The Multifocal Electroretinogram in Chinese High Myopia

Abstract

Abstract: : Purpose: To evaluate objectively the macular function in high myopia by means of the multifocal electroretinogram. Methods: Multifocal ERG were obtained using VERIS 5.05 visual evoked response imaging system for 30 patients (60 eyes) with high myopia and 30 normal subjects (60 eyes). Burian–Allen contact lens electrode was used to record the responses from 103 retinal locations in 7 min (16 segments). LERG were also recorded in same patients to a flickered sinusoidally to 31Hz with a hand–held stimulator with direct visualization of the fundus through dilated pupils. Results: The latencies of a wave and b wave delayed significantly, the amplitude densities and the amplitude summary of b wave decreased markedly at all rings in high myopia group comparing with normal group(P<0.05). 28 percent and 52 percent eyes with high myopia showed normal latencies and reduced amplitude densities and amplitude summary of b wave at ring 1 and ring 2 of multifocal ERG respectively, 65 percent and 43 percent eyes showed normal latencies and reduced amplitude densities and amplitude summary of b wave at ring 3 and ring 4 of multifocal ERG respectively, 25 percent and 18 percent eyes showed normal latencies and reduced amplitude densities and amplitude summary of b wave at ring 5 and ring 6 of multifocal ERG respectively, but 87% eyes showed markedly reduced amplitude and delayed latency of 31 Hz flicker focal ERGs. Conclusions: This study suggests multifocal ERG could give much important information about the disturbance of the macular function in high myopia cases than the focal flicker ERG. The advantage and defect between two recording methods in with high myopia could be discussed. Key Word: high myopia, multifocal electroretinogram, macular function

Keywords: myopia • electroretinography: clinical • macula/fovea