Clinical Study
Eye (2007) 21, 1469–1472; doi:10.1038/sj.eye.6702459; published online 9 June 2006
The symptomatic Pulfrich phenomenon can be successfully managed with a coloured lens in front of the good eye—a long-term follow-up study
The authors have no competing interests
Contributors: KT reviewed the clinical data. GH and GD diagnosed and managed the patients and drafted the manuscript, which was edited by all parties
G Heron1, K J Thompson2 and G N Dutton1,2
- 1Department of Vision Sciences, Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow, UK
- 2Tennent Institute of Ophthalmology, Gartnavel General Hospital, Glasgow, UK
Correspondence: GN Dutton, Tennent Institute of Ophthalmology, Gartnavel General Hospital, 1051 Great Western Road, Glasgow G12 8QQ, Scotland, UK. Tel: +44 141 331 3389; Fax: +44 141 331 3387. E-mail: dutton@ledcresc-adsl.demon.co.uk
Received 21 March 2006; Accepted 23 April 2006; Published online 9 June 2006.
Abstract
Purpose
Many visual symptoms originating from a spontaneous Pulfrich phenomenon can be alleviated by the provision of a tinted lens worn in front of the least affected eye. Here, we report on the long-term outcome of four patients who have been provided with a uniocular tinted spectacle or contact lens.
Methods
The case notes of four cases were reviewed. The review period was at least 5 years in all four cases.
Results
In all cases, visual symptoms and perceptual difficulties occurring from the spontaneous Pulfrich effect were completely eliminated over a period of many years. In one case, the relief has been sustained over a 20-year period.
Conclusions
A uniocular tinted lens, or contact lens, provides immediate and lasting relief from the visual difficulties caused by the visual delay underlying the spontaneous Pulfrich effect.
Keywords:
Pulfrich phenomenon, treatment, management
