Optical Coherence Tomography to Differentiate Papilledema from Pseudopapilledema

[Importance of fluorescein angiography for differentiating between early papilledema and papillitis]

BACKGROUND

Optic disc swelling poses a diagnostic challenge due to its multiple underlying pathological causes. This study aimed to investigate the use of fluorescein angiography (FLA) in combination with optical coherence tomography (OCT) as a diagnostic tool for differentiating between papilledema and papillitis in cases of optic disc swelling.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A total of 12 patients were included in the study in whom both FLA and OCT of the optic disc were performed to evaluate the optic disc swelling in cases of papilledema (7 patients, 14 eyes) and papillitis (5 patients, 7 eyes). The fluorescence behavior of the optic disc during late phase FLA was examined in relation to papillary thickness measured by OCT.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

In the papilledema group OCT revealed a mean papillary thickness of 873 µm. In 6 patients FLA detected a ring-shaped papillary hyperfluorescence with papillary thicknesses ranging from 611 µm to 972 µm. Another patient with chronic and marked papilledema exhibited bilateral panpapillary leakage in FLA and papillary thicknesses of 1287 µm (right eye) and 1526 µm (left eye). In the papillitis group FLA showed panpapillary leakage in all cases. The mean papillary thickness was 865 µm (range 632-1195 µm).

CONCLUSION

In acute optic disc swelling and a papillary prominence less than 1000 µm in OCT, a difference in FLA was noticeable between papilledema and papillitis. While acute and mild papilledema exhibited a ring-shaped hyperfluorescence, papillitis showed a panpapillary leakage in late phase FLA in the examined cases. This difference could not be seen in the case of papilledema with chronic and severe swelling.

Optic neuropathy in craniosynostosis

Craniosynostosis (CS) or the premature fusion of one or more cranial sutures in utero, or during the first years of life, can present in isolation or as a multisystem clinical disorder with a particular impact on visual function. Among ophthalmic complications, optic neuropathy is a significant cause of irreversible vision loss in these patients. Children with CS are at higher risk of developing elevated intracranial pressure which can lead to papilledema and, ultimately, optic atrophy. In addition, sometimes associated obstructive sleep apnea, abnormalities in central nervous system venous development, and Chiari malformation may contribute to optic neuropathy. Ophthalmologists have an important role in managing a number of coexistent ophthalmologic complications such as strabismus, anisometropia, amblyopia, ptosis, and exposure keratopathy in addition to maintaining surveillance for early signs of optic neuropathy; they play a critical consultative role contributing to the decision for primary or repeat decompressive surgery. In this article, we aim to review the etiology, diagnostic approach, and management of optic neuropathies in patients with craniosynostosis.

Features of Peripapillary Hyperreflective Ovoid Mass-Like Structures in Nonarteritic Anterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy Patients and Normal Controls

Purpose

To determine the characteristics of peripapillary hyperreflective ovoid mass-like structures (PHOMS) in patients with nonarteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION) and in normal adults.

Methods

A total of 406 included eyes were divided into four groups: acute NAION group, chronic NAION group, unaffected group, and normal eyes group. PHOMS were detected on optical coherence tomography slices from optical coherence tomography angiography scans centered on the optic nerve head (ONH). The differences in age, sex, and ONH parameters were investigated between eyes with PHOMS and eyes without PHOMS among groups.

Results

The prevalence of PHOMS in acute eyes (43.48%) and fellow eyes (28.20%) was significantly higher than that in normal eyes (11.76%) (acute vs. normal, P < 0.001; fellow vs. normal, P = 0.014). In the acute group, the PHOMS score of size was negatively correlated with age in acute eyes (r = -0.486, P = 0.03). The size of PHOMS was negatively correlated with age and cup/disc ratio and positively correlated with retinal nerve fiber layer thickness in the nasal and inferior sectors in the normal groups. No differences in age, sex, ONH parameters, or visual field defects were found between eyes with PHOMS and eyes without PHOMS.

Conclusions

The prevalence of PHOMS increased significantly in acute nonoptic disc drusen (NODD)-NAION eyes and fellow eyes. PHOMS could also be found among normal adults. PHOMS may be a nonspecific sign secondary to ONH edema and axoplasmic stasis.

