Among charts listed for contrast sensitivity, which is cited as a contrast sensitivity chart used in assessment?

• A. Hiding Heidi chart
• B. Mars chart
• C. Bailey-Lovie chart
• D. Near charts

Answer: (A)

Understanding contrast sensitivity testing means recognizing that we’re measuring the ability to detect differences in luminance, not just resolve fine details at high contrast. The Hiding Heidi chart is designed specifically to probe this function by presenting a familiar figure that is partially obscured. As the contrast between the figure and its background is lowered, the ability to recognize the hidden image declines. The point at which recognition becomes possible reflects the person’s contrast sensitivity in a way that mirrors everyday viewing, making this chart a practical, commonly cited tool in assessment.

Bailey-Lovie charts, on the other hand, are primarily high-contrast acuity tests that use letters to measure sharpness of vision under strong contrast. Near charts assess vision at close distances and are more about near acuity rather than contrast sensitivity. The Mars chart exists in some contrasts of usage, but it is not as widely cited as a standard contrast sensitivity measure in basic assessment references as the Hiding Heidi chart.