Introducing a new method to assess vision: Computer-adaptive contrast-sensitivity testing predicts visual functioning better than charts in multiple sclerosis patients. (17th July 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Stellmann, JP; Young, KL; Pöttgen, J; Dorr, M; Heesen, C
• Is Part Of: Multiple sclerosis journal, experimental, translational and clinical. Volume 1(2015)
• Publication Date: 2015-07-17
• Subjects: Outcome measurement -- multiple sclerosis -- visual acuity -- contrast vision -- Sloan charts; Multiple sclerosis -- Periodicals; 616.834
• DOI: 10.1177/2055217315596184
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2055-2173

Abstract

Background: Impaired low-contrast visual acuity (LCVA) is common in multiple sclerosis (MS) and other neurological diseases. Its assessment is often limited to selected contrasts, for example, 2.5% or 1.25%. Computerized adaptive testing with the quick contrast-sensitivity function (qCSF) method allows assessment across expanded contrast and spatial frequency ranges. Objective: The objective of this article is to compare qCSF with high- and low-contrast charts and patient-reported visual function. Methods: We enrolled 131 consecutive MS patients (mean age 39.6 years) to assess high-contrast visual acuity (HCVA) at 30 cm and 5 m, low-contrast vision with Sloan charts at 2.5% and 1.25%, qCSF and the National Eye Institute Visual Functioning Questionnaire (NEIVFQ). Associations between the different measures were estimated with linear regression models corrected for age, gender and multiple testing. Results: The association between qCSF and Sloan charts ( R 2 = 0.68) was higher than with HCVA (5 m: R 2 = 0.5; 30 cm: R 2 = 0.41). The highest association with NEIVFQ subscales was observed for qCSF ( R 2 0.20–0.57), while Sloan charts were not associated with any NEIVFQ subscale after correction for multiple testing. Conclusion: The qCSF is a promising new outcome for low-contrast vision in MS and other neurological diseases. Here we show a closer link to patient-reported visual function than standard low- and high-contrast charts.