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Kumanomido T, Murasugi H, Miyaji A, Sunohara D, Suzuki M, Uno S, Watanabe H. Combination of 2 test methods, single-picture optotype visual acuity chart and spot™ vision screener, in the eye health screening program for 3-year-old children in Tokyo: A retrospective, observational study. Medicine (Baltimore) 2024; 103:e38488. [PMID: 38905427 PMCID: PMC11192002 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000038488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2024] [Accepted: 05/16/2024] [Indexed: 06/23/2024] Open
Abstract
To evaluate the usefulness of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government's Eye Health Screening Program for 3-year-old children, which combines the Single-Picture Optotype Visual Acuity Chart (SPVAC) and Spot™ Vision Screener (SVS) tests. This was a retrospective, observational, matched study. Patients who underwent the eye health screening program and had abnormalities were classified into 3 groups according to the outcomes of the SPVAC (SPVAC-passed, SPVAC-P; SPVAC-failed, SPVAC-F) and SVS (SVS-passed, SVS-P; SVS-failed, SVS-F) tests as follows: SPVAC-P/SVS-F, SPVAC-F/SVS-P, and SPVAC-F/SVS-F. We evaluated the age at examination, SPVAC and SVS test success rates, and SVS refractive power. Additionally, the rates of refractive error, amblyopia, and strabismus were compared among the 3 groups. The SPVAC-P/SVS-F, SPVAC-F/SVS-P, and SPVAC-F/SVS-F groups comprised 158, 28, and 74 eyes, respectively. The mean age was 37.4 months. The success rates of the SPVAC and SVS tests were 69.8% and 96.2%, respectively. The mean SVS hyperopia value in the SPVAC-F/SVS-F group (2.71 ± 1.50 D) was significantly higher than that of the SPVAC-P/SVS-F group. The mean SVS astigmatism and myopia values were -2.21 diopter (D) ± 1.09 D and -3.40 ± 1.82 D, respectively; they did not differ significantly from that of the SPVAC-P/SVS-F group. Significant differences were observed in the refractive error, amblyopia, and strabismus rates among the 3 groups. Regarding disease determination, no significant difference was observed among participants who passed and failed the SPVAC test, regardless of the outcome of the other test. However, a significant difference was observed between those passing and failing the SVS tests. The SPVAC method used to screen 3-year-old children should be modified to commence at 42 months of age or be replaced with a single Landolt C test. The SVS test is useful for screening younger patients. Furthermore, the SVS test showed that the degree of hyperopia was higher in patients who did not pass the SPVAC test.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Atsuko Miyaji
- Nakano City Medical Association, Nakano City, Tokyo, Japan
| | | | - Mari Suzuki
- Nakano City Medical Association, Nakano City, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shinji Uno
- Nakano City Medical Association, Nakano City, Tokyo, Japan
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Arnold RW. Dichoptic Rescue for Spectacle-Flip Sabotage of Anisometropic Amblyopia Therapy. CLINICAL OPTOMETRY 2024; 16:83-87. [PMID: 38476961 PMCID: PMC10929207 DOI: 10.2147/opto.s454342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024]
Abstract
Background To be successful, amblyopia therapeutic techniques must respond when ingenious (shrewd) amblyopic children sabotage treatment effect by discovering ways(1) to alter those therapy aspects they find frustrating. Methods Her guardian consented to IRB-approved study outside typical FDA enrollment guidelines for CureSight dichoptic therapy. Acuity (EVA) and stereopsis was by PEDIG protocols. Results A 6-year-old rural Alaska native girl in foster care had previously been diagnosed with anisometropic amblyopia and treated with spectacles and patching but had poor compliance with BCVA 0.9-1.0 logMAR. She demonstrated exceptional creativity and hyperactivity but had no other medical issues. Atropine was prescribed in addition to her spectacles +5.50+1.00x90 and +0.50+1.00x90, but the patient discovered the rare "Spectacle Flip" method that sabotaged therapeutic impact. She had EVA enrollment acuities of logMAR 0.9 right and -0.1 left with stereo 400 seconds of arc. After just one month dichoptic therapy 1.5 hours 6 days per week, acuity improved to logMAR 0.7 and -0.1 with stereo up to 140 second of arc. Four months later acuity was 0.6 right and -0.2 left. Stereoacuity improved from 400 to 200 arc seconds. Conclusion Even when conventional compliance methods fail, dichoptic therapy with eye-tracking has the novel and unique potential to improve amblyopia treatment compliance with real-time monitored fixation compliance and confirmation of correct spectacle wear. Clinical Trial Registration NCT06165705.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert W Arnold
- Alaska Blind Child Discovery, Alaska Children’s EYE & Strabismus, Anchorage, AK, 99508, USA
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Lu Y, Zou L, Wang W, Chen R, Qu J, Zhou J. Effects of Monocular Flicker on Binocular Imbalance in Amblyopic and Nonamblyopic Adults. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2024; 65:33. [PMID: 38530301 PMCID: PMC10982911 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.65.3.33] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/02/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose This study aimed to evaluate the effects of monocular flicker stimulation on binocular imbalance in both amblyopic and nonamblyopic adults. Methods Seven amblyopic patients (28.3 ± 3.3 years; four females) and seven normally sighted participants (27.3 ± 4.1 years; five females) participated in the study. We used liquid crystal spectacles to create externally-generated monocular flicker (4, 7, 10, 15, or 20 Hz) and used the metric of log balance point (logBP) to determine whether imposed flicker could change the eyes' equilibrium interocular contrast ratio. Flicker was applied to either the fellow eye vs. the amblyopic eye or dominant eye (DE) vs. non-DE (non-DE) of amblyopic and nonamblyopic participants, respectively. We defined a logBP of 0 to indicate complete binocular balance and an increase in logBP relative to baseline to indicate a relative strengthening of the non-DE or amblyopic eye. Results Monocular flicker applied to the DE or fellow eye increased logBP, whereas when applied to the non-DE or amblyopic eye, reduced the logBP. These effects were more pronounced at low temporal frequencies than that at high temporal frequencies. The interaction between eye and temporal frequency was significant in both normals, F(4, 24) = 58.082, P < 0.001, η2 = 0.906, and amblyopes, F(1.923, 11.538) = 60.555, P < 0.001, η2 = 0.91. Conclusions Monocular flicker diminishes the contribution of the flickered eye in binocular combination, resulting in a relative dominance of the nonflickered eye in interocular interactions. Furthermore, a more pronounced temporally modulated effect was observed at lower temporal frequencies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiqiu Lu
- School of Ophthalmology & Optometry and Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Visual Science, Wenzhou, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Ocular Disease, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Liying Zou
- School of Ophthalmology & Optometry and Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Visual Science, Wenzhou, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Ocular Disease, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Wenjing Wang
- School of Ophthalmology & Optometry and Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Visual Science, Wenzhou, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Ocular Disease, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Ruyin Chen
- School of Ophthalmology & Optometry and Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Visual Science, Wenzhou, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Ocular Disease, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jia Qu
- School of Ophthalmology & Optometry and Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Visual Science, Wenzhou, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Ocular Disease, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Oujiang Laboratory (Zhejiang Lab for Regenerative Medicine, Vision, and Brain Health), Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jiawei Zhou
- School of Ophthalmology & Optometry and Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Visual Science, Wenzhou, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Ocular Disease, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
