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Liu M, Wu X, Li Z, Tan D, Huang C. Assessment of Eye Care Apps for Children and Adolescents Based on the Mobile App Rating Scale: Content Analysis and Quality Assessment. JMIR Mhealth Uhealth 2024; 12:e53805. [PMID: 39269760 PMCID: PMC11437221 DOI: 10.2196/53805] [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: 10/19/2023] [Revised: 04/11/2024] [Accepted: 08/08/2024] [Indexed: 09/15/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In China, the current situation of myopia among children and adolescents is very serious. Prevention and control of myopia are inhibited by the lack of medical resources and the low awareness about eye care. Nevertheless, mobile apps provide an effective means to solve these problems. Since the health app market in China is still immature, it has become particularly important to conduct a study to assess the quality of eye-care apps to facilitate the development of better eye-care service strategies. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to evaluate the quality, functionality, medical evidence, and professional background of eye-care apps targeting children and adolescents in the Chinese app stores. METHODS A systematic search on iOS and Android app stores was performed to identify eye-care apps for children and adolescents. The general characteristics, development context, and functional features of the apps were described. Quality assessment of the apps was completed by 2 independent researchers using the Mobile App Rating Scale. RESULTS This study included 29 apps, of which 17 (59%) were developed by commercial organizations and 12 (41%) had a design with relevant scientific basis. The main built-in functions of these apps include self-testing (18/29, 62%), eye exercises (16/29, 55%), and eye-care education (16/29, 55%). The mean overall quality of eye-care apps was 3.49 (SD 0.33), with a score ranging from 2.89 to 4.39. The overall Mobile App Rating Scale score exhibited a significant positive correlation with the subscale scores (r=0.81-0.91; P<.001). In addition, although most apps provided basic eye-care features, there are some deficiencies. For example, only a few apps were developed with the participation of medical organizations or professional ophthalmologists, and most of the apps were updated infrequently, failing to provide the latest eye-care information and technology in a timely manner. CONCLUSIONS In general, the quality of eye-care apps for children and teenagers in Chinese app stores is good. These apps fulfill users' needs for eye-care services to a certain extent, but they still suffer from insufficient medical background, low user engagement, and untimely updates. In order to further improve the effectiveness of eye-care apps, cooperation with medical institutions and professional ophthalmologists should be strengthened to enhance the scientific and authoritative nature of the apps. At the same time, interactive features and regular updates should be added to enhance user participation and the continuity of the apps. This study provides a reference for future development or improvement of eye-care apps, which can help promote myopia prevention and control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming Liu
- College of Medical Informatics, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xiaoqian Wu
- Department of Quality Management, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University (The Third Military Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Ziyu Li
- College of Medical Informatics, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Dongmei Tan
- College of Medical Informatics, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Cheng Huang
- College of Medical Informatics, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
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Bano T, Wolffsohn JS, Sheppard AL. Assessment of visual function using mobile Apps. Eye (Lond) 2024; 38:2406-2414. [PMID: 38509183 PMCID: PMC11306548 DOI: 10.1038/s41433-024-03031-2] [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: 01/03/2024] [Revised: 02/19/2024] [Accepted: 03/08/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024] Open
Abstract
With the advances in smartphone and tablet screens, as well as their processing power and software, mobile apps have been developed reporting to assess visual function. This review assessed those mobile apps that have been evaluated in the scientific literature to measure visual acuity, reading metrics, contrast sensitivity, stereoacuity, colour vision and visual fields; these constitute just a small percentage of the total number of mobile apps reporting to measure these metrics available for tablets and smartphones. In general, research suggests that most of the mobile apps evaluated can accurately mimic most traditionally paper-based tests of visual function, benefitting from more even illumination from the backlit screen and aspects such as multiple tests and versions (to minimise memorisation) being available on the same equipment. Some also utilise the in-built device sensors to monitor aspects such as working distance and screen tilt. As the consequences of incorrectly recording visual function and using this to inform clinical management are serious, clinicians must check on the validity of a mobile app before adopting it as part of clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thaiba Bano
- School of Optometry, College of Health and Life Sciences, Aston University, Birmingham, UK
| | - James S Wolffsohn
- School of Optometry, College of Health and Life Sciences, Aston University, Birmingham, UK.
