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Neuro-Orthoptics

Color Vision in Acquired Dyschromatopsia

Abstract

Color perception represents a complex neurophysiological process. This article explores in detail the mechanisms of color vision, different types of acquired dyschromatopsia, their origins, and their clinical implications.

Color vision, dyschromatopsia, neurology, ophthalmology, rehabilitation

Physiology of Color Vision

Anatomical Bases

Color perception relies on a sophisticated system involving:

- The retina

- The optic nerve

- Central visual pathways

- Visual cortex

Retinal Cones

Three types of specialized photoreceptors enable chromatic vision:

1. **L Cones (long wavelengths)**: Sensitive to red

2. **M Cones (medium wavelengths)**: Sensitive to green

3. **S Cones (short wavelengths)**: Sensitive to blue

Chromatic Transduction Mechanism

The color perception process involves:

- Phototransduction

- Neuronal processing

- Cortical integration of signals

Acquired Dyschromatopsia: Classification and Mechanisms

Definition

Acquired dyschromatopsias are color perception disorders that:

- Occur after birth

- Result from pathological conditions or neurological damage

- Differ from congenital disorders

Main Typologies

General Acquired Dyschromatopsias
Achromatic Dyschromatopsia

- Total loss of color perception

- Vision in grayscale

Partial Dyschromatopsia

- Selective alteration of certain spectral ranges

- Differential color perception

Specific Dyschromatopsias

- Acquired deuteranopia

- Acquired protanopia

- Acquired tritanopia

Main Etiologies

Neurological Causes

- Cerebrovascular accidents

- Brain tumors

- Cranial traumas

- Neurodegenerative diseases

Ophthalmological Causes

- Macular degenerations

- Optic neuropathies

- Retinopathies

- Glaucoma

Systemic Causes

- Diabetes

- Arterial hypertension

- Autoimmune diseases

- Intoxications

Iatrogenic Causes

- Medication side effects

- Chemotherapy treatments

- Antiretroviral treatments

Diagnosis and Evaluation

Diagnostic Methods

Clinical Tests

- Ishihara Test

- 100 Hues Test

- Farnsworth-Munsell Test

Complementary Examinations

- Ocular Electrophysiology

- Visual Evoked Potentials

- Brain Imaging (MRI)

Differential Diagnostic Approach

- Origin evaluation

- Precise deficit characterization

- Evolutionary monitoring

Therapeutic Management

Therapeutic Approaches

- Etiological treatment

- Visual rehabilitation

- Perceptual compensation

- Technical and digital aids

Rehabilitation Strategies

- Orthoptic rehabilitation

- Environmental adaptation

- Psychological support

Research Perspectives

Technological Innovations

- Chromatic correction glasses

- Adaptive digital interfaces

- Neurological stimulation

Emerging Research Axes

- Neuroplasticity

- Gene therapies

- Perceptual substitution

Conclusion

Acquired dyschromatopsias represent a complex diagnostic and therapeutic challenge, requiring a multidisciplinary and personalized approach.



Note : This document serves educational purposes exclusively and does not constitute medical advice or treatment guidelines