What is the name of the test used for detecting a relative afferent pupillary defect?

The swinging flashlight test is the method specifically designed to detect a relative afferent pupillary defect (RAPD). This test evaluates the function of the optic nerve and the relative sensitivity of both eyes to light. During the procedure, a flashlight is alternately moved from one eye to the other. If one eye has a defect, it will respond less to the light than the unaffected eye, leading to a constriction of the pupil in the unaffected eye when light is directed towards it, but a lesser constriction or even a dilatation when the light is directed at the affected eye. This change in pupillary response is indicative of a relative afferent pupillary defect, making the swinging flashlight test a key assessment in ophthalmology for diagnosing optic nerve issues or retinal conditions.

In contrast, visual acuity tests assess sharpness of vision and are not designed to detect defects in the pupillary light reflex. The general term "pupillary response test" lacks specificity in this context, as it does not pinpoint the technique used to identify afferent defects. Lastly, the optokinetic nystagmus test evaluates the eye's movement in response to moving visual stimuli and doesn't assess pupillary reactions or defects in the afferent pathway