Age-Related Variations in Photostress Recovery Time and Establishment of Normative Reference Values among Healthy Individuals in Puducherry, India: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background: Photostress Recovery Time (PSRT) is a simple and non-invasive clinical test used to evaluate macular function by measuring the time required for visual recovery following exposure to a bright light stimulus. Establishing normative PSRT values is essential for distinguishing normal retinal function from early pathological changes.

Objective: To establish normative PSRT values among healthy individuals aged 8-70 years and evaluate the influence of age and gender on retinal recovery. Methods: A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 380 healthy participants recruited from Aarupadai Veedu Medical College and Hospital, Puducherry. Participants with normal ocular health and best-corrected visual acuity of 6/12 or better were included. Photostress recovery time was measured using a standardized photostress protocol. Descriptive and inferential statistical analyses were performed to assess age- and gender-related variations in PSRT.

Results: The overall mean PSRT was 20.65 ± 11.74 seconds. Recovery time increased progressively with age, ranging from 8.92 ± 2.43 seconds in the 8-15-year age group to 47.00 ± 10.51 seconds among participants aged 56-70 years. Male participants demonstrated a mean PSRT of 21.17 ± 12.94 seconds, while females showed a mean PSRT of 20.33 ± 10.95 seconds. A significant positive association was observed between age and PSRT.

Conclusion: Photostress recovery time increases significantly with advancing age, while gender exerts minimal influence on retinal recovery. The normative values established in this study may serve as useful clinical reference standards for assessing macular function and identifying early retinal abnormalities.