Abstract
Background: The present study examined the relationships among macular microvasculature, retinal structure, and epiretinal membrane (ERM) and explored the utility of optical coherence tomography (OCT) angiography (OCTA) in idiopathic ERM assessment. Methods: The study sample comprised 276 eyes of 276 patients. A total of 154 eyes with ERM and 122 normal (control) eyes were analyzed. Only one eye of each participant was randomly selected for posterior segment imaging. Each patient underwent OCT and OCTA. Images were analyzed with AngioTool 0.6. Results: Foveal avascular zone was significantly smaller in the ERM group (p = 0.044). Average retinal thickness and foveal thickness were significantly higher in the ERM group (both p = 0.001). Moreover, 64 (41.5%) patients exhibited no metamorphopsia, while 46 (29.8%) and 44 (28.7%) patients exhibited moderate and extensive metamorphopsias, respectively. Meanwhile, FAZ was negatively correlated with central retinal thickness in the ERM group. The vessel area (p = 0.0017) and vessel percentage area (p = 0.044) were significantly greater in the ERM group. Conclusions: Changes observed in the superficial plexus in OCTA are related to the severity of metamorphopsia and can be further evaluated to support decision making regarding the surgical management of idiopathic ERM.
Highlights
Epiretinal membranes (ERM) are a fibrocellular contractile proliferation that form over the surface of the internal limiting membrane of the retina, usually in the macular area
epiretinal membrane (ERM) is typically detected through fundus examination, the use of optical coherence tomography (OCT) has increased detection sensitivity [5]
optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) has been applied for the detection of retinal and choroidal diseases, such as aged-related macular degeneration (AMD), choroidal neovascularization (CNV), diabetic retinopathy, and chorioretinopathy [9]
Summary
Epiretinal membranes (ERM) are a fibrocellular contractile proliferation that form over the surface of the internal limiting membrane of the retina, usually in the macular area. They were first described by Iwanoffin in 1865. Optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) was developed as a new detection method for retinal and choroidal diseases. The symptoms are highly subjective, and the deterioration of visual acuity is often slight In this light, more objective morphological factors indicating the severity of the disease must be identified. The present study examined the relationships among macular microvasculature, retinal structure, and epiretinal membrane (ERM) and explored the utility of optical coherence tomography (OCT) angiography (OCTA) in idiopathic ERM assessment.
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.
