Kuchenbecker J., Lindner H., Behrens-Baumann W.

Department of Ophthalmology, Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg

Background: The quantitative capability of the visual system can be tested using graphic presentations with defined size, form and color. For presentations a chart projector or personal computer (PC) can be used. In the last few years the number of visual function tests using the internet increased continually.
Methods: Options and limits of visual function tests using the internet are described.
Results: Different vision tests, like the Amsler-Grid and color vision tests, can already be planned via internet. These tests are potentially available to approximately 300 millions internet users. The variability of the tests range from the simple presentation of graphic elements to the laboriously programmed interactive input by the user to specify the test result. Using internet, tests of contrast-, motion- and stereo vision as well as visual field are possible too. However, the interpretation of the test results is limited due to absent control during the test running as well as the hardware heterogeneity. In order to get comparable test results, differences in size and resolution as well as in brightness, contrast and color of computer monitors must be considered.
Conclusions: Via internet a nearly exact testing of visual functions appears possible. The number of available tests will probably increase in the next years. Further studies are needed to examine the suitability of these tests for screening-examinations in ophthalmology.

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