Translational Relevance

The high prevalence of PHOMS in acute NODD-NAION eyes may indicate axoplasmic stasis secondary to tissue edema.

Peripapillary hyper-reflective ovoid mass-like structures (PHOMS): clinical significance, associations, and prognostic implications in ophthalmic conditions

Pioneering advancements in optical coherence tomography (OCT) have facilitated the discernment of peripapillary hyper-reflective ovoid mass-like structures (PHOMS), prevalent neuro-ophthalmological findings associated with an array of ophthalmic conditions, such as optic disc drusen (ODD), papilledema, myopic/tilted optic discs, non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NA-AION), and optic neuritis. Despite an expanding corpus of research, numerous inquiries persist concerning their clinical significance, correlations with ocular afflictions, and prognostic implications. This comprehensive review endeavors to impart an in-depth comprehension of PHOMS, encompassing facets like conceptualization, detection, pathogenesis, and associations with diverse ophthalmic conditions. Furthermore, we underscore several unresolved quandaries and suggest prospective avenues for future exploration.

Discriminating Between Papilledema and Optic Disc Drusen Using 3D Structural Analysis of the Optic Nerve Head

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

The distinction of papilledema from other optic nerve head (ONH) lesions mimicking papilledema, such as optic disc drusen (ODD), can be difficult in clinical practice. We aimed the following: (1) to develop a deep learning algorithm to automatically identify major structures of the ONH in 3-dimensional (3D) optical coherence tomography (OCT) scans and (2) to exploit such information to robustly differentiate among ODD, papilledema, and healthy ONHs.

METHODS

This was a cross-sectional comparative study of patients from 3 sites (Singapore, Denmark, and Australia) with confirmed ODD, those with papilledema due to raised intracranial pressure, and healthy controls. Raster scans of the ONH were acquired using OCT imaging and then processed to improve deep-tissue visibility. First, a deep learning algorithm was developed to identify major ONH tissues and ODD regions. The performance of our algorithm was assessed using the Dice coefficient. Second, a classification algorithm (random forest) was designed to perform 3-class classifications (1: ODD, 2: papilledema, and 3: healthy ONHs) strictly from their drusen and prelamina swelling scores (calculated from the segmentations). To assess performance, we reported the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve for each class.

RESULTS

A total of 241 patients (256 imaged ONHs, including 105 ODD, 51 papilledema, and 100 healthy ONHs) were retrospectively included in this study. Using OCT images of the ONH, our segmentation algorithm was able to isolate neural and connective tissues and ODD regions/conglomerates whenever present. This was confirmed by an averaged Dice coefficient of 0.93 ± 0.03 on the test set, corresponding to good segmentation performance. Classification was achieved with high AUCs, that is, 0.99 ± 0.001 for the detection of ODD, 0.99 ± 0.005 for the detection of papilledema, and 0.98 ± 0.01 for the detection of healthy ONHs.

DISCUSSION

Our artificial intelligence approach can discriminate ODD from papilledema, strictly using a single OCT scan of the ONH. Our classification performance was very good in the studied population, with the caveat that validation in a much larger population is warranted. Our approach may have the potential to establish OCT imaging as one of the mainstays of diagnostic imaging for ONH disorders in neuro-ophthalmology, in addition to fundus photography.

The prevalance of congenital optic disc anomalies in Turkey: a hospital-based study

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of congenital optic disc anomalies in Turkey.

METHODS

The 11,123 eyes of 5570 patients were screened for optic disc anomalies. All patients were underwent a complete ophthalmic examination including best corrected visual acuity, refraction, spherical equivalent, slit lamp biomicroscopy, intraocular pressure measurements, dilated stereoscopic fundus examination. Data analyses were performed by using SPSS for Windows, version 22.0 (SPSS Inc., Chicago, IL, United States).

RESULTS

11,123 eyes of 5570 participants were screened. Of the 5570 participants who underwent optic disc examination, 246 eyes of 174 patients (3.12%, 95% CIs 2.66-3.58%) had optic disc anormalies. 92 (52.9%) were female, 82 (47.1%) were male and the mean of age was 44.25 ± 15.67 years. 72 (41.4%) patients were bilateral, 102 (58.6%) patients were unilateral involvement. The tilted disc was the most common anomaly and was found at least one eye in 46 patients (75 eyes) and 0.83% of all screened patients. Peripapillary myelinated nerve fibers was the second common anomaly and was found at least one eye in 31 subjects (35 eyes) and 0.56% of all screened subjects. Peripapillary atrophy was the third common anomaly, and was found in at least one eye in 24 patients (37 eyes) and 0.43% of all screened subjects.

