Microperimetric Biofeedback Training for Children with Idiopathic Infantile Nystagmus Syndrome: a Short-and-Long Term Analysis

Abstract

Microperimetric Biofeedback training (BT), a new vision rehabilitation therapy, was used to improve fixation stability, visual functions, and parental quality of life questionnaire (QoL) in children with idiopathic infantile nystagmus. The patients were followed for short and long term. 25 cases (9.3 ± 2.3 years old) trained on the MAIA microperimeter for 80 minutes delivered within 4 weekly sessions. They were followed for the short (1 week to 1 month) and long term (22 patients, from 8 months, up to 5 years). Binocular distance and near vision, fixation stability (FS), reading speed, contrast sensitivity, and QoL showed a significant improvement post-BT on short and long term. Stereopsis did not improve. Distance and near vision improved 1 ETDRS line, contrast improved 2 lines on 10% contrast Colenbrander Test, reading speed improved 22 words/minute, and QoL 1.3 points. FS could be measured in 48% of the cases, and improved 38%. BT had a significant long lasting positive effect on visual functions and QoL in children with idiopathic nystagmus. This research suggests that, as a low cost-benefit therapy, BT may become a new therapeutic option for these cases.