Abstract

Photoreceptor alignment can be studied by measuring the Stiles-Crawford effect (SCE) from which one can infer the principal alignment tendencies and distributive properties of the photoreceptor population being tested. Previously, the SCE has not been studied in aniridia due to its many complications. We present here results of measurements of the SCE in a unique aniridic observer who was tested extensively. SCE functions were obtained at various retinal loci using a two-channel Maxwellian view apparatus. Our results show the presence of secondary side lobes in the SCE function, higher than normal or normal curvatures of the SCE functions at various loci, and receptors aligned approximately toward the center of the retinal sphere. Some anomalies of dark adaptation were noted. This precluded measurement of scotopic SCE in this observer. The implications of these findings are discussed.

© 1986 Optical Society of America