A perimetry test (visual field test) is a method of measuring an individual’s entire scope of vision, that is their central and peripheral (side) vision. Visual field testing actually maps the visual fields of each eye individually. It can help find certain patterns of vision loss. This may mean a certain type of eye disease is present.
It is a good test to find vision loss caused by the eye disease- glaucoma. Regular perimetry tests can be used to see if treatment for glaucoma is preventing further vision loss.
The amount of peripheral vision loss is linked to the amount of optic nerve damage.
This test is conducted by our optometrist and interpreted by the eye doctor
- You sit at a table and place your head in a chin rest, so that your head is comfortable and steady.
- Each eye is tested separately, and the eye not being tested is covered with a patch.
- The proper focusing lens (eyeglass) for your eye is placed in front of your eye for the best vision, but you do not need to wear your own glasses.
- Your eye looks straight ahead into a large bowl that has a fixed spot in the center on which you focus.
- The optometrist may move objects or lights of different size and brightness from the side in toward a spot where you “see” the object in your side vision. As soon as you “see” the object, you press a button to record your visual field. The same test may also be done using stationary objects of light that “blink” on and off in various parts of the visual field. The same test is repeated for the other eye.
- It usually takes about 25 minutes per eye for the test. After the test one can resume normal activity.
- Our ophthalmologist assesses the results. Depending on results, further follow-ups, evaluation, or treatment may be recommended.
