Features of the multifocal electroretinogram may predict the rate of myopia progression in children.
OBJECTIVE
To investigate the multifocal electroretinogram (mfERG) in myopic children in relation to the rate of myopia progression.


METHODS
Observational study.


METHODS
Eighty-one school children with myopia.


METHODS
Cycloplegic refraction, ocular biometry, and mfERG recordings were performed in myopic children aged 9 to 11 years in 2002. The refraction and ocular biometry assessments were repeated 2 years later in 2004. The 2-year myopia progression rate was calculated for a randomly selected eye of each individual. The mfERG parameters recorded at the initial visit in 2002 were compared with subsequent progression rates.


METHODS
First-order kernel mfERG responses.


RESULTS
Of the 81 eyes, 12 eyes had a high progression rate (defined as a progression rate of >1 diopter [D]/2 years), 44 eyes had a moderate progression rate (progression rate of >0.25 D but < or =1 D/2 years), and 25 eyes showed no progression or a low progression rate (progression rate of < or =0.25 D/2 years). The P1 amplitude of the mfERG in the high progression group was significantly smaller than that in the moderate (P = 0.023) and non/low-progression groups (P = 0.030) but only within the central 5 degrees (ring 1). None of the other mfERG parameters of the central ring were significantly different among the groups. The mfERG parameters of the outer rings were similar in all groups.


CONCLUSIONS
Decreased foveal function as determined by the mfERG is associated with a high rate of myopia progression. Electrophysiologic examination of central retinal function may predict the progression and severity of myopia in school children.
Luu
Chi D
CD
Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore. chi.luu@seri.com.sg
Foulds
Wallace S
WS
Tan
Donald T H
DT
D001699:Biometry; D002648:Child; D018450:Disease Progression; D004596:Electroretinography; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D009216:Myopia / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis*; D012029:Refraction, Ocular; D012160:Retina / Q000473:pathology*; D012164:Retinal Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000209:etiology