Eye abnormalities in the mentally handicapped

In 1987, a survey of eye abnormalities was undertaken of the mentally handicapped patients in Stoke Park Hospital, Bristol. The total population was 367 patients (262 females and 105 males). Of the 367 patients reviewed, 218 were found to have one or more eye anomalies (including the Down's Syndrome group), which shows that more than half the patients suffered from eye disorders (59%). The prevalence of the following anomalies is presented in detail: strabismus, refractive errors and cataracts. Corneal anomalies, nystagmus, retinopathy, glaucoma and other eye pathologies associated with various syndromes are noted. Eye anomalies in 31 patients suffering from Down's syndrome in the sample are recorded. Preventative measures to ameliorate the defects of eyesight, particularly in the aging population, relevance of regular eye examination and medical or surgical treatment of eye disorders are discussed.