Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 19, 2026
Assessing Early Stage Open-Angle Glaucoma in Patients by Isolated-Check Visual Evoked Potential
Published on: May 25, 2020
[Diagnostic value of nerve fibre layer photography in glaucoma]
1Augenklinik, Albert-Ludwigs-Universität, Freiburg. herrmann@aug.ukl.uni-freiburg.de
Purpose:
Primary open-angle glaucoma is characterized by a loss of retinal nerve fibres. The aim of our present study was to evaluate the diagnostic value of retinal nerve fibre layer (RNFL) photography as a routine examination for the early diagnosis of glaucomatous damage.
Methods:
Between 1991 and 2000 we monitored 96 patients with ocular hypertension in a prospective study. RNFL photography was performed in 91 subjects. These photos were evaluated by two independent observers.
Results:
The mean image quality of the photos was mediocre. The correlation coefficient for the intraindividual reproducibility (image quality) was 0.713-0.863 (Kendall's coefficient). For the interindividual reproducibility the correlation coefficient was 0.541-0.581 (Somers' coefficient). Regarding the evaluation "RNFL defect yes/no", the correlations were better but there was a discrepancy between the observers.
Conclusion:
Quality, reproducibility and prognostic value of RNFL photography were disappointing. Although RNFL photography may be convincing and informative in several situations, it is not efficient as a routine technique for the early diagnosis of RNFL damage in glaucoma patients.
