[Ophthalmologic signs in children with autism]

Autism is a clinical entity defined by characteristic association of a lack of social interactions and communications, beginning before three years of age. The purpose of this study was to screen ophthalmologic findings in autistic children.

Ten autistic children, 6 girls and 4 boys, underwent a complete ophthalmologic examination in the Department of Pediatric Ophthalmology at the Hospital La Timone, Marseilles, France. Their age ranged from 1 to 14 years (mean = 8.5 +/- 3.8).

Refraction showed hypermetropia in 7 cases (70%), astigmatism more than 1 diopter in 6 cases (60%), bilateral astigmatism in 4 cases (40%) and unilateral astigmatism in 2 cases (20%). Astigmatism axis was oblique for 8 eyes, with the rule for 6 eyes and against the rule for 2 eyes. Strabismus was present in 6 cases (60%) including 4 cases of exotropia. Fundus examination found pallor of the optic disc in 4 cases.

Ophthalmologic findings in autistic children appear to be mainly unilateral or bilateral astigmatism and binocular vision troubles. They can lead to amblyopia with the risk of functional loss of vision. Early diagnosis of visual problems in autistic children is also essential in order to be able to propose adequate psychological and educational cares for the children and their family.