| | - Amy L Sheppard
- School of Optometry, College of Health and Life Sciences, Aston University, Birmingham, UK
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Ramamurthy D, Srinivasan S, Chamarty S, Velappan T, Verkicharla PK, Samuel Paulraj AK. Smart Devices in Optometry: Current and Future Perspectives to Clinical Optometry. CLINICAL OPTOMETRY 2024; 16:169-190. [PMID: 39100732 PMCID: PMC11296370 DOI: 10.2147/opto.s447554] [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: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 06/18/2024] [Indexed: 08/06/2024]
Abstract
There is a huge unmet need for eye care with more than a hundred million people living without basic eye care services and facilities. There is an exigency to deploy adequate resources in terms of manpower and equipment to address this. The usage of smart devices in optometry and eye care practice has been gaining momentum for last half a decade, due to the COVID-19 pandemic and technological advancements in telemedicine. These smart devices will help facilitate remote monitoring of important visual functions, ocular signs and symptoms, thus providing better eye care services and facilities and promoting outreach services. Smart devices in optometry exist in the form of gadgets that can be worn in the wrist, and spectacle-mounted or head-mounted devices. On the other hand, with the ubiquitous nature of smartphones, a large number of smartphone applications have been developed and tested for advanced optometry and primary eye care practice, which may potentially reduce the burden of inadequate resources and the unmet need for eye care. This article aims to give an overview of the current trends and future perspectives on the application of such smart devices in optometric practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dharani Ramamurthy
- Department of Optometry, Faculty of Medical & Health Sciences, SRM Medical College Hospital & Research Centre, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, 603203, India
| | | | - Sruthi Chamarty
- Myopia Research Lab, Brien Holden Institute of Optometry and Vision Sciences, Prof Brien Holden Eye Research Centre, L V Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad, 500034, India
| | - Tharaniy Velappan
- Department of Optometry, Faculty of Medical & Health Sciences, SRM Medical College Hospital & Research Centre, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, 603203, India
| | - Pavan Kumar Verkicharla
- Myopia Research Lab, Brien Holden Institute of Optometry and Vision Sciences, Prof Brien Holden Eye Research Centre, L V Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad, 500034, India
| | - Angeline Kirubha Samuel Paulraj
- Department. of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering & Technology, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, 603203, India
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Dave S, Rathore M, Campbell P, Edgar DF, Crabb DP, Callaghan T, Jones PR. Views and opinions of patients with glaucoma and age-related macular degeneration on vision home-monitoring: a UK-based focus group study. BMJ Open 2024; 14:e080619. [PMID: 39002965 PMCID: PMC11253750 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-080619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2023] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 07/15/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the views, hopes and concerns of patients living with glaucoma and age-related macular degeneration (AMD) regarding vision home-monitoring. DESIGN Qualitative study using focus groups and questionnaires. Participants were given three disease-relevant home-monitoring tests to try. The tests consisted of three visual field tests for the glaucoma groups (Melbourne Rapid Fields, Eyecatcher, Visual Fields Fast) and three acuity and/or contrast-sensitivity tests for AMD groups (Alleye, PopCSF, SpotChecks). Focus group data were thematically analysed. SETTING University meeting rooms in London, UK. PARTICIPANTS Eight people with glaucoma (five women, median age 74) and seven people with AMD (four women, median age 77) volunteered through two UK-based charities. Participants were excluded if they did not self-report a diagnosis of glaucoma or AMD or if they lived further than a 1-hour travel distance from the university (to ensure minimal travel burden on participants). RESULTS Six themes emerged from focus groups, the two most frequently referenced being: 'concerns about home-monitoring' and 'patient and practitioner access to results'. Overall, participants believed home-monitoring could provide patients with a greater sense of control, but also expressed concerns, including: the possibility of home-monitoring replacing face-to-face appointments; the burden placed on clinicians by the need to process additional data; struggles to keep up with requisite technologies; and potential anxiety from seeing worrying results. Most devices were scored highly for usability, though several practical improvements were suggested. CONCLUSION Patients with mild-to-moderate glaucoma/AMD expect vision home-monitoring to be beneficial, but have significant concerns about its potential implementation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonali Dave
