What Is Lazy Eye?
10. Prognosis and Patient Education
It is estimated that after a year, 73% of patients are successfully treated after the first trial of occlusion therapy. However, studies have found that after 3 years, only 53% retain their level of visual acuity. Some of the risk factors for treatment failure are age (younger patients have a higher chance of success), presence of organic pathology, high anisometropia (unequal refractive power in both eyes), and the depth of amblyopia when therapy starts (mild cases respond better).
One study reported that patients who are successfully treated still have altered perception of images. Patients and their guardians should be educated regarding the importance of treatment and the consequences if adherence to treatment is poor. This is important as the outcome of treatment lies in the hands of the patient and their guardians.
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