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:
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What is the clinical performance (accuracy) of PERG for evaluation and prediction of glaucoma?
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What is the clinical utility of PERG for glaucoma (i.e., what is the impact on patient management decisions or health outcomes)?
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What are the safety issues associated with PERG?
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Have definitive patient selection criteria been established for PERG?
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