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Schranz M, Bogunovic H, Deak G, Sadeghipour A, Reiter GS, Schmidt-Erfurth U. Linking disease activity with optical coherence tomography angiography in neovascular age related macular degeneration using artificial intelligence. Sci Rep 2024; 14:19278. [PMID: 39164449 PMCID: PMC11336074 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-70234-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2024] [Accepted: 08/14/2024] [Indexed: 08/22/2024] Open
Abstract
To investigate quantitative associations between AI-assessed disease activity and optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA)-derived parameters in patients with neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) undergoing anti-VEGF therapy. OCTA and SD-OCT images obtained from multicenter, randomized study data were evaluated. A deep learning algorithm (RetInSight) was used to detect and quantify macular fluid on SD-OCT. Mixed effects models were applied to evaluate correlations between fluid volumes, macular neovascularization (MNV)-type and OCTA-derived MNV parameters; lesion size (LS) and vessel area (NVA). 230 patients were included. A significant positive correlation was observed between SRF and NVA (estimate = 199.8 nl/mm2, p = 0.023), while a non-significant but negative correlation was found between SRF and LS (estimate = - 71.3 nl/mm2, p = 0.126). The presence of Type I and Type II MNV was associated with significantly less intraretinal fluid (IRF) compared to Type III MNV (estimate type I:- 52.1 nl, p = 0.019; estimate type II:- 51.7 nl, p = 0.021). A significant correlation was observed between pigment epithelial detachment (PED) and the interaction between NVA and LS (estimate:28.97 nl/mm2; p = 0.012). Residual IRF at week 12 significantly correlated to baseline NVA (estimate:38.1 nl/mm2; p = 0.015) and LS (estimate:- 22.6 nl/mm2; p = 0.012). Fluid in different compartments demonstrated disparate associations with MNV OCTA features. While IRF at baseline was most pronounced in type III MNV, residual IRF was driven by neovascular MNV characteristics. Greater NVA in proportion to LS was associated with higher amounts of SRF and PED. The correlation between these parameters may represent MNV maturation and can be used as a biomarker for resolution of disease activity. AI-based OCT analysis allows for a deeper understanding of neovascular disease in AMD and the potential to adjust therapeutic strategies to optimize outcomes through precision medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Markus Schranz
- Department of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Medical University of Vienna, Währinger Gürtel 18-20, 1090, Vienna, Austria
| | - Hrvoje Bogunovic
- Laboratory for Ophthalmic Image Analysis (OPTIMA), Department of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Gabor Deak
- Department of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Medical University of Vienna, Währinger Gürtel 18-20, 1090, Vienna, Austria
- Department of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Vienna Reading Center (VRC), Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | | | - Gregor Sebastian Reiter
- Department of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Medical University of Vienna, Währinger Gürtel 18-20, 1090, Vienna, Austria
- Laboratory for Ophthalmic Image Analysis (OPTIMA), Department of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Ursula Schmidt-Erfurth
- Department of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Medical University of Vienna, Währinger Gürtel 18-20, 1090, Vienna, Austria.
- Laboratory for Ophthalmic Image Analysis (OPTIMA), Department of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
- Department of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Vienna Reading Center (VRC), Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
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Brinkmann M, Viggiano P, Boscia G, Müller T, Castellino N, Schweighofer J, Boscia F, Toro MD, El-Shabrawi Y. Analysis of Choriocapillaris Reperfusion Topography Following Faricimab Treatment for Neovascular Age-Related Macular Degeneration in Therapy-Naïve Patients. Ophthalmol Ther 2024; 13:1981-1992. [PMID: 38801614 PMCID: PMC11178690 DOI: 10.1007/s40123-024-00967-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2024] [Accepted: 05/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION To assess changes in choriocapillaris (CC) vascular density surrounding macular neovascularization (MNV) in treatment-naïve age-related macular degeneration (AMD) after faricimab application using optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA). METHODS Twenty-five eyes of 25 treatment-naïve individuals who underwent intravitreal faricimab injections for neovascular AMD (nAMD) with type 1 MNV were included. Spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) images and en-face swept-source OCTA images were analyzed, and the percentage of CC flow deficit (FD%), FD average area (FDa) and FD number (FDn) in five progressive 20.0-μm-wide concentric rings (R1, R2, R3, R4 and R5) surrounding the dark halo around the MNV were calculated. Image acquisition was carried out prior to the first faricimab injection (T0) and 1 month after the injection (T1). RESULTS The topographical sub-analysis revealed noteworthy changes in all rings at T1 compared to T0. There was a notable progressive reduction in FD% at T1 compared to T0 values across all rings, indicating a gradual CC reperfusion following anti-VEGF treatment. Additionally, the average size of FD decreased after the loading phase. Although not reaching statistical significance, there was a progressive reduction in the FDa across all rings. CONCLUSION Our study highlights a CC FD reduction following the administration of three consecutive faricimab injections. This effect was detected in all rings surrounding the dark halo. These observations suggest a partial CC reperfusion surrounding the MNV, potentially serving as an indicator for disease regression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Max Brinkmann
- Department of Ophthalmology, Klinikum Klagenfurt, 9020, Klagenfurt, Austria.
