Color vision test

Alternative names:

vision test - color

How the test is performed:

Your health care provider will ask you to sit in a comfortable position, and the test will be explained to you. You will be shown several tests plates illustrating the types of symbols you will be asked to identify.

Usually Isihara (pseudoisochromatic) plates are used to test color vision. They are made of dot patterns composed of primary colors. These dot patterns represent a symbol that is superimposed on a background of randomly mixed colors.

You will cover one eye, and the tester will then show you the test plates, holding them 14 inches from your face, and ask you to quickly identify the symbol found in each color scheme.

How to prepare for the test:

If your child is to have this test performed, it may be helpful to explain how the test will feel, and even practice or demonstrate on a doll. The more familiar your child is with what will happen and why, the less anxiety he or she will feel.

If you or your child normally wears glasses, they should be worn during the test.

How the test will feel:

The test is similar to a vision test.

Why the test is performed:

By using these plates, your health care provider can detect, classify, and estimate the degree of defect in your color vision.