[Octopus perimetry in neuro-ophthalmologic diseases. A contribution to the problem of optimal program choice based on...

From the patient population of the University Eye Clinic Basel 427 cases, who had been tested with the Octopus perimeter 201 because of neuro-ophthalmologic problems, were retrospectively examined. Above all it was interesting to find out, which program to use in order to get a maximum degree of information with a minimum of examinations. The quantitative programs 31 to 34 gave most often the clinically relevant information concerning the opticus- and chiasma affections. The only exception was the anterior ischemic opticoneuropathy where the semiquantitative program 07 delivered the better information. With supragenicular affections program 07 delivered by far, and most often, the clinically relevant information. Because of our results we can make the following recommendations: if a pregenicular lesion is suspected, it is sensible to use quantitative programs with a homogenous test point distribution within 30 degrees testing area. If a supragenicular lesion is suspected, the registration of the total extension of the defect is of greater practical value than a quantitative threshold determination. In this case, the survey program 07 is suitable. If visual disturbance is present, without a hint of its location, it is recommended to start with the survey program 07 and thereafter, according to test results, specifically continue with a quantitative program.