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Foveal outer retinal function in eyes with unexplained visual symptoms or acuity loss
A Weiner1, M E Schmidt, S Patel
1Division of Ophthalmology, Saint Luke's Medical Center, Cleveland, Ohio 44104, USA. aweinerbo@aol.com
Archives of Ophthalmology (Chicago, Ill. : 1960)
|September 25, 1998
Summary
Foveal outer retinal dysfunction is common in unexplained vision loss, affecting nearly half of patients. Foveal cone electroretinography (ERG) can identify this dysfunction and aid diagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Neuroscience
- Retinal Imaging
Background:
- Unexplained visual symptoms or acuity loss pose diagnostic challenges.
- Identifying underlying retinal dysfunction is crucial for effective patient management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence of foveal outer retinal dysfunction in patients with unexplained visual symptoms.
- To assess the utility of foveal cone electroretinography (ERG) in diagnosing such cases.
Main Methods:
- A prospective study involving 73 eyes of 44 patients with unexplained visual issues.
- Foveal cone electroretinography (ERG) and letter recognition perimetry were performed.
- Data were compared to control groups with normal maculopathy.
Main Results:
- Abnormal foveal cone ERG findings were observed in 48% of eyes.
- Lower ERG amplitudes correlated with reduced visual acuity and increased perimetry errors.
- Foveal cone ERG test-retest results demonstrated consistency.
Conclusions:
- Foveal outer retinal dysfunction is a frequent cause of previously unexplained visual disturbances.
- Early consideration of foveal cone ERG testing is recommended for patients presenting with these symptoms.