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Kadhum A, Tan ETC, Fronius M, Baart SJ, Levi DM, Joosse MV, Simonsz HJ, Loudon SE. Supervised dichoptic gaming versus monitored occlusion therapy for childhood amblyopia: Effectiveness and efficiency. Acta Ophthalmol 2024; 102:38-48. [PMID: 37078540 DOI: 10.1111/aos.15674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2022] [Revised: 03/10/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 04/21/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To compare the effectiveness and efficiency of supervised dichoptic action-videogame play to occlusion therapy in children with amblyopia. METHODS Newly diagnosed children with amblyopia aged 4-12 years were recruited, excluding strabismus >30PD. After 16 weeks of refractive adaptation children were randomized to gaming 1 h/week supervised by the researcher, or electronically monitored occlusion 2 h/day. The gaming group played a dichoptic action-videogame using virtual reality goggles, which included the task of catching a snowflake presented intermittently to the amblyopic eye. Contrast for the fellow eye was self-adjusted until 2 identical images were perceived. The primary outcome was visual acuity (VA) change from baseline to 24 weeks. RESULTS We recruited 96 children, 29 declined and 2 were excluded for language or legal issues. After refractive adaptation, 24 of the remaining 65 no longer met the inclusion criteria for amblyopia, and 8 dropped out. Of 16 children treated with gaming, 7 (6.7 years) completed treatment, whereas 9 younger children (5.3 years) did not. Of 17 treated with occlusion, 14 (5.1 years) completed treatment and 3 (4.5 years) did not. Of 5 children with small-angle strabismus, 3 treated with occlusion completed treatment and 2 treated with gaming did not. Median VA improved by 0.30 logMAR (IQR 0.20-0.40) after gaming, 0.20 logMAR (0.00-0.30) after occlusion (p = 0.823). Treatment efficiency was 1.25 logMAR/100 h (range 0.42-2.08) with gaming, 0.08 (-0.19-0.68) with occlusion (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION Dichoptic gaming seems a viable alternative for older children with refractive amblyopia after glasses adaptation. Treatment efficiency with gaming under continuous supervision was 15 times higher than with occlusion at home.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aveen Kadhum
- Department of Ophthalmology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Emily T C Tan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Maria Fronius
- Department of Ophthalmology, Child Vision Research Unit, Goethe University, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - S J Baart
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Dennis M Levi
- Berkeley, Herbert Wertheim School of Optometry and Vision Science, and Helen Wills Neuroscience Institute, University of California, Berkeley, California, USA
| | - Maurits V Joosse
- Department of Ophthalmology, Haaglanden Medical Center (HMC), Westeinde Hospital, The Hague, 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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Schmucker C, Thörel E, Flatscher-Thöni M, Sow D, Göhner A, Stühlinger V, Mühlberger N, Lagrèze WA, Meerpohl J. Computer-Assisted Visual Training in Children and Adolescents with Developmental Visual Disorders. DEUTSCHES ARZTEBLATT INTERNATIONAL 2023; 120:747-753. [PMID: 37656479 PMCID: PMC10722492 DOI: 10.3238/arztebl.m2023.0191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Revised: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 09/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In this systematic review, we address the question whether children and adolescents with developmental visual disorders benefit from computer-assisted visual training. METHODS Systematic literature searches were carried out in three bibliographic databases (initial search in October 2021) and trial registries. Included were randomized controlled trials that evaluated the efficacy of computer-assisted visual training in children and adolescents with developmental visual disorders in comparison to no training, sham training, or conservative treatment. RESULTS The inclusion criteria were met by 17 trials (with a total of 1323 children and adolescents) focusing on binocular or monocular computer-assisted visual training for the treatment of amblyopia. In these trials, visual training was carried out for 2 to 24 weeks, either as "stand alone" therapy or in addition to occlusion therapy. Six trials showed a statistically significant difference in favor of the visual training for the outcome "best corrected visual acuity of the amblyopic eye." However, this difference was small and mostly below the threshold of clinical relevance of -0.05 logMAR (equivalent to an improvement of 0.5 lines on the eye chart, or 2.5 letters per line). Only few data were available for the outcomes "binocular vision" and "adverse events"; the differences between the groups were similarly small. CONCLUSION The currently available data do not permit any firm conclusions regarding the efficacy of visual training in children and adolescents with amblyopia. Moreover, treatment adherence was often insufficient and the treatment durations in the trials was relatively short. No results from randomized trials have yet been published with respect to other developmental visual disorders (refractive errors, strabismus).
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine Schmucker
- Institute for Evidence in Medicine, Medical Center – University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, Albert Ludwig University of Freiburg
| | - Eberhard Thörel
- Institute for Evidence in Medicine, Medical Center – University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, Albert Ludwig University of Freiburg
| | - Magdalena Flatscher-Thöni
- Institute for Public Health, Medical Decision Making and Health Technology Assessment, UMIT TIROL – Private University for Health Sciences and Technology
| | - Dorothea Sow
- Department of Information Management, Quality and Economic Efficiency in Health Care (IQWiG), Cologne
| | - Anne Göhner
- Center for Geriatric Medicine and Gerontology, Freiburg University Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Albert Ludwigs University Freiburg
| | - Verena Stühlinger
- Institute for Public Health, Medical Decision Making and Health Technology Assessment, UMIT TIROL – Private University for Health Sciences and Technology
| | - Nikolai Mühlberger
- Institute for Public Health, Medical Decision Making and Health Technology Assessment, UMIT TIROL – Private University for Health Sciences and Technology
| | - Wolf A. Lagrèze
- Department of Ophthalmology, Freiburg University Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Albert Ludwigs University Freiburg
- *The authors contributed equally to this paper
| | - Jörg Meerpohl
- Institute for Evidence in Medicine, Medical Center – University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, Albert Ludwig University of Freiburg
- Cochrane Germany, Cochrane Germany Foundation, Freiburg
- *The authors contributed equally to this paper
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Nowik M, Perna F, Dahlmann-Noor A, Stern J, Malkowski JP, Weisberger A, Webber A. Amblyopia-A novel virtual round table to explore the caregiver perspective. Ophthalmic Physiol Opt 2023; 43:1571-1580. [PMID: 37515472 DOI: 10.1111/opo.13209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2023] [Revised: 06/08/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE A survey aimed to capture the caregiver's perspective on the impact of amblyopia and its treatment on the child and family, as well as caregivers' views on the design and feasibility of clinical trials investigating dichoptic binocular therapies for amblyopia. METHODS Parents of amblyopic children, patient advocates and healthcare professionals took part in a moderated, structured discussion on a novel virtual advisory-board platform. RESULTS Seven parents of children with amblyopia, two patient organisation representatives, one ophthalmologist and one optometrist participated in the survey. A total of 645 posts were entered on the platform over a 14-day period in September 2021. There was widespread agreement that the management of amblyopia poses more of a burden on the child and family than the condition itself, with treatment burden accentuated when treatment is unsuccessful. Parents expressed uncertainty and frustration in relation to the duration of patching, success of patching and alternative treatment options, and felt there was inadequate readily available, easy-to-understand information on the condition. Parents reported that a new treatment for amblyopia, such as dichoptic binocular therapy using video games, should be safe, non-invasive and engaging compared with an eye patch. Treating at home, potentially for a shorter treatment duration, and with an entertaining game were the main reasons parents would join a clinical study with this type of novel therapy. However, due to a limited critical period treatment window, parents would feel more comfortable joining a clinical trial if traditional therapies were offered in conjunction with those under investigation. CONCLUSION Patient perspectives and the role of caregivers in the acceptance of any interventional treatments are increasingly recognised. Understanding how amblyopia and its treatment impacts a child and family should be an important premise to guide therapy and evaluate treatment value, both in clinical trials and in routine medical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Jude Stern
- c/o International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness (IAPB), Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | | | | | - Ann Webber
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