- Department of Ophthalmology, Universitätsklinikum Schleswig-Holstein, 23564, Lübeck, Germany.
| | - Pasquale Viggiano
- Department of Translational Biomedicine Neuroscience, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Bari, Italy
| | - Giacomo Boscia
- Department of Translational Biomedicine Neuroscience, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Bari, Italy
| | - Tom Müller
- Department of Ophthalmology, Klinikum Klagenfurt, 9020, Klagenfurt, Austria
| | | | - Jakob Schweighofer
- Department of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Medical University of Vienna, 1090, Vienna, Austria
| | - Francesco Boscia
- Department of Translational Biomedicine Neuroscience, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Bari, Italy
| | - Mario Damiano Toro
- Public Health Department, Eye Clinic, University of Naples Federico II, 80133, Naples, Italy.
- Department of General and Pediatric Ophthalmology, Medical University of Lublin, 20079, Lublin, Poland.
| | - Yosuf El-Shabrawi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Klinikum Klagenfurt, 9020, Klagenfurt, Austria
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Krivosic V, Zureik A, Tadayoni R, Gaudric A. FROM OUTER RETINAL NEOVACULARIZATION TO EXUDATIVE SUBRETINAL NEOVASCULARIZATION IN MACULAR TELANGIECTASIA TYPE 2. Retina 2024; 44:1217-1223. [PMID: 38900579 DOI: 10.1097/iae.0000000000004079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/22/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE To describe the progression from outer retinal neovascularization (ORNV) to exudative subretinal new vessels (SRNVs) in idiopathic macular telangiectasia type 2. METHODS A total of 135 patients (270 eyes) imaged with optical coherence tomography angiography were included. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Ellipsoid zone loss, outer retinal hyperreflectivity, ORNV, and SRNVs. Outer retinal neovascularization was defined as a flow signal passing through the outer plexiform layer, with or without vertical linear outer retinal hyperreflectivity on the optical coherence tomography B-scan. Subretinal new vessels were defined as an abnormal capillary network with a peripheral anastomotic arcade seen on en face optical coherence tomography angiography and a convex hyperreflectivity at the retinal pigment epithelium. RESULTS Subretinal new vessels were observed in 38/270 eyes (14%). Subretinal new vessels were at a fibrotic stage in 24/38 eyes and at an exudative stage in 6/38 eyes, and a progression from ORNV to SRNVs was documented in 8/38 eyes. All cases showed an ellipsoid zone loss. In seven eyes (2.5%), SRNVs were also associated with subepithelial neovascularization. No retinochoroidal anastomosis was detected. The visual acuity dropped when SRNVs were present. CONCLUSION In this case series, SRNVs were found in 14% of eyes. In all cases, they were associated with an ellipsoid zone loss and with outer retinal hyperreflectivity. A progression from ORNV to SRNVs was observed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valérie Krivosic
- Ophthalmology Department, AP-HP, Hôpital Lariboisière, Université Paris Cité, Paris, France; and
- Centre de Référence des maladies Vasculaires rares du Cerveau et de l'Œil (CERVCO), Hôpital Lariboisière, APHP, Paris, France
| | - Abir Zureik
- Ophthalmology Department, AP-HP, Hôpital Lariboisière, Université Paris Cité, Paris, France; and
- Centre de Référence des maladies Vasculaires rares du Cerveau et de l'Œil (CERVCO), Hôpital Lariboisière, APHP, Paris, France
| | - Ramin Tadayoni
- Ophthalmology Department, AP-HP, Hôpital Lariboisière, Université Paris Cité, Paris, France; and
- Centre de Référence des maladies Vasculaires rares du Cerveau et de l'Œil (CERVCO), Hôpital Lariboisière, APHP, Paris, France
