What is an optotype?

Optotype is a tool for evaluating vision with a number of letters or symbols presented in a standardized format. Doctors, such as optometists and pediatricians, ask the patient to look at the optotype and report what they see. This information can be used to determine visual acuity to see if the patient needs to wear correction lenses. The SNELLEN graph using a series of letters that gradually reduces the size is known, but other types of graphs are also available.

Standardization can be important for vision assessment because it allows doctors to compare with the known baseline. Each optotype is optimized for visibility, with letters or shapes that should be visually sharp when the patient has a good vision and sits at the recommended distances. If the patient has problems with a distinction between or identifying shapes, it is an indicator that the patient's vision needs correction.

In small children who cannot read, the optotype uses Shapes. The child is asked to describe or identied shapes in the vision test. Early intervention for children with suspicion of vision problems can be important. Similarly, adults who are not literate can be tested using a shape -based graph instead of using letters, which could be difficult. In these settings there are several variations of shape -based designs.

vision test with optotype must be carried out consistently for valid results. The room should have suitable light levels and the subject must be seated at a recommended distance. Testers should not anticipate entities of insulation of specific letters in an effort to help them see better and may not invite them to suggest which letters could see. As the subject goes through a graph or a number of cards presented, the tester can make notes about the visual ACUIT subjects later.

Optotypes also provide a quick tool for assessing visual acuityIn environments such as the department of motor vehicles. Someone applying for a driving license may be asked to pass a quick eye test managed by an agency employee. The applicant looks at the chart and reads the letters or reports symbols, allowing the employee to determine whether the applicant can safely drive. In cases where people need their glasses to be able to see conveniently, they can receive a license with remedial lens, indicating that they have to wear glasses or contacts to control.