Eye-Movement-Based Assessment of Visual Function in Patients with Infantile Nystagmus Syndrome

Authors

Wang, Zhong I.; Dell'Osso, Louis F.

Eye-Movement-Based Assessment of Visual Function in Patients with Infantile Nystagmus Syndrome

publication date

February 27, 2009

Abstract/Introduction

Purpose.

Infantile Nystagmus Syndrome (INS) is an ocular motor system dysfunction characterized by the rhythmic to-and-fro oscillations of the eyes. Traditionally, the assessment of INS visual function solely focused on null- or primary-position visual acuity. Our purpose is to use the past four decades of INS research to introduce a more complete assessment of visual function in patients with INS.

Methods.

All eye-movement data were obtained using high-speed digital video, infrared reflection, or scleral search coil systems.

Conclusion/Results

Results.

We have introduced four important aspects of a more complete INS visual function assessment: the eXpanded Nystagmus Acuity Function and visual acuity measurements in primary position; broadness of the eXpanded Nystagmus Acuity Function peak and high-acuity field; target acquisition time; and gaze-maintenance capability.

Conclusions.

Visual function in patients with INS is multifactorial and the simple assessment of primary position visual acuity is both inadequate and may not be the most important characteristic in overall visual function. A more complete visual function assessment should also include primary and lateral gaze eye-movement and visual acuity examinations, target acquisition time and gaze holding.

Testimonials

At Amplify with Dr Wernick I was seeking help for seemingly intractable, probably age-related dryness. I've seen other doctors about it, and that has been helpful, but what he explained to me about it and the careful way he answered all my questions gave me so much more of a clear understanding of what is going on (and is not) that I am more able to implement all his and others' recommendations than I was before. And he gave me additional resources for further follow-up. I am most grateful.

Cynthia Norton

Wow! This is a great Eye Care medical facility. I was thoroughly examined by Dr. Pinkhasov for over 2 hours. She made sure to check my eyes for pretty much everything and patiently explained proper care for my eyes. They definitely know how to provide great care and treat their patients right. Now I know why they have such a great reputation and been around for so long.

Steve Fay

Dr. Kavner is a gifted diagnostician and orthoptic therapist. He treated me several decades ago for a condition similar to dyslexia. I was having migraines five times per week. I worked with him for about a year and I experienced tremendous improvement (down to 3-4 per year) that has lasted.

Mary K.

Dr. Kavner recommended two types of eye therapy for my daughter. One of them using bio-feedback. In just three sessions she is seeing considerably better. She shouted this morning: Ooh my God! I could not see these letters with my glasses on, and now I can see them without my glasses. If you are willing and able to invest in improving your vision, this is a good place to go to!

Peter G.

Dr. Kavner recommended two types of eye therapy for my daughter. One of them using bio-feedback. In just three sessions she is seeing considerably better. She shouted this morning: Ooh my God! I could not see these letters with my glasses on, and now I can see them without my glasses. If you are willing and able to invest in improving your vision, this is a good place to go to!

Kinkie F.

I have always found Dr Kavner's work, expertise and wisdom of the highest caliber. As one of the fathers of OT, occupational othomology, his depth and breadth of knowledge about the eyes' health and wellbeing of the patient is exemplary. Cannot say enough good things about him.