Prevalence of amblyopia in ametropias in a clinical set-up

K J D Karki1

  • 1Department of Ophthalmology, Kathmandu Medical College, Sinamangal, Kathmandu, Nepal. kjdkarki@yahoo.com

Insights

Amblyopia, or lazy eye, affects nearly 6% of ametropic patients. Early detection through preschool and school screenings is crucial for timely treatment and better visual outcomes in children.

Area of Science:

  • Ophthalmology
  • Pediatric Ophthalmology
  • Vision Science

Background:

  • Amblyopia, commonly known as lazy eye, is a neurodevelopmental disorder of vision.
  • It often arises from uncorrected refractive errors (ametropias) during critical periods of visual development.
  • Prevalence studies are essential for understanding the burden of amblyopia in various populations.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the prevalence of amblyopia among patients with ametropias in a clinical setting.
  • To identify the types of ametropias most commonly associated with amblyopia.
  • To inform public health strategies for early detection and intervention.

Main Methods:

  • A retrospective analysis of 970 patients with diminished vision and ametropias was conducted.
  • Patients underwent visual acuity testing, cycloplegic refraction, and comprehensive eye examinations.
  • Inclusion criteria focused on visual acuity reduction not correctable by refraction, indicative of potential amblyopia.

Main Results:

  • Amblyopia was identified in 56 out of 970 ametropic patients, a prevalence of 5.97%.
  • Myopic astigmatism was the most frequent ametropia associated with amblyopia (55.36%), followed by hyperopic astigmatism (19.64%).
  • Monocular amblyopia was more common (71.43%) than binocular amblyopia (28.57%).

Conclusions:

  • The study confirms a significant prevalence of amblyopia (5.97%) within the ametropic patient cohort.
  • Implementing preschool and school screening programs is vital for early identification of ametropias and amblyopia.
  • Timely optical correction and amblyopia therapy can effectively manage the condition and improve visual prognosis.
Abstract

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