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Published on: January 23, 2017
Ishihara test in 3- to 6-year-old children
Sang Yul Choi1, Jeong-Min Hwang
1Department of Ophthalmology, Korea Cancer Center Hospital, Seoul, Korea.
Insights
A modified Ishihara color test effectively screens preschoolers for color vision deficiency. Most children aged 3-6 could complete the test, with a tracing method aiding comprehension.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Pediatric Vision Screening
Background:
- Early detection of color vision deficiency (CVD) is crucial for development.
- Preschool-aged children present unique challenges for standard vision screening tests.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of a modified Ishihara color test for screening CVD in preschoolers.
- To assess the usability and comprehension of the modified test in children aged 3 to 6 years.
Main Methods:
- A modified Ishihara test was administered to 115 children aged 3-6 years.
- A tracing method was introduced for children unable to read numbers.
- Children's ability to understand and complete the test was assessed.
Main Results:
- The modified Ishihara test was successfully completed by 96.5% of participants.
- A tracing adaptation enabled 35% of 3-year-olds, who couldn't read numbers, to complete the test.
- Color vision deficiency was identified in 3 boys, with no cases in girls.
Conclusions:
- The modified Ishihara color test is a viable and effective tool for screening color vision deficiency in preschool-aged children.
- The tracing modification enhances test accessibility for younger children or those with reading difficulties.
Purpose:
To investigate the efficacy of a modified Ishihara color test in preschoolers.
Methods:
The Ishihara test was performed to screen 115 children 3 to 6 years of age for color vision deficiency. Children who could not read numbers were instructed to trace the shapes of the numbers and of colored winding lines on the test plates using a cotton-tipped applicator. The ability of the children to understand and complete the test was investigated.
Results:
The Ishihara test was satisfactorily taken by 96.5% of the 115 children. Two 3-year-olds and two 4-year-olds did not understand the test. Thirty-five percent of the 3-year-olds could not read numbers but successfully used the tracing method. Three of the 51 boys and none of the 64 girls were considered color deficient.
Conclusion:
The modified Ishihara test was successfully performed by children aged 3 to 6.