| | - Alain Gaudric
- Ophthalmology Department, AP-HP, Hôpital Lariboisière, Université Paris Cité, Paris, France; and
- Centre de Référence des maladies Vasculaires rares du Cerveau et de l'Œil (CERVCO), Hôpital Lariboisière, APHP, Paris, France
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Brinkmann M, Viggiano P, Boscia G, Danckwardt M, Susantija E, Müller T, Castellino N, Schweighofer J, Boscia F, Toro MD, El-Shabrawi Y. Analysis of Choriocapillaris Reperfusion Topography following Faricimab Treatment for Neovascular Age-Related Macular Degeneration in Non-Treatment-Naïve Patients. Diagnostics (Basel) 2024; 14:901. [PMID: 38732315 PMCID: PMC11083352 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics14090901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
To assess changes in choriocapillaris (CC) vascular density surrounding macular neovascularization (MNV) in age-related macular degeneration (AMD) when transitioning from various anti-VEGF treatments to faricimab, using optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA). 25 eyes of 22 individuals who underwent intravitreal faricimab injections for neovascular AMD with type 1 MNV were included. OCTA images were obtained prior to (T0), after one (T1), and after three faricimab injections (T2); Noteworthy changes occurred in the first ring at T2 in comparison to T0. The percentage of CC flow deficit (FD%), FD average area (FDa), and FD number (FDn) in 5 rings (R1-R5) surrounding the dark halo around the MNV were calculated. A reduction in FD% at T2 compared to T0 (50.5 ± 10.2% at T0, 46.4 ± 10.6% at T2; p = 0.020) was seen, indicating CC reperfusion. Additionally, we observed a reduction in the average FDa (140.2 ± 172.1% at T0, 93.7 ± 101.8% at T2; p = 0.029). Our study highlights an FD% after three consecutive faricimab injections. The most pronounced effect was observed in the first ring, directly adjacent to the dark halo, suggesting a partial CC reperfusion surrounding the MNV, potentially indicating disease regression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Max Brinkmann
- Department of Ophthalmology, Klinikum Klagenfurt, 9020 Klagenfurt, Austria; (T.M.)
- Department of Ophthalmology, Universitätsklinikum Schleswig-Holstein, 23564 Lübeck, Germany; (M.D.); (E.S.)
| | - Pasquale Viggiano
- Department of Translational Biomedicine Neuroscience, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70121 Bari, Italy; (P.V.); (G.B.); (F.B.)
| | - Giacomo Boscia
- Department of Translational Biomedicine Neuroscience, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70121 Bari, Italy; (P.V.); (G.B.); (F.B.)
| | - Mathis Danckwardt
- Department of Ophthalmology, Universitätsklinikum Schleswig-Holstein, 23564 Lübeck, Germany; (M.D.); (E.S.)
| | - Evelyn Susantija
- Department of Ophthalmology, Universitätsklinikum Schleswig-Holstein, 23564 Lübeck, Germany; (M.D.); (E.S.)
| | - Tom Müller
- Department of Ophthalmology, Klinikum Klagenfurt, 9020 Klagenfurt, Austria; (T.M.)
| | - Niccolò Castellino
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy;
| | - Jakob Schweighofer
- Department of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria;
| | - Francesco Boscia
- Department of Translational Biomedicine Neuroscience, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70121 Bari, Italy; (P.V.); (G.B.); (F.B.)
| | - Mario Damiano Toro
- Eye Clinic, Public Health Department, University of Naples Federico II, 80133 Naples, Italy
- Chair and Department of General and Pediatric Ophthalmology, Medical University of Lublin, 20079 Lublin, Poland
| | - Yosuf El-Shabrawi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Klinikum Klagenfurt, 9020 Klagenfurt, Austria; (T.M.)
