[Adaptation to central scotoma. Part I. Eccentric fixations].

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology and Neuroscience
• Visual Science
• Retinal Physiology

Context:

• Central vision loss, often due to macular damage, necessitates compensatory mechanisms.
• Eccentric fixation, utilizing a preferred retinal locus (PRL), is a primary adaptation strategy.
• The precise mechanisms underlying PRL establishment and variability remain incompletely understood.

Purpose:

• To review and synthesize current knowledge on preferred retinal loci (PRL).
• To analyze the location, number, and influencing factors of PRLs.
• To explore methods for studying PRLs and their relationship with the visual cortex.

Summary:

• Eccentric fixation, establishing a preferred retinal locus (PRL), is a key adaptation to central scotoma.
• The review consolidates data on PRL characteristics, including location, multiplicity, and stability.
• Factors influencing PRL development and their neural underpinnings are discussed.

Impact:

• Provides a comprehensive overview of preferred retinal loci (PRL) research.
• Highlights knowledge gaps regarding PRL mechanisms and their variability.
• Informs future research directions for visual rehabilitation strategies in patients with central vision loss.