06-Diagnostic substantiation and current possibilities of VEPS examination

Abstract

The aim of this introductory lecture is to point out that despite the intensive use of modern imagine techniques (MRI, OCT, etc.), the diagnostic applications of visual evoked potentials (VEPs) need not be obsolete, if not preferable in many cases. This objective, fully non-invasive, low-cost electrophysiological method can detect functional problems of the optic pathway and various brain cortical areas even before a development of the first displayable morphological changes. For the increased sensitivity of VEPs, it is necessary to use a larger spectrum of visual stimuli (activating quite selectively different subsystems of the visual pathway and visual cortex) compared to standards recommended by ISCEV or IFCN. It should include not only flash or pattern-related stimuli (pattern-reversal, pattern-on/off) but also motion-related (motion-onset VEPs) and cognitive visual stimulation. Then, not only the early diagnostics of a large spectrum of neuro-ophthalmological and neuro-psychiatric disorders is possible but also the physiological aging of visual information processing or a drug abuse is recognisable. For a better availability of VEPs examination and their long-term monitoring also in home conditions, we have just introduced a “Mobile (wearable), low-cost device for examination of visual evoked potentials (VEPs)”, the use of which will be demonstrated during the lecture. Acknowledgements: Supported by the project of Charles University “Progres Q40/07”.