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Randhawa S, Griffiths N, O'Brien P, Panter C, Boparai K, Harrad R, Khuddus N, Webber A, Bouchet C, Felizzi F. Qualitative Exploration of the Visual Function Impairments and Health-Related Quality of Life Impacts of Amblyopia in Adult and Pediatric Populations. Ophthalmol Ther 2023; 12:2505-2528. [PMID: 37356087 PMCID: PMC10441976 DOI: 10.1007/s40123-023-00751-8] [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: 01/24/2023] [Accepted: 06/07/2023] [Indexed: 06/27/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Amblyopia is a reduction in vision in one or both eyes due to impaired development of the visual pathway. This study explored the experience of amblyopia and treatment from the patient, caregiver, and clinician perspectives. METHODS A targeted literature review, including a review of social media listening (SML) studies, was conducted. Next, qualitative interviews were conducted with amblyopia patients, caregivers of children with amblyopia, and ophthalmologists with experience treating patients with amblyopia. The findings informed the development of a disease model. Amblyopia clinical experts provided input at key stages. RESULTS Twelve data sources were reviewed, including qualitative studies in the literature and SML studies. Overall, 133 patients/caregivers were interviewed (23 adults, 16 adolescents, 47 child-caregiver dyads), plus 10 ophthalmologists from the United States, France, and Germany. Reduced visual acuity, impaired depth perception, impaired peripheral vision, and double vision were the most frequently reported symptoms. Amblyopia impacted daily activities (reading, using digital devices), the ability to move around, school/work (productivity, seeing the board in class), emotional well-being (frustration, sadness), and social functioning (difficulty socializing). Treatments, including patching and corrective lens, also impacted daily activities (using digital devices, sports/leisure), mobility (bumping into things), and work/school (tasks taking longer) as well as emotional well-being (embarrassment), and social functioning (bullying/stigma). CONCLUSION The findings contribute valuable insights into the adult and pediatric experience of amblyopia from a multi-stakeholder perspective. The findings were used to critically assess existing clinical outcome assessments and supported the development of patient- and observer-reported outcome measures for use in amblyopia clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Ann Webber
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
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Duffy KR, Bear MF, Patel NB, Das VE, Tychsen L. Human deprivation amblyopia: treatment insights from animal models. Front Neurosci 2023; 17:1249466. [PMID: 37795183 PMCID: PMC10545969 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2023.1249466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Amblyopia is a common visual impairment that develops during the early years of postnatal life. It emerges as a sequela to eye misalignment, an imbalanced refractive state, or obstruction to form vision. All of these conditions prevent normal vision and derail the typical development of neural connections within the visual system. Among the subtypes of amblyopia, the most debilitating and recalcitrant to treatment is deprivation amblyopia. Nevertheless, human studies focused on advancing the standard of care for amblyopia have largely avoided recruitment of patients with this rare but severe impairment subtype. In this review, we delineate characteristics of deprivation amblyopia and underscore the critical need for new and more effective therapy. Animal models offer a unique opportunity to address this unmet need by enabling the development of unconventional and potent amblyopia therapies that cannot be pioneered in humans. Insights derived from studies using animal models are discussed as potential therapeutic innovations for the remediation of deprivation amblyopia. Retinal inactivation is highlighted as an emerging therapy that exhibits efficacy against the effects of monocular deprivation at ages when conventional therapy is ineffective, and recovery occurs without apparent detriment to the treated eye.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin R. Duffy
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Mark F. Bear
- Picower Institute for Learning and Memory, Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, United States
| | - Nimesh B. Patel
- College of Optometry, University of Houston, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Vallabh E. Das
- College of Optometry, University of Houston, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Lawrence Tychsen
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States
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Guo Y, Yan H, Guo C, Zhang D, Wang J, Li Y, Yang Y. Analysis of the improvement in monocular amblyopia visual acuity caused by the changes in non-amblyopia visual acuity in 74 adults. Medicine (Baltimore) 2023; 102:e34606. [PMID: 37713888 PMCID: PMC10508474 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000034606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2022] [Accepted: 07/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/17/2023] Open
Abstract
To observe the clinical phenomenon of amblyopia vision improvement in patients with monocular amblyopia over 18 years old after non-amblyopia diseases, analyze the conditions and causes of vision improvement, explore the plasticity of the adult optic nerve, and provide a clinical basis for the treatment of adult amblyopia. A total of 74 patients with monocular amblyopia combined with non-amblyopia visual acuity decline from 2018 to 2021 were collected. The patient's age, initial best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), pattern visual evoked potential examination results, and visual acuity regression were recorded. The BCVA of amblyopia was recorded every 3 months using an early treatment of diabetic retinopathy study visual acuity chart. In the 3rd month, BCVA increased by 16.2%, reaching 98% in the 9th month and 100% in the 12th months. According to the age of patients, the group aged 18 to 35 years was better than the group aged 35 to 60 years, whereas the group aged 35 to 60 years was better than the group aged over 60 years (P < .05). According to the comparison of initial visual acuity, the BCVA of the < 5 letter group was lower than that of the other 2 groups (P < .05). According to the pattern visual evoked potential results, the peak time of the < 10 ms group was better than that of the 10 to 20 ms group; the 10 to 20 ms group was better than that of the > 20 ms group; the peak decrease of the < 30% group was better than that of the 30% to 50% group; and the 30% to 50% group was better than that of the > 50% group (P < .05). The visual acuity regression of amblyopia in the 0.5 to 1-year group was higher than that in the other 2 groups (P < .05). This study confirms that adult amblyopia can still be cured under certain conditions. This visual plasticity is related to age, initial visual acuity, and excitability of the visual center. This study provides new clinical evidence and diagnostic ideas for the study of the pathogenesis of adult amblyopia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong Guo
- Xi'an Bright Eye hospital, Xi’an, China
| | - Hong Yan
- Xi’an People’s Hospital (Xi’an Fourth Hospital), Shaanxi Eye Hospital, Affiliated Grangren Hospital of School of Medicine, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China
| | - Chenjun Guo
- Tangdu Hospital of Air Force Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Dan Zhang
- Xi'an Bright Eye hospital, Xi’an, China
| | - Jue Wang
- Tangdu Hospital of Air Force Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Yan Li
- Xi'an Bright Eye hospital, Xi’an, China
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Shao W, Niu Y, Wang S, Mao J, Xu H, Wang J, Zhang C, Guo L. Effects of virtual reality on the treatment of amblyopia in children: A systematic review and meta-analysis. J Pediatr Nurs 2023; 72:106-112. [PMID: 37494854 DOI: 10.1016/j.pedn.2023.07.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Revised: 07/16/2023] [Accepted: 07/16/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023]
Abstract
PROBLEM Virtual reality technology has been used to treat amblyopia in children. However, it is unclear how virtual reality technology differs from conventional patching therapy in terms of effectiveness. ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA Eligible randomized controlled studies were retrieved from PubMed, Embase, Scopus, the Cochrane Library, and Web of Science through February 2023. SAMPLE Eight studies included 10 trials with 459 participants were included in the current meta-analysis. Two studies (Herbison et al., 2016; Huang et al., 2022) included two trials each. Thus, a total of ten trials were included in the current meta-analysis. RESULTS Overall, virtual reality technology treatment significantly improved visual acuity by 0.07 log MAR (95% confidence interval [CI], -0.11 to -0.02; P < 0.001; I2 = 94.4%) compared with traditional patching therapy. In addition, subgroup analyses also revealed that treatment with virtual reality technology was more effective when the child was younger than seven years old, or when the duration of the intervention was no more than twenty hours. CONCLUSIONS Virtual reality technology treatment showed significant effects in improving visual acuity in children who were seven years of age or younger with amblyopia. IMPLICATIONS Virtual reality technology treatment is effective in treating amblyopia in children. Virtual reality therapy is also entertaining and popular among children and can be applied to the treatment of amblyopia in children in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenxuan Shao
- School of Nursing, Jilin University, Changchun City, Jilin Province, China
| | - Yirou Niu
- School of Nursing, Jilin University, Changchun City, Jilin Province, China
| | - Saikun Wang
- School of Nursing, Jilin University, Changchun City, Jilin Province, China
| | - Jing Mao
- School of Nursing, Jilin University, Changchun City, Jilin Province, China
| | - Haiyan Xu
- School of Nursing, Jilin University, Changchun City, Jilin Province, China
| | - Jie Wang
- School of Nursing, Jilin University, Changchun City, Jilin Province, China
| | - Chengwei Zhang
- Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun City, Jilin Province, China.
| | - Lirong Guo
- School of Nursing, Jilin University, Changchun City, Jilin Province, China.
