Performance of a Defect-Mapping Microperimetry Approach for Characterizing Progressive Changes in Deep Scotomas

To examine whether a microperimetry testing strategy based on quantifying the spatial extent of functional abnormalities (termed "defect-mapping" strategy) could improve the detection of progressive changes in deep scotomas compared to the conventional thresholding strategy.

A total of 30 healthy participants underwent two microperimetry examinations, each using the defect-mapping and thresholding strategies at the first visit to examine the test-retest variability of each method. Testing was performed using an isotropic stimulus pattern centered on the optic nerve head (ONH), which acted as a model of a deep scotoma. These tests were repeated at a second visit, except using a smaller stimulus pattern and thereby increasing the proportion of test locations falling within the ONH (to simulate the progressive enlargement of a deep scotoma). The extent of change detected between visits relative to measurement variability was compared between the two strategies.

Relative to their effective dynamic ranges, the test-retest variability of the defect-mapping strategy (1.8%) was significantly lower compared to the thresholding strategy (3.3%; P < 0.001). The defect-mapping strategy also captured a significantly greater extent of change between visits relative to variability (-4.70 t^-1) compared to the thresholding strategy (2.74 t^-1; P < 0.001).

A defect-mapping microperimetry testing strategy shows promise for capturing the progressive enlargement of deep scotomas more effectively than the conventional thresholding strategy.

Microperimetry testing with the defect-mapping strategy could provide a more accurate clinical trial outcome measure for capturing progressive changes in deep scotomas in eyes with atrophic retinal diseases, warranting further investigations.