The effect of variably tinted spectacle lenses on visual performance in cataract subjects.
OBJECTIVE
A body of clinical and laboratory evidence suggests that tinted spectacle lenses may have an effect on visual performance. The aim of this study was to quantify the effects of spectacle lens tint on the visual performance of 25 subjects with cataracts.


METHODS
Cataracts were scored based on best-corrected acuity and by comparison with the Lens Opacity Classification System (LOCS III) plates. Visual performance was assessed by measuring contrast sensitivity with and without glare (Morphonome software version 4.0). The effect of gray, brown, yellow, green and purple tinting was evaluated.


RESULTS
All subjects demonstrated an increase in contrast thresholds under glare conditions regardless of lens tint. However, brown and yellow lens tints resulted in the least amount of contrast threshold increase. Gray lens tint resulted in the largest contrast threshold increase.


CONCLUSIONS
Individuals with lenticular changes may benefit from brown or yellow spectacle lenses under glare conditions.
Naidu
Srilata
S
New York University School of Medicine, New York, USA. srilata.naidu@att.net
Lee
Jason E
JE
Holopigian
Karen
K
Seiple
William H
WH
Greenstein
Vivienne C
VC
Stenson
Susan M
SM
D000368:Aged; D002386:Cataract / Q000503:physiopathology*; D003116:Color; D015350:Contrast Sensitivity / Q000502:physiology*; D005139:Eyeglasses; D005260:Female; D019466:Glare; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D012684:Sensory Thresholds / Q000502:physiology; D014792:Visual Acuity