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Longterm oculomotor and visual function in spina bifida cystica: a population-based study.
Elizabeth Caines1, Margareta Dahl, Gerd Holmström
1Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital, Uppsala, Sweden. elizabeth.caines@akademiska.se
Acta Ophthalmologica Scandinavica
|April 4, 2007
Summary
Children with spina bifida cystica often experience visual and oculomotor issues, including strabismus and refractive errors. Regular ophthalmological examinations are crucial for early detection and management of these vision problems.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Pediatrics
- Neurology
Background:
- Spina bifida cystica, encompassing myelomeningocele and myeloschisis (MMC), is a complex congenital condition.
- Visual and oculomotor development can be affected in children with MMC.
Purpose of the Study:
- To document and describe the development of visual and oculomotor functions in children with spina bifida cystica (MMC).
- To emphasize findings in a 12-14 year follow-up group.
Main Methods:
- Twenty children (aged 12-14 years) with MMC and Chiari-related malformations underwent ophthalmological examinations.
- Evaluated visual acuity, refractive error, ocular motility, nystagmus, accommodation, convergence, color vision, and stereo acuity.
Main Results:
- Subnormal vision was present in 29% of children, but no child was visually impaired.
- Manifest strabismus (52%) and significant refractive errors (81%) were common.
- Defective accommodation (10 children), nystagmus (9 children), and optic atrophy (2 children) were noted.
Conclusions:
- The high incidence of ocular disturbances in children with spina bifida necessitates regular ophthalmological investigation.
- Early and consistent follow-up is vital for managing visual and oculomotor deficits in this population.
