Perceptual learning improves vision in patients with keratoconus, study finds

Perceptual learning (PL) can significantly improve vision in patients with keratoconus (KC) who are dissatisfied with spectacle correction and intolerant to contact lenses, according to a study that found that PL led to notable improvements in visual acuity and contrast sensitivity.

The study included 35 patients with non-progressive KC, aged ≥9 years, who were dissatisfied with their spectacle-corrected vision and intolerant to contact lenses.

Participants were divided into 2 groups: one received PL training and the other underwent a placebo training for 3 months. Vision assessments, including corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA), contrast sensitivity function (CSF), stereoacuity, and quality of life questionnaires, were conducted at the start, after 3 months, and at a 6-month follow-up.

There were significant improvements in the CDVA of the PL group compared to the placebo group, with nearly half of the PL participants achieving at least a 2-line improvement on the visual acuity scale. These gains were sustained for at least 6 months following the end of the training. In addition, the PL group showed enhanced contrast sensitivity, particularly at moderate spatial frequencies. No adverse effects were reported, and all participants completed the training.

Reference
Tang XH, Wang MY, Jiang JY, et al. Vision Improvement in Keratoconus Patients Trained with Perceptual Learning: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Am J Ophthalmol. 2024;S0002-9394(24)00386-6. doi: 10.1016/j.ajo.2024.08.032. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 39218388.