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Tinted contact lenses in Bothnia dystrophy
Asa C Jonsson1, Marie S I Burstedt, Irina Golovleva
1Department of Clinical Sciences/Ophthalmology, University of Umeå, Umeå, Sweden.
Acta Ophthalmologica Scandinavica
|March 23, 2007
Summary
Dark tinted contact lenses improved visual function for patients with Bothnia dystrophy (BD). Optimal lens color varied individually, suggesting potential benefits for other retinal dystrophies with prolonged dark adaptation.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Genetics
- Visual Neuroscience
Background:
- Bothnia dystrophy (BD) is a genetic retinal disorder characterized by prolonged dark adaptation.
- Visual function deficits are common in patients with BD.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the efficacy of tinted contact lenses in enhancing visual function for individuals with Bothnia dystrophy.
- To assess the impact of dark brown tinted soft contact lenses on visual acuity, contrast, near vision, and visual fields in BD patients.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of twelve patients diagnosed with Bothnia dystrophy participated in the study.
- Patients were fitted with dark brown tinted soft contact lenses.
- Visual function tests (visual acuity, contrast, near vision, visual fields) and a visual function questionnaire were administered before and after one month of lens wear. Spectrophotometry was used to analyze lens properties.
Main Results:
- Patients with initially lower visual acuity reported the most significant improvements in visual function.
- A subset of patients with the best baseline visual acuity preferred lighter tints and discontinued lens wear post-study.
- Darker tinted lenses were preferred by patients experiencing greater functional benefits.
Conclusions:
- Dark tinted contact lenses can effectively improve visual function in patients with Bothnia dystrophy.
- Individual patient needs and seasonal variations influence the optimal tint color for contact lenses.
- Tinted contact lenses may offer therapeutic potential for other retinal dystrophies involving prolonged dark adaptation or cone system dysfunction, such as cone dystrophies and achromatopsia.
