Average Macular Thickness Research Articles

Assessment of ganglion cell complex thickness and its correlation with retinal sensitivity using microperimetry 6 months after epiretinal membrane surgery

PurposeTo verify the correlation between the full-macular and the ganglion cell complex (GCC) thickness measurements and retinal sensitivity (RS) assessed by microperimetry (MP) 6 months after surgical peeling for idiopathic epiretinal membrane (ERM).MethodsForty-three were submitted to pars-plana posterior vitrectomy (PPV) with concomitant peeling of internal limiting membrane (ILM) for idiopathic ERM treatment. Best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and 3D volumetric high-definition optical coherence tomography (OCT) imaging were preoperatively acquired. Six months after the surgery, BCVA, OCT imaging, and RS measured by MP were assessed. For the OCT parameters, we analyzed both the full-macular and the ganglion cell layer complex (GCC) thicknesses. The MP parameters tested were 44 points covering 20 central degrees (6 mm), with direct correspondence with the nine sectors of the OCT-ETDRS map. This approach enables the direct topographic correlation between the structure and functional measurements. The OCT and MP exam measurements were also performed in 43 eyes of age-matched healthy controls. Correlations between BCVA, RS, and OCT parameters were examined.Results All patients exhibited a substantial improvement in visual acuity following surgery. The RS parameters were significantly lower in patients compared to the controls. The full-macular thickness measurements were thicker than controls preoperatively and significantly reduced postoperatively; however, remaining significantly higher than controls, in the 4 inner sectors, at the fovea and for the average macular thickness. Preoperative GCC measurements were higher than those in controls. There was a significant reduction in GCC thickness in all sectors postoperatively, especially in the outer sectors, as well as in the average macular thickness. A positive correlation was found between full-macular and GCC thickness and RS postoperatively in several sectors.ConclusionsOur results demonstrate that ERM peeling can improve visual acuity in the postoperative period. However, RS may not fully restore, remaining significantly lower when compared to the controls. Both full-macular and GCC thickness measurements were reduced 6 months after surgery. However, significant thinning of the GCC thickness was observed when compared to the normal control eyes, indicating the occurrence of some degree of ganglion cell layer atrophy. We have demonstrated significant correlations among various OCT thickness parameters, particularly for GCC measurements. We believe that GCC integrity may play an important role in visual function after ERM surgery, and that MP may help better understand the correlations between structural and functional findings following ERM surgery.

Analysis of macular thickness and peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer thickness in various ABO and Rh blood groups

PurposeTo determine the association between ABO and Rh blood groups with retinal structural indices including macular thickness and peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness.MethodsThis cross-sectional study was conducted using convenience sampling in a tertiary referral eye hospital in Tehran, Iran. Study participants were referred to the hospital laboratory to test their blood group. Ocular examinations were performed including measurement of visual acuity, auto-refraction, subjective refraction, and slit-lamp biomicroscopy. Retinal imaging was carried out using Spectral-domain OCT under dilated papillary conditions.ResultsThree hundred and twenty-eight individuals were recruited in this study. Of these, 219 (60.7%) were female and the mean age of the participants was 63.29 ± 5.57 years (range: 56 to 83 years). According to the multiple linear regression model, the global peripapillary RNFL thickness [coefficient: -3.05 (95% CI: -5.30 to -0.74); P = 0.010] and peripapillary RNFL thickness in the superior [coefficient: -4.65 (95% CI: -8.40 to -0.89), P < 0.001] and inferior [coefficient: -4.00 (95% CI: -7.81 to -0.19); P = 0.040] quadrants were significantly thinner in individuals with blood type B compared to those with other ABO blood groups. The average [coefficient: 12.69 (95% CI: 4.12–21.64); P = 0.004) and central [coefficient: 16.21 (95%: 6.44–25.97); P = 0.001) macular thicknesses were significantly thicker in AB group compared to other blood groups. The average macular thickness was significantly thinner in Rh + compared to the Rh- group [coefficient: -8.33 (95% CI: -15.4 to -1.25); P = 0.021].ConclusionRetinal structural indices may be related to blood groups implying a genetic linkage. Considering the lack of consistency among various studies, larger trials are needed to explore the effect of ABO and Rh grouping on peripapillary RNFL and macular thicknesses.

