Central Retinal Artery Equivalent Research Articles

Deep Learning based Retinal Vessel Caliber Measurement and the Association with Hypertension

Purpose To develop a highly efficient and fully automated method that measures retinal vessel caliber using digital retinal photographs and evaluate the association between retinal vessel caliber and hypertension. Methods The subjects of this study were from two sources in Beijing, China, a hypertension case-control study from Tongren Hospital (Tongren study) and a community-based atherosclerosis cohort from Peking University First Hospital (Shougang study). Retinal vessel segmentation and arteriovenous classification were achieved simultaneously by a customized deep learning model. Two experienced ophthalmologists evaluated whether retinal vessels were correctly segmented and classified. The ratio of incorrectly segmented and classified retinal vessels was used to measure the accuracy of the model’s recognition. Central retinal artery equivalents, central retinal vein equivalents and arteriolar-to-venular diameter ratio were computed to analyze the association between retinal vessel caliber and the risk of hypertension. The association was then compared to that derived from the widely used semi-automated software (Integrative Vessel Analysis). Results The deep learning model achieved an arterial recognition error rate of 1.26%, a vein recognition error rate of 0.79%, and a total error rate of 1.03%. Central retinal artery equivalents and arteriolar-to-venular diameter ratio measured by both Integrative Vessel Analysis and deep learning methods were inversely associated with the odds of hypertension in both Tongren and Shougang studies. The comparisons of areas under the receiver operating characteristic curves from the proposed deep learning method and Integrative Vessel Analysis were all not significantly different (p > .05). Conclusion The proposed deep learning method showed a comparable diagnostic value to Integrative Vessel Analysis software. Compared with semi-automatic software, our deep learning model has significant advantage in efficiency and can be applied to population screening and risk evaluation.

Retinal vessel caliber and cognitive performance: the multi-ethnic study of atherosclerosis (MESA).

Retinal vessel calibers share anatomic and physiologic characteristics with the cerebral vasculature and can be visualized noninvasively. In light of the known microvascular contributions to brain health and cognitive function, we aimed to determine if, in a community based-study, retinal vessel calibers and change in caliber over 8years are associated with cognitive function or trajectory. Participants in the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis (MESA) cohort who completed cognitive testing at Exam 5 (2010-2012) and had retinal vascular caliber measurements (Central Retinal Artery and Vein Equivalents; CRAE and CRVE) at Exam 2 (2002-2004) and Exam 5 were included. Using multivariable linear regression, we evaluated the association of CRAE and CRVE from Exam 2 and Exam 5 and their change between the two exams with scores on tests of global cognitive function (Cognitive Abilities Screening Instrument; CASI), processing speed (Digit Symbol Coding; DSC) and working memory (Digit Span; DS) at Exam 5 and with subsequent change in cognitive scores between Exam 5 and Exam 6 (2016-2018).The main effects are reported as the difference in cognitive test score per SD increment in retinal vascular caliber with 95% confidence intervals (CI). A total of 4334 participants (aged 61.6 ± 9.2years; 53% female; 41% White) completed cognitive testing and at least one retinal assessment. On multivariable analysis, a 1 SD larger CRAE at exam 5 was associated with a lower concomitant CASI score (-0.24, 95% CI -0.46, -0.02). A 1 SD larger CRVE at exam 2 was associated with a lower subsequent CASI score (-0.23, 95%CI -0.45, -0.01). A 1 SD larger CRVE at exam 2 or 5 was associated with a lower DSC score [(-0.56, 95% CI -1.02, -0.09) and -0.55 (95% CI -1.03, -0.07) respectively]. The magnitude of the associations was relatively small (2.8-3.1% of SD). No significant associations were found between retinal vessel calibers at Exam 2 and 5 with the subsequent score trajectory of cognitive tests performance over an average of 6years. Wider retinal venular caliber was associated with concomitant and future measures of slower processing speed but not with later cognitive trajectory. Future studies should evaluate the utility of these measures in risk stratification models from a clinical perspective as well as for screening on a population level.