- Department of Optometry and Visual Sciences, School of Health and Psychological Sciences, City, University of London, London, UK
| | - Mehal Rathore
- Department of Optometry and Visual Sciences, School of Health and Psychological Sciences, City, University of London, London, UK
| | - Peter Campbell
- Department of Optometry and Visual Sciences, School of Health and Psychological Sciences, City, University of London, London, UK
| | - David F Edgar
- Department of Optometry and Visual Sciences, School of Health and Psychological Sciences, City, University of London, London, UK
| | - David P Crabb
- Department of Optometry and Visual Sciences, School of Health and Psychological Sciences, City, University of London, London, UK
| | - Tamsin Callaghan
- Department of Optometry and Visual Sciences, School of Health and Psychological Sciences, City, University of London, London, UK
- Royal Free Clinical Research Facility, Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Pete R Jones
- Department of Optometry and Visual Sciences, School of Health and Psychological Sciences, City, University of London, London, UK
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Boon J, Rojas-Carabali W, Asad Y, Lim JTY, Rajagopalan R, Agrawal R. Evaluation of a Digital Amsler Grid (PocDoc) for Macular Disease Screening: A Comparative Analysis with the Conventional Method. Ophthalmol Ther 2024; 13:1289-1301. [PMID: 38507191 DOI: 10.1007/s40123-024-00910-5] [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: 01/14/2024] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Macular diseases are major contributors to visual impairment and blindness worldwide. This study introduces PocDoc, a digital version of the conventional Amsler grid, aimed at enhancing the screening and monitoring of macular diseases. We conducted a comprehensive evaluation to compare the effectiveness of PocDoc against the conventional method. METHODS Our comparative analysis involved two distinct phases. Initially, we assessed the capability of both PocDoc and the conventional method in detecting central visual field abnormalities. This phase included a cohort of 72 healthy and 155 eyes affected by various conditions such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD), uveitis, polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy (PCV), and macular telangiectasia. We primarily focused on the area of compromise and observed the correlation between the results obtained from both methods, measuring their concordance using a correlation coefficient. In the second phase, we evaluated the accuracy of both methods in diagnosing AMD. This involved a group of 127 eyes, including 70 healthy and 57 AMD-affected eyes. We determined the sensitivity, specificity, and overall accuracy of each method in diagnosing AMD. RESULTS In the initial phase, both PocDoc and the conventional Amsler grid demonstrated a high correlation in detecting central visual field defects across various macular diseases (correlation coefficient > 0.9). In the second phase, focused on AMD diagnosis, PocDoc showed a sensitivity of 50%, specificity of 100%, and an overall accuracy of 78%. Comparatively, the conventional method exhibited a sensitivity of 49%, specificity of 100%, and accuracy of 77%. CONCLUSION PocDoc's digital Amsler grid exhibits comparable effectiveness to the conventional method in both detecting visual field abnormalities across a range of macular diseases and specifically in the diagnosis of AMD. The high correlation in results, combined with the digital advantages of PocDoc, such as ease of use and potential for telemedicine applications, suggests its viability as a valuable tool in the screening and monitoring of macular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joewee Boon
- National Healthcare Group Eye Institute, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore, 308433, Singapore
| | - William Rojas-Carabali
- National Healthcare Group Eye Institute, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore, 308433, Singapore
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Yusra Asad
- National Healthcare Group Eye Institute, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore, 308433, Singapore
| | - Jonathan Tzien Yih Lim
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Rajesh Rajagopalan
- National Healthcare Group Eye Institute, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore, 308433, Singapore
| | - Rupesh Agrawal
- National Healthcare Group Eye Institute, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore, 308433, Singapore.
