Publication
Title
The prevalence and causes of visual loss among HIV-infected individuals in Uganda
Author
Abstract
Aim: To determine the prevalence of loss of visual acuity and to describe the ocular diseases associated with vision loss among HIV-infected individuals in Uganda. Methods: One thousand two hundred twelve HIV-positive individuals aged 18 years or older attending an HIV treatment site in Kampala, Uganda, were consecutively screened for loss of visual acuity using a Snellen chart. Those found to have a visual acuity of 6/9 or less in 1 or both eyes had a detailed ocular diagnostic evaluation. Results: One hundred thirty-six patients [11.2%; 95% confidence interval (CI): 9.49-13.13] had a visual acuity of 6/9 or less in at least 1 eye, with 74 (6.1%; 95% CI: 8.54-12.21) having bilaterally reduced presenting visual acuity. Eighty-eight (7.3%; 95% CI: 8.57-12.28) had a visual acuity of 6/18 or worse in at least 1 eye. Ocular diseases associated with reduced vision included cataract 16 (11.8%), optic nerve disease 20 (14.7%), refractive errors 35 (24.3%), and uveitis 44 (32.3%). Other diagnoses observed included diabetic retinopathy, maculopathies, corneal scars, glaucoma, and squamous cell carcinoma of the conjunctiva. Conclusions: Visual impairment and ocular disease affect a large proportion of HIV-infected individuals presenting for HIV care in Uganda. Most causes of vision loss were treatable or could have been prevented with appropriate ophthalmic and medical care.
Language
English
Source (journal)
JAIDS. - Philadelphia, Pa
Publication
Philadelphia, Pa : 2010
ISSN
1525-4135
DOI
10.1097/QAI.0B013E3181C313F0
Volume/pages
53 :1 (2010) , p. 95-101
ISI
000273182400014
Full text (Publisher's DOI)
UAntwerpen
Faculty/Department
Research group
Publication type
Subject
Affiliation
Publications with a UAntwerp address
External links
Web of Science
Record
Identifier
Creation 16.02.2010
Last edited 23.08.2022
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