Simultaneous interocular brightness sense testing in ocular hypertension and glaucoma.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the performance of the simultaneous interocular brightness sense test in patients with ocular hypertension and primary open angle glaucoma (POAG).

DESIGN

Brightness matches were obtained for an age-matched control sample and for patients with ocular hypertension and POAG. In addition, for the patients with POAG, visual field defects were quantified and a risk factor count was established for those with ocular hypertension.

PATIENTS

Nineteen patients with ocular hypertension, 20 patients with POAG, and 61 age-matched controls participated in the study.

RESULTS

Seven patients with ocular hypertension exhibited brightness perception asymmetry outside normal limits for age-matched controls. Of these, six were at high risk of having glaucoma develop and only one of the remaining 12 was found to be at similar risk. All 20 patients with established POAG had results outside the normal limits for a test sensitivity of 100%. Three control observers had abnormal results, giving a test specificity of 95%.

CONCLUSION

The simultaneous interocular brightness sense test is quick and simple to perform and is suitable for a wide age range of patients. It warrants further assessment as a means of screening for ocular hypertension and glaucoma.