Macular degeneration patients usually rely on the Amsler Grid to test if their eyes have deteriorated. Now, a new computerised test can do the work and it is more accurate, sensitive and reliable.
It is called the Foresee PHP and it helps doctors treat the disease sooner.
It shows a series of linear dots in a pattern, and the patient has to point out if any are out of place. Then the computer registers the patient's eye sight.
"It is more accurate in that it has a higher sensitivity level. It will detect a change from the dry macular degeneration to the wet faster or at an earlier stage," said ophthalmologist Dr. William F. Varr.
"The problem with that test (Amsler Grid) is that the patient has to do it on their own and to get patient compliance sometimes is difficult. It's sometimes difficult for them to see a change."
The old test relies on patient's compliance, so it's hard for doctors to keep track from year to year. With this new test, a computer records the data and doctors will be able to detect even the smallest changes in a patient's macula over time.
- Article adapted from abc.com
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