In a neuro-ophthalmic exam, which feature is assessed by PERRLA?

In a neuro-ophthalmic exam, which feature is assessed by PERRLA?

• A. Pupil size and reaction to light and accommodation
• B. Visual acuity
• C. Color vision
• D. Depth perception

Answer: (A)

PERRLA assesses how the pupils respond and behave in a neuro-ophthalmic exam: it checks that the pupils are equal in size, round in shape, and that they react appropriately to light and to accommodation (focusing on a near object). This combination tests the autonomic pathways that control the pupil: the direct and consensual light reflex and the near response. When light is shined, a normal pupil constricts; when focusing on something near, both pupils constrict as part of the accommodation reflex. A normal set of responses suggests intact pathways from the retina through the optic nerve and deeper brain centers to the oculomotor nerve’s parasympathetic fibers. Visual acuity, color vision, and depth perception are separate functions and are not determined by PERRLA.

PERRLA assesses how the pupils respond and behave in a neuro-ophthalmic exam: it checks that the pupils are equal in size, round in shape, and that they react appropriately to light and to accommodation (focusing on a near object). This combination tests the autonomic pathways that control the pupil: the direct and consensual light reflex and the near response. When light is shined, a normal pupil constricts; when focusing on something near, both pupils constrict as part of the accommodation reflex. A normal set of responses suggests intact pathways from the retina through the optic nerve and deeper brain centers to the oculomotor nerve’s parasympathetic fibers. Visual acuity, color vision, and depth perception are separate functions and are not determined by PERRLA.