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Tarhan M, Meller D, Hammer M. Hyperautofluorescent material inside areas of macular atrophy may reveal non-lipofuscin fluorophores in late stage AMD. Acta Ophthalmol 2024. [PMID: 39177106 DOI: 10.1111/aos.16752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2024] [Accepted: 08/08/2024] [Indexed: 08/24/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE To characterize fundus autofluorescence (FAF) in complete (cRORA) and incomplete retinal pigment epithelium and outer retinal atrophy (iRORA) by fluorescence lifetime imaging ophthalmology (FLIO). METHODS Overall, 98 macular atrophy (MA) lesions in 42 eyes of 37 age-related macular degeneration (AMD) patients (mean age: 80.9 ± 5.8 years), 25 of them classified as iRORA and 73 as cRORA by OCT, were investigated by FLIO in a short (SSC: 498-560 nm) and a long wavelength channel (LSC: 560-720 nm). Differences of FAF lifetimes and peak emission wavelength (PEW) between atrophic lesions and intact retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) in the outer ring of the ETDRS grid were considered. RESULTS FAF lifetimes in MA were longer and PEW were significantly (p < 0.001) shorter than in intact RPE by 112 ± 78 ps (SSC), 91 ± 64 ps (LSC), 27 ± 18 nm (PEW) in iRORA and by 227 ± 112 ps (SSC), 167 ± 81 ps (LSC), and 54 ± 17 nm (PEW) in cRORA. 37% of iRORA and 24% of cRORA were hyperautofluorescent in SSC. Persistent sub-RPE-BL material in MA was newly found as a hyperautofluorescent entity with lifetimes considerably longer than that of drusen and RPE. CONCLUSIONS Despite RPE and, thus, lipofuscin are greatly absent in MA, considerable FAF, preferably at short wavelengths, was found in those lesions. Drusen, persistent sub-RPE-BL material, basal laminar deposits, persistent activated RPE, and sclera were identified as putative sources of this fluorescence. FLIO can help to characterize respective fluorophores.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melih Tarhan
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Jena, Jena, Germany
| | - Daniel Meller
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Jena, Jena, Germany
| | - Martin Hammer
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Jena, Jena, Germany
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
- Center for Medical Optics and Photonics, University of Jena, Jena, Germany
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Cluceru J, Anegondi N, Gao SS, Lee AY, Lad EM, Chakravarthy U, Yang Q, Steffen V, Friesenhahn M, Rabe C, Ferrara D. Topographic Clinical Insights From Deep Learning-Based Geographic Atrophy Progression Prediction. Transl Vis Sci Technol 2024; 13:6. [PMID: 39102242 PMCID: PMC11309039 DOI: 10.1167/tvst.13.8.6] [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: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 06/05/2024] [Indexed: 08/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose To explore the contributions of fundus autofluorescence (FAF) topographic imaging features to the performance of convolutional neural network-based deep learning (DL) algorithms in predicting geographic atrophy (GA) growth rate. Methods Retrospective study with data from study eyes from three clinical trials (NCT02247479, NCT02247531, NCT02479386) in GA. The algorithm was initially trained with full FAF images, and its performance was considered benchmark. Ablation experiments investigated the contribution of imaging features to the performance of the algorithms. Three FAF image regions were defined relative to GA: Lesion, Rim, and Background. For No Lesion, No Rim, and No Background datasets, a single region of interest was removed at a time. For Lesion, Rim, and Background Shuffled datasets, individual region pixels were randomly shuffled. For Lesion, Rim, and Background Mask datasets, masks of the regions were used. A Convex Hull dataset was generated to evaluate the importance of lesion size. Squared Pearson correlation (r2) was used to compare the predictive performance of ablated datasets relative to the benchmark. Results The Rim region influenced r2 more than the other two regions in all experiments, indicating the most relevant contribution of this region to the performance of the algorithms. In addition, similar performance was observed for all regions when pixels were shuffled or only a mask was used, indicating intensity information was not independently informative without textural context. Conclusions These ablation experiments enabled topographic clinical insights on FAF images from a DL-based GA progression prediction algorithm. Translational Relevance Results from this study may lead to new insights on GA progression prediction.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Aaron Y. Lee
- Roger and Angie Karalis Johnson Retina Center, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Eleonora M. Lad
- Department of Ophthalmology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Usha Chakravarthy
- Royal Victoria Hospital (The Belfast Trust), Queens University of Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | - Qi Yang
- Genentech, Inc., South San Francisco, CA, USA
