[Multifocal ERG using ERG-jet and Gold Foil electrodes in normal subjects: comparison and reproducibility]

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Neuroscience
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• The multifocal electroretinogram (mfERG) is a critical diagnostic tool in ophthalmology.
• Electrode choice can influence mfERG signal quality and reproducibility.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare mfERG amplitudes obtained with the ERG-jet electrode versus the Gold Foil electrode.
• To assess the intraindividual reproducibility of mfERG recordings using both electrode types.

Main Methods:

• mfERG recordings were performed on 27 healthy subjects using a 61-hexagon pattern.
• Both ERG-jet and Gold Foil electrodes were used for mfERG acquisition.
• N1 and P1 wave amplitudes were analyzed, and Bland-Altman analysis assessed reproducibility.

Main Results:

• mfERG amplitudes were significantly lower with the Gold Foil electrode, averaging 72% of ERG-jet amplitudes.
• Intraindividual reproducibility was higher with the ERG-jet electrode (N1: 9.1%, P1: 6.7%) compared to the Gold Foil electrode (N1: 18.2%, P1: 13.5%).

Conclusions:

• The ERG-jet electrode yields larger and more reproducible mfERG amplitudes than the Gold Foil electrode.
• Established limits of agreement for each ring can help differentiate normal variations from potential retinal disorders in clinical practice.