[Early diagnosis of vision disorders]

In recent years some pilot-studies were performed at health centres in Amsterdam, on infants of 8-9 months of age, concerning early detection of visual disorders. The method consisted of a programme of corneal light reflexes, cover test, monocular following movements and inspection of the cornea, the pupil and the pupillary reaction. The aim of the studies was: 1. Is this programme efficient for early detection of organic eye disorders and strabismus at this age? 2. Is the method reliable, if performed by doctors of the health centres? The results of the studies were positive. In at least 1,9% of the 1200 children of the pilot-study a visual disorder was detected. The method can be incorporated in the regular working scheme of the health centres and can be performed on infants from the age of 6 1/2 months.