Associations between steady-state pattern electroretinography and estimated retinal ganglion cell count in glaucoma suspects

摘要

Purpose To estimate retinal ganglion cell (RGC) count in glaucoma suspects (GS) and ascertain its relationships with steady-state pattern electroretinography (ssPERG) parameters. Methods In this prospective cross-sectional study, 22 subjects (44 eyes) were recruited at the Manhattan Eye, Ear, and Throat Hospital. Subjects underwent complete eye examinations, optical coherence tomography, standard automated perimetry, and ssPERG testing. Eyes were divided into two groups based upon clinical data: healthy subjects and GS. RGC count was estimated using the combined structure-function index. Results Estimated RGC count, average retinal nerve fiber layer thickness (ARNFLT), and average ganglion cell layer and inner plexiform layer thickness (GCIPLT) were reduced in GS eyes (p = 0.53, p 0.38, p 0.46, p < 0.002). Six mediation analyses revealed that estimated RGC count mediated the relationships among ssPERG parameters, ARNFLT, and GCIPLT. Conclusion Steady-state PERG parameters demonstrated linear correlations with estimated RGC count. The associations among ssPERG parameters and structural measures were mediated by estimated RGC count.