[Changes in the W-wave amplitude of the electroretinogram in rabbits after irradiation of the eyes with ultraviolet rays].

Changes in W-wave amplitudes of rabbit electroretinograms (ERG) were investigated at different time intervals after eye ultraviolet irradiation with biologically effective doses, i.e. 10,000; 5,000; 3,000 and 1,000 J/m2. As compared to the controls, at early post-irradiation stages (days 2-7) the ERG W-wave amplitude decreased and at the end of the observation period (days 20-30) the parameter increased but never returned to the baseline level. The ERG W-wave amplitude remained lowered even when clinical signs of photokeratoconjunctivitis disappeared. This reduction may be a cumulative result of poor transparency of eye structures and possible changes of the retina.