Overview

Electroretinography (ERG) is a diagnostic procedure used to measure the electrical responses of various cell types in the retina. It is essential for diagnosing inherited retinal diseases and assessing retinal function.

ERG is crucial for diagnosing rod-cone dystrophies, retinitis pigmentosa, and other inherited retinal disorders. It provides objective assessment of retinal function.

Learn more in our comprehensive RxDx Ophthalmology Course

Indications

✓
Inherited Retinal Disease

Diagnosis and monitoring

✓
Rod-Cone Dystrophy

Assessment of retinal function

✓
Retinitis Pigmentosa

Diagnosis and monitoring

✓
Unexplained Vision Loss

Assessment of retinal function

✓
Toxic Retinopathy

Monitoring for drug toxicity

Contraindications

Absolute Contraindications

✗ Patient refusal

Relative Contraindications

✗ Severe photophobia
✗ Recent eye surgery

📋 Equipment Checklist

Check off items as you gather them:

Pre-procedure Preparation

Preparation includes explaining the procedure to patient, ensuring proper positioning, and preparing electrodes and recording equipment.

Step-by-Step Procedure

Step 1: Patient Preparation

Explain procedure, position patient, prepare electrodes.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid:

  • Inadequate explanation
  • Poor positioning

💡 Pro Tip:

Explain that the test is painless but may take time.

Step 2: Electrode Placement

Place electrodes on cornea or skin.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid:

  • Wrong placement

💡 Pro Tip:

Follow manufacturer instructions.

Step 3: Stimulus Administration

Deliver light stimulus, record responses.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid:

  • Incorrect stimulus
  • Poor recording

💡 Pro Tip:

Ensure proper calibration.

Step 4: Result Review

Review and document results.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid:

  • Poor documentation

💡 Pro Tip:

Compare with normal values.

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Post-procedure Care

Post-procedure care involves reviewing results, documenting findings, and discussing management if abnormal.

Complications & Management

Complication Incidence Signs Management Prevention
Patient discomfort Common Foreign body sensation Reassurance Gentle technique
Corneal abrasion Rare Pain, photophobia Topical antibiotics Gentle technique

Clinical Pearls

💡

Explain that the test is painless but may take time.

🎯

Follow manufacturer instructions for electrode placement.

⚡

Ensure proper calibration.

📊

Compare with normal values.

⚠️

Document all findings carefully.