A-waves and B-waves are key components of the full-field ERG, reflecting retinal function:
- A-wave: Initial negative deflection, generated by photoreceptors (rods and cones) responding to light. Its amplitude and timing indicate photoreceptor health.
- B-wave: Positive deflection following A-wave, produced by inner retinal cells (bipolar and Müller cells). It shows how well signals from photoreceptors are processed.
Reduced A-waves suggest photoreceptor damage (e.g., retinitis pigmentosa), while reduced B-waves point to inner retinal issues (e.g., retinal vascular diseases).