ELECTROPHYSIOLOGY DEPARTMENT
When testing young children and babies, special contacts and
What is visual electrophysiology?
When you look at something, an image of the object is projected
onto the retina at the back of the eye. The retina converts this
optical image into very small electrical signals, which pass a long
the optic nerve to the brain, where the sensation of ‘seeing’ occurs.
Visual electrophysiology measures these very small signals both in
the eye and the brain.
Why am I being referred?
Your consultant has asked us to examine the function of your visual
system in order to help diagnose the cause of your visual problem.
It can also monitor disease progression or the effects of any
treatment you may be receiving.
What is involved?
Firstly, all the tests are non-invasive and do NOT need an
anaesthetic or injections.
(a) adults
• small contacts are fastened to the skin around the eyes or scalp
(depending on test), using tape or paste. Some tests also use
soft gold contacts that rest on the lower eyelid. These are not
uncomfortable but may initially make your eyes water a little.
• dilating drops are used in most cases for some of the tests and
a 20 minute period is required for them to take effect.
• you will have to spend 20 minutes in the dark before the ERG is
carried out. This will allow us to measure how your eyes work in
darkness.
• the testing can take up to 3 hours depending on the number of
tests.
(b) children
simpler, shorter testing is used.
What tests can I expect?
When you attend you will have a selection of the following tests
depending on the reason for your referral.
Pattern electroretinogram (PERG)
* measures the function of the central retina, the macula, which you
use for detailed vision e.g. reading.
* you will be asked to look at a moving checkerboard pattern on a
TV whilst we record the small electrical signals generated in the
macula.
Electroretinogram (ERG)
* records the electrical signals from the retina to flashes of light
both in darkness and in light.c
* the brightness, flash rate and colour of light are varied to allow the
rods (night vision) and cones (daytime vision) to be examined
separately.
Visual-evoked potential (VEP)
* investigates the pathways carrying signals from the eye to the
brain, the optic nerves, and how the brain interprets these signals.
* you will be asked to observe a moving checkerboard pattern on a
TV or flashes of light while we record the electrical signals.
Electro-oculogram (EOG)
* measures the function of the boundary between the retina a nd the
layer under the retina (retinal pigment epithelium).
* you will be asked to make regular eye movements between 2
small red lights for approximately 20 seconds every minute for 15
minutes in the dark and 12 minutes in the light.
What do I have to do?

* Please be punctual, otherwise it may not be possible to perform

all of the tests required. ELECTROPHYSIOLOGY
* It is VERY important that you bring to your appointment all current
glasses and recent prescriptions. If you are a contact lens wearer DEPARTMENT
please also bring your lens case and necessary solutions, as we
may need you to remove them.
* Your hair should be freshly washed and free from all oils, gels,
sprays etc. No eye make up should be worn.
* A list of all medication you are taking should be brought.
* If you intend to bring young children, other than for testing, please Information for patients
ensure that there is another responsible adult to look after them as
there are no childcare facilities within the department.

Are there any side effects?

Dilating drops will cause blurred vision a nd increased sensitivity to
bright light/sunlight, but this will wear off after a few hours. Dark
glasses may help on a sunny day.
You should NOT drive for several hours after the testing has
finished and the effects of the eye drops have fully worn off.

What happens afterwards?

A report will be sent to the consultant who referred you for testing.

If you require any further information regarding the department or the tests carried out
within the department, please don’t hesitate to contact us on 020 7566 2120.
This leaflet is intended to provide general information for patients. Any patient who is
worried about his or her individual circumstances should seek specialist advice relating to
his or her circumstances.
MOORFIELDS DIRECT is a telephone helpline available between 9.00 am and 5.00 pm.
Telephone 020 7566 2345.

Issue 1 – February 2004 (review December 2004) Vikki A McBain

Moorfields Eye Hospital