Advisory Committee Chair
Timothy W Kraft
Advisory Committee Members
Mark Swanson
Jillian Ziemanski
Document Type
Thesis
Date of Award
2022
Degree Name by School
Master of Science (MS) School of Optometry
Abstract
Aging and age-related changes in the brain are known to parallel functional and anatomical changes in the eye, especially in certain degenerative diseases. This study explores the potential of combining ERG, specifically the Pattern Electroretinogram (PERG), which has a black and white checkerboard pattern, and OCT tests to monitor retinal ganglion cell health. We compared ERG and OCT findings from ten normal females, ages ranging from 18 to 30 years old to ascertain if ganglion cell layer volume is a reliable indicator of ganglion cell function as measured by ERG. Our results from these healthy subjects will serve as prelude to studies of agerelated neurodegenerative diseases. Statistical analysis utilizing a mixed linear model with a significance level of 0.05 showed that our current PERG protocol has a statistical power of over 95% in detecting a significant difference in participant’s PERG response with a 10% change in PERG stimulus parameters (contrast, check size, or a combination of both contrast and check size). An increased knowledge of electrophysiological tests could help identify disease damage before the appearance of standard clinical symptoms such as memory loss. Early warning could have incalculable value in diagnosis and monitoring of disease progression or therapeutic intervention.
Recommended Citation
Conner-Tsang, Brooke Nicole, "Diagnostic Electrophysiology of the Eye" (2022). All ETDs from UAB. 583.
https://digitalcommons.library.uab.edu/etd-collection/583