Frequent VFS detects glaucoma sooner

Research has shown that increasing the frequency of visual field testing leads to earlier detection of glaucoma progression.

Scientists from the University of California confirmed the findings in the Archives of Ophthalmology last week.

The visual fields of 381 patients were studied over a three year period in varying sets of frequencies.

Detection was found to be more likely in the high-frequency data set, which tested at baseline, three monthly then six monthly as opposed to baseline, three months and annually. All testing was with a Humphrey VFA.

The findings highlight the importance of regular full threshold field testing by eye care practitioners if glaucoma is to be screened for adequately.