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore.
- Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore, Singapore.
- Duke NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore.
- Moorfields Eye Hospital, NHUS Foundation Trust, London, UK.
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6
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Alryalat SA, Al Deyabat O, Lee AG. Painful Eyes in Neurology Clinic: A Guide for Neurologists. Neurol Clin 2024; 42:559-571. [PMID: 38575266 DOI: 10.1016/j.ncl.2023.12.009] [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] [Indexed: 04/06/2024]
Abstract
Eye pain is a common complaint among patients presenting to the neurology clinic. It can be related to neurologic diseases, but it can also be a localized eye condition. Such disorders can be misleading, as their benign appearance might mask more grave underlying conditions, potentially leading to misdiagnoses or delayed treatment. Clinicians should be aware of the specific neurologic or systemic disorders (eg, demyelinating diseases or vascular abnormalities) that might first manifest as eye pain. Formal ophthalmic consultation is recommended for patients presenting with eye pain as the predominant complaint especially when red flags for more serious pathology are present.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saif Aldeen Alryalat
- Department of Ophthalmology, Blanton Eye Institute, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, TX, USA; Department of Ophthalmology, The University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan
| | - Osama Al Deyabat
- Department of Ophthalmology, Blanton Eye Institute, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Andrew G Lee
- Department of Ophthalmology, Blanton Eye Institute, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, TX, USA; Department of Ophthalmology, The University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan; Sam Houston State, Conroe, TX, USA; Department of Ophthalmology, Cullen Eye Institute, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA; Departments of Ophthalmology, Neurology, and Neurosurgery, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA; Department of Ophthalmology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA; Texas A&M College of Medicine, Bryan, TX, USA; Department of Ophthalmology, The University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, IA, USA.
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7
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Wu Y, Keel S, Carneiro VLA, Zhang S, Wang W, Liu C, Tang X, Han X, He M. Real-world application of a smartphone-based visual acuity test (WHOeyes) with automatic distance calibration. Br J Ophthalmol 2024:bjo-2023-324913. [PMID: 38514167 DOI: 10.1136/bjo-2023-324913] [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: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND To develop and assess the usability of a smartphone-based visual acuity (VA) test with an automatic distance calibration (ADC) function, the iOS version of WHOeyes. METHODS The WHOeyes was an upgraded version with a distinct feature of ADC of an existing validated VA testing app called V@home. Three groups of Chinese participants with different ages (≤20, 20-40, >40 years) were recruited for distance and near VA testing using both an Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study (ETDRS) chart and the WHOeyes. The ADC function would determine the testing distance. Infrared rangefinder was used to determine the testing distance for the ETDRS, and actual testing distance for the WHOeyes. A questionnaire-based interview was administered to assess the satisfaction. RESULTS The actual testing distance determined by the WHOeyes ADC showed an overall good agreement with the desired testing distance in all three age groups (p>0.50). Regarding the distance and near VA testing, the accuracy of WHOeyes was equivalent to ETDRS. The mean difference between the WHOeyes and ETDRS ranged from -0.084 to 0.012 logMAR, and the quadratic weighted kappa (QWK) values were >0.75 across all groups. The test-retest reliability of WHOeyes was high for both near and distance VA, with a mean difference ranging from -0.040 to 0.004 logMAR and QWK all >0.85. The questionnaire revealed an excellent user experience and acceptance of WHOeyes. CONCLUSIONS WHOeyes could provide accurate measurement of the testing distance as well as the distance and near VA when compared to the gold standard ETDRS chart.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, Guangzhou, China
| | - Stuart Keel
- Department of Noncommunicable Diseases, Vision and eye care programme, World Health Organisation, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Vera Lúcia Alves Carneiro
- Department of Noncommunicable Diseases, Vision and eye care programme, World Health Organisation, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Shiran Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wei Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chi Liu
- Faculty of Data Science, City University of Macau, Macao SAR, China