Retinal vessel analysis in vascular occlusions of the eye

Aims/Purpose: This cohort study investigates how the static and dynamic vessel parameters differ in patients with vascular occlusions and if there are any variations between the different types of vessel occlusion.Methods: Patients with the diagnosis of branch retinal artery obstruction BRAO, central retinal artery obstruction CRAO, branch retinal vein obstruction BRVO, central retinal vein obstruction CRVO, anterior ischaemic optic neuropathy AION and any combination of these Combo were included in our study. During their inpatient stay for cardiovascular diagnostics all patients were examined via static and dynamic vessel analysis (IMEDOS Health GmbH, Jena) to obtain the arteriovenous ratio (AVR), the central retinal artery equivalent (CRAE), the central retinal vein equivalent (CRVE) and the flicker light induced dilation of the retinal arteries (FLA) and veins (FLV). The vessel density was determined via OCT angiography (Heidelberg Engineering GmbH, Heidelberg).Results: 34 patients (70% male; 30% female; mean age 69.6 ± 11.3 years) with 9 (26.5%) CRVO, 8 (23.5%) AION, 5 (14.7%) BRAO and 4 (11.8%) CRAO, BRVO and Combo each have been included. The best visual acuity (BCVA) of the diseased eye differed significantly between the groups (AION 0.41 ± 0.61, CRAO 2.40 ± 0.20, BRAO 0.16 ± 0.05, CRVO 0.81 ± 0.86, BRVO 0.18 ± 0.10, Combo 1.53 ± 0.68; p < 0.001) whereas the BCVA of the healthy eyes were comparable. The CRVE showed a significant difference between the groups CRAO – CRVO (p = 0.008), CRAO – Combo (p < 0.001) and BRAO–Combo (p = 0.026). The FLV of the diseased eye was significantly higher in patients with AION than in the CRAO group (p = 0.049). The parameters of the static vessel analysis of the healthy eyes were comparable.Conclusions: Preliminary analysis shows significant differences of individual parameters of the retinal vessel analysis between different types of vascular occlusion. The diagnostic and research benefit for the individual patient remains to be further evaluated.

Retinal microcirculation alterations in rheumatoid arthritis patients compared to healty volunteers and their correlation to the disease activity and duration of disease

Aims/Purpose: Patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) have a high risk of developing cardiovascular diseases due to endothelial dysfunction, which is a risk factor for cardiovascular events. The retinal Vessel Analyzer (RVA, IMEDOS Systems) can capture retinal vessels non‐invasively in real‐time and analyse their dynamic responses to stimuli.Methods: In order to assess the structural and functional changes in the retinal microvasculature, a non‐invasive Retinal Vessels Analyzer (RVA) was used to study 44 patients with RA (mean age 57.4 ± 13.2 years) and compare them to a control group of 44 age‐matched healthy individuals. The RVA was used to measure various parameters, including the Central Retinal Artery Equivalent (CRAE), Central Retinal Vein Equivalent (CRVE), and Arterio‐Venous Ratio (AVR), as well as the response of the retinal vessels to flickering light. After a 50 s baseline, rectangular shape, monochromatic flickering light (530–600 nm) of 12.5 Hz for 20 s was applied three times. The dilation of retinal vessels after flicker light stimulation was analysed.Results: The results of the study showed that patients with RA had significantly higher CRVE and lower AVR compared to the control group (p = 0.04 and p = 0.01, respectively), indicating structural changes in the retinal microvasculature. The patients with RA also had a significantly stronger arterial dilation response to flickering light compared to the control group (n = 43), indicating functional changes in the retinal microvasculature. In patients with moderate to high disease activity according to the Disease Activity Score (DAS‐28 > 3.2) (n = 9), there was a negative significant correlation between the maximum arterial diameter (aMAX) and interleukin‐6 (IL‐6).Conclusions: These findings suggest that RVA can be a useful tool for detecting structural and functional changes in the retinal microvasculature of patients with RA and that the disease activity and inflammation in RA may be related to these changes. However, the study notes that a larger cohort with a wider range of disease activity is needed to fully understand the effect of chronic inflammatory diseases on endothelial function.

