Focus of the Report: This report focuses on pattern electroretinography (PERG) for the diagnosis of glaucoma.
Technology Description: Early diagnosis of glaucoma can reduce the risk of irreversible vision loss and blindness. Electroretinography (ERG) is a minimally invasive procedure that provides an objective assessment of retinal function. PERG is a refinement of ERG that measures the retinal response to a reversing black-and-white checkerboard or grating pattern, which alternates with a constant frequency and luminance. PERG mostly evaluates the function of retinal ganglion cells, which are the primary neurons affected by glaucoma.
Controversy: PERG can be costly and requires a high level of skill by the technician conducting the test. In addition, PERG is often conducted using invasive electrodes that are placed directly on the patient’s eye.
Key Questions:
What is the clinical performance (accuracy) of PERG for evaluation and prediction of glaucoma?
What is the clinical utility of PERG for glaucoma (i.e., what is the impact on patient management decisions or health outcomes)?
What are the safety issues associated with PERG?
Have definitive patient selection criteria been established for PERG?
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