Contributor: Gordon K. Klintworth
Tobacco amblyopia is characterized by altered vision with symmetric scotomas, altered color vision, diminished visual acuity and loss of discrimination between red and green light. This form of  amblyopia occurs in adults, who smoke cigarettes usually in combination with alcohol abuse [alcoholism]. Folate deficiency [folic acid deficiency] is common in patients with tobacco amblyopia. Cyanide from tobacco smoke as well as folate and other dietary deficiencies may play a role in producing this disorder. With cessation of ethanol abuse and the use of vitamins, improvement is possible but complete recovery is exceptional.