| | - Xuanzhang Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaotong Han
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, Guangzhou, China
| | - Mingguang He
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, Guangzhou, China
- School of Optometry, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Research Centre for SHARP Vision, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
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Rosenthal E, O’Neil J, Hoyt B, Howard M. Inter-Rater Reliability of EyeSpy Mobile for Pediatric Visual Acuity Assessments by Parent Volunteers. Clin Ophthalmol 2024; 18:235-245. [PMID: 38283182 PMCID: PMC10822126 DOI: 10.2147/opth.s440439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose To assess the inter-rater test reliability of the EyeSpy Mobile visual acuity smartphone algorithm when administered to children by eye professionals and parent volunteers. Patients and Methods Visual acuity test-retest results were analyzed for 106 children assigned to one of three different screenings: (1) An eye technician and pediatric ophthalmologist using their typical visual acuity testing method on a M&S computer; (2) An eye technician and pediatric ophthalmologist using EyeSpy Mobile; (3) An eye technician and parent volunteer using EyeSpy Mobile. Results All three phases demonstrated a strong agreement between the two testers, with mean test-retest equivalency results within 0.05 logMAR (2.5 letters, 90% CI). Whether testing using their typical technique on an M&S computer or using EyeSpy Mobile, eye professionals obtained statistically closer mean test-retest results than parent volunteers by 1 letter, with equivalency results within 0.03 logMAR (1.5 letters, 90% CI). Conversely, the number of retests within 2 vision lines was statistically greater when EyeSpy mobile was used by parents as compared to eye professional's customary technique on the M&S computer. Conclusion EyeSpy Mobile provides clinically useful visual acuity test-retest results even when used by first-time parent volunteers. Adaptive visual acuity algorithms have the potential to improve reliability, lessen training requirements, and expand the number of vision screening volunteers in community settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elyssa Rosenthal
- Department of Ophthalmology, Phoenix Children’s, Phoenix, AZ, USA
| | - James O’Neil
- Department of Ophthalmology, Phoenix Children’s, Phoenix, AZ, USA
| | - Briggs Hoyt
- Department of Ophthalmology, Loyola University Medical Center, Maywood, IL, USA
| | - Matthew Howard
- Cleveland Clinic Neurology Residency Program, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
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Nagino K, Sung J, Midorikawa-Inomata A, Eguchi A, Fujimoto K, Okumura Y, Miura M, Yee A, Hurramhon S, Fujio K, Akasaki Y, Hirosawa K, Huang T, Ohno M, Morooka Y, Zou X, Kobayashi H, Inomata T. Clinical Utility of Smartphone Applications in Ophthalmology: A Systematic Review. OPHTHALMOLOGY SCIENCE 2024; 4:100342. [PMID: 37869018 PMCID: PMC10587618 DOI: 10.1016/j.xops.2023.100342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2022] [Revised: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023]
Abstract
Topic Numerous smartphone applications have been devised for diagnosis, treatment, and symptom management in ophthalmology. Despite the importance of systematic evaluation of the purpose, target disease, effectiveness, and utility of smartphone applications to their effective utilization, few studies have formally evaluated their validity, reliability, and clinical utility. Clinical Relevance This report identifies smartphone applications with potential for clinical implementation in ophthalmology and summarizes the evidence on their practical utility. Methods We searched PubMed and EMBASE on July 28, 2022, for articles reporting original data on the effectiveness of treatment, disease detection, diagnostic accuracy, disease monitoring, and usability of smartphone applications in ophthalmology published between January 1, 1987, and July 25, 2022. Their quality was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Checklist. Results The initial search yielded 510 articles. After removing 115 duplicates and 285 articles based on inclusion and exclusion criteria, the full texts of the remaining 110 articles were reviewed. Furthermore, 71 articles were included in the final qualitative synthesis. All studies were determined to be of high (87.3%) or moderate (12.7%) quality. In terms of respective application of interest, 24 (33.8%) studies assessed diagnostic accuracy, 17 (23.9%) assessed disease detection, and 3 (4.2%) assessed intervention efficacy. A total of 48 smartphone applications were identified, of which 27 (56.3%) were publicly available. Seventeen (35.4%) applications included functions for ophthalmic examinations, 13 (27.1%) included functions aimed at disease detection, 10 (20.8%) included functions to support medical personnel, five (10.4%) included functions related to disease education, and three (6.3%) included functions to promote treatment adherence for patients. The largest number of applications targeted amblyopia (18.8%), followed by retinal disease (10.4%). Two (4.2%) smartphone applications reported significant efficacy in treating diseases. Conclusion In this systematic review, a comprehensive appraisal is presented on studies related to diagnostic accuracy, disease detectability, and efficacy of smartphone applications in ophthalmology. Forty-eight applications with potential clinical utility are identified. Appropriate smartphone applications are expected to enable early detection of undiagnosed diseases via telemedicine and prevent visual dysfunction via remote monitoring of chronic diseases. Financial Disclosures Proprietary or commercial disclosure may be found after the references.