pediatrics
Amblyopia
Prognosis for Amblyopia
Amblyopia may result in permanent vision loss if not diagnosed and treated early in childhood, before the visual system has matured. The earlier treatment is begun, the greater the likelihood of complete vision recovery. In certain circumstances, older children with amblyopia can still have vision improvement with treatment. The Amblyopia Treatment Studies have shown that amblyopia treatment may improve visual acuity if initiated even in early adolescence, up until 14 years of age ( Prognosis reference ). Recurrence (recidivism) is possible in certain cases until the visual system matures. Some patients have a small decrease in visual acuity even after visual maturity has occurred. 1.Scheiman M, Hertle R, Beck R, et al: Randomized trial of treatment of amblyopia in children aged 7 to 17 years.Arch Ophthalmol123(4):437–447, 2005. doi: 10.1001/archopht.123.4.437 