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Martinez JD, Donnelly MJ, Popke DS, Torres D, Wilson LG, Brancaleone WP, Sheskey S, Lin CM, Clawson BC, Jiang S, Aton SJ. Enriched binocular experience followed by sleep optimally restores binocular visual cortical responses in a mouse model of amblyopia. Commun Biol 2023; 6:408. [PMID: 37055505 PMCID: PMC10102075 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-023-04798-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2022] [Accepted: 04/03/2023] [Indexed: 04/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Studies of primary visual cortex have furthered our understanding of amblyopia, long-lasting visual impairment caused by imbalanced input from the two eyes during childhood, which is commonly treated by patching the dominant eye. However, the relative impacts of monocular vs. binocular visual experiences on recovery from amblyopia are unclear. Moreover, while sleep promotes visual cortex plasticity following loss of input from one eye, its role in recovering binocular visual function is unknown. Using monocular deprivation in juvenile male mice to model amblyopia, we compared recovery of cortical neurons' visual responses after identical-duration, identical-quality binocular or monocular visual experiences. We demonstrate that binocular experience is quantitatively superior in restoring binocular responses in visual cortex neurons. However, this recovery was seen only in freely-sleeping mice; post-experience sleep deprivation prevented functional recovery. Thus, both binocular visual experience and subsequent sleep help to optimally renormalize bV1 responses in a mouse model of amblyopia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessy D Martinez
- Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Marcus J Donnelly
- Undergraduate Program in Neuroscience, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Donald S Popke
- Undergraduate Program in Neuroscience, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Daniel Torres
- Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Lydia G Wilson
- Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | | | - Sarah Sheskey
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Cheng-Mao Lin
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Brittany C Clawson
- Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Sha Jiang
- Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Sara J Aton
- Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
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Zhu Q, Zhao Q, Liang R, He X, Gao M. Effectiveness of binocular therapy as a complementary treatment of part-time patching in older amblyopic children: a randomized clinical trial. Int Ophthalmol 2023:10.1007/s10792-023-02642-0. [PMID: 36877316 DOI: 10.1007/s10792-023-02642-0] [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: 12/20/2021] [Accepted: 01/19/2023] [Indexed: 03/07/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To assess the effectiveness of combined use of stereoscopic 3D video movies and part-time patching in treating older amblyopic children with poor response or compliance to traditional patching treatments and comparing this combined treatment with patching alone. METHODS Thirty-two children aged 5-12 years with amblyopia associated with anisometropia, strabismus, or both were recruited in a randomized clinical trial. Eligible participants were assigned randomly to the combined and patching groups. Here, binocular treatment refers to using the Bangerter filter to blur the fellow eye and subsequently watching a close-up 3D movie with large parallax. The primary outcome was amblyopic eye (AE) best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) improvement at six weeks. In addition, secondary outcomes included BCVA of AE improvement at three weeks and change of stereoacuity. RESULTS Of 32 participants, mean (SD) age was 6.63 (1.46) years, and 19 (59%) were female. At 6 weeks, mean (SD) amblyopic eye VA improved by 0.17 ± 0.08 logMAR (2-sided 95% CI, 0.13 to 0.22; F = 57.2, p < 0.01) and 0.05 ± 0.04 logMAR (2-sided 95% CI, 0.05 to 0.09; F = 8.73, p = 0.01) in the combined and patching groups, respectively. The difference was statistically significant (mean difference, 0.13 logMAR [1.3 line]; 95% CI, 0.08-0.17 logMAR [0.8-1.7 lines]; t25 = 5.65, p < 0 .01). After treatment, only the combined group had significantly improved stereoacuity, such as binocular function score (median [interquartile range], 2.30 [2.23 to 2.68] vs. 1.69 [1.60 to 2.30] log arcsec; paired, z = -3.53, p < 0.01), and mean stereoacuity gain was 0.47 log arcsec (± 0.22). Changes in other types of stereoacuity were similar. CONCLUSION Our laboratory-based binocular treatment strategy engaged a high level of compliance that led to a substantial gain in visual function after a short period of treatment for older amblyopic children having poor response or compliance to traditional patching treatments. Notably, the improving stereoacuity showed a greater advantage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qing Zhu
- Department of Ophthalmology, the Second Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116027, China
| | - Qi Zhao
- Department of Ophthalmology, the Second Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116027, China.
| | - Ran Liang
- Department of Ophthalmology, the Second Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116027, China
| | - Xing He
- Department of Ophthalmology, the Second Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116027, China
| | - Mingjun Gao
- Department of Ophthalmology, the Second Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116027, China
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Wygnanski-Jaffe T, Kushner BJ, Moshkovitz A, Belkin M, Yehezkel O. An Eye-Tracking-Based Dichoptic Home Treatment for Amblyopia: A Multicenter Randomized Clinical Trial. Ophthalmology 2023; 130:274-285. [PMID: 36306974 DOI: 10.1016/j.ophtha.2022.10.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2022] [Revised: 10/18/2022] [Accepted: 10/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Comparing visual outcomes after use of a novel binocular eye-tracking-based home treatment (CureSight; NovaSight, Ltd) with patching. DESIGN Prospective, multicenter, randomized, masked, controlled, noninferiority pivotal trial. PARTICIPANTS One hundred three children 4 to < 9 years with anisometropic, small-angle strabismic or mixed-mechanism amblyopia were randomized 1:1 to either CureSight treatment or patching. METHODS The CureSight treatment uses combined anaglyph glasses and an eye tracker to induce real-time blur around the fellow eye fovea in dichoptic streamed video content. Participants used the device for 90 minutes/day, 5 days/week for 16 weeks (120 hours). The patching group received 2 hours of patching 7 days/week (224 hours). The prespecified noninferiority margin was 1 line. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES The primary outcome was the improvement in the amblyopic eye visual acuity (VA), modeled with a repeated measures analysis of covariance. Secondary outcomes included stereoacuity, binocular VA, and treatment adherence rates, analyzed by a 1-sample Wilcoxon test within each group and a 2-sample Wilcoxon test comparing groups. Safety outcomes included the frequency and severity of study-related adverse events (AEs). RESULTS CureSight group VA improvement was found to be noninferior to patching group improvement (0.28 ± 0.13 logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution [logMAR] [P < 0.0001] and 0.23 ± 0.14 logMAR [P < 0.0001], respectively; 90% confidence interval [CI] of difference, -0.008 to 0.076). Stereoacuity improvement of 0.40 log arcseconds (P < 0.0001) and improved binocular VA (0.13 logMAR; P < 0.0001) were observed in the binocular treatment group, with similar improvements in the patching group in stereoacuity (0.40 log arcseconds; P < 0.0001) and binocular VA (0.09 logMAR; P < 0.0001), with no significant difference between improvements in the 2 groups in either stereoacuity (difference, 0; 95% CI, -0.27 to -0.27; P = 0.76) or binocular VA (difference, 0.041; 95% CI, -0.002 to 0.085; P = 0.07). The binocular treatment group had a significantly higher adherence than the patching group (91% vs. 83%; 95% CI, -4.0% to 21%; P = 0.011). No serious AEs were found. CONCLUSIONS Binocular treatment was well tolerated and noninferior to patching in amblyopic children 4 to < 9 years of age. High adherence may provide an alternative treatment option for amblyopia. FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE(S) Proprietary or commercial disclosure may be found after the references.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamara Wygnanski-Jaffe
- Goldschleger Eye Institute, Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, Israel; Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Burton J Kushner
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin
| | | | - Michael Belkin
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel; Goldschleger Eye Research Institute, Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, Israel
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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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15
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Abstract
Stereopsis provides us with a vivid impression of the depth and distance of objects in our 3- dimensional world. Stereopsis is important for a number of everyday visual tasks, including (but not limited to) reaching and grasping, fine visuo-motor control, and navigating in our world. This review briefly discusses the neural substrate for normal binocular vision and stereopsis and its development in primates; outlines some of the issues and limitations of stereopsis tests and examines some of the factors that limit the typical development of stereopsis and the causes and consequences of stereo-deficiency and stereo-blindness. Finally, we review several approaches to improving or recovering stereopsis in both neurotypical individuals and those with stereo-deficiency and stereo-blindness and outline some emerging strategies for improving stereopsis.
