Your Visual Field Test Results: What They Mean for Your Eye Health - Ophthalmology

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Visual field examination


Hello, Doctor Gao.
My examination report has come out, but there are some parts I don't understand.
Could you please clarify whether I am in a high-risk group for defects? Can I run and exercise?
OD VFI 98% MD 30-2: -1.01 dB
OD P 30-2: 1.68 dB
OS VFI: 99% MD 30-2: -1.99 dB
P < 5% PSD 30-2: 1.63 dB
In my OCT report, OS Average RNFL: 85, Superior RNFL: 84, OD Superior RNFL: 85.
Do the yellowish results indicate danger? Thank you, Doctor Gao.

zhē, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/06/18

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology


Hello, it would be best to consult your attending physician regarding this matter, as it is not possible to make a judgment based on the information provided.
I apologize for that.
Running as a form of exercise should generally be fine.

Reply Date: 2022/06/18

More Info


Hello! Thank you for reaching out with your concerns regarding your visual field test results and overall eye health. I understand that interpreting these reports can be quite challenging, and I’m here to help clarify what these numbers mean for you.

First, let’s break down the components of your visual field test results. The terms "OD" and "OS" refer to your right eye (OD - Oculus Dexter) and left eye (OS - Oculus Sinister), respectively. The "vFi" (visual field index) indicates the percentage of your visual field that is functioning normally. A vFi of 98% for your right eye and 99% for your left eye suggests that the majority of your visual field is intact, which is a positive sign.

The "MD" (mean deviation) values indicate the average deviation from normal in your visual field. A negative MD value means that your visual field is better than average, while a positive value indicates a worse than average field. Your MD values of -1.01 dB for the right eye and -1.99 dB for the left eye suggest that your visual field is relatively normal, but the left eye shows a slightly greater deviation from the norm.

The "PSD" (pattern standard deviation) measures the variability of your visual field results. A lower PSD indicates a more uniform visual field, while a higher PSD suggests more irregularities. Your PSD values of 1.63 dB for the left eye and 1.68 dB for the right eye are within a normal range, indicating that there are no significant irregularities in your visual field.

Now, regarding your OCT (Optical Coherence Tomography) report, the RNFL (Retinal Nerve Fiber Layer) thickness is crucial for assessing the health of your optic nerve. The average RNFL thickness values of 85 micrometers for both eyes are generally considered normal, but the specific numbers can vary based on the normative database used by your clinic. The "superior RNFL" values of 84 for the right eye and 85 for the left eye suggest that the nerve fiber layer is healthy, as these values are typically within the normal range.

You mentioned that some of your results are marked in yellow, which may indicate areas of concern. However, without specific reference ranges from your clinic, it’s difficult to determine the exact implications. It’s essential to discuss these findings with your eye care provider, who can provide context based on your overall eye health and history.

As for your question about being in a high-risk group, your results do not suggest significant abnormalities that would categorize you as high-risk at this time. However, it’s crucial to maintain regular eye examinations, especially if you have any risk factors such as a family history of eye diseases, diabetes, or high blood pressure.

Regarding exercise, unless your eye doctor has specifically advised against it due to a particular condition, running and other forms of exercise are generally beneficial for overall health, including eye health. Exercise can improve circulation and reduce the risk of conditions that may affect your vision.

In summary, your visual field test and OCT results appear to be within a normal range, suggesting that your eye health is stable. However, it’s always best to consult with your eye care professional for personalized advice and to address any specific concerns you may have. Regular check-ups and maintaining a healthy lifestyle are key to preserving your vision. If you have any further questions or need clarification on any points, feel free to ask!

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