The effect of spectral filters and colored overlays is not solely a placebo.15 Colored overlays and tinted lenses are not cures for dyslexia, but may be useful reading aids for some individuals with reading difficulty.24
The underlying physiological mechanism for the Irlen Syndrome is still not known. While some argue that a magnocellular deficit exists in these individuals,25-29 others suggest the problem is pattern glare.30, 31
There is lack of agreement about the best way to evaluate patients for the presence of the Irlen Syndrome. Some suggest the use of the Irlen 2-part evaluation system,32 while others promote the use of the Intuitive Colorimeter.33 Both systems require additional research.
Visual processing is a fundamental part of the reading process.34 Future research must address the issue of underlying vision anomalies, sub typing of reading disabilities and the differential response to different treatments. Controlled clinical research will allow reading and learning disabled individuals, their parents, and the professionals who work with them, to better evaluate the effectiveness of available treatments for each individual.
Therefore, it is the position of the American Optometric Association that:
1. Undetected vision problems may be a factor in individuals who exhibit the symptoms of the Irlen Syndrome. A comprehensive eye/vision examination with particular emphasis on accommodation, binocular vision, and ocular motor function is recommended for all individuals experiencing reading or learning difficulties, as well as those showing signs and symptoms of visual efficiency problems.
2. The American Optometric Association encourages further research to investigate the effect that specifically tinted lenses and colored overlays have on visual function related to reading performance.
3. Vision problems are a frequent factor in reading difficulities. Ignoring the role of vision or inadequately evaluating the vision of individuals with reading problems is a disservice which may prevent the person from receiving appropriate care.
This publication was formulated by the American Optometric Association’s Binocular Vision Working Group. The following individuals are acknowledged for their contributions:
Gary J. Williams, O.D., Chair
Gregory Kitchener, O.D.
Leonard J. Press, O.D.
Mitchell M. Scheiman, O.D.
Glen T. Steele, O.D.
Approved by: American Optometric Association, April 2004
The underlying physiological mechanism for the Irlen Syndrome is still not known. While some argue that a magnocellular deficit exists in these individuals,25-29 others suggest the problem is pattern glare.30, 31
There is lack of agreement about the best way to evaluate patients for the presence of the Irlen Syndrome. Some suggest the use of the Irlen 2-part evaluation system,32 while others promote the use of the Intuitive Colorimeter.33 Both systems require additional research.
Visual processing is a fundamental part of the reading process.34 Future research must address the issue of underlying vision anomalies, sub typing of reading disabilities and the differential response to different treatments. Controlled clinical research will allow reading and learning disabled individuals, their parents, and the professionals who work with them, to better evaluate the effectiveness of available treatments for each individual.
Therefore, it is the position of the American Optometric Association that:
1. Undetected vision problems may be a factor in individuals who exhibit the symptoms of the Irlen Syndrome. A comprehensive eye/vision examination with particular emphasis on accommodation, binocular vision, and ocular motor function is recommended for all individuals experiencing reading or learning difficulties, as well as those showing signs and symptoms of visual efficiency problems.
2. The American Optometric Association encourages further research to investigate the effect that specifically tinted lenses and colored overlays have on visual function related to reading performance.
3. Vision problems are a frequent factor in reading difficulities. Ignoring the role of vision or inadequately evaluating the vision of individuals with reading problems is a disservice which may prevent the person from receiving appropriate care.
This publication was formulated by the American Optometric Association’s Binocular Vision Working Group. The following individuals are acknowledged for their contributions:
Gary J. Williams, O.D., Chair
Gregory Kitchener, O.D.
Leonard J. Press, O.D.
Mitchell M. Scheiman, O.D.
Glen T. Steele, O.D.
Approved by: American Optometric Association, April 2004