Abstract
We used a confocal adaptive optics scanning laser ophthalmoscope (AOSLO) to image the retina of subjects with non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy (NPDR). To improve visualization of different retinal features, the size and alignment of the confocal aperture were varied. The inner retinal layers contained clearly visualized retinal vessels. In diabetic subjects there was extensive capillary remodeling despite the subjects having only mild or moderate NPDR. Details of the retinal microvasculature were readily imaged with a larger confocal aperture. Hard exudates were observed with the AOSLO in all imaging modes. Photoreceptor layer images showed regions of bright cones and dark areas, corresponding in location to overlying vascular abnormalities and retinal edema. Clinically undetected intraretinal vessel remodeling and varying blood flow patterns were found. Perifoveal capillary diameters were larger in the diabetic subjects (p<0.01), and small arteriolar walls were thickened, based on wall to lumen measurements (p<.05). The results suggest that existing clinical classifications based on lower magnification clinical assessment may not adequately measure key vascular differences among individuals with NPDR.
Highlights
Retinal imaging techniques have undergone rapid and significant changes in recent years
We have reported that imaging techniques sensitive to lateral scatter can be highly effective for imaging the retinal vasculature [18, 28], and this approach has been useful in measuring retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells [12]
We investigated the ability of adaptive optics retinal imaging with different degrees of confocality to detect microvascular changes in a cohort of diabetic subjects with mild to moderate nonproliferative diabetic retinopathy (NPDR)
Summary
Retinal imaging techniques have undergone rapid and significant changes in recent years. #200935 - $15.00 USD Received 15 Jan 2014; revised 15 Jan 2014; accepted 21 Feb 2014; published 27 Feb 2014 capillary network can be quantified using motion contrast techniques and that it was changing early in diabetes, and Lombardo and colleagues [27] showed capillary diameter changes using a flood illuminated AO system. We have reported that imaging techniques sensitive to lateral scatter can be highly effective for imaging the retinal vasculature [18, 28], and this approach has been useful in measuring RPE cells [12]. Increasing the proportion of lateral scatter in the image by varying the size and position of the confocal aperture relative to the optical axis was investigated in the current paper applying AOSLO imaging to cellular and vascular structures in mild to moderate non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary 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.
