2nd International Conference on Ophthalmology & Vision Science
August 04, 2025 | Virtual Event
Julia Goetz
Albert Einstein College of Medicine, USA, USA
Purpose: To evaluate the prevalence, type, and management of strabismus and amblyopia in
children with ASD in academic hospitals.
Methods: We analyzed 10,134 children with ASD from the SOURCE database. Diagnoses and
procedures were identified using ICD and CPT codes. Prevalence, odds ratios, and surgical
rates were calculated.
Results: Strabismus or amblyopia was present in 38% of ASD patients (95% CI 0.37–0.39). Exotropia
was more common than esotropia (OR 1.45 vs. 1.07). ASD patients presented younger
(mean age 6.14, SD=4.68) than controls (mean age 8.07, SD=6.57). In ASD patients with strabismus,
17.9% underwent surgery. Male predominance and racial variation were noted. While
referral bias limited interpretation of control data, ASD findings were internally consistent.
Conclusion: Children with ASD have a high prevalence of strabismus, with distinct patterns
in type and treatment. Findings support earlier screening and tailored care to improve visual
outcomes in neurodivergent children.
Precis: Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) show a high prevalence of strabismus
and amblyopia. In a national database of 10,134 ASD patients, 38% had one or both conditions.
Exotropia was more common than esotropia, and 17.9% underwent surgery, often at
older ages. Findings support early screening and tailored care, as patterns of diagnosis and
intervention differ from neurotypical children.
Background Statement: Children with ASD have higher rates of visual disorders, yet diagnosis
and treatment may be delayed due to neurodevelopmental complexity. Understanding
patterns of strabismus and amblyopia in this group is critical for timely, effective intervention.
Julia Goetz is a fourth-year medical student at Albert Einstein College of Medicine in the Bronx NY and a graduate
of the University of Florida, where she earned her B.S. in Biology as well as her B.S. In Behavioral and
Cognitive Neuroscience. Julia’s research interests include strabismus and amblyopia, uveitis, as well as ocular
surface diseases. She is deeply committed to the field of ophthalmology and her goal is to specialize in pediatric
ophthalmology.