What is macular sparing?

In general, macular sparing refers to the phenomenon observed during visual field examination where central fixation function is preserved within an area of hemianopia or complete blindness. The detailed analysis is as follows:

Macular sparing is a special phenomenon occurring in visual field defects caused by brain lesions. When such lesions affect the visual pathway, parts of the visual field may become impaired, yet the region corresponding to the macular fovea often retains normal vision. The macula is responsible for fine and color vision, and its nerve fibers have a unique distribution along the visual pathway. Some brain lesions do not involve these specific fibers, allowing central vision to remain intact even when peripheral vision is damaged. This phenomenon is commonly seen in visual field disorders resulting from cerebrovascular diseases, brain tumors, and other neurological conditions, and can serve as a reference for lesion localization.

In daily life, eye protection should be prioritized: avoid direct exposure of the eyes to intense light, and wear sunglasses outdoors to reduce irritation. Maintain a regular sleep schedule, avoid staying up late and overusing the eyes, to prevent eye fatigue from worsening visual discomfort. Include adequate dietary intake of nutrients rich in lutein and vitamins to support macular health. Regular eye examinations are recommended, especially for individuals with a history of brain lesions, to monitor changes in vision and visual fields promptly. Early detection of abnormalities should lead to timely medical intervention, helping maintain stable visual function.