CORRELATION OF VISUAL FIELD CHANGES WITH OPTICAL COHERENCE TOMOGRAPHY IN PRIMARY OPEN ANGLE GLAUCOMA

PURPOSE: To detect morphological changes in Optic Nerve Head (ONH), macula and Retinal nerve fibre layer (RNFL) using spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SDOCT) and to correlate them with functional loss (Visual field changes) using 24-2 and 10-2 standard automated perimetry in Primary open angle glaucoma patients. RESULTS: Mean value of 90D cup to disc ratio (CDR) of study subjects was 0.64 ± 0.13 with median (25th-75th percentile) of 0.7(0.6-0.7). Mean value of average RNFL thickness(microns), superior quadrant thickness (micron), inferior quadrant thickness (micron), nasal quadrant thickness (micron) and temporal quadrant thickness (micron) of study subjects was 62.35 ± 14.43, 77.96 ± 14.29, 81.41 ± 22.84, 51.33 ± 21.14 and 50.71 ± 17.71 with median(25th-75th percentile) of 63(52-75), 78(66.25-89), 81.5(64.25-93.75), 54(46-63) and 50.5(39-57.75) respectively. Mean value of average macular thickness (micron), macular GCL-IPL thickness -Superior quadrant (micron) and macular GCL-IPL thickness -Inferior quadrant (micron) of study subjects was 65.6 ± 11.7, 76.49 ± 11.63 and 76.76 ± 16.86 with median (25th-75th percentile) of 64(56-75), 75(67-87.75) and 75.5(65.25-93) respectively. Mean value of MD and PSD of study subjects was -7.34 ± 4.47 and 6.8 ± 3.11 with median (25th-75th percentile) of -7.65(-11--3.1) and 6.9(3.9-9.1) respectively. 57(41.3%) eyes had early glaucoma, 51(37%) eyes had moderate glaucoma and 30(21.7%) eyes had advanced glaucoma. CONCLUSION: In present study, ONH parameters (rim area), RNFL parameter (inferior quadrant thickness) and macula parameters (average macular GCLIPL thickness) showed statistically significant correlation with VF MD. Correlation between VF parameters i.e. MD and PSD with OCT parameters shown that there was a relation between Macular GCLIPL thickness ,RNFL thickness and ONH with the changes in the results of VF.

Efficacy of Ranibizumab in the Treatment of Macular Edema Secondary to Retinal Vein Occlusion

Objective: Branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO), a major cause of vision loss, is a significant ocular health concern. The frequency of macular edema due to BRVO is a critical area of study because of its profound impact on patient quality of life. This study investigated the effectiveness of ranibizumab, a monoclonal antibody fragment and VEGF inhibitor, in the treatment of macular edema in patients with BRVO. Material and Methods: Twelve patients (12 eyes) diagnosed with macular edema secondary to BRVO were included in this study. Patients were selected on the basis of specific visual acuity and macular thickness criteria, excluding those with other ocular conditions or systemic diseases. 0.05 milligrams of ranibizumab was administered intravitreally to each patient. Ophthalmological assessments were conducted both before and after the injection and at 1, 2, 3, and 6-month intervals following medication administration. Results: The average follow-up duration was 5.5±1.16 months (ranging from 2 to 6 months). The average central macular thickness before the injection was 542.66±191.44 µm, which decreased to 320.50±101.44 µm at 1-month post-injection, 283.66±125.01 µm at 2 months, 299.40±91.52 µm at 3 months, and 260.90±144.97 µm at 6 months. The reduction in central macular thickness at all time points was statistically significant (p&lt;0.01). The mean Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study (ETDRS) letter score was 55.83±23.91 before the injection and improved to 71.25±17.07 at 1 month, 74.33±15.97 at 2 months, 66.7±21.60 at 3 months, and 71.2±17.38 at 6 months post-injection. The increase in visual acuity at 1, 2, 3, and 6 months after the injection was statistically significant compared to the pre-injection ETDRS letter scores (p&lt;0.05). An improvement of two or more lines in visual acuity was observed in 58.3% of cases at 1 month, 58.3% at 2 months, 50% at 3 months, and 80% at 6 months (one line equivalent to five letters). Conclusion: Intravitreal Ranibizumab injections have been found to be effective and reliable in the early stages of treating macular edema due to branch retinal vein occlusion.

