Principles of glaucoma diagnostics with optical coherence tomography

Abstract

In recent years many applications of optical coherence tomography (OCT) have led to a better understanding of glaucoma morphology. The clinical routine in the treatment of glaucoma is strongly influenced by the modern diagnostic aspects. A selective search of the literature was carried out and the important aspects are presented taking own experiences into account. The measurement principles, diagnostic ability and pitfalls of the three OCT measurement procedures are highlighted. Retinal nerve fiber layer, macula and ganglion cell layer thickness as well as the minimum neuroretinal rim width have facilitated in particular the objective early diagnosis and follow-up measurements. For glaucoma, OCT measurements cannot replace the medical expert diagnosis but they represent a valuable decision-making aid for diagnostics and follow-up examinations.