Fundus-controlled two-color dark adaptometry with the Microperimeter MP1.

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Visual Neuroscience
• Medical Devices

Background:

• Fundus-controlled perimetry is crucial for assessing visual field defects.
• Assessing rod and cone function separately is vital for diagnosing retinal diseases.
• Existing devices may require modification for advanced functional testing.

Purpose of the Study:

• To adapt an existing commercial fundus-controlled perimeter for two-color adaptometry.
• To develop a quick and easy method for evaluating rod and cone function.
• To extend the application possibilities of fundus-controlled perimetry.

Main Methods:

• An external filter holder was added to a commercial MP1 perimeter.
• Red and blue stimuli were used to measure visual sensitivity before dark adaptation.
• Dark adaptometry was performed on 20 healthy subjects for up to 45 minutes.

Main Results:

• Pre-test sensitivity revealed typical rod and cone distributions.
• Threshold recovery after bleaching showed a biphasic pattern.
• Absolute thresholds were reached around 10 minutes for red and 15 minutes for blue stimuli.

Conclusions:

• Two-color fundus-controlled adaptometry can be achieved with a commercial MP1 without device modification.
• This method allows for rapid assessment of rod and cone function at specific retinal loci.
• The technique is valuable for early detection of retinal degenerations by differentiating rod and cone dysfunction.