Certified Ophthalmic Medical Technologist (COMT) Practice Exam

What type of testing measures sensitivity at each test point to construct a map of the island of vision?

1. Threshold testing

2. Contrast sensitivity testing

3. Visual acuity assessment

4. Refraction

The correct answer is: Threshold testing

Threshold testing is the method that measures sensitivity at each test point, which is crucial for constructing a detailed map of the island of vision. This type of testing evaluates the minimum stimulus level that a patient can detect at various points in the visual field. The resulting data creates a map that reflects the patient's sensitivity across different areas of vision, highlighting regions of both normal and impaired sensitivity. This mapping is essential in diagnosing and managing conditions such as glaucoma, where certain areas of the visual field may be compromised. It provides a more comprehensive understanding of how an individual's vision is functioning overall, rather than just assessing clarity or sharpness, which is typically the focus of visual acuity assessments.