The Effect of Bariatric Surgery on Microvascular Structure and Function, Peripheral Pressure Waveform and General Cardiovascular Risk: A Longitudinal Study

Purpose: This study aims to assess the effect of bariatric surgery on retinal microvascular calibre, peripheral microvascular function, peripheral pressure waveforms, and the general cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk in obese individuals after undergoing Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) surgery. Methods: A total of 29 obese participants were included in the study. All of the measurements were conducted at two time points: before and one year following the bariatric surgery procedure. General anthropometric data, as well as blood markers for glucose, cholesterol, and triglycerides were assessed in all individuals. In all participants, the Framingham risk score (FRS), and retinal vessel calibre measurements, using a Zeiss fundus camera and VesselMap software (ImedosSystems, Jena, Germany), were performed. Systemic arterial stiffness was measured by pulse wave analysis (PWA), and peripheral microvascular reactivity by way of digital thermal monitoring (DTM) in all participants. Results: As expected, various general anthropometric parameters, including body mass index (BMI), waist circumference and neck circumference, were significantly decreased post-surgery comparing to baseline in all individuals (all p < 0.001). In addition, their general CVD risk, as measured using FRS, was significantly improved (p < 0.001). At the retinal vascular level, central retinal artery equivalent (CRAE) as well as, central retinal vein equivalent (CRVE) had increased after surgery comparing to the baseline values (p = 0.003 and p = 0.007, respectively). In addition, both systemic arterial stiffness and peripheral microvascular reactivity had improved in all participants (p < 0.001 and p = 0.008 respectively). Conclusions: Our findings suggest that bariatric surgery has a positive effect on the overall vascular health, as well as on the general CVD risk of the obese patients undergoing this procedure.

Retinal venular vessel diameters are smaller during ten days of bed rest

Older individuals experience cardiovascular dysfunction during extended bedridden hospital or care home stays. Bed rest is also used as a model to simulate accelerated vascular deconditioning occurring during spaceflight. This study investigates changes in retinal microcirculation during a ten-day bed rest protocol. Ten healthy young males (22.9 ± 4.7 years; body mass index: 23.6 ± 2.5 kg·m–2) participated in a strictly controlled repeated-measures bed rest study lasting ten days. High-resolution images were obtained using a hand-held fundus camera at baseline, daily during the 10 days of bed rest, and 1 day after re-ambulation. Retinal vessel analysis was performed using a semi-automated software system to obtain metrics for retinal arteriolar and venular diameters, central retinal artery equivalent and central retinal vein equivalent, respectively. Data analysis employed a mixed linear model. At the end of the bed rest period, a significant decrease in retinal venular diameter was observed, indicated by a significantly lower central retinal vein equivalent (from 226.1 µm, CI 8.90, to 211.4 µm, CI 8.28, p = .026), while no significant changes in central retinal artery equivalent were noted. Prolonged bed rest confinement resulted in a significant (up to 6.5%) reduction in retinal venular diameter. These findings suggest that the changes in retinal venular diameter during bedrest may be attributed to plasma volume losses and reflect overall (cardio)-vascular deconditioning.

Characteristics of retinal image associated with premature ovarian insufficiency: a case- control study

PurposeTo establish an early clinical diagnosis model based on the retinal vascular features associated with POI, supplying a non-invasive way for accurately and early predicted the risk of POI.MethodsA total of 78 women with spontaneous POI and 48 healthy women were recruited from the Affiliated Shenzhen Maternity & Child Healthcare Hospital in the study. Retinal characteristics were analyzed using an automated retinal image analysis system. Binary logistic regression was used to identify POI cases and develop predictive models.ResultsCompared to the normal group, the POI group had larger central retinal artery equivalent (CRAE) (P = 0.006), central retinal vein equivalent (CRVE) (P = 0.001), index of venules asymmetry (Vasym) (P = 0.000); larger bifurcation angles of arterioles (Aangle) (P = 0.001), bifurcation coefficient of venule (BCV) (P = 0.001) and more obvious arteriovenous nipping (Nipping) (P = 0.005), but lower arteriole-to-venule ratio (AVR) (P = 0.012). In the POI group, the odds ratio (OR) of Vasym was 6.72e-32 (95% C.I. 4.62e-49–9.79e-15, P = 0.000), the OR of BCV was 5.66e-20 (95% C.I. 1.93e-34–.0000, P = 5.66e-20) and the OR of Nipping was 6.65e-06 (95% C.I. 6.33e-10–.0698, P = 0.012). Moreover, the area under the ROC curve for the binary logistic regression with retinal characteristics was 0.8582, and the fitting degree of regression models was 60.48% (Prob > chi-square = 0.6048).ConclusionThis study demonstrated that retinal image analysis can provide useful information for POI identification and certain characteristics may help with early clinical diagnosis of POI.

