Certified Ophthalmic Medical Technologist (COMT) Practice Exam

Color vision deficiencies are often classified into how many main categories?

1. Two

2. Three

3. Four

4. Five

The correct answer is: Three

Color vision deficiencies are primarily classified into three main categories. These categories encompass the most common types of color vision defects that are seen, which are typically red-green deficiencies, blue-yellow deficiencies, and complete color blindness (achromatopsia). Red-green deficiencies are the most prevalent and are further divided into two types: protanopia (lack of red perception) and deuteranopia (lack of green perception). Blue-yellow deficiencies, while less common, include tritanopia (lack of blue perception). Lastly, achromatopsia is characterized by the inability to perceive any color, resulting in seeing the world in shades of gray. Understanding these categories is crucial for the diagnosis and management of patients with color vision deficiencies. This classification helps in identifying the specific type of deficiency a patient may have, which can influence treatment options and adaptive strategies.