Multifocal electroretinogram for assessing sun damage following the solar eclipse of 29 March 2006

To evaluate the clinical findings and multifocal electroretinography results of cases with solar maculopathy due to eclipse watching. Eight eyes of six patients (ages ranged 12–42) who presented to our clinic after the solar eclipse of 29 March 2006 were evaluated in the study. All patients underwent a full ophthalmologic examination and multifocal electroretinography (mfERG). Visual acuities at the initial examination were between 20/32 and 20/20; and at final examination between 20/25 and 20/20 respectively. Fundoscopic examination disclosed macular pigmentary changes in almost all patients. Fundus Fluorescein Angiography revealed a window defect in six eyes. The initial findings of the mfERG at the first visit showed a decrease in the P1 and N1 amplitudes of the central responses. The following mfERG recordings showed a recovery in central P1 and N1 amplitudes. Decrease in P1 and N1 amplitudes of central macular region can be detected by mfERG in patients with solar maculopathy. Follow-up mfERG test results may recover with the increase of visual acuity.