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Clemens CR, Eter N, Alten F. Current Perspectives on Type 3 Macular Neovascularization due to Age-Related Macular Degeneration. Ophthalmologica 2024; 247:73-84. [PMID: 38266500 PMCID: PMC11160428 DOI: 10.1159/000536278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 01/26/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The aim of this review was to systematically summarize the current knowledge on type 3 macular neovascularization (MNV3) in age-related macular degeneration (AMD). SUMMARY Recent histopathologic and multimodal imaging findings led to the consensus definition of the new term "type 3 macular neovascularization" in AMD. MNV3 originates in the deep vascular plexus as a neovascular process without connection with the retinal pigment epithelium in the initial stages. This type has numerous clinical and pathomorphologic features that separate it from the other two types of MNV in AMD. Besides, its frequency appears to be higher than previously thought. In optical coherence tomography (OCT), MNV3 can be classified into stages 1-3. Hyperreflective foci in the outer retina possibly represent a precursor lesion. In addition, MNV3 is characterized by a strong association with reticular pseudodrusen, a high rate of bilaterality, close associations with advanced age and arterial hypertension, decreased choroidal thickness, and decreased choriocapillaris flow signals. Data from latest anti-vascular endothelial growth factor studies in MNV3 suggest that the OCT biomarkers in intraretinal and subretinal fluids should be interpreted differently than in the other types. Additionally, data from MNV3 eyes should be analyzed separately, allowing optimal type-specific treatment strategies in the future. KEY MESSAGES This review highlights the need for accurate characterization of neovascular AMD lesions and an MNV type-specific approach, particularly for MNV3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christoph R Clemens
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Muenster Medical Center, Muenster, Germany
| | - Nicole Eter
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Muenster Medical Center, Muenster, Germany
| | - Florian Alten
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Muenster Medical Center, Muenster, Germany
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Berlin A, Messinger JD, Balaratnasingam C, Mendis R, Ferrara D, Freund KB, Curcio CA. Imaging Histology Correlations of Intraretinal Fluid in Neovascular Age-Related Macular Degeneration. Transl Vis Sci Technol 2023; 12:13. [PMID: 37943552 PMCID: PMC10637202 DOI: 10.1167/tvst.12.11.13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose Fluid presence and dynamism is central to the diagnosis and management of neovascular age-related macular degeneration. On optical coherence tomography (OCT), some hyporeflective spaces arise through vascular permeability (exudation) and others arise through degeneration (transudation). Herein we determined whether the histological appearance of fluid manifested this heterogeneity. Methods Two eyes of a White woman in her 90s with anti-vascular endothelial growth factor treated bilateral type 3 neovascularization secondary to age-related macular degeneration were osmicated, prepared for submicrometer epoxy resin sections, and correlated to eye-tracked spectral domain OCT. Examples of intraretinal tissue fluid were sought among similarly prepared donor eyes with fibrovascular scars, in a web-based age-related macular degeneration histopathology resource. Fluid stain intensity was quantified in reference to Bruch's membrane and the empty glass slide. Results Exudative fluid by OCT was slightly reflective and dynamically responded to anti-vascular endothelial growth factor. On histology, this fluid stained moderately, possessed a smooth and homogenous texture, and contained blood cells and fibrin. Nonexudative fluid in degenerative cysts and in outer retinal tubulation was minimally reflective on OCT and did not respond to anti-vascular endothelial growth factor. By histology, this fluid stained lightly, possessed a finely granular texture, and contained mainly tissue debris. Quantification supported the qualitative impressions of fluid stain density. Cells containing retinal pigment epithelium organelles localized to both fluid types. Conclusions High-resolution histology of osmicated tissue can distinguish between exudative and nonexudative fluid, some of which is transudative. Translational Relevance OCT and histological features of different fluid types can inform clinical decision-making and assist in the interpretation of newly available automated fluid detection algorithms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Berlin
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Jeffrey D. Messinger
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Chandrakumar Balaratnasingam
- Centre for Ophthalmology and Visual Science, University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
- Lions Eye Institute, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
- Department of Ophthalmology, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Western Australia, Australia
| | | | | | - K. Bailey Freund
- Vitreous Retina Macula Consultants of New York, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Christine A. Curcio
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
