[The testing of local electroretinogram in macular diseases]

Abstract

Objectives: To record the local electroretinogram (LERG) in macular diseases, and define the using value of LERG in macular diseases.

Methods: The LERGs of five kinds of maculopathies were recorded with a spot light stimulator at 2.5, 5.0, 7.5 degrees of macular region.

Results: (1) The amplitudes of LERG at the three regions in Stargardt's disease, wet form age-related macular degeneration (AMD), central serous chorioretinopathy, and idiopathic macular hole were significantly lowered in comparison with the controls (P < 0.01). In the meanwhile, these diseases also showed high abnormal rates. While in dry form AMD and epiretinal membrane, the amplitudes of LERG had no significant changes (P > 0.05). (2) The abnormal rates of LERG were related to the stimulated area. In the three tested areas, the highest abnormal rates occurred at 2.5 degrees.

Conclusions: There are mean differences in macular electrical activities in these maculopathies. LERG is an effective method of electrophysiology for testing macular function.