Optometrists can test contrast sensitivity using tablets

SEATTLE – A contrast sensitivity test on a tablet demonstrated results similar to the traditional Pelli-Robson chart, according to research presented here at Optometry's Meeting.

"It is well established that the ability to detect and recognize low contrast targets often decreases earlier and more rapidly than high contrast vision in various ocular condition and diseases as well as in systemic and neurological disease," Rabin and colleagues wrote.

"With increasing longevity and emphases on home and remote medical monitoring, portable measures of contrast sensitivity (CS) are needed,” they said.

Researchers used a program from Innova Systems Inc. on a Windows 8 tablet to test contrast sensitivity in 27 normal subjects. As detailed in the abstract, single letters, in varying contrasts, appeared on the tablet, and participants used a touchscreen to indicate which letter they had seen.

They compared the results of the tablet test to results of the Pelli-Robson chart test.

"There was no significant difference between test and subject eye," the researchers reported. "Mean differences between tests were less than one letter read correctly." – by Chelsea Frajerman Pardes

Reference:

Rabin J, et al. Contrast sensitivity measurement with a Windows 8 tablet display. Poster presented at: 118th Annual AOA Congress & 45th Annual AOSA Conference: Optometry’s Meeting. June 26, 2015; Seattle, WA.

Disclosures: The authors report no relevant financial disclosures.