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Amblyopia and visual acuity in children with Down's syndrome
W G Tsiaras1, S Pueschel, C Keller
1Department of Ophthalmology, Rhode Island Hospital/Brown University School of Medicine, Providence, RI 02903, USA.
The British Journal of Ophthalmology
|September 30, 1999
Summary
Amblyopia, or lazy eye, affects 22% of children with Down
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Genetics
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Limited research exists on amblyopia prevalence in individuals with Down syndrome.
- Down syndrome is associated with various ocular abnormalities, increasing risk for visual deficits.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of amblyopia in children with Down syndrome.
- To identify associated ophthalmological conditions linked to amblyopia in this population.
Main Methods:
- Visual acuity was evaluated in 68 children (ages 5-19) with Down syndrome.
- Amblyopia was defined by visual acuity differences between eyes or fixation preference.
- Ophthalmological records were reviewed, and a subgroup underwent examination.
Main Results:
- Amblyopia was diagnosed in 15 (22%) of the participants.
- An additional 24% had bilateral vision below 20/50.
- Strabismus, high refractive errors, and anisometropia were common associated conditions.
Conclusions:
- The prevalence of amblyopia in Down syndrome is higher than previously thought.
- Nearly half (46%) of children with Down syndrome exhibited significant visual impairment.
- Regular ophthalmological screening is crucial for early detection and management.