A recent systematic review and meta-analysis of 10 studies found the use of an Amsler grid was insufficient for detecting and monitoring neovascular age-related macular degeneration (AMD) in patents with signs of early or dry AMD.

The multicentre European review included 1,890 eyes of patients with a mean age of 62-83 years. Researchers found the Amsler grid’s sensitivity and specificity to diagnose neovascular AMD were 67% and 99%, respectively, compared with healthy control participants. When control participants were patients with non-neovascular AMD, sensitivity and specificity were 71% and 63%, respectively.

Although the Amsler grid is easy and inexpensive to use, the authors urged caution in using it as its sensitivity may not be sufficient, especially for at-risk patients, who they suggested should be encouraged to seek regular examinations, regardless of their Amsler grid test results. The study was published in JAMA Ophthalmology.