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16
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Li L, Xue H, Lai T, Xue Y, Luo G. Comparison of compliance among patients with pediatric amblyopia undergoing virtual reality-based and traditional patching method training. Front Public Health 2022; 10:1037412. [PMID: 36311619 PMCID: PMC9614073 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.1037412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2022] [Accepted: 09/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction This study aimed to compare compliance between pediatric patients with amblyopia undergoing a smartphone virtual reality-based training method (EYEBIT) and those receiving traditional patching method training. Methods A crossover design was adopted in this study. The enrolled children (n = 76) were randomized into the traditional patching and EYEBIT training method groups. The patients received training methods once a day for 2 h and 1 h in the patching and EYEBIT groups, respectively. Follow-up assessments involved interviews with parents regarding children's compliance and questionnaire-based interviews with children; compliance rating was compared between the methods. Results All children completed the training and follow-up assessments. There were significant differences in parent and children compliance-related behavior and attitudes between the two training methods (p < 0.05). The EYEBIT method was associated with better compliance than the traditional patching method. Significant correlations were observed among compliance components in both methods. In the correlation analysis between the two groups, the research results showed that in the EYEBIT group, the correlation between children's compliance behaviors and children's compliance attitudes, the correlation between children's compliance behaviors and parents' compliance behaviors, and the correlations between children's compliance attitudes and parents' compliance attitudes were all negatively correlated, and in the traditional patching group, the above three correlation analysis results were all positive. Conclusion The use of the EYEBIT method may improve compliance in children with amblyopia; this method appears acceptable to the parents of children with amblyopia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Li
- Ophthalmology Department, Fujian Provincial Hospital South Branch, Fujian Provincial Hospital, Fuzhou, China
- Schepens Eye Research Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
- Shengli Clinical Medical College of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Hailan Xue
- Ultrasound Department, Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital, College of Clinical Medicine for Obstetrics & Gynecology and Pediatrics, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Taichen Lai
- Shengli Clinical Medical College of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Ying Xue
- Ophthalmology Department, Fujian Provincial Hospital South Branch, Fujian Provincial Hospital, Fuzhou, China
- Shengli Clinical Medical College of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Gang Luo
- Schepens Eye Research Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
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Le T, Örge F. Treatment compliance in amblyopia: A mini-review and description of a novel online platform for compliance tracking. Surv Ophthalmol 2022; 67:1685-1697. [PMID: 35970235 DOI: 10.1016/j.survophthal.2022.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2021] [Revised: 08/05/2022] [Accepted: 08/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Patient compliance with amblyopia therapies, including eye patching and atropine drops, is crucial for optimal visual acuity outcomes. Studies utilizing objective measures of compliance measurement have consistently shown that a majority of patients receive significantly less treatment than prescribed. We review the subjective and objective compliance rates reported in the literature, assess possible explanations for poor compliance and describe studies of interventions to improve compliance. Additionally, we report our experience implementing Inside Out Care, a novel online platform designed to improve monitoring of amblyopia patient compliance, in our clinics. We have found that this platform, which is accessible via both computer and smartphone, has improved monitoring of amblyopia patient patching compliance, as well as allowed for enhanced doctor-patient communication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tinh Le
- Center for Pediatric Ophthalmology and Adult Strabismus, Rainbow Babies and Children's Hospital and University Hospitals Eye Institute
| | - Faruk Örge
- Center for Pediatric Ophthalmology and Adult Strabismus, Rainbow Babies and Children's Hospital and University Hospitals Eye Institute.
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18
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the efficacy of binocular treatment for individual with amblyopia. METHODS In this meta-analysis, a comprehensive search of literatures was performed from PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library and Web of Science databases up to December 21, 2020. Sensitivity analysis was performed for all outcomes. The Begg's test was used to assess the publication bias. Heterogeneity test was conducted for each effect indicator. Indicators were analyzed by random-effects model when the heterogeneity statistic I2 ≥ 50%, on the contrary, indicators were analyzed by fixed-effect model. Standard mean difference (SMD) or weighted mean difference (WMD) was adopted as effect indicators, and the effect amount was expressed as 95% confidence intervals (CIs). RESULTS A total of 13 literatures including 1146 participants were finally enrolled, with 595 in the intervention group and 551 in the control group. The results indicated that the improvement of amblyopic eye visual acuity [SMD: 0.882, 95%CI: (0.152, 1.613), P = 0.018] in binocular treatment group was better than that in control group. And binocular treatment could improve stereo acuity in individual with amblyopia [WMD: 0.138, 95%CI: (0.068, 0.208), P < 0.001]. CONCLUSION Binocular treatment may be beneficial to visual acuity, stereo acuity and binocular function improvement for individual with amblyopia. In clinical practice, binocular treatment can be used as one of the treatments for individual with amblyopia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liwen Jin
- Strabismus and pediatric ophthalmology, Quanzhou Aier Eye Hospital, Quanzhou Aier Eye Hospital, Quanzhou 362000, P.R. China
- *Correspondence: Liwen Jin, strabismus and pediatric ophthalmology, Quanzhou Aier Eye Hospital, No. 25, East Section of Huxin Street, Fengze District, Quanzhou 362000, P.R. China (e-mail: )
| | - Yiming Fang
- Strabismus and pediatric ophthalmology, Quanzhou Aier Eye Hospital, Quanzhou Aier Eye Hospital, Quanzhou 362000, P.R. China
| | - Can Jin
- Strabismus and pediatric ophthalmology, Quanzhou Aier Eye Hospital, Quanzhou Aier Eye Hospital, Quanzhou 362000, P.R. China
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19
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Long-Term Efficacy of the Combination of Active Vision Therapy and Occlusion in Children with Strabismic and Anisometropic Amblyopia. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 9:children9071012. [PMID: 35883996 PMCID: PMC9315543 DOI: 10.3390/children9071012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2022] [Revised: 06/13/2022] [Accepted: 07/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
This retrospective study was conducted to evaluate the efficacy of the combined treatment of occlusion and active vision therapy in a total of 27 amblyopic children, including 14 strabismic and 13 anisometropic cases. For such purpose, changes in distance and near visual acuity as well as in the binocular function was evaluated during a two-year follow-up. In both amblyopia groups, significant improvements were found in distance and near visual acuity in the non-dominant eye (p < 0.001). In the strabismic amblyopia group, the percentage of patients with binocular function score (BF) > 3.3 decreased significantly from a baseline value of 64.3% to a two-year follow-up value of 7.1% (p < 0.001). In the anisometropic amblyopia group, this percentage also decreased significantly from a baseline value of 15.4% to a two-year follow-up value of 0.0% (p < 0.001). No recurrences were observed in the anisometropic amblyopia group, whereas recurrence occurred in two cases of the strabismic amblyopia group after finishing the vision rehabilitation process. In conclusion, the combined approach of the treatment evaluated is efficacious for providing an improvement in visual acuity and binocular function in both anisometropic and strabismic amblyopia, which was maintained over time.
