Visual electroencephalographic computer analysis (VECA). A new electrophysiologic test for the diagnosis of optic nerve lesions.

The function of optic pathways was studied by visual electroencephalographic computer analysis (VECA). Pattern and flash stimuli were used. The VECA profile was abnormal in two types of lesions: pathology involving the eye, and pathology involving the optic nerve. When ocular pathology is excluded, an abnormal profile indicates optic nerve dysfunction. Of the multiple sclerosis patients tested, 77 percent had an abnormal VECA profile. The test was always abnormal in patients with optic neuritis. Delayed visual evoked responses occurred in 18 of 29 multiple sclerosis patients judged to be clinically without visual deficits. VECA is reliable and sensitive for detecting clinical and subclinical optic nerve pathology.