Ophthalmologists and retina specialists often use a simple macular degeneration test to document and detect changes in their patients’ central vision.  The test is called an Amsler grid (named after Swiss ophthalmologist Marc Amsler).  The test can detect changes in a patient’s central 10 degrees of visual field which is commonly affected by macular degeneration.

Patients who have been diagnosed with macular degeneration can use this test to monitor for any potential worsening on a daily basis in the comfort of their home.  Detecting changes is particularly important as this often signals a change from the dry macular degeneration to wet macular degeneration.  The Amsler grid is not perfect and is not a substitute for a comprehensive eye exam by an ophthalmologist or retina specialist.

Download this printable Amsler grid to test for macular degeneration.

How to Perform the Amsler Grid Test

• Sit comfortably in a well-lit room.
• If you normally wear glasses, Make sure you are wearing the eyeglasses you use for reading.
• Hold the test approximately 14-16 inches from your face.
• Cover one eye.  Only one eye is tested at a time so you can compare the difference between the two eyes.
• Fixate on the black dot in the center of the square.
• Stay fixated on the black dot in the middle of the square and ask yourself a few questions.  This is very important.  You must keep your fixation on the black dot in the middle of the square.  Don’t move your eyes around – stay focused on the black dot.
  • Do I see the black dot?
  • Can I see all four corners of the square?
  • Are all the lines straight or are they blurred, distorted, or wavy?
  • Are there are any missing areas or holes?
• Repeat with your other eye.

If you are experiencing any changes on the macular degeneration test, please call today to schedule an eye exam.  Early diagnosis can help preserve and save vision.

Call our office today at 941-777-5000.