Patients with Down’s syndrome losing out to autorefraction

Optometrists who rely on auto-refractors could be losing vital skills for preserving eye health in individuals with Down’s syndrome and other learning disabilities, according to a new study.

Research released by the Down’s Sydrome Association this week found using retinoscopy on a daily basis was crucial in spotting early keratoconus, which affects as many as 1 in 10 individuals with Down’s syndrome.

Optometrist Stephanie Campbell from Down’s syndrome Vision Research Unit, Cardiff, said: ‘Just as in many spheres of life, optical practitioners are being seduced by technology, and in many optometric practices, the retinoscope is being replaced by auto-refractors. This poses dangers for individuals with Down’s syndrome whereby early keratoconus can pass un-noticed, or difficulty in obtaining a result with an auto-refractor can be attributed to the patient’s learning disability.’