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Causes of visual impairment in children with low vision

Mufarriq Shah1, Mirzaman Khan, Muhammad Tariq Khan

  • 1Department of Ophthalmology, Hayatabad Medical Complex, Peshawar. mufarriq1@hotmail.com

Journal of the College of Physicians and Surgeons--Pakistan : JCPSP
|February 22, 2011
PubMed

Insights

Retinal diseases like nystagmus and macular conditions are primary causes of low vision in children. Early intervention with spectacles and low vision devices (LVDs) significantly improves vision for affected children.

Area of Science:

  • Ophthalmology
  • Pediatric Ophthalmology
  • Low Vision Research

Background:

  • Low vision in children presents significant challenges to development and education.
  • Identifying the causes and effective interventions is crucial for improving quality of life.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To identify the primary causes of visual impairment in children with low vision.
  • To assess the need for spectacles and low vision devices (LVDs).
  • To evaluate the visual outcomes after using LVDs for different distances.

Main Methods:

  • An observational study was conducted involving 270 children aged 4-16 years with low vision.
  • Participants attended the Low Vision Clinic between June 2006 and December 2007.
  • Visual acuity was assessed after correction, and WHO criteria classified visual impairment levels.

Main Results:

  • Nystagmus (15%), Stargardt's disease (14%), and maculopathies (13%) were leading causes of visual impairment.
  • 33.8% were visually impaired, 27.2% severely visually impaired, and 39.0% blind.
  • Spectacles and/or telescopes were prescribed to 179 patients, with positive visual outcomes noted.

Conclusions:

  • Hereditary and congenital retinal diseases, including nystagmus and macular conditions, are major contributors to childhood low vision.
  • Refraction and low vision services, including LVDs, are beneficial for enhancing vision and promoting inclusive education for visually impaired children.
Abstract

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