Auditory and ophthalmological findings in children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia

The audiological and ophthalmological function in 59 children in continuous complete remission for at least 2 years since the completion of therapy for acute lymphoblastic leukemia was evaluated. Three of 42 tested had abnormal hearing assessments, but none was attributed to the leukemia or its treatment. Four of 54 patients had visual abnormalities: 3 had mild refractive errors and 1 patient had mild subcapsular cataracts consistent with steroid-induced cataracts. We conclude that as the frequency of visual and hearing impairment in these patients is low, it is not necessary to perform audiological or ophthalmological assessment during routine follow-up unless clinically indicated.