[Location and frequency of visual field defects as measured by SITA (Swedish Interactive Threshold Algorithm) strategy in primary open angle glaucoma].

PURPOSE: To evaluate the frequency, location and pattern of visual field defects as measured by SITA strategy in primary open angle glaucoma (POAG).

METHODS

Six thousand and two-hundred charts were reviewed. One hundred and fifty two patients who fulfilled the inclusion criteria were included. They were stratified according to severity into early, moderate and severe. The following visual field defects were defined: nasal step, paracentral scotomata, arcuate defect, Seidel scotomata, temporal defect, general reduction of sensitivity, annular scotomata and central island. Each examination was divided into sectors corresponding to optic disc regions. Student's t test was used to compare differences in frequency.

RESULTS

In the early glaucoma group, the nasal superior step was the most frequent visual field defect, followed by paracentral scotoma and inferior nasal step. General reduction of sensitivity was noted in 7.8%. Defects were more common in the superior hemifield (p<0.05).

CONCLUSION

The superior nasal step and paracentral scotoma were the most commun visual field defects in early primary open angle glaucoma as evaluated by SITA strategy, and the superior hemifield comprises most of the defects. General reduction of sensitivity was an early and rare visual field defect.