Abstract
Theta burst stimulation (TBS) has shown promise in neuromodulation for amblyopic patients. Although pattern electroretinography (PERG) can reveal abnormal retinal responses in amblyopia, its response to TBS is unexplored. This study aims to assess the impact of TBS on PERG responses in amblyopic subjects. Twenty-four adult volunteers participated, including 12 amblyopic patients (mean age 41.75 ± 13.63) and 12 subjects with normal vision (mean age 35.58 ± 12.85). Participants underwent a comprehensive optometric exam, including tests for near and far visual acuity and eye alignment via the cover test. PERG testing was conducted before and after right-hemisphere continuous TBS application. No significant differences were observed in PERG results between amblyopic and fellow eyes, either before or after TBS. No statistically significant interaction between amblyopic vs. normal eyes amplitude and latency was demonstrated after stimulation. However, a statistically significant asymmetry in PERG P50-N95 amplitudes was found when comparing the amblyopic eyes to eyes from the normal control group (p = 0.002). Following stimulation, the initial asymmetry ceased to be present (p = 0.368). Additionally, visual acuity improved in amblyopic eyes following TBS (p = 0.002). TBS appears to enhance visual acuity in amblyopic eyes and influence PERG responses, thus suggesting that PERG may be sensitive to functional changes induced by TBS. These findings support the potential application of PERG in future amblyopia research and clinical interventions.