Long-term changes in spectral sensitivity after low-level laser (514 nm) exposure.
Changes in rhesus spectral sensitivity were induced at low-level (2.1 log td) repetitive exposure to a visible (514 nm) coherent source. Irradiation involved the entire retina. Long-term suppression of intermediate cones was evident in spectral sensitivity functions measured for a very fine photopic (1.85 min-1) acuity criterion. At slightly coarser acuity criteria (1.42 min-1) but still photopic, evidence of rod intrusion was obtained. Recovery from these effects was not obtainable 14 months post-exposure. Possible morphological correlates at photoreceptor ultrastructural levels are discussed. Optical coherency is implicated in these effects.
D000818:Animals; D003118:Color Perception / Q000528:radiation effects*; D000882:Haplorhini; D007834:Lasers / Q000009:adverse effects*; D008297:Male; D008722:Methods; D010786:Photoreceptor Cells / Q000528:radiation effects; D012684:Sensory Thresholds; D013997:Time Factors