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Pattern electroretinogram and visual evoked cortical potential in ethambutol optic neuropathy
Y Kakisu1, E Adachi-Usami, A Mizota
1Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, Chiba University, Japan.
Documenta Ophthalmologica. Advances in Ophthalmology
|December 1, 1987
Summary
Ethambutol optic neuropathy affects vision by disrupting the optic nerve and retina. This study found significant abnormalities in visual evoked cortical potential and electroretinogram responses, indicating widespread visual pathway impairment.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Neuroscience
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Ethambutol is a first-line medication for tuberculosis treatment.
- Ethambutol optic neuropathy is a known but not fully understood side effect.
- Understanding the electrophysiological impact is crucial for early detection and management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the electrophysiological changes in ethambutol optic neuropathy.
- To assess the involvement of both the optic nerve and the retina.
- To characterize pattern visual evoked cortical potential (VECP) and pattern electroretinogram (ERG) abnormalities.
Main Methods:
- Studied 41 eyes from 21 patients with ethambutol optic neuropathy.
- Recorded pattern visual evoked cortical potential (VECP) responses.
- Performed pattern electroretinogram (ERG) in 12 eyes from six patients.
Main Results:
- VECP responses were undetectable in 21 eyes and showed delayed latency and decreased amplitude in 20 eyes.
- VECP latency recovery was faster than amplitude recovery.
- Pattern ERG showed significantly decreased amplitude despite normal peak latency, suggesting retinal involvement.
Conclusions:
- Ethambutol optic neuropathy causes significant electrophysiological disturbances.
- Findings indicate that the neuropathy affects both the optic nerve and the retina.
- VECP and ERG are valuable tools for assessing the extent of visual pathway damage.