Automated visual field examination in children aged 5-8 years. Part II: Normative values

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Pediatric Vision Science

Background:

• Establishing normative visual sensitivity thresholds in children is crucial for early detection of visual impairments.
• Previous studies have yielded inconsistent results regarding visual sensitivity in young children.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine normative values for visual sensitivity thresholds in children aged 5-8 years.
• To compare visual sensitivity between children and adults.
• To identify age-related differences and potential confounding factors in pediatric visual field testing.

Main Methods:

• Utilized automated static perimetry (Octopus 2000R, program 32) on 118 children (5-8 years) and 17 adults.
• Implemented a familiarization procedure followed by a phased quantitative examination of 76 visual field points.
• Calculated mean thresholds and standard deviations as a function of age.

Main Results:

• Visual sensitivity differences between adults and children were observed only in the youngest groups (5- and 6-year-olds).
• Higher thresholds in 5- and 6-year-olds were attributed to non-physiological factors like vigilance and cognitive processes.
• Reliable normative values for light sensitivity were obtained for 7- and 8-year-old children across the visual field.

Conclusions:

• Normative visual sensitivity data for 7- and 8-year-olds are reliable.
• Data for 5- and 6-year-olds represent an approximation of upper threshold levels due to non-physiological influences.
• Automated static perimetry can provide valuable visual field data in older children with appropriate protocols.