Anxiety and depression in patients wearing prosthetic eyes

Graefe's Archive for Clinical and Experimental Ophthalmology, 2021 · DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00417-020-04908-0 · Published: September 1, 2020

Mental Health Surgery

Simple Explanation

The study investigates the prevalence of anxiety and depression in patients who wear prosthetic eyes. It uses standardized questionnaires to assess the levels of anxiety and depression. The research aims to identify factors that are associated with psychological distress in this patient group. This includes factors like general health, social function, and appearance-related concerns. The study highlights that anxiety and depression might be underdiagnosed in individuals wearing prosthetic eyes. It suggests routine screening for these conditions during clinical care.

Study Duration

Over 63 consecutive working days between June 2019 and November 2019

Participants

295 prosthetic eye wearers

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
A significant underdiagnosing for both depression and anxiety disorders was observed in prosthetic eye wearers.
2
Higher PHQ-9 scores (indicating depression) were associated with lower physical and mental health functioning, higher educational degree, and non-traumatic eye loss.
3
Higher GAD-7 scores (indicating anxiety) were significantly associated with lower appearance-related social function, lower mental health functioning, and female gender.

Research Summary

The study screened 295 prosthetic eye wearers for anxiety and depression using standardized psychometric instruments. Results indicated a potential underdiagnosis of anxiety and depression in this population, with higher incidence compared to the general population. The study emphasizes the need for integrated care by a multidisciplinary team for successful long-term rehabilitation of prosthetic eye wearers.

Practical Implications

Routine Screening

Implement routine psychometric screening for anxiety and depression in clinical care for prosthetic eye wearers.

Integrated Care

Establish integrated care by a multidisciplinary team including ophthalmic plastic surgeons, ophthalmologists, ocularists, general practitioners, and psychologists.

General Healthcare

Ensure good general healthcare for prosthetic eye wearers, considering the significant influence of physical condition on depression symptoms.

Study Limitations

1
The rather high proportion of patients with enucleation in relation to eviscerations or not operated patients
2
The design as a monocenter study conducted at an ocularistic institute.
3
Patients with severe anxiety and depression might not attend appointments at the ocularists due to their high disorder severity.

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