The effectiveness of the Spot Vision Screener in detecting amblyopia risk factors

PURPOSE To evaluate the updated Spot Vision Screener (PediaVision, Welch Allyn, Skaneateles Falls, NY) in detecting amblyopia risk factors using 2013 guidelines of American Association for Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus (AAPOS). METHODS In this prospective study, patients seen from June 2012 to November 2013 were tested with the Spot prior to examination by a pediatric ophthalmologist who was masked to test results. The following data were analyzed: age, subject testability, examination findings, and systemic and ocular pathology. Children were divided into three age groups to determine gold standard results according to the AAPOS guidelines. RESULTS A total of 444 children (average age, 72 months) were included. Compared to the ophthalmologist's examination, the Spot sensitivity was 87.7% and the specificity was 75.9% in detecting amblyopia risk factors. Sensitivity did not differ significantly between age groups, although the positive predictive value improved in the older age groups. CONCLUSIONS In our study cohort, the Spot provided good specificity and sensitivity in detecting amblyopia risk factors according 2013 AAPOS criteria, with minor improvements with updated versions.