Artikel
Electrophysiology in the diagnosis of visual disorders in childhood
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Veröffentlicht: | 22. September 2004 |
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Gliederung
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Severe congenital visual disorders in childhood in otherwise normal eyes usually require electrophysiological testing. In particular, the various diseases underlying sensory defect nystagmus must be differentiated from idiopathic (motor) nystagmus. This is important in view of differences in visual prognosis and recurrence risk. X-linked retinoschisis and Stargardt disease usually have a characteristic fundus appearance. However, early in the disease changes may be discrete, and only Ganzfeld ERG and mf ERG will give the diagnosis. In acquired visual problems organic causes must be differentiated from functional disorders. Electrophysiological tests can help with sorting out the diagnosis. Examples of the various disorders will be given. Age-related problems of specific electrophysiological tests will be discussed. In many instances, electrophysiology is key for a precise diagnosis. As a result, other costly examinations may be avoided.