Comparison of optic disc image assessment methods when examining serial photographs for glaucomatous progression.

Abstract

To assess serial, simultaneous stereo optic disc images by four methods for glaucomatous progression. Using varying techniques, two ophthalmologists assessed serial optic disc images of 52 eyes from 27 patients with a mean duration between images of 18 months. The neuroretinal rim width was qualitatively assessed by four assessment methods and compared with quantitative rim measurements made using PC based software. The highest sensitivity of 83% was achieved using computerised stereo chronoscopy. Stereo chronoscopy improved the detection of subtle optic disc changes when compared with simpler assessment techniques.