[Early detection of visual disorders by pediatricians]

A group of pediatricians from Northern France whose aim was to develop research projects in ambulatory pediatrics, elaborated a method of rapid assessment of visual acuity that can be applied by the pediatrician in the consulting room. This test was included in the routine examination of children between the age of 2 1/2 and 4, the age of 3 years being the most appropriate. The method is simple, reliable, reproducible and cheap since it is part of the pediatrician's consultation. Visual defects can be detected at an early stage and children can be treated when they still have a maximum chance of being cured. Thus it appears a useful test in terms of prevention of disease and public health.