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Müller PL, Treis T, Tufail A, Holz FG. Progression, reliability, predicting parameters and sample size calculations for quantitative fundus autofluorescence measures in ABCA4-related retinopathy. Br J Ophthalmol 2024; 108:760-769. [PMID: 37286357 DOI: 10.1136/bjo-2022-322829] [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: 10/30/2022] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS To investigate the progression of quantitative autofluorescence (qAF) measures and the potential as clinical trial endpoint in ABCA4-related retinopathy. METHODS In this longitudinal monocentre study, 64 patients with ABCA4-related retinopathy (age (mean±SD), 34.84±16.36 years) underwent serial retinal imaging, including optical coherence tomography (OCT) and qAF (488 nm excitation) imaging using a modified confocal scanning laser ophthalmoscope with a mean (±SD) review period of 20.32±10.90 months. A group of 110 healthy subjects served as controls. Retest variability, changes of qAF measures over time and its association with genotype and phenotype were analysed. Furthermore, individual prognostic feature importance was assessed, and sample size calculations for future interventional trials were performed. RESULTS Compared with controls, qAF levels of patients were significantly elevated. The test-retest reliability revealed a 95% coefficient of repeatability of 20.37. During the observation time, young patients, patients with a mild phenotype (morphological and functional) and patients with mild mutations showed an absolute and relative increase in qAF values, while patients with advanced disease manifestation (morphological and functional), and homozygous mutations at adulthood revealed a decrease in qAF. Considering these parameters, required sample size and study duration could significantly be reduced. CONCLUSION Under standardised settings with elaborated conditions towards operators and analysis to counterbalance variability, qAF imaging might be reliable, suitable for quantifying disease progression and constitutes a potential clinical surrogate marker in ABCA4-related retinopathy. Trial design based on patients' baseline characteristics and genotype has the potential to provide benefits regarding required cohort size and absolute number of visits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philipp L Müller
- Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
- Makula Center, Südblick Eye Centers, Augsburg, Germany
- Department of Ophthalmology, Rheinische Friedrich-Wilhelms-Universitat Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Tim Treis
- German Cancer Research Center, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Adnan Tufail
- Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
- Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, UK
| | - Frank G Holz
- Department of Ophthalmology, Rheinische Friedrich-Wilhelms-Universitat Bonn, Bonn, Germany
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Andreazzoli M, Longoni B, Angeloni D, Demontis GC. Retinoid Synthesis Regulation by Retinal Cells in Health and Disease. Cells 2024; 13:871. [PMID: 38786093 PMCID: PMC11120330 DOI: 10.3390/cells13100871] [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: 02/07/2024] [Revised: 05/13/2024] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Vision starts in retinal photoreceptors when specialized proteins (opsins) sense photons via their covalently bonded vitamin A derivative 11cis retinaldehyde (11cis-RAL). The reaction of non-enzymatic aldehydes with amino groups lacks specificity, and the reaction products may trigger cell damage. However, the reduced synthesis of 11cis-RAL results in photoreceptor demise and suggests the need for careful control over 11cis-RAL handling by retinal cells. This perspective focuses on retinoid(s) synthesis, their control in the adult retina, and their role during retina development. It also explores the potential importance of 9cis vitamin A derivatives in regulating retinoid synthesis and their impact on photoreceptor development and survival. Additionally, recent advancements suggesting the pivotal nature of retinoid synthesis regulation for cone cell viability are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Biancamaria Longoni
- Department of Translational Medicine and New Technologies in Medicine, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Debora Angeloni
- The Institute of Biorobotics, Scuola Superiore Sant’Anna, 56127 Pisa, Italy
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Weber C, Schaetzle LS, Stasik I, von der Emde L, Holz FG, Liegl R. QUANTITATIVE AUTOFLUORESCENCE IN CENTRAL SEROUS CHORIORETINOPATHY. Retina 2024; 44:844-851. [PMID: 38147686 DOI: 10.1097/iae.0000000000004029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 11/02/2023] [Indexed: 12/28/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE Central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC) is associated with pachychoroid and dysfunctional retinal pigment epithelium. Autofluorescence (AF) is typically altered. The authors performed this study to quantify these alterations using quantitative AF (qAF) in patients with CSC and in their fellow eye in comparison with a healthy control group. METHODS Patients with CSC and healthy controls were recruited prospectively. All patients received a full clinical examination including best-corrected visual acuity, enhanced depth imaging-optical