Abstract
Purpose :
Several factors can affect the quality of multifocal electroretinogram (mfERG) recording. One factor that might improve recording quality is repeat testing; however, information regarding this is lacking in the literature. We performed a retrospective chart and data review study to assess changes in amplitude, topographic variability, and signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) in repeated mfERG recordings in clinical practice.
Methods :
This study was a retrospective chart and data review of patients undergoing mfERG at the USF Eye Institute in Tampa, Florida, who underwent repeated mfERG testing on the same day. Every repeat test was performed within five minutes of the original first run. The mfERG recordings were performed binocularly using the Espion mfERG system (Diagnosys LLC, Lowell, MA) with DTL electrodes using a standard protocol that uses 61 hexagonal elements for stimulation. P1 amplitudes in nV and SNR in dB were exported and analyzed. A paired t-test was used to compare corresponding values.
Results :
Records from 20 patients (18 females and 2 males, average age 59.3±17.5 years) were analyzed. The average P1 amplitude from all 61 locations increased significantly by 6.9% from run 1 to run 2 for right eyes (p < 0.008) and increased insignificantly by 0.2% for left eyes (p > 0.05). The average SNR from all 61 elements increased significantly in both eyes: 4.4 to 5.3 dB for right eyes (p = 0.0007) and 4.3 to 5.2 dB for left eyes (p = 0.008).
Conclusions :
Average SNR from all topographical locations in the retina increased in the second run of mfERG testing for both eyes. Thus, repeat testing may increase signal quality for mfERG.
This abstract was presented at the 2023 ARVO Annual Meeting, held in New Orleans, LA, April 23-27, 2023.