Abstract
The conjunctiva is a densely vascularized mucus membrane covering the sclera of the eye with a unique advantage of accessibility for direct visualization and non-invasive imaging. The purpose of this study is to apply an automated quantitative method for discrimination of different stages of diabetic retinopathy (DR) using conjunctival microvasculature images. Fine structural analysis of conjunctival microvasculature images was performed by ordinary least square regression and Fisher linear discriminant analysis. Conjunctival images between groups of non-diabetic and diabetic subjects at different stages of DR were discriminated. The automated method's discriminate rates were higher than those determined by human observers. The method allowed sensitive and rapid discrimination by assessment of conjunctival microvasculature images and can be potentially useful for DR screening and monitoring.
Highlights
Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a major cause of vision loss in working age adults [1]
We present application of a method [32] for fine structure analysis of conjunctival microvasculature images for discriminating subjects at progressive stages of DR
We demonstrated application of an automated method for discrimination of conjunctival microvasculature images according to stages of DR
Summary
Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a major cause of vision loss in working age adults [1]. DR is considered a microvascular disease and the earliest signs of microvasculopathies occur at the level of the small blood vessels or capillaries. Retinal tissue ischemia due to capillary non-perfusion and macular edema due to increased vascular permeability cause vision loss in DR. Clinical fluorescein angiography allows visualization of retinal vascular perfusion and leakage, and optical coherence tomography provides quantitative assessment of retinal thickening due to macular edema. Optical coherence tomography angiography has become available for imaging of the retinal microvasculature [11,12]. Application of this technology to DR subjects has demonstrated alterations in the retinal microvasculature, including capillary non-perfusion, microaneurysms, and pre-retinal neovascularization [13,14,15]
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
