Fixation Preference Testing
Clinical assessment to determine if a child consistently prefers to use one eye over the other for visual tasks.
Full Definition
Fixation preference testing evaluates whether a child demonstrates a consistent preference for using one eye when both eyes are uncovered, which may indicate amblyopia or significant refractive differences between the eyes. The test involves observing the child's fixation behavior with both eyes open, then alternately covering each eye to assess fixation stability and preference. A strong objection to covering the preferred eye while showing no resistance to covering the non-preferred eye suggests amblyopia in the non-preferred eye. This test is particularly valuable in young children who cannot perform traditional visual acuity testing and helps identify functional vision differences between the eyes.
Usage
Usage note: Document specific behaviors observed during testing, including the child's response to covering each eye.
In Context
- "Fixation preference testing revealed a strong preference for the right eye with vigorous objection to right eye occlusion." — Pediatric vision screening report
- "The 2-year-old patient showed no fixation preference, suggesting equal visual function between the eyes." — Amblyopia assessment documentation