Is The Convergence Insufficiency Symptom Survey Specific for Convergence Insufficiency? A Prospective, Randomized Study

Abstract

Background and purpose: The Convergence Insufficiency Symptom Survey (CISS) is a questionnaire used as an outcome measure in treatment of convergence insufficiency. The current prospective randomized trial evaluates the diagnostic specificity of the CISS.

Patients and methods: Surveys were completed by 118 adolescent patients who presented for routine eye examinations. Scores were compared between patients who could be classified as having convergence insufficiency (CI) or normal binocular vision (NBV). In addition, a comparison was done between self-and practitioner-administered CISS scores within these groups.

Results: The mean CISS score did not differ significantly between NBV patients (14.1±11.3, range of 0 to 43) and CI patients (12.3±6.7, range of 3 to 28); P=0.32. Mean CISS scores were lower when physician-administered (11.4±7.9) than when self-administered (16.3±11.4); P=0.007.

Conclusion: CISS scores tend to be higher when self-vs. practitioner-administered. This study suggests that the CISS questionnaire is not specific for convergence insufficiency.

Keywords: binocular vision; convergence insufficiency; convergence insufficiency symptom survey (CISS); strabismus.