Comparison of optic disc image assessment methods when examining serial photographs for glaucomatous progression

AIM: To assess serial, simultaneous stereo optic disc images by four methods for glaucomatous progression. METHODS: Using varying techniques, two ophthalmologists assessed serial optic disc images of 52 eyes from 27 patients with a mean duration between images of 18 months. The neuroretinal rim width was qualitatively assessed by four assessment methods and compared with quantitative rim measurements made using PC based software. RESULTS: The highest sensitivity of 83% was achieved using computerised stereo chronoscopy. CONCLUSION: Stereo chronoscopy improved the detection of subtle optic disc changes when compared with simpler assessment techniques.