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Berlin A, Messinger JD, Ramtohul P, Balaratnasingam C, Mendis R, Ferrara D, Freund KB, Curcio CA. INFLAMMATORY CELL ACTIVITY IN TREATED NEOVASCULAR AGE-RELATED MACULAR DEGENERATION: A Histologic Case Study. Retina 2023; 43:1904-1913. [PMID: 37871271 PMCID: PMC10801910 DOI: 10.1097/iae.0000000000003881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/27/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Imaging indicators of macular neovascularization risk can help determine patient eligibility for new treatments for geographic atrophy secondary to age-related macular degeneration. Because type 1 macular neovascularization includes inflammation, we assessed by histology the distribution of cells with inflammatory potential in two fellow eyes with age-related macular degeneration. METHODS Two eyes of a White woman in her 90's with type 3 macular neovascularization treated with antivascular endothelial growth factor were prepared for high-resolution histology. Eye-tracked spectral domain optical coherence tomography applied to the preserved donor eyes linked in vivo imaging to histology. Cells were enumerated in the intraretinal, subretinal, and subretinal retinal pigment epithelium (RPE)-basal lamina compartments on 199 glass slides. Cells with numerous organelles were considered to RPE-derived; cells with sparse RPE organelles were considered non-RPE phagocytes. RESULTS Both eyes had soft drusen and abundant subretinal drusenoid deposit. In the retina and subretinal space, RPE-derived cells, including hyperreflective foci, were common (n = 125 and 73, respectively). Non-RPE phagocytes were infrequent (n = 5 in both). Over drusen, RPE morphology transitioned smoothly from the age-normal layer toward the top, suggesting transdifferentiation. The sub-RPE-basal lamina space had RPE-derived cells (n = 87) and non-RPE phagocytes (n = 49), including macrophages and giant cells. CONCLUSION Numerous sub-RPE-basal lamina cells of several types are consistent with the documented presence of proinflammatory lipids in drusen and aged Bruch's membrane. The relatively compartmentalized abundance of infiltrating cells suggests that drusen contents are more inflammatory than subretinal drusenoid deposit, perhaps reflecting their environments. Ectopic RPE occurs frequently. Some manifest as hyperreflective foci. More cells may be visible as optical coherence tomography technologies evolve.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Berlin
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham AL, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Jeffrey D Messinger
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham AL, USA
| | | | - Chandrakumar Balaratnasingam
- Centre for Ophthalmology and Visual Science, University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
- Lions Eye Institute, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
- Department of Ophthalmology, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Western Australia, Australia
| | | | | | - K. Bailey Freund
- Vitreous Retina Macula Consultants of New York NY, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York NY, USA
| | - Christine A Curcio
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham AL, USA
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Shen M, Zhou H, Lu J, Li J, Jiang X, Trivizki O, Laiginhas R, Liu J, Zhang Q, de Sisternes L, Feuer WJ, O'Brien R, Gregori G, Wang RK, Rosenfeld PJ. Choroidal Changes After Anti-VEGF Therapy in AMD Eyes With Different Types of Macular Neovascularization Using Swept-Source OCT Angiography. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2023; 64:16. [PMID: 37819744 PMCID: PMC10573575 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.64.13.16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2022] [Accepted: 07/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose Choroidal changes before and after anti-VEGF therapy were investigated in eyes with exudative AMD to determine if there was a difference between eyes with macular neovascularization (MNV) that arises from the choroid (type 1 or 2) versus the retinal circulation (type 3). Methods Patients with treatment-naïve AMD were imaged with swept-source optical coherence tomography angiography using a 12 × 12-mm scan pattern. The mean choroidal thickness and choroidal vascularity index (CVI) were measured within 5-mm and 11-mm fovea-centered circles before, at the onset of, and after anti-VEGF therapy. Results Forty-one eyes of 37 patients were included; 24 eyes with type 1 MNV, 4 eyes with type 2 MNV, and 13 eyes with type 3 MNV. Within the 5-mm and 11-mm circles, the mean choroidal thickness and CVI measurements increased from pretreatment to the onset of exudation (P ≤ 0.03). The mean choroidal thickness and CVI measurements decreased from the onset of exudation to after treatment (P < 0.001). No significant changes in mean choroidal thickness or CVI were observed when comparing measurements before or after treatment (P ≥ 0.38). No significant differences in mean choroidal thickness or CVI measurements were observed between eyes with type 1 or 2 MNV and type 3 MNV. Conclusions In treatment-naïve AMD eyes with MNV, the choroidal thickness and vascularity increased at the onset of exudation and then decreased after anti-VEGF therapy. This finding suggests that these choroidal changes develop in response to the proangiogenic milieu before treatment and in response to treatment, regardless of the site of origin for the MNV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengxi Shen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, United States
| | - Hao Zhou