coherence tomography, and qAF. Quantitative autofluorescence images were taken with a confocal scanning laser ophthalmoscope (Heidelberg Engineering). Quantitative autofluorescence values were assessed in specified regions of the inner eight and the middle ring of the Delori grid. RESULTS In total, 141 eyes of 77 patients with CSC were included. Ninety eyes had a manifest CSC (group 1) while 51 fellow eyes (group 2) did not show signs of CSC. There were no significant differences of qAF values between these two groups: mean qAF values were 241.3 (inner eight) and 212.8 (middle ring) in group 1 and 235.9 (inner eight) and 210.0 (middle ring) in group 2 ( P = 1.0 and 1.0). We compared these eyes with healthy controls comprising 39 eyes. Quantitative autofluorescence signals (inner eight: 164.7; middle ring: 148.9) differed significantly compared with both CSC manifest ( P < 0.001) and fellow eyes ( P < 0.001). CONCLUSION Our results show that patients with CSC have increased qAF values in both eyes with manifest CSC and asymptomatic, clinically unremarkable fellow eyes in comparison with healthy controls. This finding suggests that qAF alterations are present even before clinical signs can be observed.
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Berlin A, Fischer NA, Clark ME, Kar D, Swain TA, Martindale RM, McGwin G, Crosson JN, Sloan KR, Owsley C, Curcio CA. Quantitative Autofluorescence at AMD's Beginnings Highlights Retinal Topography and Grading System Differences: ALSTAR2 Baseline. Ophthalmologica 2024:1-13. [PMID: 38599207 DOI: 10.1159/000538696] [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: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/24/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The aims of the study were to describe baseline quantitative (short-wavelength) autofluorescence (qAF) findings in a large pseudophakic cohort at age-related macular degeneration (AMD)'s beginnings and to assess qAF8 as an outcome measure and evaluate Age-Related Eye Disease Study (AREDS) and Beckman grading systems. METHODS In the ALSTAR2 baseline cohort (NCT04112667), 346 pseudophakic eyes of 188 persons (74.0 ± 5.5 years) were classified as normal (N = 160 by AREDS, 158 by Beckman), early AMD (eAMD) (N = 104, 66), and intermediate AMD (iAMD) (N = 82, 122). Groups were compared via mean qAF intensities in a 6°-8° annulus (qAF8) and maps of differences between observations and the overall mean, divided by standard deviation (Z-score). RESULTS qAF8 did not differ significantly among diagnostic groups by either stratification (p = 0.0869 AREDS; p = 0.0569 by Beckman). Notably, 45 eyes considered eAMD by AREDS became iAMD by Beckman. For AREDS-stratified eyes, Z-score maps showed higher centrally located qAF for normal, near the mean in eAMD, and lower values for iAMD. Maps deviated from this pattern for Beckman-stratified eyes. CONCLUSIONS In a large sample of pseudophakic eyes, qAF8 does not differ overall from normal aging to iAMD but also does not capture the earliest AMD activity in the macula lutea. AREDS classification gives results more consistent with a slow decline in histologic autofluorescence than Beckman classification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Berlin
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA,
- University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany,
| | - Nathan A Fischer
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
- Retina Consultants of Alabama, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Mark E Clark
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Deepayan Kar
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Thomas A Swain
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Richard M Martindale
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
- Retina Consultants of Alabama, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Gerald McGwin
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Jason N Crosson
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
- Retina Consultants of Alabama, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Kenneth R Sloan
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Cynthia Owsley
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Christine A Curcio
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
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Curcio CA, Kar D, Owsley C, Sloan KR, Ach T. Age-Related Macular Degeneration, a Mathematically Tractable Disease. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2024; 65:4. [PMID: 38466281 PMCID: PMC10916886 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.65.3.4] [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: 01/02/2024] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/12/2024] Open
Abstract
