Quantification of the Dynamic Visual Acuity Space at Real-World Luminances and Contrasts: The VA-CAL Test

Purpose Best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) is assessed at a single standardized luminance with maximum optotype contrast, not reflecting the constantly changing daily-life viewing conditions. For a more realistic estimation of visual performance at varying object contrasts (Cs) and ambient luminances (ALs), we developed a new VA test, VA-CAL. Methods Landolt-C-rings between 18% and 95% Weber contrast, were presented at 1 m distance (8 Alternative Forced Choice) on a 5.7 degree field in the middle of a frosted glass screen (66 degrees), back-lit by 3060 LEDs (generating ambient luminances between 0–10,000 cd/m²). Visual acuity (VA) was measured in 14 normally sighted participants twice for 8 conditions of ambient luminance and 6 conditions of contrast using a QUEST staircase procedure. Results VA improved continuously up to an ambient luminance of 3000 to 5000 cd/m² (best mean VA ± SEM: −0.47 ± 0.03 logMAR at C = 95%, AL = 3000 cd/m²), followed by a decline of VA at higher luminances with good test-retest variability. As expected, reduced contrast leads to a lower VA (worst mean VA ± SEM: −0.03 ± 0.03 logMAR at C = 18%, AL = 0 cd/m²). A 3D plot of these data shows the VA space (VAS) extending between the contrast and luminance axes, which describes the dynamics of VA continuously changing under varying everyday life conditions. Conclusions VA-CAL, an automated device and procedure, allows for simultaneous evaluation of VA at various contrast-luminance combinations, thus providing a more comprehensive assessment of spatial vision problems not seen with standard BCVA tests. Translational Relevance The new BCVA test VA-CAL incorporates a range of everyday contrast and ambient luminance conditions for a more realistic description of visual performance.

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