The Usefulness of Standard Electroretinogram in Classification of Central Retinal Vein Occlusion

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: Central retinal vein occlusion is classified as ischemic and non-ischemic types. Ischemic type has poor visual prognosis because of neovascular complications. Fluorescein angiography shows lower reproducibility and predictability of neovascularization and has complications although it has been the standard method for classification. This study was made to determine the usefulness of the electroretinogram (ERG) in the classification and predictor of neovascularization. METHODS: Forty-two eyes with central retinal vein occlusion were classified as ischemic and non-ischemic groups by means of indirect ophthalmoscope and fluorescein angiography finding. All patients were examined with standard electroretinogram and followed. During the follow-up period, development of neovascularization was evaluated. All parameters of electroretinogram were analyzed. RESULTS: Compared to the control group, a and b wave amplitudes in maximal combined response, b/a ratio, b wave amplitude in cone response, and b wave implicit time in 30Hz flicker response showed statistically significant difference in only ischemic central retinal vein occlusion (P<0.05). Compared to the control group, a and b wave amplitudes in maximal combined response, b/a ratio show statistically significant difference in only central retinal vein occlusion with rubeosis. CONCLUSIONS: Standard electroretinogram is thought to be a useful method for classifying the central retinal vein occlusion and predicting the rubeosis in central retinal vein occlusion.