Conventional techniques of visual field examination.: Part I:: Introduction -: basics

Evaluation of visual field findings is an essential ophthalmological task. Applying psychophysical principles enables non-invasive (topo-)diagnostics in case of unexplained visual loss or suspected lesions of the visual pathways. Furthermore, any kind of expert opinion or ability test depends critically on adequate visual field findings. Repeated examinations allow the functional follow-up of a disease and judgement of therapeutic efficiency. This paper is explicitly focused on conventional strategies of visual field examination, since these are widespread, easily accessible, standardized and well established in everyday practice. Part 1 of this continuing education series will mainly impart basic concepts in perimetry and psychophysics. It will also consider indications and the necessary general setup of a perimetric examination. Furthermore, a concept of scotoma classification is explained.