Abstract
Purpose: :
To describe the effect of transcorneal electrical stimulation (TES) in the best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), visual field and electrophysiological response in patients with retinitis pigmentosa (RP).
Methods: :
Descriptive, experimental, prospective study. Patients with clinical diagnosis of RP, with BCVA of 20/200 or better, who were treated with TES therapy were included. We performed a complete ophthalmological examination, BCVA, visual field (Humphrey visual field, Carl Zeiss Meditec Dublin USA) and electroretinogram (ERG) assessment at base line. The TES was delivered by a monopolar contact lens electrode every week for one hour for 30 weeks. Follow-up appointments were performed every week and the studies were repeated every 5 weeks since baseline.
Results: :
Twelve patients were included, 5 males, 7 females, Ages ranging from 21 to 73 years-old. Eight patients were diagnosed with classic RP and 4 with Usher syndrome. After stimulation, there was no change in ERG. A minimal increase in visual field was observed. BCVA increased 10 (range) letters but the change was not significant.
Conclusions: :
Transcorneal electrical stimulation in eyes of patients with RP resulted in a slightly improved visual field and BCVA, although the change was not statistically significant we propose this treatment to prevent a decrease of best correct visual acuity.
Keywords: retinal degenerations: hereditary • retina • clinical research methodology