ABSTRACT
We evaluated visual function in 420 reading disabled children, referred to our department by a re-education centre for children with communication problems. All children underwent a complete ophthalmologic and orthoptic examination including anterior and posterior segment evaluation, visual acuity for distance and near, cycloplegic refraction, near point of accommodation and convergence, cover test, binocular functions, eye dominance and eye movements. Reading strategy was tested in 85 children. 51.4% of the children presented some degree of visual dysfunction previously unknown. Although visual dysfunction is rarely the cause of reading difficulties, it may exacerbate the problem. To our opinion all children with reading problems should have a complete ophthalmologic and orthoptic investigation, including cycloplegic refraction, prior to any reeducation for their reading problems.
