Contact lens electroretinography in preterm infants from 32 weeks after conception: A development in current methodology

Abstract

Aim - To assess the feasibility of using a contact lens electrode to record the electroretinogram (ERG) in preterm infants less than 35 weeks after conception. Methods - The ERG was recorded from seven very low birthweight preterm infants on a total of 14 occasions using an infant monkey contact lens electrode. Age at recording the first ERG ranged from 23 to 51 days (gestational age 32-34 weeks), and weight ranged upwards from 1100 g. Results - No complications were observed. With advancing age and maturity the dark adapted rod threshold decreased, indicating increased retinal sensitivity. Conclusions - Contact lens recording of the ERG from extremely small immature preterm infants is a practicable and well tolerated procedure. This method of recording the ERG will enable further evaluation of retinal development in this vulnerable population.