Retinal Vessel Caliber Measurement Bias in Fundus Images in the Presence of the Central Light Reflex.

To investigate the agreement between a fundus camera and a scanning laser ophthalmoscope in retinal vessel caliber measurements and to identify whether the presence of the central light reflex (CLR) explains potential discrepancies. For this cross-sectional study, we obtained fundus camera and scanning laser ophthalmoscope images from 85 eyes of 85 healthy individuals (aged 50-65 years) with different blood pressure status. We measured the central retinal artery equivalent (CRAE) and central retinal artery vein equivalent (CRVE) with the Knudtson-Parr-Hubbard algorithm and assessed the CLR using a semiautomatic grading method. We used Bland-Altman plots, 95% limits of agreement, and the two-way mixed effects intraclass correlation coefficient for consistency [ICC(3,1)] to describe interdevice agreement. We used multivariable regression to identify factors associated with differences in between-device measurements. The between-device difference in CRAE (9.5 µm; 95% confidence interval, 8.0-11.1 µm) was larger than the between-device difference in CRVE (2.9 µm; 95% confidence interval, 1.3-4.5 µm), with the fundus camera yielding higher measurements (both P < 0.001). The 95% fundus camera-scanning laser ophthalmoscope limits of agreement were -4.8 to 23.9 µm for CRAE and -12.0 to 17.8 µm for CRVE. The corresponding ICCs(3,1) were 0.89 (95% confidence interval, 0.83-0.92) and 0.91 (95% confidence interval, 0.86-0.94). The between-device CRAE difference was positively associated with the presence of a CLR (P = 0.002). Fundus cameras and scanning laser ophthalmoscopes yield correlated but not interchangeable caliber measurements. The CLR induces bias in arteriolar caliber in fundus camera images, compared with scanning laser ophthalmoscope images. Refined measurements could yield better estimates of the association between retinal vessel caliber and ophthalmic or systemic disease.

Retinal vessel architecture and geometry are not impaired in normal-tension glaucoma

To investigate the associations between retinal vessel parameters and normal-tension glaucoma (NTG). We conducted a case–control study with a prospective cohort, allowing to record 23 cases of NTG. We matched NTG patient with one primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) and one control per case by age, systemic hypertension, diabetes, and refraction. Central retinal artery equivalent (CRAE), central retinal venule equivalent (CRVE), Arteriole-To-Venule ratio (AVR), Fractal Dimension and tortuosity of the vascular network were measured using VAMPIRE software. Our sample consisted of 23 NTG, 23 POAG, and 23 control individuals, with a median age of 65 years (25–75th percentile, 56–74). No significant differences were observed in median values for CRAE (130.6 µm (25–75th percentile, 122.8; 137.0) for NTG, 128.4 µm (124.0; 132.9) for POAG, and 135.3 µm (123.3; 144.8) for controls, P = .23), CRVE (172.1 µm (160.0; 188.3), 172.8 µm (163.3; 181.6), and 175.9 µm (167.6; 188.4), P = .43), AVR (0.76, 0.75, 0.74, P = .71), tortuosity and fractal parameters across study groups. Vascular morphological parameters were not significantly associated with retinal nerve fiber layer thickness or mean deviation for the NTG and POAG groups. Our results suggest that vascular dysregulation in NTG does not modify the architecture and geometry of the retinal vessel network.

Vascular Responses following Light Therapy: A Pilot Study with Healthy Volunteers.

(1) Background: Studies have reported the effectiveness of light therapy in various medical conditions. Our pilot study aimed to assess the effect of Maharishi light therapy (MLT) on physiological parameters, such as the heart rate (HR), HR variability (HRV), blood pressure (BP), BP variability (BPV), and the retinal microvasculature of healthy participants; (2) Methodology: Thirty (14 males and 16 females) healthy, non-smoking participants between 23 and 71 years old (46 ± 18 years) were included in this randomized crossover study. Each participant was tested with a placebo (using LED light) and gem lights, 24 h apart. Hemodynamic parameters were recorded during the session, and 24 h heart rate and BP levels were assessed via mobile devices. Retinal vascular responses were captured with fundus images and the subsequent analysis of retinal vessel widths. A linear model, using repeated measures ANOVA, was used to compare the responses across the sexes and to assess the effect of the MLT; (3) Results: Changes in the central retinal artery equivalent (CRAE) (p < 0.001) and central retinal vein equivalent (CRVE) (p = 0.002) parameters were observed. CRAE and CRVE decreased under MLT and increased under the placebo condition from before to after. However, the baseline values of the participants already differed significantly before the application of any therapy, and the variation in the retinal vessel diameters was already large in the baseline measurements. This suggests that the observed effect results may only reflect naturally occurring fluctuations in the microcirculation and not the effect of MLT. Furthermore, no significant effects were observed in any other investigated parameters; (4) Conclusion: Our study with healthy participants finds significant changes in retinal parameters, but the biological variation in the baseline measurements was large to begin with. This suggests that the observed effect results only reflect naturally occurring fluctuations in the microcirculation and not the effect of MLT. However, in the future, larger studies in which MLT is applied for longer periods and/or in patients with different diseases could discover the physiological impacts of this type of therapy.

