Abstract
Abstract Purpose Pattern electroretinogram (PERG) is retinal response to contrast stimulation that originates from inner retina, mostly from ganglion cells. PERG may help to answer frequent diagnostic ambiguities between macular and optic nerve diseases and can serve as a link between flash and multifocal ERG and VEP. Methods Current trends with emphasis on PERG recording in relation to mfERG, flash ERG and VEP, perimetry, microperimetry and scanning laser ophthalmoscope imaging including autofluorescence of the RPE and OCT will be reviewed in representative clinical cases. Results Global retinal function is well assessed by flash evoked ERGs, but these may be normal in macular disease. PERG and multifocal ERG in combination with autofluorescence imaging and OCT may delineate macular diseases in very early stages. OCT may reveal transversal loss of photoreceptors which correlates well with PERG amplitude. In differential diagnosis, optic nerve diseases usually do not affect multifocal ERG but can affect PERG, especially its N95 component. Combination of reduced N95 component and delay in VEP is strongly suggestive for optic nerve or ganglion cell disease in which autofluorescence imaging would usually be normal. Conclusion By judging the cause of visual loss, PERG in combination with mfERG and morphological features by RPE autofluorescence and OCT with psychophysical methods usually leads to correct diagnosis.
Published Version
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