Authors:

Abstract

Aim: To determine the feasibility of a number of tests of visual function and oculomotor control in children tested in Malawi.

Methods: Using computerised vision testing software, run on a laptop (Test Chart 2000 Pro), monocular visual acuity (VA) and contrast sensitivity (CS), using Lea symbols, were measured. Binocularity was assessed by the cover test and TNO, with assessment of ocular movements in nine positions of gaze. Visual fields were assessed with a campimetry test run on the laptop. Antisaccade directional error rates were calculated from digital video recordings of eye movements.

Results: Seven subjects with a history of cerebral malaria (CM) and 13 healthy controls were recruited. All the tests were successfully employed in the majority of subjects although the antisaccade task was difficult for children under the age of 6 years. There was a trend to lower VA and CS in the CM subjects compared with controls. There were no cases of strabismus in cither group; a slightly higher number of targets were missed on the visual field analysis in the CM subjects. The antisaccade direc­tional error rates were inversely related to age showing the normal developmental trajectory.

Keywords: Antisaccades, Cerebral malaria, Contrast sensitivity, Visual acuity