Contrast Sensitivity in Albinotic Patients

ABSTRACT Vertical and horizontal grating contrast sensitivity functions (CSF) were measured on eight albinotic patients. Several of these patients also had CSF measurements performed through their telescopic aids. For all the patients, the horizontal grating CSF was more sensitive than the vertical grating CSF. Although there are many pathological problems that could result in this sensitivity difference (high astigmatism, neural modification, etc.), we propose that in this case, the nystagmoid eye movements are the main causative factor. Through the telescopic aid, the CSF resolution acuity and peak sensitivity increased. The increase in resolution was somewhat less than would be predicted based on magnification. The increase in sensitivity is believed to be the result of stimulation of more sensitive peripheral retina. This increase in sensitivity is an added benefit to these patients corrected with low vision aids.