Contact lens electroretinography in preterm infants from 32 weeks after conception: a development in current methodology

Arch Dis Child Fetal Neonatal Ed. 2000 May;82(3):F233-6. doi: 10.1136/fn.82.3.f233.

Abstract

Aim: To assess the feasibility of using a contact lens electrode to record the electroretinogram (ERG) in preterm infants less than 35 weeks after conception.

Methods: The ERG was recorded from seven very low birthweight preterm infants on a total of 14 occasions using an infant monkey contact lens electrode. Age at recording the first ERG ranged from 23 to 51 days (gestational age 32-34 weeks), and weight ranged upwards from 1100 g.

Results: No complications were observed. With advancing age and maturity the dark adapted rod threshold decreased, indicating increased retinal sensitivity.

Conclusions: Contact lens recording of the ERG from extremely small immature preterm infants is a practicable and well tolerated procedure. This method of recording the ERG will enable further evaluation of retinal development in this vulnerable population.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Birth Weight
  • Contact Lenses*
  • Dark Adaptation
  • Electrodes
  • Electroretinography / methods*
  • Feasibility Studies
  • Female
  • Gestational Age
  • Humans
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Infant, Premature / physiology*
  • Male
  • Retinopathy of Prematurity / diagnosis
  • Retinopathy of Prematurity / physiopathology