Reliability of brightness comparison testing in predicting afferent pupillary defects
D. J. Browning and E. G. Buckley
Charlotte Eye, Ear, Nose, and Throat Associates, NC 28204.
We tested the reliability of brightness comparison testing in predicting
relative afferent pupillary defects (RAPDs) in 206 patients. For unselected
patients, brightness comparison testing correctly predicted the RAPD in 62%
of patients. For subgroups of patients with glaucoma and optic nerve
lesions, correct predictions were made in 92% and 83% of patients,
respectively. Sensitivity and specificity of brightness comparison testing
with a 6-V test light were 85% and 49%, respectively. In subgroups of
patients who are strongly suspected of having an RAPD but in whom pupillary
testing is not possible, brightness comparison testing can reliably predict
presence or absence of an RAPD.
