Quantification of visual field loss in age-related macular degeneration.

Abstract

BackgroundAn evaluation of standard automated perimetry (SAP) and short wavelength automated perimetry (SWAP) for the central 10-2 visual field test procedure in patients with age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is presented in order to determine methods of quantifying the central sensitivity loss in patients at various stages of AMD.Methods10-2 SAP and SWAP Humphrey visual fields and stereoscopic fundus photographs were collected in 27 eyes of 27 patients with AMD and 22 eyes of 22 normal subjects.ResultsMean Deviation and Pattern Standard Deviation (PSD) varied significantly with stage of disease in SAP (both pConclusionsGlobal indices of focal loss were more sensitive to detecting early stage AMD from normal. The SWAP sensitivity decline with advancing stage of AMD was greater than in SAP. A new AMD Severity Index quantifies visual field defects on a continuous scale. Although not all patients are suitable for SWAP examinations, it is of value as a tool in research studies of visual loss in AMD.