Quantify retinal structure in high-altitude residents with and without high altitude polycythemia

BackgroundTo assess retinal structural parameters in high-altitude (HA) residents with and without high altitude polycythemia (HAPC) and to elucidate the relationship between retinal structural parameters and hemoglobin (HGB).MethodsThis cross-sectional study included 55 HAPC patients and 52 healthy HA residents. Retinal structural parameters included retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness, optic nerve head (ONH) parameters and retinal vessel diameter. RNFL thickness were acquired from spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) built-in software. ONH parameters including neuroretina rim height, cup area, disc area and vertical cup/disc ratio were obtained by OCT built-in software and ImageJ software. Retinal vessel measurements including central retinal artery equivalent (CRAE), central retinal vein equivalent (CRVE) and AVR (artery/vein ratio) were calculated by revised formulas for summarizing retinal vessel diameters. All parameters were compared between HAPC group versus healthy HA group. The associations between retinal parameters and HGB were assessed by Pearson correlation analyses.ResultsIn comparison of HAPC group versus healthy HA group, RNFL thickness was thicker in the nasal quadrant of the optic disc in HAPC group (74.82 ± 14.4 VS. 66.06 ± 13.71 μm, P = 0.002). Bigger disc area and bigger cup area were also observed in HAPC group (all P < 0.05). Meanwhile, the value of CRVE was higher in HAPC group which suggested that retinal veins dilated significantly in HAPC patients (P < 0.001), however, CRAE and AVR were comparable between groups. Pearson analyses revealed that HGB was positive correlated with CRVE in HAPC group (r = 0.469, P = 0.003).Conclusionslong-term HA exposure secondary HAPC could result in thickened RNFL, enlarged ONH and dilated retinal veins. Moreover, increased blood viscosity caused by HGB should be responsible for dilated veins, but not for thickened RNFL and enlarged ONH. This study deepens the understanding of the impact of HA environment on retina.

PS-BPC03-8: MORNING BLOOD PRESSURE SURGE AND THE VASCULATURE: A COMPARISON BETWEEN YOUNG DIPPERS AND NON-DIPPERS FROM THE AFRICAN-PREDICT STUDY

Background and aim: Adverse changes in large arteries and retinal microvascular calibres are predictors for hypertension and stroke. These adverse changes were reported in response to the suppressed night-time dipping as well as in hypertensive individuals with exaggerated morning surge. However, it is unknown whether young healthy individuals with normal morning surge, but with non-dipping night-time blood pressure profile, will already present with early onset of micro and macrovascular changes. We investigated the relationship of morning surge with retinal vessel calibres and large artery stiffness in healthy young dippers and non-dippers. Methods: We included black and white participants (N = 323), aged 20–30 years, determined sleep-trough surge. We determined central retinal artery and vein equivalents from fundus images, as well as carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity. Results: Dippers had a greater morning surge (within normal range) (p &lt; 0.001) and a greater proportion of individuals with exaggerated morning surge (p &lt; 0.001). In dippers only, we found a positive relationship between central retinal artery equivalent and morning surge (p = 0.040). In sensitivity analysis, the association between central retinal artery equivalent and morning surge in dippers lost significance (p = 0.09) when 24-hour diastolic blood pressure was replaced with night-time diastolic blood pressure. However, an independent negative association between central retinal artery equivalent and night-time diastolic blood pressure (p &lt; 0.001) emerged. Normal morning surge of dippers was positively associated with central retinal artery equivalent (dependent on night-time dipping). Conclusion: Normal night-time dipping may therefore be involved in preserving retinal arteriolar diameter of dippers, which may reflect a lower vascular resistance.

