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Multifocal Electroretinograms
Published on: December 4, 2011
A novel method for screening the multifocal electroretonogram in patients using hydroxychloroquine.
Wellington H Chang1, Bradley J Katz, Judith E A Warner
1John A. Moran Eye Center, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA. wellington_chang@hotmail.com
Retina (Philadelphia, Pa.)
|November 11, 2008
Summary
Multifocal electroretinography (mfERG) can detect reduced retinal function in hydroxychloroquine users, even with normal clinical exams. This method aids in identifying patients needing close monitoring for potential toxicity.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Retinal Imaging
- Pharmacological Toxicity
Background:
- Hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) is widely used for autoimmune conditions.
- Ocular toxicity is a known risk associated with HCQ therapy.
- Early detection of retinal dysfunction is crucial for preventing irreversible vision loss.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the utility of multifocal electroretinography (mfERG) in assessing retinal function in patients undergoing hydroxychloroquine treatment.
- To determine if mfERG can detect subclinical retinal changes indicative of hydroxychloroquine retinopathy.
- To assess the effectiveness of a novel Color Difference Plot Scoring System in interpreting mfERG results.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective chart review of 23 patients (46 eyes) on hydroxychloroquine therapy.
- mfERG testing was performed to measure retinal response amplitudes in central and paracentral regions.
- A novel Color Difference Plot Scoring System was used to analyze mfERG color plots and correlate findings with response amplitudes.
Main Results:
- Thirty-one out of 92 assessed regions showed depressed mfERG response amplitudes.
- Clinical examination findings were often normal despite evidence of reduced retinal function on mfERG.
- The Color Difference Plot Scoring System demonstrated high sensitivity (93.55%) for detecting depressed mfERG responses.
Conclusions:
- mfERG is a valuable tool for detecting decreased retinal function in hydroxychloroquine patients, even with normal clinical examinations.
- The Color Difference Plot Scoring System can assist in the clinical interpretation of mfERG results.
- Early detection of retinal dysfunction using mfERG may help identify patients at risk for hydroxychloroquine retinopathy and guide monitoring strategies.