CONCLUSION

To our knowledge, this is the first study that the prevalences of all congenital optic disc anomalies from Turkey. The prevalence of congenital optic disc anomalies is higher than in other countries.

Clinical profile and retinal nerve fibre layer thickness of optic disc oedema patients at a tertiary care institute in North India

Background:

Optic disc oedema (ODE) is an important manifestation in various ocular as well as systemic disorders. Measurement of retinal nerve fibre layer (RNFL) thickness in ODE patients may help in monitoring the progress of the disease and treatment response.

Objective:

To assess the clinical characteristics, aetiology and retinal nerve fibre layer (RNFL) imaging features of optic disc oedema (ODE) patients.

Design:

A retrospective observational study.

Methods:

This hospital-based study included performed for patients presenting with unilateral or bilateral ODE at the ophthalmology outpatient department of a tertiary institute between January 2019 and December 2019. Clinical features of all ODE patients were noted. RNFL thickness was measured by spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (Cirrus 500, Carl Zeiss Meditec, Dublin, CA, USA).

Results:

Sixty-four patients with ODE were seen with female preponderance (56.2%). The mean age of presentation was 36.8 ± 13.8 years. Bilateral ODE was seen in 57.8% patients. The most common cause of bilateral ODE was idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) and vascular papillopathy. Retinal vein occlusion (RVO)-associated ODE was the most common unilateral presentation. Presenting visual acuity was best with IIH and worst with anterior ischaemic optic neuropathy (AION). The mean duration of symptoms was maximum with intracranial space-occupying lesion associated papilloedema and minimum with AION. The mean RNFL thickness was highest in uveitis-associated ODE, followed by compressive ON, and IIH. A positive correlation was noted between clinical ODE severity and RNFL thickness. All aetiological categories (except uveitic and compressive) had maximum RNFL thickening in the inferior quadrant and minimum in the temporal quadrant.

Conclusion:

The current study provides a clinical profile and RNFL measurements of ODE patients at this locality. The clinical severity of ODE correlated positively with RNFL thickness and most of the categories of ODE followed the normative pattern of RNFL thickness (inferior > superior > nasal > temporal) despite thickening.

Enhanced Depth Imaging Optical Coherence Tomography Technology Reveals a Significant Association Between Optic Nerve Drusen Anterior Displacement and Retinal Nerve Fiber Layer Thinning Over Time

BACKGROUND

Optic disc drusen (ODD) are a dynamic phenomenon, and their appearance, size, and relative location may change. The purpose of this study is to evaluate and quantify the longitudinal changes of buried ODD with enhanced depth imaging (EDI) optical coherence tomography (OCT) over time.

METHODS

ODD were analyzed with Spectralis OCT (Heidelberg Engineering, Heidelberg, Germany) and EDI technology. The peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness was also measured. The size and depth of ODD were compared between the baseline and study visit (at least 2 years of follow-up), and the changes were correlated with mean RNFL thickness. The repeatability, coefficient of variation, and cutoff values for size and depth on EDI-OCT were calculated.

RESULTS

Of 21 previously identified patients with ODD, only 12 patients (21 eyes) met the most recent diagnostic criteria according to the ODD Studies Consortium recommendations for using OCT-EDI technology. The 21 eyes were reanalyzed after a mean period of 44.7 ± 13.2 months (range: 24-71 months). Overall, 132 ODD were evaluated with a mean of 6.1 ± 2.5 ODD per eye and 1.9 ± 1.1 ODD per scan. Overall, we found a significant forward movement of the drusen between visits (P = 0.01). Most drusen (67.4%) moved anteriorly, and in approximately one-third (35.6%), this displacement exceeded the cutoff value (64.28 µm). Furthermore, we found a significant correlation between ODD shallowing and RNFL thinning during the follow-up (P ≤ 0.03; R ≥ 0.370). We did not find any significant changes in size measurements (P = 0.10) over time.

