Glaucoma detection by wavelet-based analysis of the global flash multifocal electroretinogram

Abstract

The current clinical analysis of the multifocal electroretinography (mfERG) recordings for detecting glaucoma is based on standard signal morphology, measuring amplitudes and latencies. However, this analysis is not sensitive enough for detection of small changes in the multifocal electroretinogram signals. Other, more sophisticated, analysis methods should be explored to improve the sensitivity of this diagnostic technique, such as the discrete wavelet transform, proposed in this paper. We present an alternative method for the detection of open angle glaucoma based on the characterization of global flash mfERG signals. The digital signal processing technique is based on wavelets, hitherto unused in this field, for detection of advanced-stage glaucoma. Two markers were obtained from the recorded signals by applying the discrete wavelet transform, which help discriminate healthy from glaucomatous signals.