Amsler Maculopathy Test

The Amsler grid test is a simple central visual field test designed to help you notice subtle changes in the macula's ability to see detail.

The correct use of this test is as follows:

• Test one eye at a time (cover the unused eye)
• Use reading glasses, Varifocals & Bifocals can distort the grid giving a false appearance
• Stare at the central black dot (if you already have macula disease and cannot see the black dot then look towards the where the two diagonal lines would cross)
• Keep your gaze trained on the central dot (or cross)
• Look peripherally, out of the corner of your vision to look for and distortion in the grid or for any missing patches in the pattern
• If advised, or concerned do this test regularly any distortion can mean the macula is under stress

You can test yourself online by clicking the image to enlarge but the better test would be to print this image on good quality paper and do it at a reading distance

What to look for

The classic symptoms of wet AMD onset and advanced Dry AMD is missing or disturbed areas of the central visual field. In more advanced stages you may see this as significant distortion in the vision. For instance objects tat you know to be straight such as chair legs or door frames can like they are kinked in the middle.

For more subtle signs the Amsler grid is needed. You are looking for small changes in the "straightness" of the lines in the grid. You do not want to see any shadowed areas or any areas where the grid looks distorted. An example of this is given on the right here.

If you have any concerns about your vision please contact the practice ASAP for advice or seek further medical attention. The quicker any new events are dealt with the greater the possibility of recovery.

What distortion might look like on the Amsler test