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20
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Macular and Optic Disc Parameters in Children with Amblyopic and Nonamblyopic Eyes under Optical Coherence Tomography Fundus Images. COMPUTATIONAL AND MATHEMATICAL METHODS IN MEDICINE 2022; 2022:9409749. [PMID: 35756400 PMCID: PMC9217602 DOI: 10.1155/2022/9409749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2022] [Revised: 05/09/2022] [Accepted: 05/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate the characteristics of macular and optic disc parameters in children with amblyopic and nonamblyopic eyes, using fundus images under optical coherence tomography (OCT). 36 patients with anisometropic amblyopia were selected in the experimental group, and another 36 healthy volunteers were selected in the control group, OCT examinations were performed in all groups, and the mean diopter, mean corrected visual acuity (CVA), mean axial length, mean optic disc retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness, and mean macular fovea thickness were recorded in the two groups. The results found that the average diopter of the patients in the control group and the experimental group was +2.30 ± 2.54 D and +5.51 ± 1.76 D, respectively. The average CVA was 0.86 ± 0.07 and 0.22 ± 0.16, respectively; the average eye axial length was 22.41 ± 1.20 mm and 21.11 ± 0.78 mm, respectively. As P < 0.05, the differences were statistically significant in the three indicators between the two groups. There was no significant difference between the two groups in the average thickness of the RNFL of the optic disc and the average thickness of the central fovea of macula (P > 0.05). There was some correlation among CVA, diopter, eye axial length, RNFL thickness, and average thickness of macular fovea, but the correlation was not significant. It was suggested that there were certain differences in the macular and optic disc parameters between amblyopic and nonamblyopic children, but the difference is little. Thereout, a certain objective basis was provided for the early detection and treatment of amblyopia.
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Hou C, Nicholas SC. Perceptual learning with dichoptic attention tasks improves attentional modulation in V1 and IPS and reduces interocular suppression in human amblyopia. Sci Rep 2022; 12:9660. [PMID: 35690626 PMCID: PMC9188564 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-13747-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2021] [Accepted: 05/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Long-term and chronic visual suppression to the non-preferred eye in early childhood is a key factor in developing amblyopia, as well as a critical barrier to treat amblyopia. To explore the relationship between selective visual attention and amblyopic suppression and its role in the success of amblyopic training, we used EEG source-imaging to show that training human adults with strabismic and anisometropic amblyopia with dichoptic attention tasks improved attentional modulation of neural populations in the primary visual cortex (V1) and intraparietal sulcus (IPS). We also used psychophysics to show that training reduced interocular suppression along with visual acuity and stereoacuity improvements. Importantly, our results revealed that the reduction of interocular suppression by training was significantly correlated with the improvement of selective visual attention in both training-related and -unrelated tasks in the amblyopic eye, relative to the fellow eye. These findings suggest a relation between interocular suppression and selective visual attention bias between eyes in amblyopic vision, and that dichoptic training with high-attention demand tasks in the amblyopic eye might be an effective way to treat amblyopia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chuan Hou
- The Smith-Kettlewell Eye Research Institute, San Francisco, CA, 94115, USA.
| | - Spero C Nicholas
- The Smith-Kettlewell Eye Research Institute, San Francisco, CA, 94115, USA
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22
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Hsieh YC, Liao WL, Tsai YY, Lin HJ. Efficacy of vision therapy for unilateral refractive amblyopia in children aged 7-10 years. BMC Ophthalmol 2022; 22:44. [PMID: 35100972 PMCID: PMC8805323 DOI: 10.1186/s12886-022-02246-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2021] [Accepted: 12/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background There is a critical period for visual development, conventionally considered to be the first 6 years of life. Children aged 7 years and older are significantly less responsive to amblyopia treatment. This study investigated the efficacy of binocular vision therapy in amblyopic children aged 7–10 years. Methods This retrospective study enrolled 36 children with unilateral amblyopia who were divided into a case group (receiving vision therapy, optical correction, and part-time patching of the weaker eye) and a control group (receiving optical correction and part-time patching of the weaker eye). Visual acuity (VA) was measured at baseline, at the 3-month, 6-month, and 9-month visits, and 3 months after cessation of treatment. Results There were 19 subjects in the case group and 17 subjects in the control group. Mean VA in the case group improved from 0.39 ± 0.24 logMAR at baseline to 0.10 ± 0.23 logMAR at the endpoint of treatment (p < 0.001, paired t-test). Mean VA in the control group improved from 0.64 ± 0.30 logMAR at baseline to 0.52 ± 0.27 logMAR at the endpoint of treatment (p = 0.015, paired t-test). The improvement was significantly greater in the case group than in the control group (p = 0.006, two-samples independent t-test). All subjects underwent follow-up examinations within 6 to 12 months. There was no regression of VA in the case group 3 months after cessation of vision therapy. The patients in the case group who received visual therapy were with better VA improvement then patients with only optic correction and patching. Conclusions Vision therapy combined with conventional treatment (optical correction and part-time patching) is more effective than conventional treatment alone in children aged 7–10 years with unilateral refractive amblyopia. The treatment results not only in greater vision gain, but also in shorter duration of treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Ching Hsieh
- Department of Ophthalmology, Eye Center, China Medical University Hospital, No. 2, Yude Road, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Wen-Ling Liao
- Graduate Institute of Integrated Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan.,Personal Medical Research Center, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Yu Tsai
- Department of Ophthalmology, Eye Center, China Medical University Hospital, No. 2, Yude Road, Taichung, Taiwan.,Department of Ophthalmology, China Medial University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Hui-Ju Lin
- Department of Ophthalmology, Eye Center, China Medical University Hospital, No. 2, Yude Road, Taichung, Taiwan. .,School of Chinese Medicine, China Medial University, Taichung, Taiwan.
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23
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Birch EE, Kelly KR, Wang J. Recent Advances in Screening and Treatment for Amblyopia. Ophthalmol Ther 2021; 10:815-830. [PMID: 34499336 PMCID: PMC8589941 DOI: 10.1007/s40123-021-00394-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2021] [Accepted: 08/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Amblyopia is the most common cause of monocular visual impairment in children, with a prevalence of 2-3%. Not only is visual acuity reduced in one eye but binocular vision is affected, fellow eye deficits may be present, eye-hand coordination and reading can be affected, and self-perception may be diminished. New technologies for preschool vision screening hold promise for accessible, early, and accurate detection of amblyopia. Together with recent advances in our theoretical understanding of amblyopia and technological advances in amblyopia treatment, we anticipate improved visual outcomes for children affected by this very common eye condition. This article is based on previously conducted studies and does not contain any new studies with human participants or animals performed by any of the authors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eileen E Birch
- Retina Foundation of the Southwest, 9600 N. Central Expressway, Suite 200, Dallas, TX, 75231, USA.
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA.
| | - Krista R Kelly
- Retina Foundation of the Southwest, 9600 N. Central Expressway, Suite 200, Dallas, TX, 75231, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Jingyun Wang
- SUNY College of Optometry, State University of New York, New York, NY, USA
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Fan H, Wang Y, Tang X, Yang L, Song W, Zou Y. Expression of early growth responsive gene-1 in the visual cortex of monocular form deprivation amblyopic kittens. BMC Ophthalmol 2021; 21:394. [PMID: 34781927 PMCID: PMC8594179 DOI: 10.1186/s12886-021-02161-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2021] [Accepted: 11/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The present study compared the expression of early growth responsive gene-1 (Egr-1) in visual cortex between amblyopia kittens and normal kittens, and to explore the role of Egr-1 in the pathogenesis of amblyopia. METHODS A total of 20 healthy kittens were randomly divided into deprivation group and control group with 10 kittens in each group. Raised in natural light, and covered the right eye of the deprived kittens with a black opaque covering cloth. Pattern visual evoked potentials (PVEP) were measured before and at the 1st, 3rd and 5th week after covering in all kittens. After the last PVEP test, all kittens were killed. The expression of Egr-1 in the visual cortex of the two groups was compared by immunohistochemistry and in situ hybridization. RESULTS PVEP detection showed that at the age of 6 and 8 weeks, the P100 wave latency in the right eye of deprivation group was higher than that in the left eye of deprivation group (P < 0.05) and the right eye of control group (P < 0.05), while the amplitude decreased (P < 0.05). The number of positive cells (P < 0.05) and mean optical density (P < 0.05) of Egr-1 protein expression in visual cortex of 8-week-old deprivation group were lower than those of normal group, as well as the number (P < 0.05) and mean optical density of Egr-1 mRNA-positive cells (P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS Monocular form deprivation amblyopia can lead to the decrease of Egr-1 protein and mRNA expression in visual cortex, and then promote the occurrence and development of amblyopia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haobo Fan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, China
- Department of Optometry, North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, China
- Innovative Platform for Basic Medicine, North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, China
| | - Ying Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, China
- Department of Optometry, North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, China
| | - Xiuping Tang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, China
- Department of Optometry, North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, China
| | - Liyuan Yang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, China
- Department of Optometry, North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, China
| | - Weiqi Song
- Department of Ophthalmology, Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, China
- Department of Optometry, North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, China
| | - Yunchun Zou
- Department of Ophthalmology, Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, China.
