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Cross polarized spectacles in photosensitive epilepsy.
S Jain1, G Woodruff, E A Bissessar
1Department of Ophthalmology, Leicester Royal Infirmary and Northampton General Hospital, United Kingdom.
Journal of Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus
|January 5, 2002
Summary
Cross polarized spectacles show promise in managing photosensitive epilepsy. In a study of 19 young patients, these specialized glasses significantly reduced or eliminated photic responses in most individuals, suggesting their potential clinical utility.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Ophthalmology
Background:
- Photosensitivity is a common trigger for seizures in epilepsy.
- Electroencephalography (EEG) is used to diagnose photosensitive epilepsy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of cross polarized spectacles in treating photosensitivity.
- To compare cross polarized spectacles with conventionally polarized spectacles.
Main Methods:
- 19 patients (8-18 years) with photosensitivity confirmed by EEG were enrolled.
- Photic response was measured using EEG during light stimulation with conventional and cross polarized spectacles.
Main Results:
- 17 out of 19 patients showed a significant reduction or elimination of photic responses with polarizing spectacles.
- Cross polarized spectacles were more effective than conventional ones in 10 patients.
- Both spectacle types were equally effective in 6 patients.
Conclusions:
- Cross polarized spectacles demonstrate potential in managing photosensitivity.
- Further clinical investigation is warranted to establish their role in photosensitive epilepsy treatment.