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States
| | - Jie Lu
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States
| | - Jianqing Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, United States
| | - Xiaoshuang Jiang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, United States
| | - Omer Trivizki
- Department of Ophthalmology, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, United States
| | - Rita Laiginhas
- Department of Ophthalmology, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, United States
| | - Jeremy Liu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, United States
| | - Qinqin Zhang
- Research and Development, Carl Zeiss Meditec, Inc., Dublin, California, United States
| | - Luis de Sisternes
- Research and Development, Carl Zeiss Meditec, Inc., Dublin, California, United States
| | - William J. Feuer
- Department of Ophthalmology, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, United States
| | - Robert O'Brien
- Department of Ophthalmology, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, United States
| | - Giovanni Gregori
- Department of Ophthalmology, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, United States
| | - Ruikang K. Wang
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States
| | - Philip J. Rosenfeld
- Department of Ophthalmology, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, United States
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Messinger JD, Brinkmann M, Kimble JA, Berlin A, Freund KB, Grossman GH, Ach T, Curcio CA. Ex Vivo OCT-Based Multimodal Imaging of Human Donor Eyes for Research into Age-Related Macular Degeneration. J Vis Exp 2023:10.3791/65240. [PMID: 37306417 PMCID: PMC10795012 DOI: 10.3791/65240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023] Open
Abstract
A progression sequence for age-related macular degeneration (AMD) learned from optical coherence tomography (OCT)-based multimodal (MMI) clinical imaging could add prognostic value to laboratory findings. In this work, ex vivo OCT and MMI were applied to human donor eyes prior to retinal tissue sectioning. The eyes were recovered from non-diabetic white donors aged ≥80 years old, with a death-to-preservation time (DtoP) of ≤6 h. The globes were recovered on-site, scored with an 18 mm trephine to facilitate cornea removal, and immersed in buffered 4% paraformaldehyde. Color fundus images were acquired after anterior segment removal with a dissecting scope and an SLR camera using trans-, epi-, and flash illumination at three magnifications. The globes were placed in a buffer within a custom-designed chamber with a 60 diopter lens. They were imaged with spectral domain OCT (30° macula cube, 30 µm spacing, averaging = 25), near-infrared reflectance, 488 nm autofluorescence, and 787 nm autofluorescence. The AMD eyes showed a change in the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE), with drusen or subretinal drusenoid deposits (SDDs), with or without neovascularization, and without evidence of other causes. Between June 2016 and September 2017, 94 right eyes and 90 left eyes were recovered (DtoP: 3.9 ± 1.0 h). Of the 184 eyes, 40.2% had AMD, including early intermediate (22.8%), atrophic (7.6%), and neovascular (9.8%) AMD, and 39.7% had unremarkable maculas. Drusen, SDDs, hyper-reflective foci, atrophy, and fibrovascular scars were identified using OCT. Artifacts included tissue opacification, detachments (bacillary, retinal, RPE, choroidal), foveal cystic change, an undulating RPE, and mechanical damage. To guide the cryo-sectioning, OCT volumes were used to find the fovea and optic nerve head landmarks and specific pathologies. The ex vivo volumes were registered with the in vivo volumes by selecting the reference function for eye tracking. The ex vivo visibility of the pathology seen in vivo depends on the preservation quality. Within 16 months, 75 rapid DtoP donor eyes at all stages of AMD were recovered and staged using clinical MMI methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey D Messinger
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Alabama at Birmingham Heersink School of Medicine
| | - Max Brinkmann
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital of Zurich
| | - James A Kimble
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Alabama at Birmingham Heersink School of Medicine
| | - Andreas Berlin
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Alabama at Birmingham Heersink School of Medicine
| | - K Bailey Freund
- Vitreous Retina Macula Consultants of New York; Department of Ophthalmology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine
| | | | - Thomas Ach
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Bonn
| | - Christine A Curcio
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Alabama at Birmingham Heersink School of Medicine;
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Bottazzi L, Montesel A, Querques G. Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography and Corresponding Histology. JAMA Ophthalmol 2023; 141:403-404. [PMID: 36795383 DOI: 10.1001/jamaophthalmol.2022.6349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/17/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Leonardo Bottazzi
- School of Medicine, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy.,Ophthalmology Unit, Division of Head and Neck, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Andrea Montesel
- Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Giuseppe Querques
