What Is Kinetic Perimetry?

What Is Kinetic Perimetry Used For?

Kinetic perimetry is often chosen when a detailed assessment of peripheral vision is important.

• Monitoring diseases that cause peripheral constriction (such as retinitis pigmentosa)
• Evaluating neurologic or optic nerve disorders that affect visual fields
• Documenting functional field loss (for example, for disability evaluation in some settings)

It may also be used to complement automated tests when results are unreliable or when very wide fields are needed.

How Does Kinetic Perimetry Work?

In classic Goldmann-style testing, a trained examiner moves a standardized light target of fixed size and brightness across a bowl-shaped screen while you maintain fixation.

1. You press a button or say when you first see the moving target.
2. The examiner repeats movements along multiple meridians to map boundaries.
3. Results are drawn as isopters and scotomas that show where vision is present or missing.

Some modern systems perform semi-automated kinetic programs with similar principles.

How Is It Different From Static Perimetry?

Static perimetry presents stationary lights at fixed locations and changes brightness to find sensitivity thresholds, often using automated machines.

Kinetic perimetry uses moving targets to outline field boundaries and can better capture very peripheral defects in some conditions.

Because it can be operator-dependent, kinetic testing quality relies on good technique, steady fixation, and consistent response timing.

How Should You Prepare for the Test?

Preparation is simple, but good technique improves accuracy.

• Wear your usual distance correction if instructed, and bring your glasses or contact lenses.
• Rest beforehand, because fatigue can slow responses and reduce reliability.
• Focus on the central target and respond as soon as you see the moving light without searching for it.

Dilation is usually not required, but follow your clinic's instructions.