A progression sequence for age-related macular degeneration onset may be determinable with consensus neuroanatomical nomenclature augmented by drusen biology and eye-tracked clinical imaging. This narrative review proposes to supplement the Early Treatment of Diabetic Retinopathy Study (sETDRS) grid with a ring to capture high rod densities. Published photoreceptor and retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) densities in flat mounted aged-normal donor eyes were recomputed for sETDRS rings including near-periphery rich in rods and cumulatively for circular fovea-centered regions. Literature was reviewed for tissue-level studies of aging outer retina, population-level epidemiology studies regionally assessing risk, vision studies regionally assessing rod-mediated dark adaptation (RMDA), and impact of atrophy on photopic visual acuity. The 3 mm-diameter xanthophyll-rich macula lutea is rod-dominant and loses rods in aging whereas cone and RPE numbers are relatively stable. Across layers, the largest aging effects are accumulation of lipids prominent in drusen, loss of choriocapillary coverage of Bruch's membrane, and loss of rods. Epidemiology shows maximal risk for drusen-related progression in the central subfield with only one third of this risk level in the inner ring. RMDA studies report greatest slowing at the perimeter of this high-risk area. Vision declines precipitously when the cone-rich central subfield is invaded by geographic atrophy. Lifelong sustenance of foveal cone vision within the macula lutea leads to vulnerability in late adulthood that especially impacts rods at its perimeter. Adherence to an sETDRS grid and outer retinal cell populations within it will help dissect mechanisms, prioritize research, and assist in selecting patients for emerging treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine A. Curcio
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Alabama at Birmingham Heersink School of Medicine, Birmingham, Alabama, United States
| | - Deepayan Kar
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Alabama at Birmingham Heersink School of Medicine, Birmingham, Alabama, United States
| | - Cynthia Owsley
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Alabama at Birmingham Heersink School of Medicine, Birmingham, Alabama, United States
| | - Kenneth R. Sloan
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Alabama at Birmingham Heersink School of Medicine, Birmingham, Alabama, United States
| | - Thomas Ach
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
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Manea MM, Dragoş D, Dobri AM, Ghenu MI, Stoican IC, Enache II, Tuta S. The crucial role of gadolinium-enhanced MRI in a case of amaurosis fugax - a case report and literature review. ROMANIAN JOURNAL OF INTERNAL MEDICINE = REVUE ROUMAINE DE MEDECINE INTERNE 2024; 62:75-81. [PMID: 37906620 DOI: 10.2478/rjim-2023-0026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 11/02/2023]
Abstract
Optic perineuritis is the inflammation of the optic nerve sheath. This affliction can lead to visual field impairment and other signs and symptoms related to the orbital space, such as pain, disc edema, ophthalmoplegia, proptosis. However, not all patients present with such suggestive symptoms, requiring a thorough assessment. We report the case of a young male admitted to our hospital for recurrent episodes of monocular blindness. Amaurosis fugax is a well-known presentation of transient ischemic attacks (TIA) and it was ruled out. Gadolinium-enhanced MRI revealed a typical aspect of optic perineuritis. It was mandatory to consider all possible causes of secondary optic perineuritis as they all represent serious clinical conditions, even if the idiopathic form is more frequent. The clinical and paraclinical evaluation of the patient excluded an underlying disease and primary optic perineuritis was diagnosed. Corticosteroid therapy is usually curative and a course of methylprednisolone was initiated for our patient with good outcome. However, response to treatment is not diagnostic as both primary and secondary optic perineuritis are normally responsive, hence thorough differential diagnosis is necessary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Mirabela Manea
- "Carol Davila" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania
- Neurology Department, National Institute of Neurology and Neurovascular Diseases, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Dorin Dragoş
- "Carol Davila" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania
- Departments of Internal Medicine, and Nephrology, Emergency University Hospital, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Ana-Maria Dobri
- "Carol Davila" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania
- Neurology Department, National Institute of Neurology and Neurovascular Diseases, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Maria Iuliana Ghenu
- "Carol Davila" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania
- Departments of Internal Medicine, and Nephrology, Emergency University Hospital, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Iulia-Cosmina Stoican
- Neurology Department, National Institute of Neurology and Neurovascular Diseases, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Iulia-Ioana Enache
- Neurology Department, National Institute of Neurology and Neurovascular Diseases, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Sorin Tuta
- "Carol Davila" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania
- Neurology Department, National Institute of Neurology and Neurovascular Diseases, Bucharest, Romania