Quantification of vascular pathology in the retina through probability distributions of central artery and vein width equivalent

AbstractPurpose: A semi‐automated method of measuring the Central Retinal Artery Equivalent (CRAE) and Central Retinal Vein Equivalent (CRVE) has been developed. The method was used to calculate parametric probability distribution for CRAE and CRVE in healthy retinas in order to quantify possible vascular pathology degree.Methods: Using the ARIA software (MATLAB), the diameters of the retinal vessels located in a ring with radii 0.5 and 1 diameter of the optic disc were quantified. A measurement of CRAE and CRVE was obtained for two data base of healthy retinas (15 and 52 patients) measured with different retinal cameras. Subsequently, the probability distribution of CRAE and CRVE was calculated, as well as the bootstrap estimators of the mean, standard deviation, skewness, and kurtosis. MATLAB functions were used to select the parametric distribution that best fits the data. The Mahalanobis distance of each retina to healthy distribution was obtained. This classification distance was applied to healthy and glaucoma retinas.Results: The fits to theoretical distributions were good for a Generalized Extreme Value Distribution (gev) characterized by three parameters (scale, mean and standard deviation). They appear to be consistent across different databases. In retinas with glaucoma, the Mahalanobis distance allows the degree of pathology to be quantified. Moreover, the method can be used to classify the healthy retinas.Conclusions: The possible existence of parametric probability distributions for values of vascular calibres opens the possibility of quantifying the degree of vascular pathology.

Quantification of retinal artery-vein ratio for vascular disease diagnosis using spatial U-Net

The retinal &lt;span&gt;vascular morphological caliber changes reveal the signs of systemic health disorder and life threat diseases such as cardio and cerebral diseases. The quantitative vascular parameters like narrowed arteries, widened venules, reduced artery-vein ratio (AVR) have been associated with aforesaid disorders and diseases. Hence the quantitative biomarker AVR is important parameter in diagnosing variety of diseases. The accurate quantification of AVR be possible if and only if accurate classification of arteries and vein is done. In this paper, we proposed a deep learning based robust vessel segmentation and classification algorithm based on spatial &lt;br /&gt; U-Net and the accuracy of the algorithm is 97.8%. In the quantification process, this algorithm is applied on region of interest (RoI) of a fundus image and measured the AVR values using central retinal artery equivalent (CRAE) and central retinal vein equivalent (CRVE). The experimentation is carried on the digital retinal images for vessel extraction (DRIVE) dataset. The outcome of this work is the AVR observed to be &amp;gt;0.4 in normal retinal case and AVR value &amp;lt;0.4 for unhealthy case.&lt;/span&gt;

Relationship of Retinal Vessel Caliber with Age-Related Macular Degeneration.

Purpose Evaluate the relationship between retinal vascular caliber and age-related macular degeneration (AMD) severity or progression. Methods A retrospective secondary analysis of 1172 fundus photographs and clinical data from the prospective Age-Related Eye Disease Study (AREDS). Central retinal artery equivalent (CRAE), central retinal vein equivalent (CRVE), and arteriole-to-venule ratio (AVR) were measured using the Parr–Hubbard–Knudtson formula. Univariate and multivariate regressions were used to determine the association of CRAE, CRVE, and AVR with age, sex, smoking status, presence of cilioretinal artery, and AMD severity at baseline and 5 years using the 9-step AMD severity score. Results Only CRAE and CRVE were higher in men (P < 0.001), current smokers (P < 0.001), and the eyes with a cilioretinal artery (P=0.009 − 0.043). AMD severity was greater in older patients (P=0.001), current smokers (P=0.012), the eyes without a cilioretinal artery (P=0.001), and lower AVR (P=0.034) on multivariate regression but was not influenced by CRAE or CRVE (P=0.240 − 0.500). Choroidal neovascularization (CNV) presence was associated with older age (P=0.003) and absence of a cilioretinal artery (P=0.009), while central geographic atrophy (CGA) was associated with narrower CRAE (P=0.002) and possibly AVR (P=0.046). None of the retinal vessel parameters were predictive of AMD severity score or new onset of CNV or CGA at 5 years. Conclusion A lower arteriole-to-venule ratio may be associated with AMD severity, with narrower arterioles seen in the eyes with geographic atrophy, suggesting a role of the retinal vasculature in AMD pathophysiology. This trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT00000145.