Attention flexibility is associated with retinal cup-to-disk ratio in patients with schizophrenia spectrum disorders

IntroductionIn recent years, there has been increasing interest in the potential use of retinal imaging as a non-invasive and easily accessible tool for investigating the neurobiological underpinnings of schizophrenia. Studies have suggested that patients with schizophrenia spectrum disorders (SSD) have structural abnormalities in the retina, including changes in retinal thickness and the ratio of the retinal cup-to-disk ratio.ObjectivesTo investigate the relationship between retinal cup-to-disk ratio and cognitive performance in patients with SSD using a high-definition retinal imaging device – optical coherence tomography (OCT) scanner.MethodsThe sample was comprised of twenty patients with SSD (F20-F29 according to ICD-10 criteria). All diagnoses were confirmed by a researcher using the Mini International Psychiatric Interview. All patients underwent complete ophthalmological examination, excluding any ocular pathology. Retinal thickness was measured in both eyes of all patients with a high-definition spectral-domain OCT device. Examined retinal parameters were: total retinal nerve fiber layer thickness (RNFL); RNFL thickness in all eye quadrants (nasal, temporal, superior, inferior); RNFL symmetry; average macular volume (MV); average macular thickness (MT); ganglion cell layer thickness (GC); average retinal cup-to-disk (C/D) ratio, vertical C/D ratio. Cognitive performance of all patients was tested using the Intra/Extradimensional Set Shift Task (IED). IED is a component of a state-of-the-art computerized battery for cognitive assessment – Cambridge Neuropsychological Automated Test Battery. IED is a measure of maintenance, shifting and flexibility of attention. Associations between retinal variables and IED measures were determined with Pearson correlation analyses.ResultsMean age of patients was 33 ± 7.5 years. Fifty five percent of the sample was male, illness duration was 6.2 ± 3.9 years. Daily dosage of chlorpromazine was 225.7 ± 108.8 mg. Retinal C/D ratio in the right eye was positively associated with IED total errors (r=0.50; p=0.02) and negatively with IED stage progression (r=-0.52, p=0.18). Likewise, vertical C/D ratio was positively associated with IED total errors (r=0.49; p=0.02) and negatively with IED stage progression (r=-0.52, p=0.18).ConclusionsPrevious analyses of retinal parameters in patients with schizophrenia point towards enlargement of retinal cup-to-disk ratio, irrespective of any underlying somatic comorbidities. Our data shows worsening of attention flexibility in association with the increase of cup-to-disk ratio in patients with schizophrenia spectrum disorders. The significance of cup-to-disk retinal disturbance in schizophrenia spectrum disorders and its connection with cognitive performance should be further evaluated and supplemented with measurements of functional adaptation in these patients.Disclosure of InterestNone Declared

OUTER RETINAL MICROCAVITATIONS IN RETINITIS PIGMENTOSA : A Novel Optical Coherence Tomography Finding Common in RP1 -Related Retinopathy.

To describe a novel optical coherence tomography (OCT) finding of outer retina microcavitations in RP1 -related retinopathy and other retinal degenerations. Medical charts and OCT images of 28 patients with either autosomal dominant retinitis pigmentosa or autosomal recessive retinitis pigmentosa RP1 -related retinopathy were reviewed. Outer retina microcavitations were defined as hyporeflective OCT structures of at least 30 µ m in diameter between the ellipsoid zone and retinal pigment epithelium. Comparison was made based on the following metrics: (1) functional measures including best-corrected visual acuity and color discrimination errors on D-15 test; and (2) structural measures, including central subfield, average macular thickness, and preserved transfoveal ellipsoid zone width. Mann-Whitney tests were used for comparisons with significance set at P < 0.05. The specificity of microcavitations for RP1 -related retinopathy was estimated against 26 patients with non- RP1 retinitis pigmentosa. Among 15 included patients, microcavitations were found in at least one eye of all patients with arRP and 7/12 (58%) of patients with adRP. Patients with adRP and microcavitations were older at the time of examination (51 vs. 43 years of age; P = 0.04) and their eyes demonstrated worse best-corrected visual acuity (0.09 vs. 0 logMAR; P = 0.008), reduced central subfield (256 vs. 293 µ m; P = 0.01), average macular thickness (241 vs. 270 µ m; P = 0.02), and shorter transfoveal ellipsoid zone widths (1.67 vs. 4.98 mm; P < 0.0001). The finding of microcavitations showed a specificity of 0.92 for RP1 -related retinopathy. A novel OCT finding of outer retina microcavitations was commonly observed in patients with RP1 -related retinopathy. Eyes with outer retinal OCT microcavitations had worse visual function and more affected central retinal structure.

EPIRETINAL MACROPHAGE-LIKE CELLS ON OPTICAL COHERENCE TOMOGRAPHY: Potential Inflammatory Imaging Biomarker of Severity in Diabetic Retinopathy.

