Contrast sensitivity of hemodialysis patients.

The contrast sensitivity of patients undergoing hemodialysis therapy for chronic renal failure was measured and compared to that of a control group. Both contrast sensitivity and visual acuity of the patients were reduced. Ocular and fundoscopic exams revealed differences between the patients and controls, but these differences could not fully account for the visual deficits. The visual deficits could be expected to cause reduced visibility under everyday conditions for the patients.