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Updated: Jun 7, 2026
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Direct-Coupled Electroretinogram (DC-ERG) for Recording the Light-Evoked Electrical Responses of the Mouse Retinal Pigment Epithelium
Published on: July 14, 2020
Effect of cataract on electroretinographic response
Tanapat Ratanapakorn1, Tanikarn Patarakittam, Suthasinee Sinawat
1Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand.
Summary
Cataract surgery had minimal impact on most electroretinogram (ERG) responses, though mesopic b-wave amplitude significantly decreased. ERG testing is a reliable tool for predicting visual outcomes before cataract surgery.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Neuroscience
- Clinical Electrophysiology
Background:
- Cataracts significantly impair vision by obstructing light transmission to the retina.
- Electroretinography (ERG) assesses retinal function, but its utility in evaluating cataract impact requires further study.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effect of dense cataracts on various electroretinographic (ERG) responses.
- To determine if cataract surgery alters ERG parameters and assess ERG's prognostic value.
Main Methods:
- Electroretinograms (ERG) were recorded from 30 subjects with dense cataracts before and after surgery.
- Standard ISCEV protocols were used for scotopic, mesopic, photopic, oscillatory potentials, and 30 Hz flicker ERG.
- Cataract severity was graded using Lens Opacities Classification System III (LOCS III).
Main Results:
- Most ERG wave amplitudes showed non-significant increases post-surgery.
- A significant decrease in mesopic b-wave amplitude was observed after cataract surgery.
- No significant eye diseases were present in the study cohort.
Conclusions:
- While most ERG responses showed slight, non-significant changes post-cataract surgery, the mesopic b-wave decreased significantly.
- Electroretinography (ERG) remains a valuable tool for assessing visual prognosis prior to cataract surgery.
