The vertical coincidence test is a method used in ophthalmology and optometry to assess the alignment of the eyes.

What it’s for:

The vertical coincidence test is used to:

1. Detect and measure vertical deviations (misalignments) of the eyes
2. Assess binocular vision and eye alignment
3. Diagnose and manage conditions like hypertropia (one eye higher than the other) and other vertical strabismus disorders

How it’s performed:

1. The patient is asked to look at a target, usually a light or an object.
2. A prism is placed in front of one eye to measure the deviation.
3. The prism is adjusted until the two images seen by the patient appear to be vertically coincident (aligned).
4. The amount of prism required to achieve alignment is a measure of the vertical deviation.

What it shows:

The test shows the amount of vertical misalignment between the two eyes, helping diagnose conditions like:

1. Hypertropia (one eye higher than the other)
2. Hypotropia (one eye lower than the other)
3. Other vertical strabismus disorders

The vertical coincidence test provides valuable information about eye alignment and helps diagnose and manage vertical strabismus. If you have more questions or need further clarification, feel free to ask.