Assessment of vision-related quality of life in patients with central retinal artery occlusion

Retina. 2014 Mar;34(3):539-45. doi: 10.1097/IAE.0b013e3182a0e42e.

Abstract

Background: Central retinal artery occlusion (CRAO) is a major cause for severe visual impairment. Its effect on vision-related quality of life has not yet been determined. The purpose of the present study was thus to assess vision-related quality of life in patients with CRAO using the 39-item National Eye Institute Visual Function Questionnaire.

Methods: The case-control study comprised 26 patients with unilateral CRAO and a control group consisting of 26 control subjects, matched for age and sex. Vision-related quality of life was measured using the 39-item National Eye Institute Visual Function Questionnaire.

Results: After Bonferroni correction, the median 39-item National Eye Institute Visual Function Questionnaire composite score was significantly lower in patients with CRAO than in those in the control group (P(corr) < 0.001). Patients with CRAO showed significantly lower median scores in 9 of 12 subscales: general vision (P(corr) < 0.001), peripheral vision (P(corr) < 0.001), difficulties with near-vision activities (P(corr) < 0.001), difficulties with distance-vision activities (P(corr) < 0.001), role difficulties as a result of vision problems (P(corr) < 0.001), dependency on others because of vision problems (P(corr) < 0.001), limitations in social functioning because of vision problems (P(corr) < 0.001), mental health symptoms because of vision problems (P(corr) < 0.001), and general health (P(corr) = 0.008).

Conclusion: Our data suggest that vision-related quality of life is reduced in patients with CRAO.

MeSH terms

  • Activities of Daily Living
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Case-Control Studies
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Quality of Life*
  • Retinal Artery Occlusion* / physiopathology
  • Surveys and Questionnaires
  • Visual Acuity*