Scotopic Sensitivity (Irlen) Syndrome

Scotopic Sensitivity Syndrome (also called Irlen Syndrome) is a term used to describe a visual perceptive disorder that some researchers say may be related to dyslexia and autism. The Irlen Institute Web site cites research saying nearly half of people diagnosed with a range of learning problems suffer from Irlen Syndrome and can be helped by color filters, worn as glasses or contact lenses, developed by Dr. Helen Irlen.

However, neither the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) nor the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) recognize this condition. These organizations say there is no known visual cause for learning disabilities and no visual therapies that have proven to be effective.

Related Links

• Visit the Irlen Institute to learn more about the diagnosis.
• Go to the American Academy of Ophthalmology for a more skeptical perspective.