A 231-patient study led by Jamie L. Odden, MD, of the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center evaluated the importance of central vs far peripheral visual field (VF) loss in assessing disability in glaucoma. Patients with glaucoma or suspected glaucoma completed 24-2 VF testing and automated peripheral VFs using the suprathreshold 30° to 60° pattern. Questionnaires assessed fear of falling, quality of life, instrumental activities of daily living, and driving habits. Nonsedentary time, reading speed, and gait were also objectively measured. Multivariable regression models analyzed the effect of central VF and/or peripheral VF damage on each functional disability.

The researchers, who reported their findings in Investigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science, concluded that the relative importance of central 24° vs more peripheral VF damage differs across functional measures in patients with glaucoma. Central damage is more strongly associated with most disabilities, although peripheral damage is more associated with specific gait measures.