- Department of Optometry, North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, China.
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Roda M, Pellegrini M, Di Geronimo N, Vagge A, Fresina M, Schiavi C. Binocular treatment for amblyopia: A meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0257999. [PMID: 34624028 PMCID: PMC8500435 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0257999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2021] [Accepted: 09/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background To date, there is still no consensus regarding the effect of binocular treatment for amblyopia. The purpose of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to summarize the available evidence to determine whether binocular treatment is more effective than patching in children with amblyopia. Methods Four electronic databases (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials) were searched for studies that compared binocular treatment and patching in children with amblyopia. The outcome measures were visual acuity and stereopsis. Pooled effects sizes were calculated with a random-effect model. The standardized difference in means (SDM) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) was calculated. Sensitivity analysis and assessment of publication bias were performed. Results Five randomized clinical trials were included. No significant difference in visual acuity between patients treated with binocular treatment and patching was observed (SDM = -0.12; 95% CI: -0.45–0.20; P = 0.464). No significant difference in stereopsis between patients treated with binocular treatment and patching was observed (SDM = -0.07; 95% CI: -0.61–0.48; P = 0.809). For both variables, the between-study heterogeneity was high (respectively, I2 = 61% and I2 = 57%). Conclusions This meta-analysis found no convincing evidence supporting the efficacy of binocular treatment as an alternative to conventional patching. Therefore, the binocular treatment cannot fully replace traditional treatment but, to date, it can be considered a valid complementary therapy in peculiar cases. Further studies are required to determine whether more engaging therapies and new treatment protocols are more effective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matilde Roda
- Ophthalmology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna IRCCS, Bologna, Italy
- * E-mail:
| | - Marco Pellegrini
- Ophthalmology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna IRCCS, Bologna, Italy
| | - Natalie Di Geronimo
- Ophthalmology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna IRCCS, Bologna, Italy
| | - Aldo Vagge
- University Eye Clinic, DINOGMI, Polyclinic Hospital San Martino IRCCS, Genoa, Italy
| | - Michela Fresina
- Ophthalmology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna IRCCS, Bologna, Italy
| | - Costantino Schiavi
- Ophthalmology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna IRCCS, Bologna, Italy
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Venkataramanan K, Gawde S, Hathibelagal AR, Bharadwaj SR. Binocular fusion enhances the efficiency of spot-the-difference gameplay. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0254715. [PMID: 34283852 PMCID: PMC8291752 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0254715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2021] [Accepted: 07/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Spot-the-difference, the popular childhood game and a prototypical change blindness task, involves identification of differences in local features of two otherwise identical scenes using an eye scanning and matching strategy. Through binocular fusion of the companion scenes, the game becomes a visual search task, wherein players can simply scan the cyclopean percept for local features that may distinctly stand-out due to binocular rivalry/lustre. Here, we had a total of 100 visually normal adult (18-28 years of age) volunteers play this game in the traditional non-fusion mode and after cross-fusion of the companion images using a hand-held mirror stereoscope. The results demonstrate that the fusion mode significantly speeds up gameplay and reduces errors, relative to the non-fusion mode, for a range of target sizes, contrasts, and chromaticity tested (all, p<0.001). Amongst the three types of local feature differences available in these images (polarity difference, presence/absence of a local feature difference and shape difference in a local feature difference), features containing polarity difference was identified as first in ~60-70% of instances in both modes of gameplay (p<0.01), with this proportion being larger in the fusion than in the non-fusion mode. The binocular fusion advantage is lost when the lustre cue is purposefully weakened through alterations in target luminance polarity. The spot-the-difference game may thus be cheated using binocular fusion and the differences readily identified through a vivid experience of binocular rivalry/lustre.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kavitha Venkataramanan
- Brien Holden Institute of Optometry and Vision Sciences, L V Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
| | - Swanandi Gawde
- Brien Holden Institute of Optometry and Vision Sciences, L V Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
| | - Amithavikram R Hathibelagal
- Brien Holden Institute of Optometry and Vision Sciences, L V Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
- Prof Brien Holden Eye Research Centre, L V Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
| | - Shrikant R Bharadwaj
- Brien Holden Institute of Optometry and Vision Sciences, L V Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
- Prof Brien Holden Eye Research Centre, L V Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
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Barriers to successful dichoptic treatment for amblyopia in young children. Graefes Arch Clin Exp Ophthalmol 2021; 259:3149-3157. [PMID: 34057550 PMCID: PMC8478762 DOI: 10.1007/s00417-021-05193-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2020] [Revised: 03/13/2021] [Accepted: 04/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose In an ongoing randomised clinical trial comparing dichoptic VR video games with patching for amblyopia, we evaluated any potential barriers to successful use of this novel amblyopia treatment method. Methods From December 2017, all newly diagnosed amblyopic children were recruited. Excluded were children under age 4 and patients with strabismus exceeding 30PD. The video game was played for 1 h per week at the outpatient clinic under direct supervision. Records were kept of difficulties encountered during treatment and categorised into domains. Factors influencing the successful completion of this treatment were identified and related to patient characteristics. Results Ninety-one children were recruited for the trial, 20 parents refused participation before randomisation, because of the logistical challenges the outpatient dichoptic treatment would cause them. Of the 17 children who commenced dichoptic treatment (median age 6.2 years; IQR 4.9–8.4 years), 10 did not complete treatment. Children under age 5.5 years were unable to comprehend the game settings or the game itself. Older children (N = 7; 41%) were less willing to comply with the video game. Loss of interest in the game (N = 8; 47%) was found to be a limiting factor at all ages. Conclusion Half of the children failed to complete VR dichoptic treatment, mainly due to young age. In countries with nationwide screening where amblyopia is detected before age 6, the applicability of such dichoptic treatment is limited.
