Abstract
Purpose: :
High myopia is one of the leading causes of irreversible blindness due to its associated complications. Genetic factors play an important role in the development of high myopia. We have proposed to classify high myopia as Mendelian trait and complex trait in our previous studies (IOVS 2009; 50:1546; Arch Ophthalmol 2010; 128:1473). It will be important to find a sign that can differentiate Mendelian high myopia (mHM) from complex high myopia (cHM).
Methods: :
Thirty three subjects with high myopia presented before school age were collected (mHM group). Meanwhile, we ascertained ten subjects who had myopia onset at primary school and progressed to high myopia at high school (cHM group). Electroretinogram was recorded in all 86 eyes.
Results: :
The amplitude of cone b-wave in mHM group is significantly lower than cHM group (p<0.0001). We did not find significant difference on other components.
Conclusions: :
Reduction of Cone b-wave is a specific sign the may differentiate mHM from cHM. It suggests cone dysfunction in mHM and implies a specific signal pathway that may participate in the development of mHM.
Keywords: myopia • genetics • electroretinography: clinical