Visual Impairment in Women with Turner Syndrome—A 49-Year Literature Review

Abstract

Aim: Among the severe organ complications occurring in patients with Turner syndrome (TS), ophthalmic dysmorphia and visual impairment are usually marginalized. There are only a few studies that take into account the prevalence of ophthalmic disorders in female patients with TS. Material and methods: Articles in PubMed, Scholar, and Website were reviewed, considering the prevalence of various ocular disorders in patients with X chromosome deficiency. Current standards for the management of patients with TS in the context of the prevalence of ophthalmic disorders were also analyzed. Results: Identification of visual impairment in people is important because it significantly impairs quality of life (QoL) along with other health problems. QoL affects cognitive and behavioral functioning and significantly increases self-esteem, acceptance of treatment, and, consequently, physical and mental health. Low self-esteem makes patients feel helpless and unable to plan their social development. Patients with TS are relatively more frequently diagnosed with various eye defects compared to the healthy population. Therefore, special attention should be paid to the early assessment of the visual system in people with TS to eliminate any factors that could potentially impair their QoL. Conclusions: Patients with TS should be referred to specialist ophthalmologists, pediatricians, or optometrists for preventive care or early treatment of visual impairment. The authors point out the need for comprehensive ophthalmological examinations as standard management in patients with TS.