CONCLUSIONS

In approximately one-third of buried ODD, a significant anterior movement occurred over 2 years of follow-up, and this movement was associated with significant RNFL thinning. By contrast, no significant change was detected in the size of the buried ODD.

Utility of Spectral-Domain Optical Coherence Tomography in Differentiating Papilledema From Pseudopapilledema: A Prospective Longitudinal Study

BACKGROUND

Prospective and longitudinal studies assessing the utility of spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) to differentiate papilledema from pseudopapilledema are lacking. We studied the sensitivity and specificity of baseline and longitudinal changes in SD-OCT parameters with 3D segmentation software to distinguish between papilledema and pseudopapilledema in a cohort of patients referred for evaluation of undiagnosed optic disc elevation.

METHODS

Fifty-two adult patients with optic disc elevation were enrolled in a prospective longitudinal study. A diagnosis of papilledema was made when there was a change in the appearance of the optic disc elevation on fundus photographs as noted by an independent observer at or before 6 months. The degree of optic disc elevation was graded using the Frisen scale and patients with mild optic disc elevation (Frisen grades 1 and 2) were separately analyzed. SD-OCT parameters including peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer (pRNFL), total retinal thickness (TRT), paracentral ganglion cell layer-inner plexiform layer (GCL-IPL) thickness, and optic nerve head volume (ONHV) at baseline and within 6 months of follow-up were measured.

RESULTS

Twenty-seven (52%) patients were diagnosed with papilledema and 25 (48%) with pseudopapilledema. Among patients with mild optic disc elevation (Frisen grades 1 and 2), baseline pRNFL (110.1 µm vs 151.3 µm) and change in pRNFL (ΔpRNFL) (7.3 µm vs 52.3 µm) were greater among those with papilledema. Baseline and absolute changes in TRT and ONHV were also significantly higher among patients with papilledema. The mean GCL-IPL thickness was similar at baseline, but there was a small reduction in GCL-IPL thickness among patients with papilledema. Receiver operator curves (ROCs) were generated; ΔpRNFL (0.93), ΔTRT (0.94), and ΔONHV (0.95) had the highest area under the curve (AUC).

CONCLUSIONS

The mean baseline and absolute changes in SD-OCT measurements (pRFNL, TRT, and ONHV) were significantly greater among patients with papilledema, and remained significantly greater when patients with mild optic disc elevation were separately analyzed. ROCs demonstrated that ΔpRNFL, ΔTRT, and ΔONHV have the highest AUC and are best able to differentiate between papilledema and pseudopapilledema.

Updates on ophthalmic imaging features of optic disc drusen, papilledema, and optic disc edema

Purpose of review

Optic nerve head elevation can be associated with vision loss. This review provides an update regarding key features of optic disc drusen (ODD) compared with papilledema from increased intracranial pressure and optic disc edema from other causes.

Recent findings

Clinical history and funduscopic examination are not sufficient to correctly diagnose different causes of optic nerve head elevation. Multimodal ophthalmic imaging is noninvasive and should be used as first-line diagnostic testing to distinguish optic disc edema or papilledema from pseudoedema. Advanced ophthalmic imaging, including enhanced depth imaging optical coherence tomography (EDI-OCT) and autofluorescence imaging, can visualize ODD at high resolution and determine whether there is optic disc edema. OCT angiography does not require contrast and can rapidly visualize papillary, peripapillary, and macular microvasculature and identify important vascular biomarker of ischemia and, potentially, visual prognosis.

Summary

Multimodal ophthalmic imaging can help in the diagnosis of ODD and optic disc edema and identify patients at high risk of vision loss and neurological issues in order to ensure appropriate diagnosis and treatment.

Incidental idiopathic intracranial hypertension

Objective: Idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) is a neuro-ophthalmological syndrome of unknown cause that can be vision-threatening, so an early diagnosis is crucial.

