H. Mactier et al., Contact lens electroretinography in preterm infants from 32 weeks after conception: a development in current methodology, ARCH DIS CH, 82(3), 2000, pp. F233-F236
Aim-To assess the feasibility of using a contact lens electrode to record t
he electroretinogram (ERG) in preterm infants less than 35 weeks after conc
eption.
Methods-The ERG was recorded from seven very low birthweight preterm infant
s 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 sensiti
vity.
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.