To investigate the clinical value of epiretinal macrophage-like cells (eMLCs) in different stages of diabetic retinopathy (DR), including diabetic macular edema (DME). One hundred and seventy-six eyes of 176 patients, including 31 diabetes eyes without retinopathy, 24 with mild nonproliferative DR (NPDR), 37 with moderate NPDR, 32 with severe NPDR, and 52 with proliferative DR, were compared with 30 healthy controls. The optic nerve head and macular region were examined using en face optical coherence tomography and optical coherence tomography angiography. A previously described technique was employed to measure the eMLCs on the inner limiting membrane. The optic nerve head and macular eMLC densities increased with worsening DR stage and were higher in moderate, severe NPDR, and proliferative DR, especially in eyes with DME (all adjusted P < 0.01). The optic nerve head and macular eMLC densities in the DME groups were higher than those in their corresponding non-DME groups at the same DR stage (all P < 0.05). The average macular thickness was correlated with macular eMLC density (standardized β = 0.661, P < 0.001) in patients with diabetes. The proportion of eyes with larger and plumper eMLCs increased with worsening DR and was higher in moderate, severe NPDR, proliferative DR, and eyes with DME ( P = 0.018, P < 0.001, P < 0.001, and P < 0.001, respectively). Increased density along with morphological changes of eMLCs is observed beginning with moderate NPDR and correlates with the progression of DR, including DME.

Subthreshold micropulse laser therapy for early postoperative macular thickening following surgical removal of epiretinal membrane

BackgroundThis study aimed to investigate the functional and anatomical outcomes of subthreshold micropulse laser (SMPL) therapy in eyes with early postoperative macular thickening after idiopathic epiretinal membrane (iERM) removal.MethodsThis was a prospective and interventional study. Forty-eight eyes from 48 patients with macular edema at 1 month after iERM removal were randomly divided into two groups. Patients in the SMPL group (n = 24) received SMPL therapy while no special intervention was used for the observation group (n = 24). Baseline demographic data and clinical findings before and at 1 and 3 months after SMPL treatment or observation, including best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and the changes in central subfield thickness (CST) and average macular thickness (AMT), were analyzed.ResultsAn improvement in BCVA with a decrease in CST and AMT from baseline to the 3-month follow-ups were observed in both SMPL and observation groups. No significant difference in BCVA was observed between the SMPL group and observation group either in the 1-month (0.26 [0.15, 0.52] vs. 0.26 [0.15, 0.39], P = 0.852) or the 3-month (0.15 [0.10, 0.30] vs. 0.23 [0.15, 0.30], P = 0.329) follow-up. There was a greater reduction in CST in the SMPL group versus observation group between baseline and the 3-month follow-up (-77.8 ± 72.3 μm vs. -45.0 ± 46.9 μm, P = 0.049). The alteration in AMT did not differ between the two groups in either 1-month (-16.5 ± 20.1 μm vs. -19.7 ± 16.3 μm, P = 0.547) or 3-month (-36.9 ± 26.9 μm vs. -34.0 ± 20.1 μm, P = 0.678) follow-up.ConclusionsSMPL therapy led to a significant decrease in CST at the 3-month follow-up while did not significantly improve the visual acuity in patients with postoperative macular thickening following iERM surgery.Trial registrationThe study was registered on Aug 27, 2020 (Trial Registration Number: ChiCTR 2000037227).

Regional choroidal thickness estimation from color fundus images based on convolutional neural networks

PurposeThis study aims to estimate the regional choroidal thickness from color fundus images from convolutional neural networks in different network structures and task learning models. Method1276 color fundus photos and their corresponding choroidal thickness values from healthy subjects were obtained from the Topcon DRI Triton optical coherence tomography machine. Initially, ten commonly used convolutional neural networks were deployed to identify the most accurate model, which was subsequently selected for further training. This selected model was then employed in combination with single-, multiple-, and auxiliary-task training models to predict the average and sub-region choroidal thickness in both ETDRS (Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study) grids and 100-grid subregions. The values of mean absolute error and coefficient of determination (R2) were involved to evaluate the models' performance. ResultsEfficientnet-b0 network outperformed other networks with the lowest mean absolute error value (25.61 μm) and highest R2 (0.7817) in average choroidal thickness. Incorporating diopter spherical, anterior chamber depth, and lens thickness as auxiliary tasks improved predicted accuracy (p-value = 6.39×10−44, 2.72×10−38, 1.15×10−36 respectively). For ETDRS regional choroidal thickness estimation, multi-task model achieved better results than single task model (lowest mean absolute error = 31.10 μm vs. 33.20 μm). The multi-task training also can simultaneously predict the choroidal thickness of 100 grids with a minimum mean absolute error of 33.86 μm. ConclusionsEfficientnet-b0, in combination with multi-task and auxiliary task models, achieve high accuracy in estimating average and regional macular choroidal thickness directly from color fundus photographs.