Case report: We reported a case of a 68-year-old asymptomatic male referred with a cataract in his right eye (OD). Best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was 70 letters (20/ 40) in the OD and 85 letters (20/ 20) in the left eye (OS). Ophthalmological examination revealed a significant nuclear cataract in the OD that explained the visual acuity. Fundus imaging showed a faint nasal margin elevation of the optic disc of both eyes (OU). Optical coherence tomography (OCT) revealed a sectorial retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) atrophy in the inferior quadrant in the OS. Nevertheless, visual field (VF) did not demonstrate defects. Neuroimaging was normal and examination of CSF revealed an opening pressure of 500 mmH2O. A diagnosis of IIH was confirmed and acetazolamide 250 mg twice daily was recommended. After 12 months of follow-up, RNFL thickness remained stable and VF did not confirm defects.

Conclusion: A routine eye examination was the onset of IIH in our case. Thus, the ophthalmologist played a crucial role in the early diagnosis of this syndrome. Papilledema is usually a key criterion for IIH, so after its detection, exclusion diagnosis and treatment should be initiated in order to avoid permanent visual loss.

Role of Ocular Ultrasonography to Distinguish Papilledema From Pseudopapilledema

BACKGROUND

We prospectively evaluated the sensitivity and specificity of ocular ultrasonography (OUS) to distinguish papilledema from pseudopapilledema.

METHODS

Forty-nine study participants, with optic disc elevation, underwent neuro-ophthalmic evaluation, OUS, fundus photography, and optical coherence tomography (OCT) of the optic nerve head at the initial and follow-up visits (≤6 months apart). Participants were classified as having papilledema if there was a change in optic nerve appearance on fundus photographs, as determined by a masked observer, between initial and follow-up visits ≤6 months apart. OUS was considered positive when the optic nerve sheath width was >3.3 mm and the 30° test was positive. Ocular ultrasonographic findings were correlated in patients who had papilledema vs patients who had pseudopapilledema. In a subanalysis, OUS findings were also correlated with change in peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer thickness on OCT of the optic nerve head between initial and follow-up visits.

RESULTS

OUS was 68% (17/25) sensitive for papilledema and 54% (13/24) specific for pseudopapilledema. When using OCT parameters to define papilledema, the sensitivity of OUS to diagnose papilledema decreased to 62%. Positive OUS correlated with elevated opening pressure on lumbar puncture and with signs of increased intracranial pressure on MRI.

CONCLUSION

OUS alone was less sensitive in diagnosing papilledema than previously thought. Therefore, OUS may not be helpful in distinguishing between papilledema and pseudopapilledema.

Optical Coherence Tomography Neuro-Toolbox for the Diagnosis and Management of Papilledema, Optic Disc Edema, and Pseudopapilledema

BACKGROUND

Distinguishing optic disc edema from pseudopapilledema is a common, sometimes challenging clinical problem. Advances in spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) of the optic nerve head (ONH) has proven to be a cost effective, noninvasive, outpatient procedure that may help. At its core are tools that quantify the thickness of the retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) and ganglion cell-inner plexiform layer (GC-IPL). The SD-OCT also provides a set of tools that may be qualitatively interpreted in the same way that we read an MRI. They include the transverse axial, en face, and circular tomogram. Our goal is to describe a practical office-based set of tools using SD-OCT in the diagnosis and monitoring of papilledema, optic disc edema, and pseudopapilledema.

EVIDENCE ACQUISITION

Searches on PubMed were performed using combinations of the following key words: OCT, papilledema, pseudopapilledema, optic disc drusen, retinal folds (RF), and choroidal folds (CF).

RESULTS

The principal elements of SD-OCT analysis of the ONH are the RNFL and GC-IPL thickness; however, these metrics have limitations when swelling is severe. Qualitative interpretation of the transverse axial SD-OCT aids in assessing peripapillary shape that may help distinguish papilledema from pseudopapilledema, evaluate atypical optic neuropathies, diagnose shunt failures, and identify outer RF and CF. There is a consensus that the SD-OCT is the most sensitive way of identifying buried optic disc drusen. En face SD-OCT is especially effective at detecting peripapillary wrinkles and outer retinal creases, both of which are common and distinctive signs of optic disc edema that rule out pseudopapilledema. Mechanically stressing the ONH in the adducted eye position, in patients with papilledema, may expose folds and peripapillary deformations that may not be evident in primary position. We also discuss how to optimize the acquisition and registration of SD-OCT images.