Acute effects of caffeine and glucose intake on retinal vessel calibres in healthy volunteers

PurposeTo evaluate the acute effects of caffeine and glucose intake on retinal vascular calibre of healthy adults.MethodsThis prospective crossover study was conducted at the Centre for Eye Research Australia (Melbourne, Australia). Standardized doses of 300 mg caffeine (approximately 3 cups coffee), 30 g glucose or 300 ml of water, were each given to 19 healthy subjects on separate days. Retinal photographs and blood pressure measurements were taken at baseline, 30-, 60- and 120-min after ingestion of each solution. Central retinal artery and vein equivalents (CRAE, CRVE) and the arterio-venule ratio were measured using computer-assisted software. The mean retinal vascular calibre measurements were compared between pre- and post-ingestion images.ResultsAfter caffeine intake, significant reductions were observed in mean CRAE of − 9.3 μm, − 10.4 μm and − 8.5 μm and CRVE of − 16.9 μm, − 18.7 μm and − 16.1 μm at 30-, 60- and 120-min after intake when compared with baseline (p ≤ 0.002 for all; paired t test). No significant changes were observed in mean retinal vascular calibre measurements after intake of either glucose or water when compared to baseline (p ≥ 0.072 for all). When controlling for baseline characteristics and blood pressure measurements, only caffeine intake had a significant effect on reducing both CRAE and CRVE at all time points post ingestion (p ≤ 0.003 for all, multiple linear regression model).ConclusionCaffeine is associated with an acute vasoconstrictive effect on retinal arterioles and venules in healthy subjects. Factors other than blood pressure-induced autoregulation play a significant role in caffeine-associated retinal vasoconstriction.

Alterations in the choroidal thickness and retinal vascular caliber in keratoconus.

To compare the choroidal thickness (CT) and retinal vascular caliber in the differentiation of patients who have keratoconus (KC) from those of astigmatic and normal patients. This was a prospective, cross-sectional study. A total of 72 patients who had KC, 70 who had astigmatism, and 83 healthy control subjects were enrolled in this study. All the patients were examined using the Sirius topography system and spectral domain optical coherence tomography with enhanced depth imaging. Using the digital fundus photographs, the retinal vascular calibers were calculated. The measurements were also analyzed between the KC stages according to the Amsler-Krumeich classification. The CT measurements were significantly higher in the KC group, when compared with the other 2 groups, in each location (P < 0.05). No statistically significant difference was observed with regards to the central retinal artery equivalent (CRAE) values (P = 0.959), while significant differences were noted in the central retinal vein equivalent (CRVE) among the groups (P = 0.011). Significant increases were noted in the CT as the stage of KC progressed, except at temporal 3000µm (P = 0.603). No statistically significant difference was observed with regards to the CRAE among the stages (P = 0.901). However, the CRVE changes increased remarkably as the stages advanced (P < 0.001). The patients who had KC seemed to have a thicker CT and higher CRVE values than the healthy individuals, and these differences were progressively increased as the stages of KC advanced. Reflecting the vascular effects of inflammation, the high CRVE supported theories based on the inflammatory component of KC.

Concordance between SIVA, IVAN, and VAMPIRE Software Tools for Semi-Automated Analysis of Retinal Vessel Caliber.

We aimed to compare measurements from three of the most widely used software packages in the literature and to generate conversion algorithms for measurement of the central retinal artery equivalent (CRAE) and central retinal vein equivalent (CRVE) between SIVA and IVAN and between SIVA and VAMPIRE. We analyzed 223 retinal photographs from 133 human participants using both SIVA, VAMPIRE and IVAN independently for computing CRAE and CRVE. Agreement between measurements was assessed using Bland–Altman plots and intra-class correlation coefficients. A conversion algorithm between measurements was carried out using linear regression, and validated using bootstrapping and root-mean-square error. The agreement between VAMPIRE and IVAN was poor to moderate: The mean difference was 20.2 µm (95% limits of agreement, LOA, −12.2–52.6 µm) for CRAE and 21.0 µm (95% LOA, −17.5–59.5 µm) for CRVE. The agreement between VAMPIRE and SIVA was also poor to moderate: the mean difference was 36.6 µm (95% LOA, −12.8–60.4 µm) for CRAE, and 40.3 µm (95% LOA, 5.6–75.0 µm) for CRVE. The agreement between IVAN and SIVA was good to excellent: the mean difference was 16.4 µm (95% LOA, −4.25–37.0 µm) for CRAE, and 19.3 µm (95% LOA, 0.09–38.6 µm) for CRVE. We propose an algorithm converting IVAN and VAMPIRE measurements into SIVA-estimated measurements, which could be used to homogenize sets of vessel measurements obtained with different software packages.

