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Electrophysiologic studies in birdshot chorioretinopathy
H A Priem1, A De Rouck, J J De Laey
1Department of Ophthalmology, University of Gent, Belgium.
American Journal of Ophthalmology
|October 15, 1988
Summary
Birdshot chorioretinopathy primarily affects inner retinal function, causing significant visual impairments. Outer retinal function appears largely preserved despite choroidal inflammation.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Retinal Diseases
- Neuro-ophthalmology
Background:
- Birdshot chorioretinopathy is a rare inflammatory eye disease.
- It affects the choroid and retina, potentially leading to vision loss.
Purpose of the Study:
- To comprehensively assess retinal function in patients with birdshot chorioretinopathy.
- To differentiate between inner and outer retinal involvement.
Main Methods:
- Investigated dark adaptation, color vision, visual fields, electro-oculography (EOG), electroretinography (ERG), and visual-evoked cortical potentials (VEPs).
- Analyzed specific components of ERG (a-wave, b-wave, oscillatory potentials) and VEPs (pattern reversal, flash).
Main Results:
- Consistent abnormalities found in dark adaptation, color vision (blue-yellow type), visual fields, EOG, ERG, and VEPs.
- ERG showed reduced amplitude, increased b-wave latency, and absent oscillatory potentials.
- Pattern reversal VEPs were markedly disturbed, while the ERG a-wave and flash VEPs were preserved.
Conclusions:
- Findings suggest inner retinal disease is the primary cause of visual dysfunction in birdshot chorioretinopathy.
- Little evidence supports outer retinal dysfunction directly from choroidal inflammation.