Definition of Amsler grid

Amsler grid: While conducting an eye examination, the
eye care professional may ask the patient to look at an Amsler grid.
This grid is a pattern that resembles a checkerboard. The patient
covers one eye and stares at a black dot in the center of the grid.
While staring at the dot, the patient may notice that the straight
lines in the pattern appear wavy.



This kind of wavy pattern on viewing the Amsler grid is abnormal.
It can be an important warning sign of what is called wet age-related
macular degeneration. The macula is an area in the retina of the
eye that is responsible for central (straight-ahead) vision. It
deteriorates most often after age 60 resulting in age-related macular
degeneration (AMD). An early sign of the dangerous "wet" type of
AMD is the wavy appearance of the lines on the Amsler grid. The early
diagnosis of wet AMD is critical since laser surgery is urgently
needed to preserve sight.

The Amsler grids shown here are reduced in size; eye care
specialists have full-size grids in their office and for the patient
to use at home.