Abstract
Introduction: :
Lay Vision Screening: Can the Plusoptix Vision Screener Replace the LEA symbol Chart and Random Dot Stereotest?
Purpose: :
The purpose of this IRB approved study was to determine if the Plusoptix Vision Screener (PVS), a non-cycloplegic videoretinoscopy autorefractor, could be used as an effective lay vision screening tool. The study evaluated accuracy of PVS screening, the ease of use in a lay screening environment, and the time and expense of screening using this device. PVS screening was compared to standard screening using the LEA symbol chart and random dot stereotest.
Methods: :
Six hundred children ages 3-5 years were screened with a modified Prevent Blindness America method: LEA symbol distance chart (20/40 critical line) and Randot Preschool Stereoacuity test. Two hundred two children were screened using PVS. Eighty-nine children were tested with only PVS because they could not perform the LEA symbol distance acuity test. Three children were screened by only the LEA symbol and Randot because PVS failed to obtain a reading due to dark irides. Children who failed either screening method were referred for a complete eye exam. A follow up program determined if they received an eye exam and chart notes from all screening failures using either method were analyzed to determine the reliability of the screening results.
Results: :
The Elks Children’s Eye Clinic screening program found that PVS was beneficial especially for screening children who could not perform LEA symbol distance acuity testing. One hundred percent of the children in the study were able to be screened using at least one method. Of the 89 children who could not perform LEA testing, 37 failed PVS screening and were referred for a complete eye exam. The reliability of both screening methods will be determined from exam notes for all children who failed screening.
Conclusions: :
The Plusoptix vision screener is a valuable tool that can be used to complement monocular LEA distance acuity screening and stereopsis testing. It will not completely replace current methods using the LEA symbol chart and random dot stereopsis until cost, ease of use, and portability issues are addressed.
Keywords: screening for ambylopia and strabismus • strabismus: diagnosis and detection • visual development: infancy and childhood