Full-field electroretinogram recorded with skin electrodes in normal adults

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Neuroscience
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Electroretinogram (ERG) recordings are crucial for assessing retinal function.
• Traditional ERG methods can be challenging in uncooperative patients or those with eyelid issues.
• Alternative recording techniques, such as using skin electrodes, are being explored to overcome these limitations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the efficacy of ERG recordings using skin electrodes versus traditional microfiber electrodes.
• To establish normative values for ERG parameters when recorded with skin electrodes.
• To evaluate the potential of skin electrodes for specific patient populations.

Main Methods:

• Fifty healthy volunteers (17-26 years) participated in the study.
• ERG recordings were performed using both gold disk skin electrodes and microfiber electrodes on contralateral eyes.
• Standardized protocols (ISCEV) and data acquisition systems were employed.

Main Results:

• Both electrode types demonstrated similar wave response morphologies and comparable implicit times.
• Skin electrodes showed reduced peak-to-peak amplitudes compared to microfiber electrodes (ranging from 46.2% to 61.5% reduction).
• Normative values for peak-to-peak amplitude and implicit time were determined for skin electrode recordings.

Conclusions:

• While skin electrodes yield lower amplitudes, they provide comparable wave morphologies and implicit times to microfiber electrodes.
• Established normative values allow for the interpretation of ERGs recorded with skin electrodes.
• Skin electrodes are a promising alternative for ERG testing in pediatric or patient populations with ocular surface abnormalities.