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Predictive value of the pattern electroretinogram in high-risk ocular hypertension
N Pfeiffer1, B Tillmon, M Bach
1Universitäts-Augenklinik, Mainz, Germany.
Investigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science
|April 1, 1993
Summary
The pattern electroretinogram (PERG) can predict visual field loss in ocular hypertension (OHT). A pathologic PERG at baseline indicated future vision loss, while a normal PERG suggested stability.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Neuroscience
- Visual Electrophysiology
Background:
- The pattern electroretinogram (PERG) shows reduced amplitude in early glaucoma and ocular hypertension (OHT).
- OHT is a risk factor for developing glaucoma and subsequent visual field loss.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the predictive capability of the PERG for visual field loss in OHT patients.
- To determine if PERG can differentiate OHT eyes that will progress to visual field loss.
Main Methods:
- 29 eyes of 18 high-risk OHT patients underwent visual field testing and PERG recording.
- PERG was performed using checkerboard patterns at 0.8 and 15 degrees at 16 reversals/sec.
- Visual fields were re-tested after 11-31 months.
Main Results:
- Visual field loss developed in 5 eyes during the follow-up period.
- All eyes that developed visual field loss had a pathologic PERG initially.
- No eyes with a normal PERG at baseline showed subsequent visual field changes.
Conclusions:
- The PERG shows potential as a tool to identify OHT patients at risk of visual field loss.
- These findings suggest PERG can help discriminate between progressive and stable OHT.
- Further research with larger sample sizes and longer follow-up is warranted.