[Evaluation of visual evoked potentials in partial optic nerve atrophy].

PURPOSE: Parameters of visual evoked potentials in partial optic nerve atrophy in different aetiology were studied.

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

The study involved 48 patients (68 eyes) with partial optic nerve atrophy from neuritis, toxic, arteriosclerosis and trauma. The tests of visual evoked potentials were performed by the use of UTAS E-1000 computer system in all patients with the use of pattern and flash stimulation.

RESULTS

Amplitude of all waves were reduced in 74% patients using "pattern" and in 61% patients using "flash" stimulation. Latency of wave P2 was delayed in all patients with optic nerve atrophy from arteriosclerosis. Latency of P100 wave and N1 wave were not delayed in patients with optic nerve atrophy from toxic neuropathy.

CONCLUSIONS

Estimation of latency of the VEP may be useful in diagnosis of the partial optic nerve atrophy. Variety of records of VEP indicate different degree of disturbances of nerve conduction.