Projection OCT fundus imaging for visualising outer retinal pathology in non-exudative age-related macular degeneration

Br J Ophthalmol. 2009 May;93(5):603-9. doi: 10.1136/bjo.2007.136101. Epub 2008 Jul 28.

Abstract

Aims: To demonstrate ultrahigh-resolution, three-dimensional optical coherence tomography (3D-OCT) and projection OCT fundus imaging for enhanced visualisation of outer retinal pathology in non-exudative age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

Methods: A high-speed, 3.5 mum resolution OCT prototype instrument was developed for the ophthalmic clinic. Eighty-three patients with non-exudative AMD were imaged. Projection OCT fundus images were generated from 3D-OCT data by selectively summing different retinal depth levels. Results were compared with standard ophthalmic examination, including fundus photography and fluorescein angiography, when indicated.

Results: Projection OCT fundus imaging enhanced the visualisation of outer retinal pathology in non-exudative AMD. Different types of drusen exhibited distinct features in projection OCT images. Photoreceptor disruption was indicated by loss of the photoreceptor inner/outer segment (IS/OS) boundary and external limiting membrane (ELM). RPE atrophy can be assessed using choroid-level projection OCT images.

Conclusions: Projection OCT fundus imaging facilities rapid interpretation of large 3D-OCT data sets. Projection OCT enhances contrast and visualises outer retinal pathology not visible with standard fundus imaging or OCT fundus imaging. Projection OCT fundus images enable registration with standard ophthalmic diagnostics and cross-sectional OCT images. Outer retinal alterations can be assessed and drusen morphology, photoreceptor impairment and pigmentary abnormalities identified.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Image Interpretation, Computer-Assisted / methods
  • Macular Degeneration / pathology*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Retina / pathology*
  • Retinal Drusen / pathology
  • Retinal Photoreceptor Cell Outer Segment / pathology
  • Retinal Pigment Epithelium / pathology
  • Retinal Pigments / analysis
  • Tomography, Optical Coherence / methods

Substances

  • Retinal Pigments