Analysis of refractive errors in 102 children with nystagmus

Abstract

Objective To determine the distribution of refractive errors and the degree and type of astigmatism in children with nystagmus.Methods This was a retrospective study of a larger sample of 102 children with nystagmus.They ranged in age from 11 months to 17 years old (average,51.9±41.5 months).The children were divided into 3 subtypes:idiopathic nystagmus group (81 patients),albino group (10 patients),and the remaining nystagmus group (11 patients).Refractive errors were evaluated objectively by cycloplegic refraction.Uncorrected visual acuity and best corrected visual acuity were assessed.An analysis of the amplitude and intensity of the nystagmus was done with a computer analysis of the digitized data from an eye movement instrument (eye-link).Results Spherical equivalent refractive errors of the idiopathic nystagmus group,albino group,and the remaining nystagmus group were-0.25±3.36 D,+0.24±3.25 D and +1.03±3.12 D.With-the-rule astigmatism was prevalent among children with nystagmus.The specific ratios were 55％,70％ and 64％.On average,the refractive errors were more widely distributed and slightly myopic in children with idiopathic congenital nystagmus (CN).There was more astigmatism in the albino group (primarily with-the-rule).Conclusion The incidence of refractive errors in children with nystagmus is relatively high.Therefore,refractive correction should be encouraged in children with nystagmus.Improvement in visual function is likely to occur. Key words: Children; Nystagmus ; Refractive error; Astigmatism