CONCLUSIONS

The SD-OCT is not a substitute for a complete history and a careful examination. It is, however, a convenient ancillary test that aids in the diagnosis and management of papilledema, optic disc edema, and pseudopapilledema. It is particularly helpful in monitoring changes over the course of time and distinguishing low-grade papilledema from buried drusen. The application of the SD-OCT toolbox depends on optimizing the acquisition of images, understanding its limitations, recognizing common artifacts, and accurately interpreting images in the context of both history and clinical findings.

The role of clinical signs in the diagnosis of papilledema: development of an algorithm

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was not only to emphasize the role of clinical signs as well as ophthalmologic evaluation for accurate and differential diagnosis of papilledema (PE), but also to present an instructive algorithm that would help to eliminate unnecessary examinations and treatments.

METHOD

The files of 43 patients (ages 0-18) diagnosed with PE were retrospectively reviewed. The study included 25 patients from our pediatric neurology outpatient clinic, who were thought to have PE, and 18 patients, who were referred from the external centers to our hospital with a pre-diagnosis of PE.

RESULTS

Of the 43 patients, 28 had PE, 8 had pseudopapilledema (PPE), and 7 had optic nerve pathologies (ONP). For patients who applied directly to our pediatric neurology unit, a margin of error of 8% was detected based on only a simple ophthalmologic examination and an evaluation of clinical findings. For the patients who were forwarded to our pediatric neurology unit from the external centers without examining any clinical findings and with no details, the margin of error was 72%.

CONCLUSION

For patients with suspected PE, advanced ophthalmologic opinion is a necessary requirement before invasive radiological examinations are used. When the ophthalmologic evaluation is properly elaborated, the distinction can be made more clearly by using noninvasive methods. In order to determine the gold standard in terms of the methods used in the evaluation of patients who are not clinically diagnosed, new prospective studies with more patients should be planned.

Optic disc edema due to peripapillary choroidal neovascularization

A 35-year-old myopic woman developed right-eye optic disc edema with normal visual function. The presence of a subtle crescent-shaped peripapillary subretinal hemorrhage in addition to the disc edema raised concern for a peripapillary choroidal neovascular membrane, which was confirmed by enhanced depth optical coherence tomography.

Paediatric optical coherence tomography normative databases: A real need

INTRODUCTION

Optical coherence tomography (OCT) has become an essential tool in paediatric ophthalmology. However, none of the currently available OCT devices include any kind of normative database for the paediatric population, which can lead to important interpretation errors.

OBJECTIVE

To review the paediatric OCT normative databases.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The applications and implications of the use of paediatric OCT normative databases are reviewed.

RESULTS

The paediatric normative databases that have been published so far in scientific literature with different OCT devices for Spanish and European population are presented.

CONCLUSIONS

The knowledge and interpretation of paediatric OCT normative databases in our daily clinical practice is crucial in order for the correct interpretation of OCT thickness maps.

Enhanced Depth Imaging Optical Coherence Tomography of Optic Nerve Head Drusen in Children

BACKGROUND

To assess the utility of enhanced depth imaging optical coherence tomography (EDI-OCT), compared with other conventional imaging modalities, for detecting and characterizing optic nerve head drusen (ONHD) in children.

METHODS

We report a retrospective cross-sectional case series of consecutive pediatric patients (age ≤16 years) with ONHD confirmed using B-scan ultrasonography. All eyes were evaluated using spectral-domain OCT of the optic nerve head in conventional (non-EDI) and EDI modes, fundus autofluorescence (FAF), and standard automated perimetry. Detection rates and the capacity to characterize ONHD were compared between EDI-OCT, non-EDI-OCT, and FAF.

RESULTS

Twenty-eight eyes of 15 patients (mean age 11 years; 60% female) were identified with definite ONHD that were confirmed by B-scan ultrasound. Among the technologies, EDI-OCT, non-EDI-OCT, FAF, and automated perimetry had findings consistent with ONHD in 24, 21, 18, and 4 eyes, respectively. EDI-OCT had a significantly better detection capability (86% of eyes) compared with FAF (P = 0.04) but not with non-EDI-OCT (P = 0.15). Similar to results previously reported in adult patients, EDI-OCT detected ONHD at different levels of depth; most were located anterior to the lamina cribrosa. ONHD detected by EDI-OCT appeared as hypo-reflective ovoid regions bordered by hyper-reflective material or as isolated hyper-reflective bands without a hypo-reflective core. The mean greatest diameter of ONHD seen on EDI-OCT was 449.7 (SD ±114.1) μm.