- School of Medicine, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy.,Ophthalmology Unit, Division of Head and Neck, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
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Berlin A, Freund KB, Curcio CA. Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography and Corresponding Histology-Reply. JAMA Ophthalmol 2023; 141:404-405. [PMID: 36795381 DOI: 10.1001/jamaophthalmol.2022.6352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/17/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Berlin
- Heersink School of Medicine, Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham.,Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - K Bailey Freund
- Vitreous Retina Macula Consultants of New York, New York.,Department of Ophthalmology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York
| | - Christine A Curcio
- Heersink School of Medicine, Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham
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12
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Berlin A, Cabral D, Chen L, Messinger JD, Balaratnasingam C, Mendis R, Ferrara D, Freund KB, Curcio CA. Histology of type 3 macular neovascularization and microvascular anomalies in treated age-related macular degeneration: a case study. OPHTHALMOLOGY SCIENCE 2023; 3:100280. [PMID: 36970117 PMCID: PMC10033755 DOI: 10.1016/j.xops.2023.100280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2022] [Revised: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023]
Abstract
Purpose To investigate intraretinal neovascularization and microvascular anomalies by correlating in vivo multimodal imaging with corresponding ex vivo histology in a single patient. Design A case study comprising clinical imaging from a community-based practice, and histologic analysis at a university-based research laboratory (clinicopathologic correlation). Participants A White woman in her 90s treated with numerous intravitreal anti-VEGF injections for bilateral type 3 macular neovascularization (MNV) secondary to age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Methods Clinical imaging comprised serial infrared reflectance, eye-tracked spectral-domain OCT, OCT angiography, and fluorescein angiography. Eye tracking, applied to the 2 preserved donor eyes, enabled the correlation of clinical imaging signatures with high-resolution histology and transmission electron microscopy. Main Outcome Measures Histologic/ultrastructural descriptions and diameters of vessels seen in clinical imaging. Results Six vascular lesions were histologically confirmed (type 3 MNV, n = 3; deep retinal age-related microvascular anomalies [DRAMAs], n = 3). Pyramidal (n = 2) or tangled (n = 1) morphologies of type 3 MNV originated at the deep capillary plexus (DCP) and extended posteriorly to approach without penetrating persistent basal laminar deposit. They did not enter the subretinal pigment epithelium (RPE)-basal laminar space or cross the Bruch membrane. Choroidal contributions were not found. The neovascular complexes included pericytes and nonfenestrated endothelial cells, within a collagenous sheath covered by dysmorphic RPE cells. Deep retinal age-related microvascular anomaly lesions extended posteriorly from the DCP into the Henle fiber and the outer nuclear layers without evidence of atrophy, exudation, or anti-VEGF responsiveness. Two DRAMAs lacked collagenous sheaths. External and internal diameters of type 3 MNV and DRAMA vessels were larger than comparison vessels in the index eyes and in aged normal and intermediate AMD eyes. Conclusions Type 3 MNV vessels reflect specializations of source capillaries and persist during anti-VEGF therapy. The collagenous sheath of type 3 MNV lesions may provide structural stabilization. If so, vascular characteristics may be useful in disease monitoring in addition to fluid and flow signal detection. Further investigation with longitudinal imaging before exudation onset will help determine if DRAMAs are part of the type 3 MNV progression sequence. Financial Disclosures Proprietary or commercial disclosure may be found after the references.
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Cabral D, Ramtohul P, Fradinho AC, Freund KB. Volume Rendering of Deep Retinal Age-Related Microvascular Anomalies. Ophthalmol Retina 2022; 6:1185-1193. [PMID: 35772694 DOI: 10.1016/j.oret.2022.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2022] [Revised: 06/09/2022] [Accepted: 06/15/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To characterize and distinguish non-neovascular deep retinal age-related microvascular anomalies (DRAMA) from type 3 macular neovascularization (MNV) using volume rendering of OCT and OCT angiography (OCTA). DESIGN Retrospective, consecutive case series. SUBJECTS Consecutive patients with age-related macular degeneration (AMD) exhibiting de novo non-neovascular abnormalities within the deep vascular plexus (DCP), as detected using high-resolution (High-Res) spectral-domain (SD) and swept-source (SS) OCT or OCTA. Patients with retinal vascular alterations attributable to other disease entities were excluded. METHODS Complete ophthalmic examination and multimodal imaging, including confocal fundus photography (CFP), SD-OCT, High-Res SD-OCT and OCTA, and volume-averaged SS-OCTA. The volume renderings of High-Res OCTA and averaged SS-OCTA were used to analyze capillary abnormalities and inflow or outflow connectivity pathways. