Abstract
Abstract: :
Purpose: To examine the functional significance of abnormalities present in fundus autofluorescence images from patients with retinitis pigmentosa and good acuity. Methods: Patients with rod-cone dystrophy confirmed by ISCEV-standard ERGs, and having visual acuity of 20/30 or better, were examined. Macular function was assessed with Pattern Electroretinography (PERG) and fine matrix mapping. Autofluorescence (AF) imaging of lipofuscin at the level of the RPE was performed using a confocal scanning laser ophthalmoscope(modified Zeiss). Results: Approximately 70% of patients had a para-foveal ring of increased AF. The PERG P50 component was abnormal in some patients, but not others. This did not relate to the severity of the full-field ERG abnormality, but was highly correlated with the radius of the ring of increased AF. Increasing PERG stimulus field in patients with an AF ring did not produce the expected increase in P50 amplitude. Fine matrix mapping revealed a severe loss of sensitivity concordant with the arc of the high density ring and PERG abnormality. Conclusions: The high correlation between Pattern ERG and fine matrix mapping with abnormalities in autofluorescence images suggests that high density areas of autofluorescence reflect underlying functional disturbances.
Keywords: 395 electroretinography: clinical • 562 retinal degenerations: hereditary • 385 degenerations/dystrophies