2010.00801.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The treatment of amblyopia is reviewed and it is noted that in addition to conventional 'passive treatment' in children with occlusion, it has been argued that 'active treatment' may be effective in older children and adults. Intermittent photic stimulation (IPS) is one such active treatment. In Study 1, we report a clinical audit of 21 patients treated with IPS, which demonstrated that the maximum improvement is reached after 6 half hour sessions. Study 2 is a double-masked randomised controlled trial comparing IPS with a control treatment in 30 participants aged 10-57 years. Using a sensitive staircase measure of visual acuity (VA), the IPS group improved by about one line (p = 0.0053). The mean improvement was significantly greater (unpaired t-test, p = 0.022) in the IPS group (mean 0.096; S.E.M. 0.029) than in the control group (mean 0.019; S.E.M. 0.022). The improvement occurred in participants with strabismic amblyopia, but not in those with anisometropic amblyopia. Follow up data after about 1 year showed that VA had regressed to pre-treatment levels. The results are discussed within the context of another development in active amblyopia therapy, perceptual learning. The literature on this therapy reveals improvements in VA of about 2.5 lines in older children and adults with anisometropic amblyopia. It is concluded that perceptual learning is likely a better treatment option than IPS for anisometropic amblyopes, and probably also for strabismic amblyopes although a randomised controlled trial is required. It is noted that the existence of effective treatments for adults does not detract from the need to treat amblyopia in younger children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruce J W Evans
- Neville Chappell Research Clinic, Institute of Optometry, London, UK.
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Canadanović V, Bjelica D, Babović S, Bedov T, Babić N, Grković D. Detection and treatment of amblyopia in children. MEDICINSKI PREGLED 2011; 64:73-76. [PMID: 21545066 DOI: 10.2298/mpns1102073c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
Refractive errors are a common cause of decreased visual acuity. They can be found in 2-4% of preschool children. If not discovered on time and not properly treated, they can lead to amblyopia and strabismus. The active participation of parents and paediatricians is of great importance in timely discovering and treatment of amblyopia. The most common causes of amblyopia are strabismus (50.1%) and refractive error (44.7%). The best treatment results are achieved in amblyopic children with strabismus. The cooperation of physicians of all specialties, above all paediatricians and ophthalmologists, as well as a good collaboration of parents based on their being well-informed, must exist in the process of timely diagnosing and treating of amblyopia.
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De Weger C, Van Den Brom HJB, Lindeboom R. Termination of amblyopia treatment: when to stop follow-up visits and risk factors for recurrence. J Pediatr Ophthalmol Strabismus 2010; 47:338-46. [PMID: 20210280 DOI: 10.3928/01913913-20100218-03] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2009] [Accepted: 08/04/2009] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study estimated when it is safe to stop follow-up visits after cessation of amblyopia treatment and to identify factors associated with deterioration of visual acuity. METHODS Study patients included 282 patients aged 7 to 13 years who were monitored for deterioration after cessation of amblyopia treatment (median follow-up: 3.9 years). RESULTS Six (2.1%) patients lost 2 or more logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution levels of visual acuity and 77 (27.3%) patients lost 1 or more Snellen lines of visual acuity. Good compliance with re-treatment stopped further deterioration and lost visual acuity was regained (average follow-up after re-treatment: 3.3 years). Life table analysis indicated that 95% of the cases that deteriorated occurred within 24 months after cessation of treatment. Multivariable analysis corrected for duration of treatment uncovered factors independently associated with deterioration. CONCLUSION A clinically important risk of deterioration of visual acuity was found during the first 2 years after cessation of amblyopia treatment. Follow-up time longer than 2 years is recommended in the presence of a developing risk factor such as increasing anisometropia. With prompt re-treatment and good compliance, deterioration can be stopped and visual acuity can be restored.
