New computer-based component perimetry tests: Evaluation of potential benefits for primary care

Ms Helen O’Kelly

With a high rate of undetected glaucoma, improved access to rapid screening methods would be desirable.

Fahle modified the traditional approach of noise field perimetry by devising a series of eight tests where the grain or element size (checks, dots, lines, or Landolt Rings) increases towards the periphery of the tested field to compensate for the reduced resolution in the periphery. These computer-based tests simultaneously assess the whole area of visual field under examination.

Monocularly, the subject observes the computer screen displaying the various perimetry programs, and if an inhomogeneous display is reported, they are asked to draw areas of variation on an acetate sheet placed on the screen.  After component perimetry, each subject undergoes visual field assessment using the Humfrey 30-2 SITA algorithm.

This project will assess the sensitivity and specificity of this new computer based method for assessing the visual fields in normals and subjects with glaucoma.