Analysis of Foveal Microvascular Abnormalities in Patients with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Using Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography

Abstract

ABSTRACT Purpose: To analyze the abnormalities of foveal microvasculature in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Methods: A cross-sectional study of 41 eyes of patients diagnosed with SLE and 40 eyes of healthy controls. Sections measuring 6 mm×6 mm centered on the fovea were obtained using optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA). Results: The area and perimeter of foveal avascular zone (FAZ) in SLE patients were greater than those in controls (both p < .05). The parafoveal vessel densities in the deep capillary plexus (DCP) of SLE patients were significantly decreased than those in controls (p < .001). There was a negative correlation between SLE disease activity index and parafoveal vessel density in DCP (p < .05). Conclusion: Enlargement of the FAZ and decline of the parafoveal vessel density of DCP were revealed by OCTA in patients with SLE. Moreover, a negative correlation between parafoveal vessel density in DCP and disease activity index was detected in SLE patients.