Characteristics of Color Perception and Contrast Sensitivity in Patient Treated with Ethambutol at Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital Jakarta

Tengku Putri Junita, M. Sidik, Syntia Nusanti

Department of Ophthalmology, University of Indonesia, Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital

Purpose: To evaluate the characteristic of color perception and contrast sensitivity in patients being treated with ethambutol.

Methods: Forty three patients being treated with ethambutol were recruited in this descriptive study. Color vision was tested with Farnsworth Munsell D-15 and contrast sensitivity with Pelli Robson test. Quantitative value of dyschromatopsia was assessed using Bowman's Color Confusion Index (CCI). Incidence of dyschromatopsia and decrease in contrast and sensitivity is related to daily dose and duration of treatment.

Results : Four of 43 patients suffered dyschromatopsia which is tritanomali (9,3%). Dyschromatopsia tends to increase in dose > 20mg/BW/day group and more than 2 months of duration group. Color Confusion Index tends to increase in all dose and duration. Twelve from 43 patients had decrease of contrast sensitivity(27.9%) and occur in all dose and duration group.

Conclusion: Dyschromatopsia and decrease of contrast sensitivity can be the earliest sign of ethambutol ocular toxicity.