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Langford A, Hug T. Visual demands in elementary school. J Pediatr Ophthalmol Strabismus 2010; 47:152-6. [PMID: 20507000 DOI: 10.3928/01913913-20090818-06] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2008] [Accepted: 12/10/2008] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate the visual demands on elementary school students for both distance and near learning tasks. This information may be useful for prescribing glasses or amblyopia treatments such as occlusion therapy. METHODS Classrooms for kindergarten to 5th grade were visited with consent from the school principal. Measurements of the vertical size of distance and near letters and the distances from the board to student desks were taken. A near visual working distance of 16 inches was assumed. The Snellen equivalent size of these target letters was calculated. RESULTS Average visual acuity demands in these classrooms at distance ranged from 20/100 to 20/300 for children in grades kindergarten to 2 and from 20/60 to 20/100 for grades 3 to 5. The average near demand ranged from 20/100 to 20/500 for all grades at 16 inches. CONCLUSION Children with moderate to severe amblyopia may be able to visually perform in some classroom settings while undergoing occlusion therapy. Children with mild to moderate distance refractive errors may be able to perform in classroom activities without correction. A larger multi-school study may be indicated to provide more statistically significant data because visual demands may vary among different schools and school districts throughout the country.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy Langford
- Children's Mercy Hospitals and Clinics, University of Missouri-Kansas City, School of Medicine, Kansas City, MO 64108, USA
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Matta NS, Singman EL, Silbert DI. Evidenced-based medicine: treatment for amblyopia. THE AMERICAN ORTHOPTIC JOURNAL 2010; 60:17-22. [PMID: 21061879 DOI: 10.3368/aoj.60.1.17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
Amblyopia is defined as reduced and uncorrectable vision in a structurally normal eye. Early detection of amblyopia is very important. This can be accomplished through screening programs designed to identify amblyopia risk factors. Testing can be performed by trained teachers, technicians, school nurses and pediatricians as well as by eye care professionals. Once a child is identified as having an amblyopia risk factor it is crucial that the parents follow up with a pediatric ophthalmologist for a comprehensive examination. Amblyopia is the leading cause of monocular vision loss in the United States for adults under the age of 40. Amblyopia is amenable to therapy and is cost effective to treat. It is believed that earlier therapy for amblyopia provides better outcomes, but treatment has been shown effective even in some older children. In this paper, studies are cited regarding treatment of amblyopia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noelle S Matta
- Family Eye Group, 2110 Harrisburg Pike, Suite 215, Lancaster, PA 17601, USA.
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37
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Amblyopia is defined as defective visual acuity in one or both eyes without demonstrable abnormality of the visual pathway, and is not immediately resolved by wearing glasses. OBJECTIVES To assess the effectiveness and safety of conventional occlusion versus atropine penalization for amblyopia. SEARCH STRATEGY We searched CENTRAL, MEDLINE, EMBASE, LILACS, the WHO International Clinical Trials Registry Platform, preference lists, science citation index and ongoing trials up to June 2009. SELECTION CRITERIA We included randomized/quasi-randomized controlled trials comparing conventional occlusion to atropine penalization for amblyopia. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two authors independently screened abstracts and full text articles, abstracted data, and assessed the risk of bias. MAIN RESULTS Three trials with a total of 525 amblyopic eyes were included. One trial was assessed as having a low risk of bias among these three trials, and one was assessed as having a high risk of bias.Evidence from three trials suggests atropine penalization is as effective as conventional occlusion. One trial found similar improvement in vision at six and 24 months. At six months, visual acuity in the amblyopic eye improved from baseline 3.16 lines in the occlusion and 2.84 lines in the atropine group (mean difference 0.034 logMAR; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.005 to 0.064 logMAR). At 24 months, additional improvement was seen in both groups; but there continued to be no meaningful difference (mean difference 0.01 logMAR; 95% CI -0.02 to 0.04 logMAR). The second trial reported atropine to be more effective than occlusion. At six months, visual acuity improved 1.8 lines in the patching group and 3.4 lines in the atropine penalization group, and was in favor of atropine (mean difference -0.16 logMAR; 95% CI -0.23 to -0.09 logMAR). Different occlusion modalities were used in these two trials. The third trial had inherent methodological flaws and limited inference could be drawn.No difference in ocular alignment, stereo acuity and sound eye visual acuity between occlusion and atropine penalization was found. Although both treatments were well tolerated, compliance was better in atropine. Atropine penalization costs less than conventional occlusion. The results indicate that atropine penalization is as effective as conventional occlusion. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS Both conventional occlusion and atropine penalization produce visual acuity improvement in the amblyopic eye. Atropine penalization appears to be as effective as conventional occlusion, although the magnitude of improvement differed among the three trials. Atropine penalization can be used as first line treatment for amblyopia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianjing Li