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Bianco L, Arrigo A, Antropoli A, Berni A, Saladino A, Vilela MAP, Mansour AM, Bandello F, Battaglia Parodi M. Multimodal imaging in Best Vitelliform Macular Dystrophy: Literature review and novel insights. Eur J Ophthalmol 2024; 34:39-51. [PMID: 36972471 PMCID: PMC10757402 DOI: 10.1177/11206721231166434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2022] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023]
Abstract
Best Vitelliform Macular Dystrophy (BVMD) is a dominantly inherited retinal disease caused by dominant variants in the BEST1 gene. The original classification of BVMD is based on biomicroscopy and color fundus photography (CFP); however, advancements in retinal imaging provided unique structural, vascular, and functional data and novel insights on disease pathogenesis. Quantitative fundus autofluorescence studies informed us that lipofuscin accumulation, the hallmark of BVMD, is unlikely to be a primary effect of the genetic defect. It could be due to a lack of apposition between photoreceptors and retinal pigment epithelium in the macula with subsequent accumulation of shed outer segments over time. Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) and adaptive optics imaging revealed that vitelliform lesions are characterized by progressive changes in the cone mosaic corresponding to a thinning of the outer nuclear layer and then disruption of the ellipsoid zone, which are associated with a decreased sensitivity and visual acuity. Therefore, an OCT staging system based on lesion composition, thus reflecting disease evolution, has been recently developed. Lastly, the emerging role of OCT Angiography proved a greater prevalence of macular neovascularization, the majority of which are non-exudative and develop in late disease stages. In conclusion, effective diagnosis, staging, and clinical management of BVMD will likely require a deep understanding of the multimodal imaging features of this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorenzo Bianco
- Department of Ophthalmology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Alessandro Arrigo
- Department of Ophthalmology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Alessio Antropoli
- Department of Ophthalmology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Alessandro Berni
- Department of Ophthalmology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Andrea Saladino
- Department of Ophthalmology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Manuel AP Vilela
- Clinical Surgery, Federal University of Health Sciences of Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Ahmad M Mansour
- Department of Ophthalmology, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
- Department of Ophthalmology, Rafic Hariri University Hospital, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Francesco Bandello
- Department of Ophthalmology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
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Kirik F, Ersoz MG, Atalay F, Ozdemir H. Should we perform ocular magnification for lateral measurements in Heidelberg spectralis optical coherence tomography? Eur J Ophthalmol 2024; 34:NP152-NP153. [PMID: 37723878 DOI: 10.1177/11206721231203088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/20/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Furkan Kirik
- Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine, Bezmialem Vakif University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - M Giray Ersoz
- Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine, Biruni University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Furkan Atalay
- Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine, Bezmialem Vakif University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Hakan Ozdemir
- Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine, Bezmialem Vakif University, Istanbul, Turkey
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von der Emde L, Mallwitz M, Vaisband M, Hasenauer J, Saßmannshausen M, Terheyden JH, Sloan KR, Schmitz-Valckenberg S, Finger RP, Holz FG, Ach T. Retest variability and patient reliability indices of quantitative fundus autofluorescence in age-related macular degeneration: a MACUSTAR study report. Sci Rep 2023; 13:17417. [PMID: 37833348 PMCID: PMC10576044 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-43417-y] [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: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/23/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to determine the retest variability of quantitative fundus autofluorescence (QAF) in patients with and without age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and evaluate the predictive value of patient reliability indices on retest reliability. A total of 132 eyes from 68 patients were examined, including healthy individuals and those with various stages of AMD. Duplicate QAF imaging was conducted at baseline and 2 weeks later across six study sites. Intraclass correlation (ICC) analysis was used to evaluate the consistency of imaging, and mean opinion scores (MOS) of image quality were generated by two researchers. The contribution of MOS and other factors to retest variation was assessed using mixed-effect linear models. Additionally, a Random Forest Regressor was trained to evaluate the extent to which manual image grading of image quality could be replaced by automated assessment (inferred MOS). The results showed that ICC values were high for all QAF images, with slightly lower values in AMD-affected eyes. The average inter-day ICC was found to be 0.77 for QAF segments within the QAF8 ring and 0.74 for peripheral segments. Image quality was predicted with a mean absolute error of 0.27 on a 5-point scale, and of all evaluated reliability indices, MOS/inferred MOS proved most important. The findings suggest that QAF allows for reliable testing of autofluorescence levels at the posterior pole in patients with AMD in a multicenter, multioperator setting. Patient reliability indices could serve as eligibility criteria for clinical trials, helping identify patients with adequate retest reliability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leon von der Emde
