Empowering Functional Independence Through Low Vision Rehabilitation in a Patient With Chronic Kidney Disease-Related Optic Neuropathy

TL;DR

A man with chronic kidney disease and severe vision loss gained more independence through low vision rehabilitation using specialized visual aids.

Contribution

This case demonstrates the effectiveness of low vision rehabilitation in improving functional independence for patients with CKD-related optic neuropathy.

Findings

The patient's distance vision improved from 20/800 to 20/80 using a 4x Keplerian binocular telescope.

Near vision improved from J24 to J8 with 5x half-eye reading spectacles.

Three months later, the patient reported increased independence in daily tasks and social interactions.

Abstract

A 32-year-old Saudi male with chronic kidney disease (CKD) on thrice-weekly hemodialysis presented to the low vision clinic with irreversible bilateral optic neuropathy following optic neuritis for low vision services to enhance his daily activities. His distance visual acuity was 20/800 in both eyes, and near vision was J24 binocularly, with no refractive error. Ophthalmological examination showed pale yellow optic discs, preserved color vision, and normal confrontation fields. With low vision rehabilitation, his distance vision improved to 20/80 using a 4x Keplerian binocular telescope, and his near vision improved to J8 with 5x half-eye reading spectacles. He was encouraged to integrate these devices into daily life and referred to ongoing nephrology care. At three months, he reported greater independence in daily tasks and social interactions, feeling more confident in navigation and digital device use. This case highlights how low vision rehabilitation can empower individuals with CKD-related vision impairment, improving their quality of life and functional independence.

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