Visual Assessment in a Developmentally Disabled Population: Marsden Eye Survey

Valerie Tosswill, DipAppSci(Orth) DOBA
Maree Flaherty, MBBS(Hons) FRACO FRACS FRCOpth

The aim of this study was to assess the visual function, ocular conditions and general diagnoses of 328 Marsden residents who were seen at the Marsden Eye Clinic between July 1985 and July 1997.
A questionnaire was sent to all parents and guardians regarding past medical history, pregnancy and birth history as well as family history. Medical records and Eye Clinic notes were reviewed and correlated with the questionnaire.
Results showed that a significant number (9%) of the Marsden residents are blind (with both eyes open) and many visually impaired, with best vision less than 6/12 (49.9%-53.3%). Strabismus, nystagmus and refractive error feature predominantly in this group, as well as organic pathology, such as cataract and corneal scarring.
This remarkably stable population has a significantly greater incidence of visual impairment than the general Australian population.