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Bonn, University of Bonn, Ernst-Abbe-Straße 2, 53127, Bonn, Germany
| | - Merten Mallwitz
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Bonn, University of Bonn, Ernst-Abbe-Straße 2, 53127, Bonn, Germany
| | - Marc Vaisband
- Life & Medical Sciences Institute, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
- Department of Internal Medicine III with Haematology, Medical Oncology, Haemostaseology, Infectiology and Rheumatology, Oncologic Center, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Jan Hasenauer
- Life & Medical Sciences Institute, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
- Helmholtz Center Munich-German Research Center for Environmental Health, Institute of Computational Biology, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Marlene Saßmannshausen
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Bonn, University of Bonn, Ernst-Abbe-Straße 2, 53127, Bonn, Germany
| | - Jan Henrik Terheyden
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Bonn, University of Bonn, Ernst-Abbe-Straße 2, 53127, Bonn, Germany
| | - Kenneth R Sloan
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Alabama, AL, USA
| | | | - Robert P Finger
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Bonn, University of Bonn, Ernst-Abbe-Straße 2, 53127, Bonn, Germany
| | - Frank G Holz
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Bonn, University of Bonn, Ernst-Abbe-Straße 2, 53127, Bonn, Germany
| | - Thomas Ach
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Bonn, University of Bonn, Ernst-Abbe-Straße 2, 53127, Bonn, Germany.
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Parmann R, Tsang SH, Sparrow JR. Primary versus Secondary Elevations in Fundus Autofluorescence. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:12327. [PMID: 37569703 PMCID: PMC10419315 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241512327] [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: 06/08/2023] [Revised: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
The method of quantitative fundus autofluorescence (qAF) can be used to assess the levels of bisretinoids in retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells so as to aid the interpretation and management of a variety of retinal conditions. In this review, we focused on seven retinal diseases to highlight the possible pathways to increased fundus autofluorescence. ABCA4- and RDH12-associated diseases benefit from known mechanisms whereby gene malfunctioning leads to elevated bisretinoid levels in RPE cells. On the other hand, peripherin2/RDS-associated disease (PRPH2/RDS), retinitis pigmentosa (RP), central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC), acute zonal occult outer retinopathy (AZOOR), and ceramide kinase like (CERKL)-associated retinal degeneration all express abnormally high fundus autofluorescence levels without a demonstrated pathophysiological pathway for bisretinoid elevation. We suggest that, while a known link from gene mutation to increased production of bisretinoids (as in ABCA4- and RDH12-associated diseases) causes primary elevation in fundus autofluorescence, a secondary autofluorescence elevation also exists, where an impairment and degeneration of photoreceptor cells by various causes leads to an increase in bisretinoid levels in RPE cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rait Parmann
- Departments of Ophthalmology, Columbia University, 635 W. 165th Street, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Stephen H. Tsang
- Departments of Ophthalmology, Columbia University, 635 W. 165th Street, New York, NY 10032, USA
- Departments of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University, 635 W. 165th Street, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Janet R. Sparrow
- Departments of Ophthalmology, Columbia University, 635 W. 165th Street, New York, NY 10032, USA
- Departments of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University, 635 W. 165th Street, New York, NY 10032, USA
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13