Continuous Laser Versus Micropulse Laser in the Treatment of Central Serous Chorioretinopathy: A Retrospective Study.

Central serous chorioretinopathy (CSCR) is a retinal disorder characterized by complex mechanisms leading to abnormal fluid accumulation under the retina. While management remains controversial, laser therapy has been successfully used. This study compares the efficacy of continuous laser (CL) and micropulse laser (ML) therapy in treating CSCR, focusing on reduction in macular thickness and improvement in visual acuity. A retrospective cohort study was conducted, including patients with CSCR treated with either CL or ML. The primary outcome measured was the reduction in average macular thickness (AMT), alongside secondary outcomes like changes in best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), subfoveal choroidal thickness (SFCT), and resolution of subretinal fluid (SRF). The study evaluated 121 patients with CSCR, treated either with CL or ML. The primary outcome showed that the mean reduction in AMT was 51.14 µm (±20) in the CL group and 29.88 µm (±22) in the ML group, without a statistically significant difference (p=0.10). For the secondary outcomes, the improvement in BCVA was comparable in both groups, with CL at 0.15 (±0.1) and ML at 0.12 (±0.1) and no significant difference (p=0.41). However, in SFCT reduction, CL showed greater efficacy with a mean reduction of 32.19 µm (±15) compared to ML's 4.85 µm (±18), which was statistically significant (p=0.0004). The degree of SRF resolutionshowed no significant difference between the treatments (p=0.065). Both CL and ML are effective in the management of CSCR, with CL being more effective in reducing SFCT. These findings suggest the need for personalized treatment strategies based on individual patient characteristics and underline the complexity of CSCR management.

Quantitative assessments of retinal macular structure among rural-dwelling older adults in China: a population-based, cross-sectional, optical coherence tomography study

ObjectivesTo quantitatively assess and compare retinal macular structures of rural-dwelling older adults in China using two different optical coherence tomography (OCT) scanners and to examine their associations with demographic, lifestyle,...

Sectorial Ganglion Cell Complex Thickness as Biomarker of Vision Outcome in Patients With Dominant Optic Atrophy.

Dominant optic atrophy (DOA) is an inherited condition caused by autosomal dominant mutations involving the OPA-1 gene. The aim of this study was to assess the relationship between macular ganglion cell and inner plexiform layer (GC-IPL) thickness obtained from structural optical coherence tomography (OCT) and visual outcomes in DOA patients. The study recruited 33 patients with confirmed OPA-1 heterozygous mutation and DOA. OCT scans were conducted to measure the GC-IPL thickness. The average and sectorial Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study (ETDRS) charts (six-sector macular analysis to enhance the topographical analysis) centered on the fovea were considered. Several regression analyses were carried out to investigate the associations between OCT metrics and final best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) as the dependent variable. The mean BCVA was 0.43 ± 0.37 logMAR, and the average macular GC-IPL thickness was 43.65 ± 12.56 µm. All of the GC-IPL sectors were significantly reduced and correlated with BCVA. The univariate linear regression and the multivariate stepwise regression modeling showed that the strongest association with final BCVA was observed with the internal superior GC-IPL thickness. Dividing patients based on BCVA, we found a specific pattern. Specifically, in patients with BCVA ≤ 0.3 logMAR, the external superior and inferior sectors together with the internal superior were more significant; whereas, for BCVA > 0.3 logMAR, the external superior sector and internal superior sector were more significant. The study identified OCT biomarkers associated with visual outcomes in DOA patients. Moreover, we assessed a specific OCT biomarker for DOA progression, ranging from patients in the early stages of disease with more preserved GC-IPL sectorial thickness to advanced stages with severe thinning.

Choroidal Thickness and Central Macular Thickness Measurements with Cirrus HD-OCT in Healthy.

This research was conducted to determine the normal values of choroidal thickness in healthy individuals and to evaluate the relationship between this thickness and age, gender, refraction, axial length and average macular thickness using OCT. In the study, the right eyes of 400 healthy individuals (234 women, 166 men) between the ages of 4 and 70 years, who applied to the Department of Ophthalmology outpatient clinic for examination, were evaluated. Macular thickness, macular volume, and foveal thickness were found to be 249.12 ±21.32 µm, 9.98 ±0.5 µm3 and 280 ±13.45 µm, respectively. According to linear regression analysis, a negative correlation was detected between age and subfoveal choroidal thickness (p &lt; 0.05). It was determined that foveal thickness, retinal volume and average retinal thickness were higher in men, and foveal thickness increased with age (p &lt; 0.05). As a result of the research, it was determined that age is an important factor affecting choroidal thickness. It is thought that, in future, improving in vivo imaging of the choroid and measuring choroidal thickness using OCT will facilitate understanding of the pathophysiological basis of many ophthalmological diseases.

The Retinal Nerve Fiber Layer and Macular Thickness in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus without Retinopathy Using Optical Coherence Tomography: A Comparative Study.

Diabetes leads to an alteration in retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness and macular thickness which can easily be detected with optical coherence tomography (OCT). This study was done to compare the RNFL and macular thickness between diabetic patients without retinopathy and non-diabetic patients so that it would be useful in the early detection of retinal changes if present. The correlation between the RNFL and macular thickness with metabolic blood parameters of diabetic subjects was also studied. This is an observational, cross-sectional, hospital-based study including 120 subjects who were further divided into two groups. Group A consisted of 60 diabetic patients without retinopathy and group B consisted of 60 non-diabetic patients. The blood parameters were recorded and the RNFL thickness and macular thickness were compared between the two groups after evaluation by OCT. The average central macular thickness was found to be more in group A but was statistically insignificant (p=0.29). Macular thickness in the superior quadrant was significantly higher among group A when compared with group B (p=0.01). Whereas RNFL thickness difference between the two groups was statistically insignificant (p=0.53). Blood urea showed significant positive correlation (r=0.269) with central macular thickness (p=0.03). Our study showed that diabetic patients without retinopathy could have increased macular thickness in the superior quadrant when compared with normal people whereas RNFL thickness may not alter. The blood urea levels of the diabetic patients can provide us clues regarding possible retinal changes.

Study of OCT based biomarkers as a predictor of visual outcome in diabetic macular edema

To determine the association between optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) based biomarkers and visual acuity (VA) in diabetic macular edema (DME). This cross-sectional study was conducted at a tertiary care teaching hospitalbetweenJanuary 2021 and July 2022.The study included 54 eyes (30 patients) with DME. Based on the early treatment diabetic retinopathy study (ETDRS) grading system, these were classified as mild (n=1), moderate (n=31), severe (n=14), and very severe (n=8) non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy (NPDR). The demographics, VA recorded using ETDRS chart and ETDRS scoring system, slit lamp biomicroscopy findings, colour fundus pictures and biomarkers determined using macular scans on SD-OCT were noted. Six eyes with proliferative diabetic retinopathy (n-4) and considerable media opacity (n-2) were excluded. The data was entered into Microsoft Excel spreadsheet 2021and IBM's SPSS 26 statistical program was used to calculate the results.VA and biomarkers, which included central macular thickness, disorganisation of retinal inner layers (DRIL), ellipsoid zone disruption (EZD), choroidal thickness were measured on SD-OCT.: The mean age was 59.4±9.4 years, and male to female ratio was 1.3:1. Mean uncorrected and best corrected VA were 46 and 61 letters, 55.12±1.76 and 67.25±10.05 letters for moderate NPDR, 43.07±3.95 and 52.14±17.83 letters for severe NPDR, and 26.50±16.53 and 36±16.38 letters for very severe NPDR, respectively. VA deteriorated with increasing disease severity. Poorer VA was associated with increased average foveal and macular thickness and increased mean horizontal disruption of the inner retinal layers (DRIL). Average choroidal thickness positively correlated with increasing DR severity. : Poorer VA was associated with increasing DR severity, increased central retinal thickness, increased mean horizontal DRIL and increased average foveal choroidal thickness. We found no statistically significant correlation between VA and ellipsoid zone disruption.

