Use of Fieldmaster automated perimeter for the detection of early visual field changes in glaucoma

The efficacy of automated suprathreshold perimetry with Fieldmaster automated perimeter (model 101 PR and 200) was evaluated in the screening for very early glaucomatous visual field defects which failed to be detected with kinetic perimetry using a Goldman perimeter. Evaluation of 117 eyes with elevated intraocular pressure revealed a small, relative defect in the central field in 14 eyes which was confirmed by static perimetry with a Tübinger perimeter. Although Fieldmaster model 200 is equipped with more target positions than model 101 PR, detectability of early defects was almost identical between two models. Automated suprathreshold perimetry with either model of Fieldmaster perimeter is useful in detecting the early changes which may be missed by kinetic perimetry with a Goldman perimeter. Based on the difference in the false positive rate (45.6% with model 200 vs 26.7% with model 101 PR) the screening with 101 PR seems to be more rewarding.