Causes of blindness in students attending schools for the blind in Saudi Arabia

ABSTRACT

Purpose: To determine causes of visual loss in blind school students in Saudi Arabia. All students enrolled in 17 schools for the blind were interviewed and had complete ophthalmic examination between 8 February and 30 May 1998. Medical files were accessed to obtain previously documented findings. Enrollment numbered 913, 68% males and 32% females. Causes of visual loss retinal dystrophies [40%], congenital glaucoma [15%], optic nerve disease [12%], congenital cataract, corneal diseases, and others [each 11%]. Congenital [63%] and hereditary [25%] causes were more common than acquired [12%], p = 0.05. Consanguinity was 43% in congenital and 55% in hereditary versus 34% in acquired cases [p<0.0005]. Blindness occurred in 65% of students' relatives. Conclusions: Visual loss was caused predominantly by congenital disorders and retinal dystrophies were the most frequently encountered. Consanguinity is an issue that should be addressed