Macular photostress testing: sensitivity and recovery with an automated perimeter.
OBJECTIVE
To describe a novel method for the evaluation of macular function with photostress testing and outline normative foveal threshold and recovery data for the adult population.


METHODS
In this prospective study, 50 adult subjects (25 men and 25 women aged 30-49 years) with no ocular disease underwent foveal threshold testing using the Humphrey Visual Field Perimeter Model 750. Baseline values and recovery time after photostress were measured. Baseline measurements were compared with threshold sensitivity after photostress at 1, 2, 4, 6, and 10 minutes.


RESULTS
Mean foveal sensitivities were reduced from 38.53 db to 32.36 db after photostress, representing an average sensitivity reduction of 16%. The mean recovery time to baseline sensitivity was 6.58 minutes. There was no significant difference between sexes, races, or smokers and nonsmokers.


CONCLUSIONS
This standardized protocol for testing the foveal threshold response to photostress is an inexpensive and noninvasive adjunct for following macular disease and also distinguishing optic neuropathy from macular disease.
Dhalla
Mandeep Singh
MS
Department of Ophthalmology, Henry Ford Hospital, Detroit, Michigan 48202, USA.
Fantin
Aldo
A
D000328:Adult; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008266:Macula Lutea / Q000502:physiology* / Q000528:radiation effects; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009799:Ocular Physiological Phenomena; D010775:Photic Stimulation; D011446:Prospective Studies; D020127:Recovery of Function / Q000502:physiology; D012680:Sensitivity and Specificity; D012684:Sensory Thresholds / Q000502:physiology*; D058609:Visual Field Tests / Q000379:methods*; D014794:Visual Fields / Q000502:physiology*