Certified Ophthalmic Medical Technologist (COMT) Practice Exam

What is the objective spectacle power if the vertical streak appears neutral and horizontal requires +2D for neutralization?

1. +1 at one axis, PL the other axis

2. +2 at one axis, PL the other axis

3. PL at one axis, +2 at the other axis

4. +3 at one axis, PL the other axis

The correct answer is: +2 at one axis, PL the other axis

To determine the objective spectacle power from the information provided, it’s important to understand the principles of meridians and how they relate to neutralization in objective testing. The vertical streak appearing neutral indicates that there is no net refractive power along that axis, suggesting a plano (PL) condition at that meridian. When the horizontal meridian requires +2D for neutralization, this signifies that there is a refractive error present that needs to be corrected with a +2D lens. This means that at the horizontal axis, the eye is myopic to the extent of needing that additional power. Combining these findings yields the overall prescription. Since the vertical meridian is neutral (or plano), while the horizontal needs +2D, the objective spectacle power can be expressed as +2D at one axis (the horizontal) and plano at the other axis (the vertical). This aligns exactly with the answer that states +2 at one axis, PL at the other axis. Understanding the optics involved, this type of testing is fundamental in a clinical setting, as it lays the groundwork for assessing an individual's specific visual correction needs based on how their eyes react to light in various orientations.