Comparing visual acuity results between two tests used in children
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Comparing visual acuity results using the logMAR 6 meter Thompson computerised vision chart and Sonksen logMAR test in children.
IRAS ID
232187
Contact name
Megan Evans
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University Hospitals Southampton
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 9 months, 31 days
Research summary
Tests to assess children’s vision, known as visual acuity tests, are designed in a more simplified manner than visual acuity tests designed for adults. Because of this, some children's visual acuity charts are difficult to compare to the gold standard vision charts used in adults which makes it difficult to monitor vision as tests become more challenging and accurate.
The study entails comparing visual acuity scores obtained using 2 different tests in children aged 5-8 years of age.
The two test that will be compared in this study is the Sonksen logMAR test designed to be used at approximately 3-5 years of age and the computerised Thomson crowded logMAR chart designed to be used from approximately the age of 5+ years of age. Participants will have their right and left vision tested with both tests at their routine Orthoptic appointment at Southampton General Hospital. This is to see if there is a significant difference between the visual acuity levels obtained using each test.
The participants will also be included in one of two groups; 1. non amblyopic (normal level of vision) 2. Amblyopic group (one visually lazy eye) to see if one test is more sensitive to picking up this problem compared to the other test. This could affect treatment plans and follow up appointments.
Statistical analysis will be carried out to determine if there is a significant difference between the visual acuities collected between the two groups and to see if the tests are comparable.
To enable further statistical analysis of the amblyopic group’s visual acuity data, this group will be split into a mild and moderate amblyopia groups to establish whether the vision tests are more sensitive to a certain level of amblyopia.REC name
London - Harrow Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
17/LO/1999
Date of REC Opinion
2 Jan 2018
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion