Introduction

Full-field electroretinography (ERG) is a standard clinical test for evaluating the function of the retina as a whole [1]. Multifocal electroretinography (mfERG)† is a new technique that allows analysis of local retinal function. While the technology of these recordings and the knowledge about the physiology of these responses are evolving, there is sufficient experience to propose basic guidelines for the usage of this procedure. The intention of this document, is not to mandate a “standard” of care or to fix a particular test protocol. Rather, the intention is to offer guidelines for recording the mfERG that will aid in obtaining stable and interpretable records, while minimizing artifacts. These guidelines should be especially helpful for those new to this technique, while informing the experienced user about procedures that colleagues find effective. However, we emphasize that these are guidelines and not standards. More research is needed on the applications and technology of this new technique before many aspects of these guidelines can be resolved. We anticipate that exploration of different recording protocols and their interpretation will continue, but users who are not specifically studying alternative techniques are encouraged to follow the guidelines as current “best practice”. These guidelines will be re-examined in 4 years, consistent with all ISCEV practice recommendations, to make revisions as necessary and consider whether an ISCEV Standard for the mfERG should be established.