What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• RA (Reverse Amblyopia)

What is Reverse Amblyopia? (Definition/Background Information)

• Amblyopia, also known as lazy eye, is a condition that results in decreased vision in an eye that typically appears normal. The most common cause of amblyopia is strabismus, an eye disorder causing misaligned eyes
• Reverse Amblyopia (RA) occurs as a treatment effect for an initial diagnosis of amblyopia, which has been treated using eye patching (to the sound eye) or topical medication administration
• This treatment complication may cause a worsening of the existing visual signs and symptoms, or in some cases, result in the development of additional signs and symptoms. However, Reverse Amblyopia is known to be reversible through appropriate management of the condition

Who gets Reverse Amblyopia? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Reverse Amblyopia is a rare condition that may be observed in children and adults
• Both males and females are affected
• Worldwide, individuals of all races and ethnicity are at risk for the condition

What are the Risk Factors for Reverse Amblyopia? (Predisposing Factors)

• Treatment of amblyopia using eye patching or atropine is the primary risk factor for Reverse Amblyopia
• Young children with severe hyperopia (farsightedness), treated for strabismic amblyopia using atropine on a daily basis, is at a high risk for Reverse Amblyopia

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases one’s chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Reverse Amblyopia? (Etiology)

• Reverse Amblyopia develops secondary to treating amblyopia, as a treatment-related complication
• This may be due to eye patching or atropine therapy (termed atropine penalization); and the condition affects the sound (normal) eye

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Reverse Amblyopia?

Reverse Amblyopia signs and symptoms may vary from one individual to another and may be mild or severe.

In general, the signs and symptoms of amblyopia may include:

• Depth perception problems
• Crossed eyes
• Eyes turned out
• Blurry vision in one or both eyes
• Eye coordination difficulties
• Headaches
• Squinting

The development of new signs and symptoms may include:

• Binocularity
• Contrast sensitivity
• Grating acuity
• Central versus eccentric fixation

How is Reverse Amblyopia Diagnosed?

A diagnosis of Reverse Amblyopia may involve the following test and exams:

• Physical examination and medical history evaluation (including evaluating current amblyopia and its treatment modalities)
• Assessment of signs and symptoms
• General eye exam
• Neuronal receptive fields
• Corneal light reflex test
• Contrast sensitivity
• Grating acuity
• Visual acuity test using a special and standardized test chart (Snellen chart)
• Refraction studies using various instruments
• Fundoscopic (ophthalmoscopic) examination by an eye specialist, who examines the back part of the eye (or the fundus)
• Slit-lamp examination

Many other clinical conditions may cause vision loss in children. Your optometrist or pediatric ophthalmologist may perform additional tests to rule out other conditions.

What are the possible Complications of Reverse Amblyopia?

If Reverse Amblyopia is left undiagnosed/untreated, complete vision loss in the affected eye(s) is a significant complication.

How is Reverse Amblyopia Treated?

Reverse Amblyopia may be treated successfully with early intervention. This may involve:

• Discontinuation of atropine therapy
• Stopping usage of eye patch on the sound eye

How can Reverse Amblyopia be Prevented?

Reverse Amblyopia may be avoided through strict monitoring of amblyopia treatment and regular follow-up visits to the healthcare provider.

What is the Prognosis of Reverse Amblyopia? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

The prognosis of Reverse Amblyopia depends on the severity and treatment response. In most cases, the condition is reversible through early intervention.

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Reverse Amblyopia:

Please visit our Eye & Vision Center for more physician-approved health information:

http://www.dovemed.com/health-topics/vision-center/