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How to Obtain Reliable Visual Event-related Potentials in Newborns
Published on: October 24, 2019
Early assessment of visual function in full term newborns
Daniela Ricci1, Laura Cesarini, Michela Groppo
1Paediatric Neurology Unit, Catholic University, Rome, Italy.
Early Human Development
|May 22, 2007
Summary
A new visual function test battery for newborns is simple to use and provides valuable early insights. This 5-10 minute assessment aids in evaluating neonatal visual development shortly after birth.
Area of Science:
- Neonatal neurology
- Developmental pediatrics
- Ophthalmology
Background:
- Neonatal neurological exams typically offer limited visual function assessment.
- Current methods often focus only on ocular movements and target fixation/following.
Purpose of the Study:
- To create a straightforward test battery for assessing diverse visual functions in neonates.
- To enable early visual function evaluation as soon as 48 hours after birth.
Main Methods:
- A 9-item test battery was developed and administered to 50 low-risk, full-term neonates.
- The battery assesses ocular motility, fixation, tracking, stripe discrimination, and attention.
Main Results:
- The battery is easy to administer, requiring minimal training.
- Testing is feasible in various settings, including incubators, with small, cleanable equipment.
Conclusions:
- A simple, quick (5-10 minute) visual function test battery can be readily applied to neonates.
- This tool offers valuable information on early visual development in newborns.
