Fixation behavior in advanced stage glaucoma assessed by the MicroPerimeter MP-1

Abstract

Purpose: To investigate fixation behavior in eyes with advanced glaucoma using the MicroPerimeter MP-1.

Methods: We retrospectively reviewed 39 glaucoma patients who had scotomas adjacent to fixation points. Using the MP-1, we examined the stability and location of fixation with the fixation test and the microperimetry test. We examined retinal sensitivity using the central 10-2 SITA standard programs of a Humphrey Field Analyzer and the macula 10 degrees program of the MP-1 and analyzed the correlation between fixation behavior and retinal sensitivity.

Results: Of the 39 eyes, 37 showed "stable" fixation in the fixation test, while 30 eyes showed stable fixation in the microperimetry test. In the fixation test, 32 of 39 eyes demonstrated "predominantly central" fixation, whereas in the microperimetry test only 26 eyes exhibited the same fixation. Fixation stability correlated positively with sensitivity in the central 10 degrees diameter area (r=0.414, P=0.009). Among the six eyes showing "predominantly eccentric" fixation, the preferred retinal locus of five was in the superior or superotemporal direction from the fovea.

Conclusions: The MP-1 illustrated the fixation patterns in glaucomatous eyes and the fixation patterns correlated well with retinal sensitivity.