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Contrast sensitivity and pattern ERG in Waldenstrom's macroglobulinaemia

M P Clarke1, M Yap, J R Weatherill

  • 1Department of Ophthalmology, Bradford Royal Infirmary.

Eye (London, England)
|January 1, 1987
PubMed

Insights

Patients with Waldenstrom's macroglobulinaemia (WM) showed abnormal contrast sensitivity. However, pattern electroretinography (ERG) revealed no significant differences in visual function between WM patients in remission and healthy controls.

Area of Science:

  • Ophthalmology
  • Hematology
  • Neuroscience

Background:

  • Waldenstrom's macroglobulinaemia (WM) is a rare lymphoproliferative disorder.
  • Patients may experience ocular complications affecting vision.
  • Understanding visual function in WM patients during remission is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To assess contrast sensitivity and pattern electroretinography (ERG) in WM patients.
  • To compare visual function between WM patients in remission and age-matched controls.
  • To investigate potential subclinical visual pathway alterations.

Main Methods:

  • Contrast sensitivity testing was performed on WM patients and controls.
  • Pattern electroretinography (ERG) was used to evaluate retinal function.
  • WM patients were in remission on maintenance therapy with moderate plasma viscosity.

Main Results:

  • WM patients demonstrated impaired contrast sensitivity compared to controls.
  • No significant differences were observed in the amplitude of pattern ERG between the groups.
  • These findings suggest specific visual pathway involvement in WM.

Conclusions:

  • Contrast sensitivity deficits are present in WM patients even during remission.
  • Pattern ERG appears to be preserved, indicating intact macular function.
  • Visual assessments in WM should include contrast sensitivity measures.

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