Does Correction of Strabismus Improve Quality of Life in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: Results of a Parent Survey by Ophthalmologists.

Purpose: Ophthalmic problems are reported to be common in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and strabismus is of particular importance. We aimed to investigate the outcomes of strabismus management in cases with ASD and identify the impact of optical or surgical correction of the strabismus on the child using a questionnaire for parents. Methods: A survey was designed to assess parents' perceptions of pre-management and post-management quality of life in 41 children aged 5-17 years with ASD and strabismus using a questionnaire with 10 questions, including three subscales. Results: Significant improvements were noted after management in functional limitations (P < 0.01), psychosocial interactions (P < 0.01), and ocular alignment (P < 0.01) subscales. Conclusion: This is the first study of the literature that investigated the impact of ocular re-alignment on behavioral patterns and social interactions of children with ASD and strabismus.