Attainment of educational levels in patients with Leber's congenital amaurosis.

Abstract

To assess the educational level attained by patients legally blind with Leber's congenital amaurosis (LCA). Cross-sectional assessment. None. Highest educational level attained by 55 patients with LCA. A total of 55 patients with LCA were included in the study. Of the 55, 54 finished high school. In addition, 36 patients (65%) completed a college education and received a bachelor's degree, and 5 additional patients (9%) were recently accepted to college, whereas 3 others (5%) were currently attending college classes. Further, 18 patients were either pursuing (n = 3) or had attained (n = 15) an educational level beyond a bachelor's degree. Compromised visual function does not preclude the successful attainment of an academic education in patients with LCA who are substantially visually impaired from birth. These data have clinically relevant implications for the parents of children with LCA and for the patients themselves in providing a tone of optimism for their potential of attaining competitive academic achievements.