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES The primary outcomes were the characteristics of capillary abnormalities (number, size, shape, reflectivity, and location) and inflow or outflow connectivity pathways. The secondary outcomes were nearby changes in CFP and structural OCT (hyperreflective foci [HRF], outer retinal atrophy, and retinal pigment epithelium [RPE] atrophy). RESULTS From 8 eyes of 8 patients, 2 subtypes of DRAMA were identified: small-diameter perifoveal capillary dilations with hyperreflective walls within the inner nuclear layer (type 1, n = 4) and vascular outpouchings, typically multiple, extending posteriorly into the Henle fiber layer, with reflectivity similar to adjacent normal retinal capillaries (type 2, n = 10). Four eyes had both subtypes of DRAMA. The 3-dimensional visualization of OCTA data demonstrated DRAMA corresponding to the dilations of DCP capillaries without direct inflow or outflow connections to the superficial plexus. Fundus photographs showed circular red dots in 3 eyes, all corresponding to type 1 DRAMA. In all the cases, DRAMA colocalized with HRF. No lesions were found anterior to the areas of the RPE or outer retina atrophy. Asymptomatic intraretinal exudation varied through a follow-up duration of up to 6 years, with no lesions progressing to type 3 MNV. CONCLUSIONS In eyes with non-neovascular AMD, DRAMA include 2 types of capillary dilations occurring without the remodeling of the surrounding vascular network. Deep retinal age-related microvascular anomalies can resemble microvascular changes due to other causes and can masquerade as type 3 MNV. Mild intraretinal exudation can vary during follow-up, without progression to type 3 MNV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diogo Cabral
- Vitreous Retina Macula Consultants of New York, New York, New York; Nova Medical School Research, Nova Medical School, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal; Department of Ophthalmology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, New York
| | - Prithvi Ramtohul
- Vitreous Retina Macula Consultants of New York, New York, New York; Department of Ophthalmology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, New York
| | - Ana C Fradinho
- Nova Medical School Research, Nova Medical School, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - K Bailey Freund
- Vitreous Retina Macula Consultants of New York, New York, New York; Department of Ophthalmology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, New York.
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Simon R, Jentsch M, Karimimousivandi P, Cao D, Messinger JD, Meller D, Curcio CA, Hammer M. Prolonged Lifetimes of Histologic Autofluorescence in Ectopic Retinal Pigment Epithelium in Age-Related Macular Degeneration. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2022; 63:5. [PMID: 36469025 PMCID: PMC9730734 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.63.13.5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose The purpose of this study was to investigate histologic autofluorescence lifetimes and spectra of retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) on the transition from normal aging to RPE activation and migration in age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Methods Autofluorescence lifetimes and spectra of 9 donor eyes were analyzed in cryosections by means of 2-photon excited fluorescence at 960 nm. Spectra were detected at 483 to 665 nm. Lifetimes were measured using time-correlated single photon counting in 2 spectral channels: 500 to 550 nm (short-wavelength spectral channel [SSC]) and 550 to 700 nm (long-wavelength spectral channel [LSC]). Fluorescence decays over time were approximated by a series of three exponential functions. The amplitude-weighted mean fluorescence lifetime was determined. Markers for retinoid activity (RPE65) and immune function (CD68) were immunolocalized in selected neighboring sections. Results We identified 9 RPE morphology phenotypes resulting in 399 regions of interest (ROIs) for spectral and 497 ROIs for lifetime measurements. RPE dysmorphia results in a shorter wavelength peak of spectral emission: normal aging versus RPE migrated into the retina (intraELM) = 601.7 (9.5) nm versus 581.6 (7.3) nm, P < 0.001, whereas autofluorescence lifetimes increase: normal aging versus intraELM: SSC 180 (44) picosecond (ps) versus 320 (86) ps, P < 0.001; and LSC 250 (55) ps versus 441 (76) ps, P < 0.001. Ectopic RPE within the neurosensory retina is strongly CD68 positive and RPE65 negative. Conclusions In the process of RPE degeneration, comprising different steps of dysmorphia and migration, lengthening of autofluorescence lifetimes and a hypsochromic shift of emission spectra can be observed. These autofluorescence changes might provide early biomarkers for AMD progression and contribute to our understanding of RPE-driven pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rowena Simon
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Jena, Jena, Germany
| | - Marius Jentsch
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Jena, Jena, Germany
| | | | - Dongfeng Cao
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, United States
| | - Jeffrey D Messinger
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, United States
| | - Daniel Meller
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Jena, Jena, Germany
| | - Christine A Curcio
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, United States
| | - Martin Hammer
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Jena, Jena, Germany.,Center for Medical Optics and Photonics, University of Jena, Jena, Germany
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