Short-Wavelength Automated Perimetry in Age-Related Maculopathy: Correlation With the Visual Outcome

Abstract

Abstract: : Purpose: In age-related maculopathy (ARM) short-wavelength sensitive (SWS) cone mediated sensitivity is reduced. This longitudinal study was performed to investigate the correlation of functional changes to visual outcome. Methods: 74 patients with age- related maculopathy (mean age 71 ± 6 years) were included. Follow-up examination was performed 24± 12 months after baseline (fundus photograph, blue-on-yellow-perimetry: Humphrey field analyzer program 10-2. Results: In 48 eyes (65%) fundus changes remained stable and no visual loss was observed (ARM). 26 eyes (35%) had a significant visual loss due to choroidal neovascularization or atrophy (AMD). At baseline these groups did not differ in presence of soft drusen or focal hyperpigmentation and in visual acuity (stable ARM: logMAR 0.11 ± 0.12, progressing: 0.14 ± 0.11, p = 0.25). A significant difference was found for the mean sensitivity assessed with blue-on-yellow perimetry at baseline between the both groups (stable ARM: 22.0 ± 4.3 dB; progressing: 17.3 ± 6.0 dB; p = 0.0004. Conclusions: Baseline data of mean SWS sensitivity were correlated with the visual outcome of the 2 years follow-up. Short-wavelength sensitive (SWS) cone mediated sensitivity seems to be an important prognostic factor.

Keywords: age-related macular degeneration • clinical (human) or epidemiologic studies: ris • aging: visual performance