Correlations between subfoveal choroidal thickness, macular thickness, and visual outcome in neovascular age-related macular degeneration using swept source OCT: insights from intravitreal aflibercept treatment

BackgroundAge-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a leading cause of visual impairment among individuals aged 50 and above, often resulting in irreversible vision loss (1). Currently, antiangiogenic therapy is the primary treatment approach for neovascular AMD (2). The choroid has gained significant attention in recent years due to its involvement in various ocular pathologies (7). The objective of this study was to evaluate visual acuity and correlate pre-treatment variables, such as foveal thickness and choroidal thickness, with post-treatment outcomes.Materials and MethodsThis study was designed as a prospective interventional study to investigate the changes in choroidal and macular thickness in patients with neovascular AMD who received intravitreal aflibercept injections. The study utilized medical records and employed Swept Source Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT-SS) for evaluation. The data was collected from patients treated in Presidente Prudente, Brazil, during a three-month load dose period.ResultsThe best-corrected mean visual acuity significantly improved from 1.0 logarithm of the minimum resolution angle (logMAR) units to 0.55 logMAR after treatment with aflibercept (p < 0.001). Patients undergoing treatment exhibited a significant decrease in average macular thickness from 323 μm to 232 μm (p = 0.001), as well as a reduction in choroidal thickness from 206 μm to 172 μm (p = 0.031), while maintaining intraocular pressure within the normal range (p = 0.719) without significant variation. Statistically significant associations were found between the difference in pre- and post-treatment choroidal thickness and the pretreatment values of macular thickness (p = 0.005) and choroidal thickness (p = 0.013). There was also a statistically significant correlation between the difference in pre- and post-treatment macular thickness and the pretreatment macular thickness value (p < 0.001).ConclusionIn this study, aflibercept exhibited remarkable effectiveness in reducing macular and choroidal thickness, as evaluated using OCT-SS, and significantly improved visual acuity in patients with neovascular AMD. The assessment of both choroidal and macular changes, as well as their correlations, can provide valuable insights for clinicians, enabling them to make well-informed therapeutic decisions and effectively monitor treatment outcomes. Notably, this study contributes to the existing body of literature as the first to establish a correlation between pretreatment foveal thickness, variation in choroidal thickness, and post-treatment choroidal thickness.

Macular Thickness and Volume by Spectral-Domain Optical Coherence Tomography and their Related Factors in the Elderly Population.

To determine the distribution of macular thickness and macular volume in an elderly healthy population 60 years of age and above and their determinants. The sampling was performed using a multistage stratified random cluster sampling method on the geriatric population 60 years of age and above in Tehran, Iran. All participants underwent optometric examinations, slit-lamp examination, and optical biometry. Retinal imaging was performed by spectral-domain optical coherence tomography. The means ± standard deviation and 95% confidence interval of central macular thickness (CMT), average macular thickness (AMT), and macular volume were 221 ± 33 (218-223) μm, 267 ± 29 (265-269) μm, and 8.36 ± 0.44 (8.33-8.39) mm3, respectively. The CMT was significantly lower in females than males (β: -5.77; P = 0.002). The AMT was significantly lower in females than males (β = -10.32; P < 0.001) and was significantly directly related to intraocular pressure (β = 0.63; P = 0.038). The macular volume was significantly lower in females than males (β = -0.13; P < 0.001) and decreased with age (β = -0.01; P < 0.001). In addition, the macular volume had a significant inverse and direct relationship with axial length (β = -0.04; P = 0.011) and keratometry (β = 0.03; P < 0.001). Macular thickness in the Iranian geriatric population was slightly less than the populations studied in other countries. The role of sex should also be taken into account in the interpretation of macular thickness findings.

Investigation of retinal layers thicknesses in autism spectrum disorder and comparison with healthy siblings and control group

BackgroundThis study aimed to evaluate the segmented peripapillary retina nerve fiber layer (RNFL) and all neurosensorial retinal layer thicknesses of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and compare these parameters with healthy siblings and control by spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT). Methods41 children with ASD, 38 healthy siblings and 43 healthy control were included. Peripapillary RNFL thickness, total macula, inner retinal layers [including macular RNFL, ganglion cell layer (GCL), inner plexiform layer (IPL), inner nuclear layer (INL)] and outer retinal layers [including outer plexiform layer (OPL), outer nuclear layer (ONL)] thickness of all participants were measured by SD-OCT. First, the average inner and outer retina layer values were compared between the three groups. Secondly, subsegmental analysis was performed on the layers whose average value was statistically significant. Segmental analysis of all retinal layer thicknesses was evaluated in 9 distinct macular areas defined based on the Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study Group (ETDS). ResultsAll inner retinal layers thicknesses in children with ASD were found thicker than healthy siblings and control groups. Consistent with these results, the average total macular thickness was statistically significantly thicker in ASD than in healthy siblings and control groups. ConclusionAll inner retinal layers were thicker in ASD. Since the retina originates from the same place as the central nervous system, this might reflect the brain abnormalities seen in individuals with ASD.