Effects of optic nerve head-related parameters on retinal vessel calibers measurement results on fundus photographs

BackgroundAlthough relationship between the retinal vessel caliber (RVC) and glaucoma is well known, there has been a paucity of information on the effects of glaucoma-related optic nerve head (ONH) structural factors on the RVC. Information on this relationship should be useful in studying possible roles of ocular circulation in the development and progression of glaucoma.MethodSubjects were from Kumejima Study participants aged 40 years and older in Kumejima, Japan. Normal subjects and eyes were defined according to standardized systemic and ocular examinations. The central retinal artery and vein equivalents (CRAE and CRVE) were determined on fundus photographs by correcting the magnification using the refractive error, corneal curvature, and axial length (AL) of an individual eye and paraxial ray tracing; the ONH structural parameters were determined by planimetry.ResultsIn a total of 558 right eyes (558 normal subjects), aged 49.0 ± 7.1 (standard deviation) years with gradable photographs and planimetric results, CRAE averaged 136.1 ± 12.3 μm and CRVE 216.9 ± 17.4 μm. After adjustment for the effects of confounding factors in multivariate analysis, the AL (P < 0.001), rim area (P = 0.019), disc area (P = 0.042), and smoking (P = 0.035–0.043) correlated positively, and the mean blood pressure (P < 0.001) negatively with CRAE; the AL (P < 0.001), rim area (P = 0.001), disc area (P = 0.005), smoking (P < 0.001), and male sex (P = 0.013) correlated positively, and the β-peripapillary atrophy (β-PPA) area (P = 0.044), vertical Cup/Disc ratio (v-C/D) (P = 0.035), and age (P < 0.001) negatively with CRVE.ConclusionThe current study showed significant effects of rim area, v-C/D or β-PPA area determined on the photographs on the RVC measurement results. Further, it showed a necessity to incorporate the glaucoma-related ONH structural parameters as co-variables to correctly estimate the effects of various factors on the RVC.

Changes of retinal structure and function in patients with internal carotid artery stenosis

BackgroundTo investigate the structural and functional changes of the retina in patients with different degrees of internal carotid artery (ICA) stenosis.MethodsThis cross-sectional study included patients with varying degrees ICA stenosis. Clinical characteristics of 41 patients were collected after being divided into four groups according to the ICA stenosis indicated by computed tomographic angiography (Group 0: without ICA stenosis, Group 1: ipsilateral slight ICA stenosis, Group 2: ipsilateral moderate ICA stenosis, Group 3: ipsilateral severe ICA stenosis). Retinal vessel caliber (RVC) was measured quantitatively with the Integrative Vessel Analysis software. The retinal sensitivity was examined with the MP-3 microperimeter. The relationships among central retinal artery equivalent (CRAE), central retinal vein equivalent, arteriole to venule ratio (AVR), mean retinal sensitivity (MS) and ICA stenosis degree were analysed.ResultsThe CRAE in Group 3 were significantly smaller compared with Group 0, Group 1 and Group 2 (P < 0.001, P < 0.001, P = 0.002). Significant decrease was found between Group 3 with other groups in MS at fovea (P < 0.001, P < 0.001, P = 0.002). Moreover, there was a positive correlation found between MS and CRAE (Beta = 0.60, P < 0.001 at fovea; Beta = 0.64, P < 0.001 at 2 degree; Beta = 0.60, P < 0.001 at 4 degree; Beta = 0.55, P < 0.001 at 8 degree; Beta = 0.53, P < 0.001 at 12 degree).ConclusionsThe present study revealed smaller CRAE and AVR in ipsilateral severe ICA stenosis patients. And the MS decreased in patients with severe ICA stenosis. In addition, MS had a positive correlation with CRAE.