Background: The detection of circumscribed visual field defects due to pathologic macular findings may be difficult even when modern conventional perimetry procedures are used. Using conventional clinical methods there exists no reliable correlation between morphology and function for follow-up and documentation. The Laser Scanning Ophthalmoscope enables a fundus-based examination and therefore allows exact comparison between morphologic appearance and corresponding function.
Patients and methods: 50 eyes with pathologic macular findings were examined using a newly developed kinetic perimetry method based on the Scanning Laser Ophthalmoscope. The results were compared to those obtained with other clinical examinations such as Goldmann or Octopus visual field and Amsler-chart.
Results: Fundus-based examination with the SLO is preferable for detection especially when small pathologic findings at the posterior pole like macular holes or small serous detachments are combined with reduced stability of fixation. The detection of sharp borders of the scotomas is much better than with conventional perimetry.
Conclusion: The Scanning Laser Ophthalmoscope allows several different types of fundus-based examinations. Concerning kinetic perimetry we were able to find the borders of scotomas within very short examination times. This method therefore is of valuable help in patients with circumscribed scotomas at the posterior pole combined with deterioration of the stability of fixation and allows documentation for follow-up and further comparison with other clinical findings.