System and method of detecting visual field defects

摘要

A method and system are provided for detecting and monitoring the treatment of eye disease by determining the presence of visual field defects. The method utilizes eyeglasses having a pair of cross-polarizing lenses selectively adjustable for varying the amount of luminance of an Amsler grid as observed by the patient through the eyeglasses. By adjusting the relative polarization of the lenses separately for each eye until the patient is barely able to see the Amsler grid, the sensitivity of the patient's eyes to the presence of scotomas is greatly increased. By having patients record the presence of scotomas while observing the Amsler grid through the eyeglasses, it is possible to screen patients for visual loss associated with various eye diseases, such as atrophic SMD. Recording the existence of scotomas on a periodic basis enables an ophthalmologist to determine whether atrophic SMD may be advancing to hemorrhagic SMD requiring treatment to prevent permanent loss of central vision.