The swinging-flashlight test,[1] also known as the swinging light test,[2] is used in medical examinations to identify a relative afferent pupillary defect.
For an adequate test, vision must not be entirely lost. In dim room light, the examiner notes the size of the pupils. The patient is asked to gaze into the distance, and the examiner swings the beam of a penlight back and forth from one pupil to the other, and observes the size of pupils and reaction in the eye that is lit.
The swinging flashlight test is used to test for a relative afferent pupillary defect or a Marcus Gunn pupil. Swinging the flashlight back and forth between the two eyes identifies if one pupil has less light perception than the other. Shine the flashlight at one eye noting the size of both pupils. Then swing the flashlight to the other eye. If both pupils now dilate then that eye has perceived less light stimulus (a defect in the sensory or afferent pathway) than the opposite eye.
McCall, Becky (17 November 2023). "Swinging Light: Back to Basics for Spotting Diabetic Retinopathy". Medscape UK.
