Early screening opportunities for AMD
Patients with early-stage age-related macular degeneration (AMD) often present with normal visual acuity even though structural and functional abnormalities are already developing. Early detection of AMD provides the best opportunity for treatments that might lessen central vision loss, especially as the disease can progress quickly in some patients.
Visual electrophysiology for AMD
The stages of AMD can be functionally evaluated using multifocal electroretinogram (mfERG) and subfield dark adaptometry (DA). Both of these tests are recognized by the International Society for Clinical Electrophysiology of Vision (ISCEV) as effective tools for assessing AMD.
Multifocal electroretinography (mfERG) is an objective diagnostic tool for detecting early-stage age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and monitoring its progression. Research supports mfERG as a highly effective method for identifying functional alterations before measurable structural changes or declines in visual acuity occur.
Subfield dark adaptometry (DA) is a psychophysical test that can assist in determining diminished functionality within a patient’s central vision. Research shows that the slowing of dark adaptation is not only a useful indicator of the likelihood of macular degeneration but is also a means of assessing the efficacy of treatments for the disease.
References
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