An evaluation of the Arden grating test.

The Arden grating test is found to be a statistically reliable tool which provides an index of contrast sensitivity. Although no statistically valid mean score can be assigned to each plate, a range of normals can be established for this particular age group. In this study, after each individual's initial scores were established for each plate they remained constant each time the test was repeated. The scores found for each plate are somewhat less than those established by Arden which may in part be related to the effect of age and to some variation in the mode of presentation by the test administrator. In summary, the Arden grating test when used properly should be a rapid and effective screener. It can reveal visual loss in instances where other clinical techniques fail to show significant findings. It is a reasonable clinical substitution of the contrast sensitivity function test in monitoring or detecting subtle changes in low and medium spatial frequency thresholds. The Arden grating test has recently been updated and is being marketed by the American Optical Company. Use of this test can add another dimension to the clinical ophthalmic examination although clinical trials should first be made against the original AGT.