Glaucomatous Visual Field Defect: a Comparison between Static Threshold and Flicker Perimetries

Abstract

Abstract: : Purpose: To compare the extension of visual field defects detected in Static Threshold and Flicker perimetries in open–angle glaucoma. Methods: Seventeen eyes (17 subjects) with open–angle glaucoma and a Humphrey 30–2 SITA reliable visual field test showing a glaucomatous defect were included in the study. Medmont M700 Static Threshold and Flicker perimetries were performed in all patients in a randomized sequence. Eyes showing low reliability in any of the perimetries were excluded from the analysis. Extension of visual field defects was defined as the proportion of significant (p<0.1%) altered points in each perimetry. Results: We evaluated 17 eyes (17 subjects). Two eyes were excluded because of low reliability perimetry. The mean age was 56.7 years (35–76 years). The randomized allocation resulted in 10 subjects performing Static Threshold perimeter and 5 subjects performing Flicker perimetry as the first exam. The mean (proportion) of point defect was 2.6 (2.9%) and 16.9 (21.9%) in Static Threshold and Flicker perimetries, respectively. The difference in proportion of altered points between the perimetries was significant (p< 0.001). Conclusions: Flicker perimetry shows larger extension of visual field defects then Static Threshold perimetry in open–angle glaucoma.

Keywords: perimetry • visual fields