Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 21, 2026
Using an Automated Hirschberg Test App to Evaluate Ocular Alignment
Published on: March 24, 2020
[Screening of vision disorders in young children]
Insights
This study found that a new protocol can effectively detect vision problems in preschoolers. Early detection of ophthalmological defects in children aged 36-54 months improves treatment outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Pediatrics
- Public Health
Context:
- Preschool-aged children often have undiagnosed ophthalmological defects.
- Routine pediatric examinations offer an opportunity for early vision screening.
Purpose:
- To evaluate the feasibility and effectiveness of a standardized protocol for detecting ophthalmological defects in children aged 36 to 54 months.
- To assess the prevalence of visual acuity deficits, stereoscopic vision impairment, and strabismus in this age group.
Summary:
- A study involving 20 pediatricians screened 1243 children using the Scholatest, Lang test, and Hirschberg test.
- Abnormal results were found in 17.4% for visual acuity, 2.8% for stereoscopy, and 5.7% for strabismus.
- The protocol successfully identified ophthalmological abnormalities in 14.7% of children, demonstrating feasibility in ambulatory pediatric settings.
Impact:
- Establishes a viable method for early detection of vision disorders in preschool children during routine check-ups.
- Highlights the public health significance of early diagnosis and intervention for better treatment outcomes.
- Provides a foundation for implementing widespread vision screening programs for young children.
Abstract:
Twenty pediatricians conducted a study for the detection of ophtalmological defects in children aged 36 to 54 months using a protocol designed by the Groupe Romand d'Etudes en Pédiatrie Ambulatoire (GREPA) and by an ophthalmologist. After a pilot test run for correcting the protocol and the testing procedure, visual acuity was assessed using the Scholatest, stereoscopy using the Lang test and ocular deviation using the Hirschberg test. A total number of 1243 children were examined, some of which needed to be tested twice. The visual acuity assessment provided an abnormal result in 241/1387 tests (17.4%); stereoscopy defects were detected in 39/1371 tests (2.8%) and strabismus in 41/1446 tests (5.7%). The test system allowed for detection of ophtalmological abnormalities in 14.7% of all children. This first Swiss study on detection of ophtalmological defects in preschool age children has established the feasibility of the testing procedure in ambulatory pediatrics during a routine examination. This procedure allows earlier detection of defects as well as earlier treatment with a better outcome. Early detection of ophtalmological defects has obvious Public Health implications.