CAN AN EYE BENEFIT FROM AN EGG? ADDITION OF LUTEIN IN FUNCTIONAL FOOD PRODUCTS AFFECTS THE MACULA LUTEA OF YOUNG HEALTHY INDIVIDUALS

Objectives: Lutein is a carotenoid and one of the primary pigments with antioxidative effects found in the macula lutea of an eye. The present study aimed to determine the effects of lutein consumption in the form of functional food (hen eggs enriched with n-3 PUFAs, selenium, vitamin D and lutein) on macula lutea morphology by using an optical coherence tomography (OCT) in young healthy subjects.&#x0D; Participants and Methods: Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled pilot study included eleven healthy young subjects of both sexes (average age 18 to 28 years), assigned to a Nutri4 group and a control group. The Nutri4 group consumed nutritionally enriched hen eggs, while the control group consumed regular ones during the three-week protocol. At the beginning and end of the protocol, the subjects underwent ophthalmological examinations of the posterior eye segment by OCT. Venous blood was sampled to determine biochemical blood parameters (serum concentration of nutrients, liver enzymes, serum lipid profile, inflammatory markers).&#x0D; Results: Consumption of Nutri4 eggs led to a significant increase in n-3 PUFAs, lutein and vitamin E concentrations in serum. The average macular thickness (lower outer layer of the macula) was increased in the Nutri4 group, while no significant change was found in the retinal thickness of the control group after the dietary protocol. Urea was raised, and gamma-glutamyl aminotransferase significantly decreased in the Nutri4 group, while aspartate aminotransferase was increased in the control group after the corresponding dietary protocol.&#x0D; Conclusions: The consumption of enriched hen eggs has a beneficial effect on the thickness and volume of the retina.

Associations between Chronic Kidney Disease and Thinning of Neuroretinal Layers in Multiethnic Asian and White Populations

To evaluate the relationships between chronic kidney disease (CKD) with retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) and ganglion cell-inner plexiform layer (GCIPL) thickness profiles of eyes in Asian and White populations. Cross-sectional analysis. A total of 5066 Asian participants (1367 Malays, 1772 Indians, and 1927 Chinese) from the Singapore Epidemiology of Eye Diseases Study (SEED) were included, consisting of 9594 eyes for peripapillary RNFL analysis and 8661 eyes for GCIPL analysis. Additionally, 45 064 White participants (87 649 eyes) from the United Kingdom Biobank (UKBB) were included for both macular RNFL analysis and GCIPL analysis. Nonglaucoma participants aged ≥ 40 years with complete data for estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) were included from both SEED and UKBB. In SEED, peripapillary RNFL and GCIPL thickness were measured by Cirrus HD-OCT 4000. In UKBB, macular RNFL and GCIPL were measured by Topcon 3D-OCT 1000 Mark II. Chronic kidney disease was defined as eGFR < 60 ml/min/1.73 m2 in both data sets. To evaluate the associations between kidney function status with RNFL and GCIPL thickness profiles, multivariable linear regression with generalized estimating equation models were performed in SEED and UKBB data sets separately. Average peripapillary and macular RNFL thickness and macular GCIPL thickness. In SEED, after adjusting for age, gender, ethnicity, systolic blood pressure, antihypertensive medication, diabetes, hyperlipidemia, body mass index, smoking status, and intraocular pressure, presence of CKD (β=-1.31; 95% confidence interval [CI],-2.37 to-0.26; P= 0.015) and reduced eGFR (per10ml/min/1.73 m2; β=-0.32; 95% CI,-0.50 to-0.13; P= 0.001) were associated with thinner average peripapillary RNFL. Presence of CKD (β=-1.63; 95% CI,-2.42 to-0.84) and reduced eGFR (per10 ml/min/1.73 m2; β=-0.30; 95% CI,-0.44 to-0.16) were consistently associated with thinner GCIPL in SEED (all P < 0.001). In UKBB, after adjusting for the above-mentioned covariates (except ethnicity), reduced eGFR (per 10 ml/min/1.73 m2; β=-0.06; 95% CI,-0.10 to-0.01; P= 0.008) was associated with thinner macular RNFL and CKD (β=-0.62; 95% CI,-1.16 to-0.08; P= 0.024) was associated with thinner average GCIPL. We consistently observed associations between CKD and thinning of RNFL and GCIPL across Asian and White populations' eyes. These findings further suggest that compromised kidney function is associated with RNFL and GCIPL thinning. The author(s) have no proprietary or commercial interest in any materials discussed in this article.