Evidence of a biological effect of light therapy on the retina of patients with seasonal affective disorder.

摘要: Background Retinal sensitivity anomalies have been reported in patients affected by seasonal affective disorder (SAD). We used the electroretinogram (ERG) to assess change retinal function with SAD and healthy participants, as well following 4 weeks of light therapy. Methods ERG assessments were obtained 22 (2 men, 20 women, mean age 31 ± 9 years) fall/winter season before after 2 therapy summertime. Matched participants 14 women; 29 8 evaluated once summer. The 29-item Structured Interview Guide for Hamilton Depression Rating Scale, Seasonal Affective Disorder version was administered. Standard parameters derived from photopic scotopic luminance response functions. Salivary melatonin concentration during assessed both groups but only. Results A significantly lower cone maximal amplitude rod found compared participants. Following therapy, a normalization occurred. summer concentrations not different between groups. Conclusions Depressed demonstrate changes winter comparison subjects amplitude. These normalized summer, suggesting that are state markers SAD.