- Cochrane Eyes and Vision Group US Project, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, USA
| | - Kate Shotton
- Department of Ophthalmology, Royal Victoria Infirmary, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
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Bilateral uneven cataracts in children: amblyopia management by sequential intraocular lens implantation. Eye (Lond) 2009; 23:1451-5. [PMID: 19247388 DOI: 10.1038/eye.2009.42] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To report on amblyopia management of children with bilateral uneven cataracts treated by sequential intraocular lens implantation. METHODS Children with bilateral uneven cataracts who needed bilateral cataract surgery were prospectively enrolled in Oxford Eye Center, Johannesburg, South Africa and Southwest Eye Hospital, Chong Qing, China. In the same patient, the amblyopic eye with the denser cataract underwent primary intraocular lens implantation, whereas the better eye was temporarily left aphakic as an alternative to patching. A secondary intraocular lens implantation was performed in the aphakic eye when best-corrected visual acuity in the amblyopic eye attained its best potential. RESULTS Thirteen children were included in this non-comparative study. Average age at surgery was 3.02+/-1.87 years with an average follow-up period of 9.35+/-5.23 years. In the amblyopic eyes, 10 out of 13 (77%) had less than 20/120 best-corrected visual acuity before amblyopia treatment. The optical penalization of the dominant eye (temporary aphakia) lasted on average 8.38+/-4.05 weeks. The best-corrected visual acuity of the amblyopic eye improved to 20/50 or better in six eyes (46%), and ranged from 20/60 to 20/200 in five eyes (38%); in remaining two eyes, the best-corrected visual acuity stayed below 20/200. Best-corrected visual acuity was restored to 20/30 or better following intraocular lens implantations in 12 of the dominant eyes (92%). CONCLUSIONS Optical penalization by temporary aphakia of the dominant eye is a convenient means for treating amblyopia in children with bilateral uneven cataracts.
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Mitchell DE, Sengpiel F. Neural mechanisms of recovery following early visual deprivation. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2009; 364:383-98. [PMID: 18977734 PMCID: PMC2674472 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2008.0192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Natural patterned early visual input is essential for the normal development of the central visual pathways and the visual capacities they sustain. Without visual input, the functional development of the visual system stalls not far from the state at birth, and if input is distorted or biased the visual system develops in an abnormal fashion resulting in specific visual deficits. Monocular deprivation, an extreme form of biased exposure, results in large anatomical and physiological changes in terms of territory innervated by the two eyes in primary visual cortex (V1) and to a loss of vision in the deprived eye reminiscent of that in human deprivation amblyopia. We review work that points to a special role for binocular visual input in the development of V1 and vision. Our unique approach has been to provide animals with mixed visual input each day, which consists of episodes of normal and biased (monocular) exposures. Short periods of concordant binocular input, if continuous, can offset much longer episodes of monocular deprivation to allow normal development of V1 and prevent amblyopia. Studies of animal models of patching therapy for amblyopia reveal that the benefits are both heightened and prolonged by daily episodes of binocular exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donald E Mitchell
- Psychology Department, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada.
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Scheiman MM, Hertle RW, Kraker RT, Beck RW, Birch EE, Felius J, Holmes JM, Kundart J, Morrison DG, Repka MX, Tamkins SM. Patching vs atropine to treat amblyopia in children aged 7 to 12 years: a randomized trial. ARCHIVES OF OPHTHALMOLOGY (CHICAGO, ILL. : 1960) 2008; 126:1634-42. [PMID: 19064841 PMCID: PMC2846774 DOI: 10.1001/archophthalmol.2008.107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 120] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To compare patching with atropine eyedrops in the treatment of moderate amblyopia (visual acuity, 20/40-20/100) in children aged 7 to 12 years. METHODS In a randomized, multicenter clinical trial, 193 children with amblyopia were assigned to receive weekend atropine or patching of the sound eye 2 hours per day. Main Outcome Measure Masked assessment of visual acuity in the amblyopic eye using the electronic Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study testing protocol at 17 weeks. RESULTS At 17 weeks, visual acuity had improved from baseline by an average of 7.6 letters in the atropine group and 8.6 letters in the patching group. The mean difference between groups (patching - atropine) adjusted for baseline acuity was 1.2 letters (ends of complementary 1-sided 95% confidence intervals for noninferiority, -0.7, 3.1 letters). This difference met the prespecified definition for equivalence (confidence interval <5 letters). Visual acuity in the amblyopic eye was 20/25 or better in 15 participants in the atropine group (17%) and 20 in the patching group (24%; difference, 7%; 95% confidence interval, -3% to 17%). CONCLUSIONS Treatment with atropine or patching led to similar degrees of improvement among 7- to 12-year-olds with moderate amblyopia. About 1 in 5 achieved visual acuity of 20/25 or better in the amblyopic eye. CLINICAL RELEVANCE Atropine and patching achieve similar results among older children with unilateral amblyopia. TRIAL REGISTRATION (clinicaltrials.gov) Identifier: NCT00315328.
