Normal values of standard full field electroretinography in an Iranian population.

Abstract

PURPOSE: To determine normal values of standard full-field electroretinography (ERG) and to evaluate their variations with age in an Iranian population. METHODS: Through convenient sampling, 170 normal subjects 1-80 years of age were selected from residents of Tehran. ERG amplitudes and implicit time values were measured according to recommendations by the International Society for Clinical Electrophysiology of Vision. Evaluations consisted of light-adapted ERG including single-white flash and 30-Hz flicker response; and dark-adapted ERG including rod, maximal dark-adapted and cone responses. RESULTS: No significant difference in ERG values was observed between men and women, or between right and left eyes. ERG amplitudes were lower (P=0.04) and implicit time values were greater (P=0.03) in subjects 70-80 years of age as compared to younger individuals. CONCLUSION: ERG parameters are significantly diminished with age. Our results may serve as a reference against which standard ERG responses can be compared.