The electroretinogram in children.
OBJECTIVE
The electroretinogram is an essential tool in the evaluation of the functional integrity of the retina, which may be especially useful in preverbal children. The present review describes the modifications needed for performing an electroretinogram in young children. Also, we present electroretinogram studies that have added to our understanding of the maturation of the visual system, the development of retinopathy of prematurity, and ametropia.


RESULTS
The selected articles were grouped into four subjects: the technical modifications for performing a pediatric electroretinogram, including the possible need for sedation, the patient's position, and the recording electrodes; the maturation of the electroretinogram in preterm infants and in the first years of life; advancements in the understanding of retinopathy of prematurity; and understanding the development of ametropia based on the electroretinogram findings.


CONCLUSIONS
Although the technique for performing an electroretinogram must be modified for young children, when needed, it can and should be performed early in life. This will yield an early diagnosis that may be useful for planning family and personal life.
Parness-Yossifon
Reut
R
Division of Ophthalmology, Children's Memorial Hospital, Northwestern University, Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois 60614, USA.
Mets
Marilyn Baird
MB
D000293:Adolescent; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D004596:Electroretinography / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D012160:Retina / Q000473:pathology*; D012164:Retinal Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis*