[Application of numeric integration in waveform morphology of visual evoked potentials in optic nerve diseases....

Presentation of new waveform analysis of pattern and flash visual evoked potentials (VEPs) in patients with optic neuropathy.

The study involved 48 patients with acute optic neuritis (2nd group), 60 patients with demyelinating (3rd group), 32 patients with compressive (4th group), 24 patients with nonarteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (5th group) and 32 healthy subjects (1st group). Using computer system UTAS E-1000 (pattern and flash stimulation) the VEPs tests were performed. Amplitude, latency of 8 VEP components, 4 gradients, mean waveform and 16 areas of numeric integrals were calculated. Results were analysed with the use of AN-STAT software.

Statistical difference recorded under pattern stimulation was obtained in latency of 3rd, 4th, 5th components of VEP in comparing 3th and 4th groups, as well as amplitude of 3rd waveform, second gradient, areas of integrals between cursors number 2 and 4 in comparing 3rd and 5th groups (p < 0.001). Statistical difference recorded under flash stimulation was obtained in latency of 4th component in comparing 2nd and 5th groups, in amplitude of 7th waveform, areas of integrals covering 160 and 224, 224 and 256 ms, between cursors number 2 and 4 in comparing 4th and 5th groups, as well as in a range of areas of integrals covering 160 and 192 ms in comparing 4th and 5th groups (p < 0.001).

Results prove clinical potency of the presented new comprehensive method in analysis of VEP in optic nerve diseases.