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A pioneering eye test to detect eye disorders at an early stage could become available for use in optical practices.

The test, developed by two scientists at Glasgow's Gartnaval Eye Hospital uses software to diagnose and monitor retinal problems at a very early stage, including tunnel vision, vein occlusions and blockages.

Taking only eight minutes, the test can be carried out by plugging a machine little bigger than a Blackberry device into a computer. Although the system is currently intended for hospital use, it is hoped a simplified version may soon be available for use in the high street.

Described as the equivalent of a cardiogram for the eye, it involves applying electrodes to the patient's forehead, sides of the face and under the eyelids. The patient is then asked to look at a screen which displays an image of hexagonal shapes which flicker. The impulses are sent to the computer for analysis.

One of the test's creators, Dr David Keating, explained: 'The system takes measurements from several hundred areas of the retina and these signal responses offer a map of the retinal function.'

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