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Ocular function in cirrhosis of the liver
Acta Ophthalmologica
|February 1, 1977
Summary
Cirrhosis of the liver can cause acquired color vision defects, even in non-alcoholic women. This study found an increased frequency of these vision issues in patients with liver cirrhosis.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Hepatology
- Medical Research
Background:
- Cirrhosis of the liver is a serious condition affecting liver function.
- Alcohol abuse is a known cause of various health issues, including potential vision problems.
- The link between non-alcoholic liver cirrhosis and ocular complications, specifically color vision, requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the ocular state of non-alcoholic females with cirrhosis.
- To determine the frequency of acquired color vision defects in this patient group.
- To investigate if alcohol abuse is a necessary factor for developing color vision defects in cirrhosis patients.
Main Methods:
- Ocular examination of 28 non-alcoholic females diagnosed with liver cirrhosis.
- Comprehensive color vision testing administered to 20 participants.
- Assessment of visual acuity, visual fields, intraocular pressure, and other ocular parameters.
Main Results:
- Three out of twenty participants (15%) exhibited acquired color vision defects.
- Two patients with defects had elevated serum bilirubin levels.
- All other assessed ocular parameters, including visual acuity and intraocular pressure, were normal.
Conclusions:
- The frequency of color vision defects is elevated in non-alcoholic females with cirrhosis.
- Alcohol abuse is not a prerequisite for developing color vision defects in patients with liver cirrhosis.
- Acquired color vision defects may be an under-recognized complication of liver cirrhosis.
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