Dense amblyopia: should we consider encouraging long-term continued refractive correction of the amblyopic eye? A case of getting the balance right

Abstract

Aims: To promote consideration of whether patients should be encouraged to continue wearing a refractive correction in cases where the vision in the amblyopic eye remains very poor. To highlight the benefits of full refractive correction in cases of a densely amblyopic eye when there is no improvement in the visual acuity. Method: A case is described where a young adult presented in clinic with a secondary strabismus with eccentric fixation, a grossly amblyopic eye due to stimulus deprivation, nystagmus and diplopia. Results: Once the full refractive correction was prescribed, the cosmesis improved and the diplopia was eliminated. However, there was no improvement in the visual acuity of the amblyopic eye. Conclusion: All patients should be refracted in house and the full prescription ordered. The patient should then be re-assessed by an orthoptist to decide on the best management options.

Keywords

• Amblyopia
• Balance lens
• Diplopia
• Refractive correction
• Strabismus