To check pupil reactivity, an ophthalmologist or optometrist will typically perform a series of tests. These tests typically involve observing the pupils in response to light in different scenarios, such as in a dimly lit room or in response to bright light. The doctor may also measure the pupils' diameter in response to various stimuli, such as when looking at a white wall or when focusing on a target.
Pupillary Light Reflex
The pupillary light reflex is a test that measures the pupil's response to light. This test is used to evaluate the pupil's ability to constrict in response to light and to assess the integrity of cranial nerve pathways. In this test, the doctor will shine a light into each eye. The pupils should constrict in response to the bright light, and this should happen in sync.
Pupil Accommodation
Pupil accommodation is the process of the pupils changing size in response to changing focus. This test is used to evaluate the pupil's ability to focus on objects and to assess the integrity of the visual pathways. In this test, the doctor will ask the person to look at objects both close and far away and observe the pupil's response. The pupil should constrict when focusing on close objects and dilate when focusing on distant objects.
Pupil Dilatation
Pupil dilatation is a test that evaluates the pupil's ability to dilate in response to various stimuli. This test is used to assess the integrity of the autonomic nervous system. In this test, the doctor will administer a dilating eye drop to each eye and observe the pupil's response over a period of time. The pupils should dilate in response to the eye drops and the rate of dilatation should be consistent in both eyes.