Contributed Session I: FInD Color Detection and Discrimination in adults with and without color vision deficits: Preliminary results

Abstract

Color vision deficits are important biomarkers, however, existing tests (e.g., Hardy-Rand-Rittler (HRR) & Farnsworth-Munsell 100 hue test (FM100)) are insensitive and time consuming to administer. FInD is a validated computer-based, generalisable, rapid, self-administered paradigm. We describe FInD Color Detection & FInD Color Discrimination and compare performance against HRR & FM100 tests in 9 color-typical and 4 atypical observers. Chromatic stimuli were presented on a luminance-gamma and cone-isolating calibrated display in 3 charts, each containing 4×4 cells. Each cell contained 1 (detection) or 2 (discrimination) gaussian chromatic patches in 8 Hz luminance noise. Observers reported whether a stimulus was present or whether the 2 stimuli were different in color, respectively. D' was calculated for short, medium or long wavelength-isolating stimuli (detection) or for hue differences in HSV space, centered on the 3 primary and 3 confusion axes at 50% and 100% saturation (discrimination). Detection and Discrimination thresholds for atypical observers were higher than for typical observers, with selective elevation of detection and discrimination thresholds corresponding to classic color deficits. FInD Color Detection & Discrimination tests rapidly and easily identify chromatic sensitivity deficits along the visual pathways and may provide a valuable diagnostic tool.