Visually Evoked Potential
Full Form of VEP
What is VEP?
Visually Evoked Potential, commonly abbreviated as VEP, is a non-invasive electrophysiological diagnostic test that measures the electrical activity in the visual cortex of the brain in response to specific visual stimuli. The procedure involves placing electrodes on the scalp over the occipital region while the patient views patterned visual stimuli, usually a checkerboard that alternates on a monitor. The recorded waveforms help clinicians assess the functional integrity of the entire visual pathway, from the retina through the optic nerve to the occipital cortex. In India, VEP testing is widely performed in major multispecialty hospitals, dedicated neurology centres, and ophthalmology clinics across metropolitan cities including Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Hyderabad, and Bengaluru. It plays a significant role in diagnosing multiple sclerosis, optic neuritis, amblyopia, glaucoma, and various optic nerve disorders. The test is particularly valuable for infants, uncooperative patients, and individuals who cannot communicate clearly. VEP is a frequently asked topic in NEET PG, AIIMS, and JIPMER entrance examinations, and is a standard component of postgraduate ophthalmology and neurology training across Indian medical institutions.
VEP का फुल फॉर्म
विजुअली इवोक्ड पोटेंशियल
Example
The neurologist at AIIMS recommended a VEP test to assess the integrity of the patient's optic pathway after she reported sudden loss of vision in one eye.