Optometry and vision science : official publication of the American Academy of Optometry
-
Blast-related (BR) traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) occur secondary to explosive blasts. Blast-related TBIs can be caused by the blast wave itself or by direct head trauma caused by events surrounding the blast. Non-blast-related (NBR) TBIs are caused by direct head trauma. Recent evidence shows that TBIs are associated with vision problems, particularly binocular system problems. The purpose of this study was to determine if similar types and amounts of vision problems are present in patients with BR TBIs and NBR TBIs. ⋯ For most findings, the mechanism of injury (NBR vs. BR) did not result in different frequencies or types of visual dysfunction. The reasons for finding higher frequencies of light sensitivity in the BR TBI group and saccadic dysfunction in the NBR TBI group are unknown, and further research is needed. Overall, the rates of vision complaints and oculomotor defects were high in both groups, indicating a need for a thorough eye examination for any patient with a history of TBI.
-
Comparative Study
Comparison of visual acuity charts in young adults and patients with diabetic retinopathy.
To compare visual acuity (VA) assessed in healthy eyes and eyes with diabetic retinopathy (DR) using three different logMAR charts: the Sloan letter European-wide chart, the tumbling E chart, and the Landolt C chart. ⋯ Landolt C charts resulted in worse VA estimates compared with letter and tumbling E charts in both young adults and visually impaired subjects with DR. These differences seem more pronounced in DR patients who exhibit worse VAs. The specific study population must be considered in comparing outcomes from different clinical practices.
-
To report coinfection with Acanthamoeba and Pseudomonas aeruginosa in a case with contact lens-associated keratitis. ⋯ Both P. aeruginosa and Acanthamoeba are potentially devastating causes of microbial keratitis. Our case highlights the importance of considering the possibility of a concurrent infection in cases with contact lens-related keratitis.