Quantitative scoring methods of the Farnsworth D15 and Waggoner computerized D15 color vision tests in clinical practice

Abstract

The Farnsworth D15 (FR‐D15) color vision test is generally used to determine whether individuals with color vision defects have good color discrimination to perform their jobs safely. The Waggoner computerized color vision test D15 (WC‐D15) is a computerized version of the FR‐D15 test. This study aimed to evaluate the color differences vectors analyses (CDV) quantitative scoring in clinical practice using the FR‐D15 and WC‐D15 color vision tests. Fifty‐nine individuals with congenital red‐green color vision deficiency participated in this study. All participants were screened with the Ishihara, Waggoner Pseudoisochromatic plates, and City University Tests. Participants also completed FR‐D15 and WC‐D15 tests. The number of crossings, and CDV indices, including the confusion index, total error score, specificity index, and angle were assessed. There were significant correlations between the number of crossings and each of the CDV parameters. Results of both D15 tests showed that defects classified by confusion angles improve with an increase in crossings. The correct diagnosis rate improved when the criterion of failure was relaxed compared to the generally accepted criteria of ≥2. A CDV angle of either 0° or −3° accurately classifies defects as protan or deutan. Quantitative measurements of the FR‐D15 and WC‐D15 color vision tests showed good results in detecting color vision deficiency and diagnosing the type of defect. The CDV parameters positively correlated with the traditional evaluation of the defect's presence by counting the crossings. It is more accurate for clinicians to interpret their results using the CDV parameters.

Evaluation of colour vision impairment during acute hypobaric hypoxia in aviation medicine: a randomized controlled trial

“…The WC-D15 comes as a digital version of the conventional Farnsworth–Munsell Dichotomous D-15 and provides the respective Moment of Inertia according to the quantitative scoring technique (Colour Difference Vector Analysis) by Vingrys and King-Smith [ 32 , 34 ]. The authors used the 1976 CIELUV colour space of Wyszecki and Stiles for interpretation of the results.…”

“…The Scatter Index (S-index) is a measure of how regularly crossings are aligned. Ultimately, the Angle of Inertia indicates the type of defect with protan angles larger than 0 and deutan angles smaller than 0 [ 32 , 34 ].…”

“…Subjects who were identified as colour vision deficient during the Pre-testing phase were excluded from the analysis. Both tests were third party validated and are amongst current tools recommended by FAA and EASA for aircrew colour vision assessment [ 5 , 32 , 36 , 37 ].…”

“…On the other hand, analogue test systems must be performed under standardized light conditions, which require special light booths that may in turn cost several thousand Euros. Digital colour vision tests such as the Waggoner Computerized Color Vision Test (CCVT) and the Waggoner D-15 (WC-D15) (Waggoner Color Vision Testing, LLC © (Rogers, USA) offer an alternative in the future, since they are less demanding in terms of environmental conditions and at the same time can be used in part on commercially available display devices [ 7 , 32 ]. However, such products are still a relatively new development and have not yet been tested under many conditions crucial for scientific purposes.…”

Evaluation of the Third edition of the City University Colour Vision Test

“…Visual inspection and a quantitive analysis are highly correlated. [18][19][20] The type of defect was classified as deutan, protan, tritan or unclassified. The classification was based on the predominant number of crossings that paralleled the reference lines on the score sheet.…”