I am a 39 year old adult OCA1 albino. I have best corrected visual acuity of roughly 20/150 - 20/200 with RGP contact lenses. The contacts do a good job of dealing with my myopia and astigmatism, but I'm wondering about further treatments that might be possible.
Specifically:
Has anyone ever tried opaque ring contact lenses to try and reduce translumination of the iris? It would seem that reducing the "scatter" caused by light coming through the non-opaque iris could be a help in improving overall acuity. Are these devices obtainable? If so, from where?
There has apparently been some research done regarding the use of anthocyanocides such as those found in Bilberry extract in treatment of retinal problems such as RP. The general lack of retinal pigmentation and activity being one of the root ocular problems of albinism, is this or any other method available for "boosting" the level of retinal pigment production, or "cranking up the gain" on what "normal" foveal area that I do have?
Other than normal low-vision devices, is there anything else I might consider to "make the most of what I have"?
Answered by Richard E. Gans, M. D. (reg@ofcn.org)
I cannot address the specifics of research in the field of albinism. I will certainly look into it and provide you with references, if I can find some.
With regard to opaque contact lenses, they are available. They do provide some visual benefit to some individuals. They do limit the amount of light coming into the eye, as well as limiting some of the light scatter. Since the majority of the visual deficit from albinism relates to retinal dysfunction, the benefit of the contact lenses is limited.
Cosmetic opaque contact lenses are commercially available from most vendors. "Prosthetic" opaque contact lenses (which are more densely pigmented) can be ordered through most eyecare specialists.
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Copyright, 1996. Richard E. Gans, M. D. All rights reserved.
Richard E. Gans, M. D.
Diplomate, American Board of Ophthalmology
Medical Director, The Health and Wellness Center
OFCN Primary Sysop, The Eye Clinic
Email: reg@ofcn.org
WWW: http://www.ofcn.org:80/about.ofcn/whois/reg/
Mail: 26900 Cedar Road Suite #108
Beachwood, OH USA 44122-1148
NOTICE: OFCN is not engaged in the rendering of professional medical services. The information contained on this system or any other OFCN system should not supplant individual professional consultation. It is offered exclusively as a community education service. Advice on individual problems must be obtained directly from a professional.
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