Decoding PERG: A neuro-ophthalmic retinal ganglion cell function review

Area of Science:

• Neuro-ophthalmology
• Retinal electrophysiology
• Ophthalmology

Background:

• Clinical evaluation of neuro-ophthalmologic diseases often focuses on established structural or functional damage.
• Retinal ganglion cell (RGC) dysfunction can be monitored using steady-state pattern electroretinogram (PERG).
• Amplitude and latency shifts in PERG provide insights into early RGC damage.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the latest findings on the application of steady-state PERG.
• To explore PERG's role in early manifest glaucoma, non-arteritic ischemic optic neuropathy, and multiple sclerosis with unilateral recovered optic neuritis.

Main Methods:

• Review of recent scientific literature on steady-state PERG.
• Analysis of PERG amplitude and latency shifts in various neuro-ophthalmic conditions.

Main Results:

• Steady-state PERG responses yield early, specific information regarding neuro-ophthalmic diseases impacting the inner retina.
• PERG demonstrates distinct amplitude and latency outcomes correlating with specific neuro-ophthalmic conditions.

Conclusions:

• Steady-state PERG enables early recognition of RGC changes and dysfunction degree.
• PERG alterations can be induced in healthy and susceptible individuals via stress tests, such as head-down tilting or water drinking.