Association between multifocal electroretinograms, optical coherence tomography and central visual sensitivity in advanced retinitis pigmentosa

Abstract

PURPOSE: To investigate the association between automated perimetry, multifocal electroretinogram (mfERG) and optical coherence tomography (OCT) measurements in patients with advanced retinitis pigmentosa (RP). METHODS: Twenty-five patients with advanced RP were included. Central visual field sensitivity (VFS) was evaluated using an average of visual sensitivity value at central four test points during central 30-2 static automated perimetry. OCT imaging was conducted, and the inner and outer segment (IS/OS) line was classified into three groups: Group 1, absence; Group 2, partially intact; and Group 3, intact. Central retinal thickness (CRT) that is the retinal thickness of central 3.0 mm was also evaluated. Average amplitude and implicit time of N1 and P1 in ring 1 and 2 were measured on mfERG. Comparisons of VFS, mfERG and OCT among the three subgroups were performed following IS/OS integrity. Relationship among VFS, mfERG and CRT was evaluated by regression analysis. RESULTS: Group 3 patients with an intact IS/OS line showed a better VFS, and amplitude of mfERG response than those of Group 1 and 2. VFS and amplitudes of mfERG were correlated significantly with CRT in linear regression analysis. CONCLUSIONS: Disrupted IS/OS integrity was associated with visual dysfunction which was shown by decreased amplitude of mfERG response and reduced central VFS. CRT was significantly correlated with amplitude of mfERG response and central VFS. An eye with the more reduced CRT was associated with the worse amplitude of mfERG response and central VFS.