Visual field
Visual field is the full area that can be seen when the eye is focused on a central point. This includes everything that can be seen to the side (peripheral vision) while looking straight ahead. The visual field of a healthy individual includes both central and peripheral vision and extends approximately 60 degrees upwards, 75 degrees downwards, 60 degrees towards the nose, and 100 degrees towards the temple.
The visual field is mapped during a Visual field test, which measures the entire scope of vision, both central and peripheral. This test can help detect blind spots (scotomas), visual field defects, and other vision problems that could be symptoms of eye diseases or neurological disorders.
Anatomy of the Visual Field[edit | edit source]
The visual field is divided into two main sections: the central field and the peripheral field. The central field is the area directly in front of the viewer, and it is where the eye focuses when looking straight ahead. The peripheral field is the area surrounding the central field, and it is responsible for detecting motion and providing spatial awareness.
The visual field is also divided into four quadrants: upper left, upper right, lower left, and lower right. Each quadrant is processed by a different part of the visual cortex in the brain.
Disorders Affecting the Visual Field[edit | edit source]
Various disorders can affect the visual field, causing blind spots, blurred vision, or other vision problems. These disorders include:
- Glaucoma: This eye disease damages the optic nerve, which can lead to blind spots in the peripheral vision.
- Stroke: A stroke can cause a loss of vision in one half of the visual field, a condition known as hemianopia.
- Brain tumor: A tumor in the brain can press on the optic nerve or visual cortex, causing visual field defects.
- Retinal detachment: This condition can cause a shadowy curtain over part of the visual field.
See Also[edit | edit source]
References[edit | edit source]
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD
