Field Photorefractorimetry of the Eye (Retinal Pigment Layer Thickness Measurement)
This test measures the thickness of the retinal pigment layer in your eyes, which can help assess eye health and detect early signs of conditions like macular degeneration.
Understanding retinal pigment layer thickness may aid in diagnosing or monitoring eye-related health concerns.
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 65898-9
- Short code
- Eye fields photo R eye Ret dig photog
- Synonyms
- Eye fields photo R eye Ret dig photog
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- retinal-digital-photography
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Is Done
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms such as blurred vision, changes in vision, or signs of retinal issues. It can also be part of routine eye exams for older adults or those with a family history of eye diseases.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You may be asked to sit still while a specialized imaging device captures detailed images of your retina. This is typically done during an eye exam at an ophthalmology office.
How the Test Results Are Interpreted
Results are compared to standard measurements to determine if the retinal pigment layer thickness is within normal ranges or if it suggests potential abnormalities. Your provider will discuss findings in the context of your overall health and symptoms.
Common Conditions Monitored
This test helps monitor conditions like age-related macular degeneration (AMD), diabetic retinopathy, and other retinal diseases by tracking changes in retinal pigment layer thickness over time.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
This test provides a non-invasive way to evaluate the health of the retinal pigment layer, which is crucial for maintaining vision. Abnormal findings may indicate underlying retinal diseases that require further medical evaluation or treatment.
Frequently asked questions
What does a normal retinal pigment layer thickness mean for me?
How often should I get this test?
Can this test detect early signs of macular degeneration?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy