Prototype for Smartphone-based Electroretinogram

The electroretinogram (ERG) is a mass electrical response from the retina, evoked by a brief flash of light. The ERG is composed of electrical potentials contributed by different cell types within the retina, and the stimulus conditions can elicit stronger responses from certain components. Clinically, ERG has been used mainly for the diagnosis of retinal diseases. However, recent studies have found that ERG can be used for early diagnosis of neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative disorders like autism spectrum disorder, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, and Alzheimer’s disease, among others. Neurodevelopmental disorders affect approximately 1 in 100 children globally. Therefore, early diagnosis to support appropriate Early assessment for those disorders is deemed to be very important. However, ERG is only accessible in clinical settings, and a portable and inexpensive ERG system would enable early screening of neurodiversity and timely intervention. Technically, ERG requires a flash with controlled light strength, electrodes placed on the skin beneath the eye to measure retinal responses, and the processing of the signal. In this study, we have tested the feasibility of developing an ERG system using the capabilities of a Smartphone (flashlight, camera) and a circuit to collect the evoked ERG signals and flash strength and transfer the data to the phone for signal processing. Our results show that a Smartphone-based ERG system is feasible. This technology could contribute to the early detection of neurodiversity.