Pattern Electroretinogram Parameters and their Associations with Optical Coherence Tomography in Glaucoma Suspects.

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Neuroscience
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• Glaucoma suspects (GS) require sensitive methods for early detection of retinal ganglion cell (RGC) dysfunction.
• Optical coherence tomography (OCT) provides structural measurements, but functional assessment is crucial for monitoring disease progression.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the utility of steady state pattern electroretinogram (ssPERG) in detecting RGC dysfunction.
• To determine the relationship between ssPERG parameters and OCT-derived measurements of retinal thickness in GS.

Main Methods:

• Prospective cohort study involving GS with suspicious optic disk appearance and risk factors.
• Standard eye examination, standard automated perimetry, OCT, and ssPERG were performed.
• Correlation and regression analyses were conducted between ssPERG parameters (Mag, MagD) and RNFL, GCL/IPL, and macular thicknesses.

Main Results:

• ssPERG parameters showed significant correlations with retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL), ganglion cell layer/inner plexiform layer (GCL/IPL), and macular thicknesses.
• ssPERG parameters, particularly Mag and MagD, significantly predicted RNFL and GCL/IPL thicknesses.
• ssPERG was also predictive of inner and some outer macular sector thicknesses.

Conclusions:

• ssPERG demonstrates significant correlations with and predictive value for RNFL, GCL/IPL, and macular thicknesses in glaucoma suspects.
• ssPERG may serve as a valuable, objective functional tool for early identification and monitoring of glaucoma progression.