CONCLUSIONS

EDI-OCT detects ONHD in most eyes identified as having drusen on B-scan ultrasonography. This technique has the potential to be an effective alternative first-line diagnostic and monitoring tool for ONHD, particularly for detecting buried drusen in children.

The Utility of Fundus Fluorescein Angiography in Neuro-Ophthalmology

While its use is still widespread within the medical retina field, fundus fluorescein angiography (FFA) is increasingly falling out of favour in the investigation of neuro-ophthalmological disease, with the introduction of new technologies, particularly optical coherence tomography. FFA does, however, provide useful diagnostic and prognostic information in many neuro-ophthalmological diseases including papilloedema, pseudo-papilloedema, optic neuropathies and central retinal artery occlusion to name a few. We aim to summarise the main FFA findings in each of these conditions and highlight where FFA is of most use in providing complementary information to other modes of investigation.

Don't Miss This! Red Flags in the Pediatric Eye Exam: Blurred Disc Margins

Evaluating a patient with blurred optic disc margins, particularly a child, and establishing a diagnosis can be a demanding task. We aim to review the differential diagnosis of blurred disc margins, identify the clinical characteristics of a swollen optic disc, discuss imaging modalities used in the evaluation of the optic nerve head as tools for formulating a diagnosis, and identify red flags that may indicate a serious disorder.

Novel advances in monitoring and therapeutic approaches in idiopathic intracranial hypertension

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The current article appraises the recent developments in idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH), with particular attention to novel therapeutic avenues and advanced clinical assessment and monitoring with optical coherence tomography and telemetric intracranial pressure devices.

RECENT FINDINGS

The incidence of IIH is increasing. The first consensus guidelines for IIH have been published detailing investigation and management algorithms for adult IIH. Improved understanding, clinical assessment and monitoring are emerging with the use of optical coherence tomography. Intracranial pressure telemetry is providing unique insights into the physiology of raised intracranial pressure in IIH. There are now an increasing number of ongoing clinical trials evaluating weight loss methods and novel targeted therapies, such as 11ß-HSD1 inhibition and Glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists.

SUMMARY

Several studies are evaluating new therapies for IIH. Monitoring techniques are advancing, aiding diagnosis and allowing the clinician to accurately evaluate changes in papilloedema and intracranial pressure.

Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography in Papilledema Compared With Pseudopapilledema

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to evaluate differences in optical coherence tomography angiography (OCT-A) findings between patients with papilledema and pseudopapilledema.

Methods

In this prospective, comparative study, 41 eyes of 21 subjects with papilledema, 27 eyes of 15 subjects with pseudopapilledema, and 44 eyes of 44 healthy normal subjects were included and were imaged using OCT-A. In addition to peripapillary total vasculature maps obtained with commercial vessel density mapping, major vessel removal using customized image analysis software was also used to measure whole image capillary density and peripapillary capillary density (PCD). Peripapiilary retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) and macular ganglion cell complex (GCC) were recorded.

Results

Average RNFL thicknesses were greater in papilledema eyes than in pseudopapilledema and control subjects. GCC thickness was not different among three groups. Peripapillary vasculature values were significantly lower in papilledema (58.5 ± 6.1%) and pseudopapilledema (58.9 ± 4.7%) eyes compared with healthy eyes (63.2 ± 3.1%) using commercial machine software, without a difference between papilledema and pseudopapilledema eyes. However, using our customized software, peripapillary "capillary" density of papilledema eyes was 29.8 ± 9.4%, which was not significantly different from healthy subjects (31.8 ± 7.4%; P = 0.94). Pseudopapilledema eyes with peripapillary density of 25.5 ± 8.3% had significantly lower capillary values compared with control eyes (P = 0.01). There was a significantly lower whole image and nasal sector peripapillary capillary density of inner retina in pseudopapilledema eyes than papilledema eyes (P = 0.03 and P = 0.02, respectively).

Conclusions

Whole image and nasal peripapillary sector capillary densities using OCT-A had diagnostic accuracy for differentiating true and pseudo-disc swelling.