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ken Nagino
- Department of Hospital Administration, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Digital Medicine, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Jaemyoung Sung
- Department of Ophthalmology, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Akie Midorikawa-Inomata
- Department of Hospital Administration, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Atsuko Eguchi
- Department of Hospital Administration, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Keiichi Fujimoto
- Department of Ophthalmology, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Digital Medicine, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yuichi Okumura
- Department of Ophthalmology, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Digital Medicine, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Maria Miura
- Department of Ophthalmology, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Digital Medicine, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Alan Yee
- Department of Ophthalmology, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Digital Medicine, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shokirova Hurramhon
- Department of Ophthalmology, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kenta Fujio
- Department of Ophthalmology, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Digital Medicine, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yasutsugu Akasaki
- Department of Ophthalmology, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Digital Medicine, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kunihiko Hirosawa
- Department of Ophthalmology, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Digital Medicine, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tianxiang Huang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Digital Medicine, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Mizu Ohno
- Department of Ophthalmology, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Digital Medicine, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yuki Morooka
- Department of Ophthalmology, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Digital Medicine, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Xinrong Zou
- Department of Ophthalmology, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Fengcheng Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Hiroyuki Kobayashi
- Department of Hospital Administration, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takenori Inomata
- Department of Hospital Administration, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Digital Medicine, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
- AI Incubation Farm, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
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10
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Ping X, Pye D. A proposed methodology for conducting a remote rigid gas permeable contact lens consultation. Cont Lens Anterior Eye 2023; 46:101893. [PMID: 37482438 DOI: 10.1016/j.clae.2023.101893] [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: 01/23/2023] [Revised: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 07/16/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE COVID-19 spread to numerous countries, overwhelming healthcare systems and economies worldwide. COVID-19 restrictions have prevented patients from attending consultations in person and led to the further development of telemedicine to provide health care. The situation also applies to contact lens (CL) practitioners and their patients; telemedicine enables practitioners to provide patients with regular and continuing care. This study aimed to investigate available tools to enable continuing care for rigid gas permeable (RGP) CL wearers who are unable to attend face-to-face consultations. METHODS The study consists of three components. Firstly, an approach to enable the assessment of a patient's CL fitting and cornea remotely. Secondly, to find an affordable and reliable method to obtain a patient's visual acuity (VA), and thirdly, to develop a questionnaire to provide practitioners with information to deliver optimal patient care. RESULTS The use of a macro lens, smartphone, and auxiliary materials enables high-quality images of the anterior eye and RGP CL to be obtained. Two free and validated smartphone applications (apps) for VA measurements were identified which are available on Android and iOS systems. Two questionnaires were also developed to enable practitioners to obtain additional patient information to facilitate optimal patient care. CONCLUSION This study has developed the components of a remote CL consultation to enable patients who cannot attend scheduled appointments to receive care and advice to ensure the safety of their RGP CL wear. The tools involved in this study are low-cost, affordable, and an adjunct, not a substitute, for face-to-face consultations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaona Ping