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Nyong'o OL, Del Monte MA. Childhood visual impairment: normal and abnormal visual function in the context of developmental disability. Pediatr Clin North Am 2008; 55:1403-15, x. [PMID: 19041466 DOI: 10.1016/j.pcl.2008.09.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Abnormal or failed development of vision in children may give rise to varying degrees of visual impairment and disability. Disease and organ-specific mechanisms by which visual impairments arise are presented. The presentation of these mechanisms, along with an explanation of established pathologic processes and correlative up-to-date clinical and social research in the field of pediatrics, ophthalmology, and rehabilitation medicine are discussed. The goal of this article is to enhance the practitioner's recognition and care for children with developmental disability associated with visual impairment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Omondi L Nyong'o
- Palo Alto Medical Foundation, 795 El Camino Real, Palo Alto, CA 94301, USA
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42
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Abstract
In recent years there has been a lively discussion on the benefits of early detection and treatment of amblyopia, as well as large prospective randomized controlled studies. Furthermore, we now have the opportunity to measure effective occlusion time. This leads to a better scientific base for discussion of amblyopia therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- O Ehrt
- Augenklinik der Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität, Mathildenstrasse 8, 80336 München.
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43
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Stimulus deprivation amblyopia (SDA) develops due to an obstruction to the clear passage of light, preventing clear formation of an image on the retina for example, cataract, ptosis (droopy eyelid). It is particularly severe and can be resistant to treatment and the visual prognosis is often poor. Stimulus deprivation amblyopia is rare and precise estimates of prevalence difficult to come by; it probably constitutes less than 3% of all cases of amblyopia. In developed countries most patients present under the age of one; in less developed parts of the world presentation is likely to be significantly later than this.The mainstay of treatment is patching of the better-seeing eye but regimes vary, treatment is difficult to execute and results are often disappointing. OBJECTIVES The objectives of this review were to evaluate the effectiveness of occlusion treatment for SDA, determine the optimum treatment regime and factors that may affect outcome. SEARCH STRATEGY We searched the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials - CENTRAL (which contains the Cochrane Eyes and Vision Group Trials Register) on The Cochrane Library (2006, Issue 1), MEDLINE (1996 to April 2006), EMBASE (1980 to April 2006) and LILACS (Latin American and Caribbean Literature on Health Sciences) (to November 2004). There were no date or language restrictions. SELECTION CRITERIA We aimed to include randomised and quasi-randomised controlled trials of subjects with unilateral SDA defined as worse than 0.2 LogMAR or equivalent. There were no restrictions with respect to age, gender, ethnicity, co-morbidities, medication use, and the number of participants. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two authors independently assessed study abstracts identified by the electronic searches. MAIN RESULTS No trials were identified that met the inclusion criteria. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS It is not possible to conclude how effective treatment for SDA is or which treatment regime produces the best results. There is a need for further study in this area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Hatt
- c/o Cochrane Eyes and Vision Group, International Centre for Eye Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, London, WC1E 7HT, UK
| | - Aileen Antonio-Santos
- Department of Neurology and Ophthalmology, Michigan State University, A217, Clinical Center, 138 Service Road, East Lansing, Ingham, MI 48824, USA, Phone: +1 517 353 8122, Fax: +1 517 432 3713
| | - Christine Powell
- c/o Cochrane Eyes and Vision Group, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, London, WC1E 7HT, UK
| | - Satyanarayana S Vedula
- Cochrane Eyes and Vision Group US Project, 615 North Wolfe Street, Mailbox Room W 5010, Baltimore, 21218, MD, USA, Phone: +1 410 502 4630
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