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28
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Brin TA, Chow A, Carter C, Oremus M, Bobier W, Thompson B. Efficacy of vision-based treatments for children and teens with amblyopia: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials. BMJ Open Ophthalmol 2021; 6:e000657. [PMID: 33912684 PMCID: PMC8043000 DOI: 10.1136/bmjophth-2020-000657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2020] [Revised: 02/18/2021] [Accepted: 03/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective To identify differences in efficacy between vision-based treatments for improving visual acuity (VA) of the amblyopic eye in persons aged 4-17 years old. Data sources Ovid Embase, PubMed (Medline), the Cochrane Library, Vision Cite and Scopus were systematically searched from 1975 to 17 June 2020. Methods Two independent reviewers screened search results for randomised controlled trials of vision-based amblyopia treatments that specified change in amblyopic eye VA (logMAR) as the primary outcome measure. Quality was assessed via risk of bias and GRADE (Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluations). Results Of the 3346 studies identified, 36 were included in a narrative synthesis. A random effects meta-analysis (five studies) compared the efficacy of binocular treatments versus patching: mean difference -0.03 logMAR; 95% CI 0.01 to 0.04 (p<0.001), favouring patching. An exploratory study-level regression (18 studies) showed no statistically significant differences between vision-based treatments and a reference group of 2-5 hours of patching. Age, sample size and pre-randomisation optical treatment were not statistically significantly associated with changes in amblyopic eye acuity. A network meta-analysis (26 studies) comparing vision-based treatments to patching 2-5 hours found one statistically significant comparison, namely, the favouring of a combination of two treatment arms comparing combination and binocular treatments, against patching 2-5 hours: standard mean difference: 2.63; 95% CI 1.18 to 4.09. However, this result was an indirect comparison calculated from a single study. A linear regression analysis (17 studies) found a significant relationship between adherence and effect size, but the model did not completely fit the data: regression coefficient 0.022; 95% CI 0.004 to 0.040 (p=0.02). Conclusion We found no clinically relevant differences in treatment efficacy between the treatments included in this review. Adherence to the prescribed hours of treatment varied considerably and may have had an effect on treatment success.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taylor Adrian Brin
- Optometry and Vision Science, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
| | - Amy Chow
- Optometry and Vision Science, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
| | - Caitlin Carter
- Library, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
| | - Mark Oremus
- Public Health and Health Systems, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
| | - William Bobier
- Optometry and Vision Science, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
| | - Benjamin Thompson
- Optometry and Vision Science, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada.,Center for Eye and Vision Research, 17W Science Park, Hong Kong, Hong Kong.,Liggins Institute, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
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29
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Abstract
Traditional therapies to treat amblyopia, such as optical correction or occlusion/penalization of the non-amblyopic eye, are efficacious but are not without limitations such as poor adherence and decreased success with increasing age. Recently, there has been an interest in new amblyopia therapies, some using binocular techniques, through a variety of platforms including video games, movies, and virtual reality. Overall, available efficacy results for these treatments are highly variable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle M Falcone
- Department of Ophthalmology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, United States.,Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, United States
| | - David G Hunter
- Department of Ophthalmology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, United States.,Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, United States
| | - Eric D Gaier
- Department of Ophthalmology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, United States.,Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, United States.,Picower Institute for Learning and Memory, Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, United States
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30
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Gong L, Reynaud A, Wang Z, Cao S, Lu F, Qu J, Hess RF, Zhou J. Interocular Suppression as Revealed by Dichoptic Masking Is Orientation-Dependent and Imbalanced in Amblyopia. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2020; 61:28. [PMID: 33369637 PMCID: PMC7774058 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.61.14.28] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose We investigate the orientation tuning of interocular suppression using a dichoptic masking paradigm in adult controls and amblyopes. Methods Fourteen adults with anisometropic or mixed amblyopia and 10 control adults participated in our study. Contrast sensitivity was measured by presenting a target Gabor in the tested eye and mean luminance in the untested eye (monocular) and by presenting a target in the tested eye and a bandpass oriented filtered noise in the other eye (masked). Interocular suppression was defined as the thresholds difference between the monocular and masked conditions for each eye. Interocular suppression was measured under parallel and orthogonal suppression configurations. The peak spatial frequency of the target and mask was 0.25 c/d in experiment 1 (low), 1.31 c/d in experiment 2 (mid), and 6.87 c/d in experiment 3 (high). Results The masking suppression induced by the amblyopic eye was less strong than that induced by the fellow eye. The suppression from the fellow eye was similar to that observed in the controls. Interocular suppression under parallel configuration was less strong than under orthogonal configuration in amblyopes at low and mid spatial frequency, but not at high spatial frequency. Conclusions We demonstrate that the abnormal interocular masking in amblyopia displays the expected characteristic of orientation selectivity expected of normal controls at low and mid spatial frequency, but not at high spatial frequency. The dichoptic masking imbalance between the eyes of amblyopes results in a net suppression of the amblyopic eye during binocular viewing, modeling clinical suppression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling Gong
- School of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Affiliated Eye Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Vision Science, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Alexandre Reynaud
- McGill Vision Research, Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
| | - Zili Wang
- School of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Affiliated Eye Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Vision Science, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Suqi Cao
- School of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Affiliated Eye Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Vision Science, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Fan Lu
- School of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Affiliated Eye Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Vision Science, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jia Qu
- School of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Affiliated Eye Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Vision Science, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Robert F Hess
- McGill Vision Research, Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
| | - Jiawei Zhou
- School of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Affiliated Eye Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Vision Science, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
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31
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Abstract
Recent work has transformed our ideas about the neural mechanisms, behavioral consequences and effective therapies for amblyopia. Since the 1700's, the clinical treatment for amblyopia has consisted of patching or penalizing the strong eye, to force the "lazy" amblyopic eye, to work. This treatment has generally been limited to infants and young children during a sensitive period of development. Over the last 20 years we have learned much about the nature and neural mechanisms underlying the loss of spatial and binocular vision in amblyopia, and that a degree of neural plasticity persists well beyond the sensitive period. Importantly, the last decade has seen a resurgence of research into new approaches to the treatment of amblyopia both in children and adults, which emphasize that monocular therapies may not be the most effective for the fundamentally binocular disorder that is amblyopia. These approaches include perceptual learning, video game play and binocular methods aimed at reducing inhibition of the amblyopic eye by the strong fellow eye, and enhancing binocular fusion and stereopsis. This review focuses on the what we've learned over the past 20 years or so, and will highlight both the successes of these new treatment approaches in labs around the world, and their failures in clinical trials. Reconciling these results raises important new questions that may help to focus future directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dennis M Levi
- University of California, Berkeley, School of Optometry & Helen Wills Neuroscience Institute, Berkeley, CA, USA.
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32
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Chen Y, He Z, Mao Y, Chen H, Zhou J, Hess RF. Patching and Suppression in Amblyopia: One Mechanism or Two? Front Neurosci 2020; 13:1364. [PMID: 32009874 PMCID: PMC6974542 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2019.01364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2019] [Accepted: 12/03/2019] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose To determine if benefits from occlusion therapy are due to decreased suppression from the fellow eye in children with amblyopia. Methods Ten newly diagnosed amblyopes (7.2 ± 1.4 years old), two with strabismus and eight with anisometropia, participated. Patients were first given a 2-month period of refractive adaptation, followed by occlusion therapy (i.e., patching their fellow eye with an opaque patch for 4 h/day). Visual acuity of the amblyopic eye and interocular suppression were measured before and after 0.5, 1, 2, 4, and 6 months of occlusion therapy. We quantified interocular suppression with a binocular phase combination task. Results Visual acuity (in logMAR) improved from 0.50 ± 0.22 (mean ± SD) to 0.33 ± 0.20 for patients who finished a short-term (2 months) occlusion (A1–A10), from 0.53 ± 0.20 to 0.32 ± 0.22 for patients who finished a medium-term (4 months) occlusion (A1–A9), and from 0.48 ± 0.19 to 0.22 ± 0.10 for patients who finished a long-term (6 months) occlusion (A1–A8). Although their visual acuity significantly improved, their degree of suppression, which was abnormal in all cases, did not change consistently. This was true in all durations of occlusion therapy. Conclusion Reduced suppression from the fixing eye might not be result from occlusion therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiya Chen
- School of Ophthalmology and Optometry and Eye Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Vision Science, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Zhifen He
- School of Ophthalmology and Optometry and Eye Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Vision Science, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Yu Mao
- School of Ophthalmology and Optometry and Eye Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Vision Science, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Hao Chen
- School of Ophthalmology and Optometry and Eye Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Vision Science, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Jiawei Zhou
- School of Ophthalmology and Optometry and Eye Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Vision Science, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Robert F Hess
- McGill Vision Research, Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
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