Ultra-rapid School Vision Screening in Developing Nations Using the Brückner Test

Abstract

PurposeTo compare the Brückner test with conventional vision testing for the screening of school children.Subjects and MethodA pediatric ophthalmologist performed the Brückner test followed by a vision testing by a masked optometrist. The test was performed initially in a closed room with the room-lights on for the first 1,714 children and with the room lights off for the remaining 657 children.ResultsPrevalence of presenting vision <6/9 in the urban school was 9.11%. Sensitivity of the Brückner test was 88%, specificity was 98%;, predictive value of the positive test was 69%, and predictive value of the negative test was 99%. The specificity and predictive value of the positive test were slightly better with the room lights off. The time required to perform the Brückner test was less than 10 seconds per child.ConclusionThe Brückner test can be used for ultra-rapid screening of school going children in developing nations. Further studies are required to explore its use for vision screening of preverbal children, mentally retarded children and uncooperative children. Follow-up studies are required to compare the results of the Brückner test with cycloplegic refraction.