- School of Optometry & Vision Science, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - David Pye
- School of Optometry & Vision Science, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
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Abdul Rahman SNA, Naing NN, Othman AM, Mohamad Z, Ibrahim TMM, Hashim SE, Baig AA, Wong LS, Dewadas HD, Selvaraj S. Validity and Reliability of Vis-Screen Application: A Smartphone-Based Distance Vision Testing for Visual Impairment and Blindness Vision Screening. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2023; 59:medicina59050912. [PMID: 37241144 DOI: 10.3390/medicina59050912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2023] [Revised: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Background and Objectives: The health-related mobile applications (app) might assist in promoting inclusive health and tele-treatment, especially for the less severe diseases. In this paper, a study had been done to determine the app's reliability in terms of raters and the app's agreement with the Snellen chart. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional sectional study was conducted between November 2019 and September 2020. Participants were selected via purposive sampling from selected communities in Terengganu state. All participants underwent vision testing with the Vis-Screen app and Snellen chart for validity and reliability accordingly. Results: A total of 408 participants were involved, with a mean age of 29.3. The sensitivity of the presenting vision of the right eye (PVR) ranged from 55.6% to 88.4%, with specificity between 94.7% to 99.3%, while the positive and negative predictive values were between 57.9% and 81.7% and 96.8% and 99.0%, respectively. The positive likelihood ratios ranged between 16.73 and 73.89, whereas the negative likelihood ratios ranged from 0.12 to 0.45. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) for all cut-off points ranged between 0.93 and 0.97, and the optimum cut-off point was at 6/12. The kappa values for intra-rater and inter-rater were 0.85 and 0.75, respectively, while the app's reliability with the Snellen chart was 0.61. Conclusions: Vis-Screen was concluded to be valid and reliable for use as a screening tool for detecting individuals with visual impairment and blindness in the community. A valid and reliable portable vision screener like Vis-Screen will help expand the eye care feasibility while providing similar accuracy as the conventional charts in clinical practices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siti Nor Aishah Abdul Rahman
- Faculty of Medicine, Medical Campus, Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin, Jalan Sultan Mahmud, Kuala Terengganu 20400, Terengganu, Malaysia
| | - Nyi Nyi Naing
- Faculty of Medicine, Medical Campus, Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin, Jalan Sultan Mahmud, Kuala Terengganu 20400, Terengganu, Malaysia
| | - Abdul Mutalib Othman
- Faculty of Medicine, Medical Campus, Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin, Jalan Sultan Mahmud, Kuala Terengganu 20400, Terengganu, Malaysia
| | - Zarina Mohamad
- Faculty of Informatics and Computing, Besut Campus, Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin, Besut 22200, Terengganu, Malaysia
| | - Tg Mohd Masrul Ibrahim
- Infostructure & Network Management Center, Gong Badak Campus, Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin, Kuala Nerus 21300, Terengganu, Malaysia
| | - Syaratul Emma Hashim
- Faculty of Medicine, Medical Campus, Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin, Jalan Sultan Mahmud, Kuala Terengganu 20400, Terengganu, Malaysia
| | - Atif Amin Baig
- University Institute of Public Health, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, The University of Lahore, Lahore 54590, Pakistan
| | - Ling Shing Wong
- Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, INTI International University, Nilai 71800, Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia
| | - Hemaniswarri Dewi Dewadas
- Centre for Biomedical and Nutrition Research, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman, Jalan Universiti, Banda Barat, Kampar 31900, Perak, Malaysia
- Department of Business and Public Administration, Faculty of Business and Finance, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman, Jalan Universiti, Banda Barat, Kampar 31900, Perak, Malaysia
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