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Title
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The prevalence and causes of visual loss among HIV-infected individuals in Uganda
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Author
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Abstract
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| 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. |
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Language
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English
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Source (journal)
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JAIDS. - Philadelphia, Pa
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Publication
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Philadelphia, Pa
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2010
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ISSN
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1525-4135
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Volume/pages
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53
:1
(2010)
, p. 95-101
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ISI
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000273182400014
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Full text (Publisher's DOI)
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