Visual Evoked Potential Testing (VEP)

The Visual Evoked Potential (VEP) Test is a neurological assessment that helps physicians evaluate the connection between the eyes and the brain that may be affected by neurological conditions. VEP testing is a noninvasive procedure that aids in diagnosis, treatment recommendations, and overall patient wellness.

MS, head traumas, and gliomas are just a few things that can affect the brain-eye connection and disrupt visual interpretation. Neurological Medicine P.A. in Maryland offers in-office VEP testing, with two office locations in Greenbelt and Laurel.

To schedule your visual evoked potentials, get in touch via our online form or give one of our offices a call. We are here to help provide answers to neurological questions and have neurologists available for professional consults for your neurological treatment in Maryland.

What is VEP Testing

Visual Evoked Potential (VEP) testing is a way to determine where the eye-brain connection is being disrupted when it comes to seeing and processing visuals. The VEP looks at the eyes, the optic nerves, the optic chiasm, the optic tract, optic radiation, and the cerebral cortex. It monitors how long the stimulation takes to travel throughout the optic system.

By pinpointing where in the visual system the processing is being disrupted, physicians and neurologists can make better informed decisions about treatment protocols and confirm diagnoses.

VEP testing is noninvasive and involves electrodes being placed on the scalp, similar to an EEG. Patients will watch visuals to stimulate the optic system and the electrodes will read and record the electrical signals in response to the stimulations. Trained professionals will interpret the readings and assess where in the optic system the malfunction is happening.

What Does VEP Testing Help Diagnose

You may be referred to have an evoked visual potential test if any of the following disorders or illnesses are suspected or being currently treated:

Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
Glioma (on your optic nerve)
Loss of Vision
Blurry Vision
Double Vision
Alterations in Vision
Neurofibromatosis Type 1
Hydrocephalus
Pituitary Adenoma
Brain Trauma
Compression of Optic Pathways
Toxic Optic Neuropathy
Medication Side Effects
Meningeal Tuberculosis (or other visual pathway infections)
Leber Optic Neuropathy (LON)
Friedrich’s ataxia

Neurologists and primary physicians may use visual evoked potential tests to help diagnose or treat a variety of neurological conditions. The more information your doctor can gather about how your brain is behaving helps track the progression of disorders, diagnose new illnesses, and form a personalized treatment plan based on your brain’s activity and responses.

Similar to an EEG, a VEP test is completed by having electrodes attached to the scalp to monitor electrical activity. You will be shown a series of visual stimulations and the electrodes will record the electrical activity. You will have one eye covered while watching the visuals. Then you will repeat the test with the other eye covered.

VEP testing may be done with either a pattern VEP, flash VEP, or both. The pattern visual evoked potential test uses a black and white checkered screen. The squares will move and change in size throughout the test. Flash visual evoked potential testing flashes a screen in front of the patient’s eyes at a close range; it is the shorter of the two testing phases. It is important to stay relaxed during the test and watch closely where your physician instructs.

On average, a VEP test takes about one hour to complete. It is non-invasive and is done in-office. You can return home as normal after the procedure. Most commonly, the only side effect noted is light irritation from the adhesive of the electrodes, which can be removed with warm water and shampoo.

How To Prepare for Visual Evoked Potentials

Ask your physician or neurologist for any specific instructions prior to the exam. In general, you want to follow these preparations for your VEP testing:

Shampoo your hair the evening before and do not use conditioner
Omit any hair gels, sprays, or lotions (these can interfere with the test)
Do not style the hair with any tight braids
Get a full night’s rest – drowsiness can affect the test results
If you use glasses or contacts, bring these to the test along with any carrying or storage cases for safe removal if needed
You may eat and drink as normal the morning of your test, although some physicians may request you avoid caffeine 2 – 8 hours before the exam
Unless otherwise instructed, you should continue all medications as normal

Get to Know Neurological Medicine P.A.

Offering VEP Testing in Maryland

Neurological Medicine P.A. is a team of neurologists and medical staff who are dedicated to compassionate care. Established in 1975, our aim has always been to provide patients with non-invasive neurology testing to help with diagnosis, treatment, and general wellness care plans.

With two offices in Maryland, we are able to assist a wide range of patients looking for VEP testing and other noninvasive neurology assessments. You can find us in Greenbelt, MD and Laurel, MD.

Professional Consults

Work with expert neurologists for advice on how to proceed with your illness

Patient-First Focus

Helpful staff and compassionate doctors who see you as a whole person

Personal Care

We advise treatment based on your results and your medical history

Schedule Your Visual Evoked Potential Test in Maryland

Neurological Medicine P.A. has two offices, one in Greenbelt, MD and one in Laurel, MD. To schedule your appointment for visual evoked potential testing, you may call either one of our offices or send us a request form online.

New patients are asked to bring in a government ID, a copy of all medications, medical records, and any referrals along with their insurance coverage information. All new patients are asked to please review our New Patient resource page, including insurance coverage information. For any questions, please call or email our office, we are open Monday through Friday 7am to 4pm.

Request New Appointment

If you are a new or previous patient, inquire about an appointment date via phone, email, or our contact form.

Ask Us Your Questions and Concerns

Give us a call regarding insurance, services, and more. Physicians can send us referrals here.

Visual Evoked Potential FAQ

What is visual evoked potential?
Visual Evoked Potential (VEP) is a test that assesses the connection between the eyes and the brain. It examines the optic system and the cerebral cortex to evaluate where visual disconnect may be happening.

What is the purpose of the VEP test?
The purpose of a VEP test is to determine where in the optic journey visual processing is breaking down. This can help determine the progression of certain illnesses, confirm a diagnosis, and help with treatment plans to restore or manage vision issues.

How much does a VEP test cost?
VEP test cost varies based on insurance coverage. All patients are encouraged to speak directly with their insurance company to understand deductibles, coverage, out-of-pocket costs, and payment schedules. On average, VEP tests are more affordable than other testing methods, at a couple of hundred dollars or less in some cases.

Why would you need an evoked potential test?
Patients are recommended a VEP test when they are suffering from vision loss, vision impairment, or have a neurological condition that may affect their eye sight. Determining where the visual issues are happening can help form a treatment plan or help with a care management plan for incurable disorders.

What is the difference between EEG and VEP?
While both EEGs and VEPs use electrodes, VEP testing targets the visual system specifically. It looks at the optic response systems vs general brain activity. In some cases, a VEP can be done at the same time as an EEG, if needed.