Great idea to get my eyes tested

By Vinzenco Vaccarino

Keratoconus has no symptoms other than reduced vision so special tests are needed to detect it. Some research suggests that keratoconus is more common in individuals with Down syndrome. A surgical procedure known as corneal collagen cross-linking can be carried out in most cases to slow down the rate that keratoconus gets worse or stop deterioration of the disease entirely. This procedure strengthens the cornea to prevent further shape change. If keratoconus is present, participants and support persons will be informed. Repeat visits may be advised if monitoring for any change is required. If there are signs of disease progression, a referral will be made for treatment. The study is open to anyone with Down syndrome who is ten years or older and able to express agreement to participate. The participant will receive a general vision and eye health screen. The study is part of a PhD research project so the appointments are provided at no charge. If treatment by corneal collagen cross-linking is needed, it is fully funded by the public health system in Auckland. The appointments will occur at the University of Auckland, Grafton Campus. However, individuals both within and outside the Auckland region are welcome to participate. Project team:Joyce Mathan, Heather Reynolds, Dr Samantha Simkin, Dr Akilesh Gokul, Professor Dipika Patel, Professor Charles McGhee.

Contact: Joyce Mathan joyce.mathan@auckland.ac.nz +64 9 373 7599 ext 85017 A few weeks ago, I went to Auckland University for a special eye test for people with Down syndrome. Dr Joyce Mathan told me I was number 101 to do the test. My Dad came over to support me. I meet Dr Joyce and Heather who told me about the eye tests for research. They used lots of different machines to check my eyes. One machine had a camera with a blue light. One machine I had to open my eyes wide open and looked at a spot and then Dr Joyce had to take a photograph straight away. Another machine gave me a big shock when air hit my eye but it didn’t hurt. I was happy to do all tests to check my eyes to see if they ok. I had to do lots of tests and exercises for my eyes. None of the tests hurt. I was happy to go to Dr Joyce’s office, she was an amazing eye doctor. Heather and Joyce were so kind to me. When I left they give me a $20.00 Countdown voucher. I want to say it is a good idea for you to have your eyes tested to see if it is ok and to help with the research.

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