[Topographic classification of glaucomatous visual fields].

Abstract

PURPOSE: To propose a classification of glaucoma visual fields based on affected ganglion cells axons on their way through the optic nerve head. MATERIAL AND METHOD: 255 Octopus 1-2-3 visual fields from glaucoma patients and glaucoma suspected patients were analyzed. Determination coefficients (r(2)) between the 10 points closest to the blind spot and the 73 reminding ones were calculated by linear regression. RESULTS: Significant correlation was found (r(2)>0.33) with very distant points sensitivity related to the ones closer to the optic disc due to the fibers path. Seven areas could be defined by this method: three of them are not affected or latterly affected by the disease: S1 and I1 corresponding to the upper and lower papillo-macular bundle and T, located on the temporal aspect of the blind spot. Areas S2 and L2 correspond to the nasal and para-central upper and lower sensitivities. Areas S3 and I3 are in the border of upper and lower nasal fields where axons enter the optic disc at the apical portion. CONCLUSIONS: There is a relationship between the anatomical arrangement of ganglion cells axons on their way to the optic nerve and topography of glaucoma defects which may justify this proposed classification.