Evaluating objective smooth pursuit eye movements with Tobii eye tracker: normative data and clinical applications

Background: Smooth pursuit eye movements (SPEMs) are essential for stabilizing vision during the tracking of moving objects, ensuring continuous alignment on the fovea. This study aims to establish normative data for SPEMs within a clinical context using the Tobii eye tracker, enhancing diagnostic assessments of eye movement abnormalities. Methods: Thirty participants, aged 20 to 24 years, from the International Islamic University Malaysia community, were selected according to strict inclusion criteria to minimize confounding factors that could affect eye movement performance. Participants’ SPEM performance was assessed using key metrics: root mean square error (RMSE) and pursuit gain, which evaluate tracking accuracy and synchronization with target movement. The data generated served as a normative baseline for comparison with patient data. Results: The study generated normative data, revealing an average RMSE of 0.63 ± 0.10 and a pursuit gain of 0.99 ± 0.05, closely aligning with or surpassing existing normative benchmarks. Minor tracking deviations, particularly at peak target velocities, were observed, reflecting expected physiological limitations of smooth pursuit accuracy. Discussion: The findings demonstrate the effectiveness of the Tobii eye tracker in providing precise, objective measurements of SPEMs, establishing it as a reliable tool for clinical diagnostics. The normative data offer a valuable reference for clinicians to identify deviations that may indicate neurological or psychiatric disorders. This study highlights the role of eye-tracking technology in improving the diagnostic evaluation of oculomotor dysfunction, supporting its integration into clinical practice for early detection and intervention. Conclusion: The established benchmarks serve as a valid reference for clinicians to detect abnormalities in smooth pursuit patterns, aiding in the identification of potential disorders.