HOME HELP FEEDBACK SUBSCRIPTIONS ARCHIVE SEARCH TABLE OF CONTENTS		QUICK SEARCH:   [advanced] Author: Keyword(s): Year:  Vol:  Page:

This Article Full Text (PDF) References Alert me when this article is cited Alert me if a correction is posted Citation Map Services Email this article to a friend Similar articles in this journal Alert me to new issues of the journal Download to citation manager Citing Articles Citing Articles via Google Scholar Google Scholar Articles by Arnoldi, K. A. Search for Related Content

Current Recommendations for Amblyopia Treatment

Correspondence: Requests for reprints should be addressed to: Kyle A. Arnoldi, C.O., C.O.M.T., University Ophthalmology Associates, 3580 Sheridan Dr., Suite 140, Amherst, NY 14226. e-mail:kylea{at}buffalo.edu

Introduction: In spite of convincing scientific studies proving the efficacy of patching therapy, many researchers continue to devise and test alternatives to patching. Patching is unpopular with parents and children, and, as a result, compliance is poor. Poor compliance leads to patching failure.

Methods: A review of the literature published since 2000 in peer-reviewed medical journals on the management of amblyopia was done and the results compiled and summarized.

Results: Research has suggested that the key to successful amblyopia therapy is not necessarily what treatment method is prescribed, but when it is prescribed, and how strongly the clinician emphasizes compliance at the initial visit. Younger children tend to have a better outcome; however, even older children, teenagers, and prior patching failures can achieve meaningful and lasting improvements in vision, if compliance with therapy is improved.

Conclusion: The critical step in the management process may be taking time to convince the parents of the necessity and urgency of the treatment, that the treatment is effective, and that they are capable of carrying out the treatment plan.

Key words: amblyopia, compliance, occlusion, atropine