Mapping the visual field to the optic disc in normal tension glaucoma eyes.

PURPOSE

To establish the anatomical relationship between visual field test points in the Humphrey 24-2 test pattern and regions of the optic nerve head (ONH) DESIGN: Cross-sectional study.

PARTICIPANTS

Glaucoma patients and suspects from the Normal Tension Glaucoma Clinic at Moorfields Eye Hospital.

METHODS

Sixty-nine retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) photographs with well-defined RNFL defects and/or prominent bundles were digitized. An appropriately scaled Humphrey 24-2 visual field grid and an ONH reference circle, divided into 30 degrees sectors, were generated digitally. These were superimposed onto the RNFL images. The relationship of visual field test points to the circumference of the ONH was estimated by noting the proximity of test points to RNFL defects and/or prominent bundles. The position of the ONH in relation to the fovea was also noted.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The sector at the ONH corresponding to each visual field test point, the position of the ONH in relation to the fovea, and the effect of the latter on the former.

RESULTS

A median 22 (range, 4-58), of a possible 69, ONH positions were assigned to each visual field test point. The standard deviation of estimations was 7.2 degrees. The position of the ONH was 15.5 degrees (standard deviation 0.9 degrees ) nasal and 1.9 degrees (standard deviation 1.0 degrees ) above the fovea. The location of the ONH had a significant effect on the corresponding position at the ONH for 28 of 52 visual field test points.

CONCLUSIONS

A clinically useful map that relates visual field test points to regions of the ONH has been produced. The map will aid clinical evaluation of glaucoma patients and suspects, as well as form the basis for investigations of the relationship between retinal light sensitivity and ONH structure.