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Visual function in menopause: the role of hormone replacement therapy
Secondo Guaschino1, Eva Grimaldi, Andrea Sartore
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Epidemiology Unit, University of Trieste, IRCCS Burlo Garofolo, Italy.
Menopause (New York, N.Y.)
|January 25, 2003
Summary
Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) significantly enhances visual function in postmenopausal women, improving contrast sensitivity and tear production. This study indicates HRT positively impacts vision without affecting intraocular pressure.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Endocrinology
- Gerontology
Background:
- Menopause is associated with changes in visual function.
- Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is used to manage menopausal symptoms.
- The impact of HRT on visual parameters requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effects of oral HRT on visual function in postmenopausal women.
- To assess changes in contrast sensitivity, tear production, and intraocular pressure.
Main Methods:
- 80 postmenopausal women (52-70 years) were randomized into HRT (n=40) and control (n=40) groups.
- HRT group received oral equine conjugated estrogens and dydrogesterone.
- Visual function assessed via contrast sensitivity, Schirmer test, and intraocular pressure measurement at baseline and 1 year.
Main Results:
- HRT group showed significant improvement in contrast sensitivity across most spatial frequencies.
- The control group exhibited significant impairment in contrast sensitivity at lower spatial frequencies.
- Tear production significantly increased in the HRT group; intraocular pressure remained similar between groups.
Conclusions:
- HRT improves contrast sensitivity and tear production in postmenopausal women.
- HRT does not appear to alter intraocular pressure.
- HRT may be beneficial for maintaining visual function after menopause.