Optical coherence tomography is a useful tool in the differentiation between true edema and pseudoedema of the optic disc

Purpose

To assess the usefulness of spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness measurement in discriminating early phase optic disc edema (ODE) from pseudoedema (PODE).

Methods

Hospital-based, multicenter, cross-sectional study involving external patients referred for recent identification of “presumed ODE”. Patients underwent SD-OCT optic nerve head (ONH) RNFL thickness measurement at their first evaluation. In 155 of these, the causative etiology was subsequently ascertained and the respective eyes (one per patient) were assigned to the ODE (95 eyes) or PODE (60 eyes) group. Admission SD-OCT data were retrieved and used for the analysis. ROC curve analysis was used to calculate specificity, sensitivity and predictive value (PV) of the RNFL values.

Results

The PODE group was significantly younger than the ODE group (p = 0.007). The average and any single-quadrant RNFL thickness was significantly higher in the ODE group compared with the PODE and control groups. The average and the inferior quadrant thicknesses tested the most powerful parameters to differentiate ODE from PODE. A cutoff value of ≥ 110 μm for the average area, or of ≥ 150 μm for the inferior quadrant was associated with maximal sensitivity and specificity with positive PV greater than 80%.

Conclusions

The SD-OCT evaluation of the peripapillary RNFL achieved good specificity, sensitivity and positive PV in discriminating between ODE and PODE. Despite the correct differential diagnosis between these categories still relies on a careful medical history taking and other ancillary testing, we proved the usefulness of SD-OCT RNFL measurement in supporting the diagnostic process.

Acute visual loss and optic disc edema followed by optic atrophy in two cases with deeply buried optic disc drusen: a mimicker of atypical optic neuritis

Background

Sudden visual loss and optic disc edema caused by optic neuritis (ON) is usually followed by significant visual recovery. However, little or no recovery occurs when the loss is caused by atypical ON, especially in patients with neuromyelitis optica (NMO). Optic disc drusen (ODD) is a cause of pseudo optic disc edema and may be a predisposing factor for non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION), thereby mimicking atypical ON. In such cases, if globular concretions are seen protruding from the disc substance, ODD may be suspected. The purpose of this paper is to describe two patients with acute visual loss followed by optic disc atrophy initially labeled as atypical ON. Though not suspected on clinical examination, optical coherence tomography (OCT) revealed deeply buried ODD as a predisposing factor for NAION.

Case presentations

Case 1: A 48-year-old woman had bilateral sequential visual loss associated with optic disc edema. Despite treatment, vision did not improve and severe disc pallor ensued. Atypical ON was suspected. Eventually, she was started on immunosuppressant therapy based on a tentative diagnosis of NMO-spectrum disorder. On examination 5 years later, only severe optic disc pallor was observed, but OCT radial B-scans showed ovoid hyporeflective areas in the retrolaminar region of both eyes, compatible with ODD; this led to a diagnosis of NAION and deeply buried ODD. Case 2. A 35-year-old woman with suspicion of ON in the left eye and a history of previous atypical ON in the right eye was referred for neuro-ophthalmic examination which revealed diffuse optic disc pallor and a dense arcuate visual field defect in the right eye. OCT B-scans passing through the disc showed large ovoid areas of reduced reflectivity in the retrolaminar region of the optic disc in the right eye. These findings helped confirm the diagnosis of NAION in one eye, with deeply buried ODD as predisposing factor.

Conclusions

Deeply buried ODD may be associated with NAION causing irreversible visual loss and optic disc pallor, a condition easily mistaken for atypical ON. Awareness of such occurrence is important to avoid unnecessary testing and minimize the risk of mismanagement.

The Role of Optical Coherence Tomography in the Acute Management of Neuro-Ophthalmic Diseases

Optical coherence tomography (OCT) can provide high-speed and high-resolution images of the anatomical structures of the optic nerve head and macula. However, in neuro-ophthalmic conditions that present acutely, structural changes lag functional deficits, and the role of OCT in the acute setting has been challenged. This review aims to summarize the recent literature and evidence supporting the use of OCT in the acute management of some common neuro-ophthalmic scenarios, including the differential diagnosis of optic disc swelling, and in patients with suspected papilledema, optic neuritis, ischemic optic neuropathies, and Leber hereditary optic neuropathy. The limitations of OCT are also discussed.