Neuroprotection in optic neuropathy: assessment of effect

Assessment of the therapeutic effect of neuroprotective agents requires kno wledge of the natural history and structural and functional effects of indi vidual optic neuropathies. New technologies are now available for a more ac curate quantification of optic nerve and retinal nerve fiber layer topograp hy (confocal scanning laser ophthalmoscopy and polarimetry), surface vascul ature (laser Doppler flowmetry), visual acuity, visual field (SITA, high-pa ss resolution, SWAP, frequency doubling technology), and electrophysiologic responses (multifocal ERG, VEP).