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Wei W, Mazzola M, Otero-Marquez O, Tong Y, Souied E, Querques G, Bailey Freund K, Theodore Smith R. Two potentially distinct pathways to geographic atrophy in age-related macular degeneration characterized by quantitative fundus autofluorescence. Eye (Lond) 2023; 37:2281-2288. [PMID: 36617586 PMCID: PMC10366132 DOI: 10.1038/s41433-022-02332-8] [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: 03/16/2022] [Revised: 10/18/2022] [Accepted: 11/24/2022] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS To demonstrate two distinct pathways to geographic atrophy (GA) that originate from soft drusen/ pigment epithelial detachments (PEDs) and subretinal drusenoid deposits (SDDs), respectively, and are characterized by their final quantitative autofluorescence (qAF) levels. METHODS 23 eyes of 18 patients with GA underwent spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) and qAF imaging on the qAF-ready Heidelberg Spectralis. 52 GA Regions-of-interest (ROIs), or clusters of adjacent lesions, were selected, and the ROIs were divided into groups by the dominant iAMD precursors on prior serial tracked SD-OCT scans. Mean qAF values and structural SD-OCT findings of groups were compared. RESULTS Group 1 lesions (soft drusen/PED precursors, 18/52) were isolated, with lower mean qAF (35.88 ± 12.75 units); group 3 lesions (SDD precursors, 12/52) were multilobular, with significantly higher mean qAF (71.62 ± 12.12 units, p < 0.05). Group 2 lesions, (mixed precursors, 22/52) had intermediate mean qAF (58.13 ± 67.92 units). Significantly greater prevalence of split RPE/ Bruch's membrane complex in SDD-associated GA, suggesting basal laminar deposit (BLamD), than in drusen-associated lesions was the major structural difference. CONCLUSION Quantitative autofluorescence (qAF) of GA lesions may reflect two distinct pathogenic pathways and structural outcomes, originating from soft drusen/PED and subretinal drusenoid deposits (SDDs), with the final qAF values lower or higher, respectively. Basal laminar deposit specifically in and adjacent to SDD-associated lesions may account for their greater autofluorescence. The potential importance of this paradigm is that it could direct, simplify and facilitate research on geographic atrophy by dividing the disease into two components that may be studied separately.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Wei
- Ophthalmology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- Ophthalmology, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Marco Mazzola
- Ophthalmology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- Ophthalmology, University of Insubria Varese-Como, Viale Luigi Borri, Varese, Italy
| | | | - Yuehong Tong
- Ophthalmology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Eric Souied
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hôpital Intercommunal de Créteil Université, Créteil, France
| | | | - K Bailey Freund
- Vitreous Retina Macula Consultants of New York, New York, NY, USA
| | - R Theodore Smith
- Ophthalmology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA.
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14
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Radun V, Berlin A, Tarau IS, Kleefeldt N, Reichel C, Hillenkamp J, Holz FG, Sloan KR, Saßmannshausen M, Ach T. Quantitative Fundus Autofluorescence in Systemic Chloroquine/Hydroxychloroquine Therapy: One Year Follow-Up. Transl Vis Sci Technol 2023; 12:8. [PMID: 37418250 PMCID: PMC10337803 DOI: 10.1167/tvst.12.7.8] [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: 07/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose Systemic chloroquine/hydroxychloroquine (CQ/HCQ) can cause severe ocular side effects including bull's eye maculopathy (BEM). Recently, we reported higher quantitative autofluorescence (QAF) levels in patients with CQ/HCQ intake. Here, QAF in patients taking CQ/HCQ in a 1-year follow-up is reported. Methods Fifty-eight patients currently or previously treated with CQ/HCQ (cumulative doses 94-2435 g) and 32 age- and sex-matched healthy subjects underwent multimodal retinal imaging (infrared, red free, fundus autofluorescence [FAF], QAF [488 nm], and spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT). For analysis, custom written FIJI plugins were used for image processing, multimodal image stacks assembling, and QAF calculation. Results Thirty patients (28 without BEM and 2 with BEM, age range = 25-69 years) were followed up (370 ± 63 days). QAF values in patients taking CQ/HCQ showed a significant increase between baseline and follow-up examination: 282.0 ± 67.9 to 297.7 ± 70.0 (QAF a.u.), P = 0.002. An increase up to 10% was observed in the superior macular hemisphere. Eight individuals (including 1 patient with BEM) had a pronounced QAF increase of up to 25%. Compared to healthy controls, QAF levels in patients taking CQ/HCQ were significantly increased (P = 0.04). Conclusions Our study confirms our previous finding of increased QAF in patients taking CQ/HCQ with a further significant QAF increase from baseline to follow-up. Whether pronounced QAF increase might predispose for rapid progression toward structural changes and BEM development is currently investigated in ongoing studies. Translational Relevance In addition to standard screening tools during systemic CQ/HCQ treatment, QAF imaging might be useful in CQ/HCQ monitoring and could serve as a screening tool in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria Radun
- University Hospital Würzburg, Department of Ophthalmology, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Andreas Berlin
- University Hospital Würzburg, Department of Ophthalmology, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Ioana-Sandra Tarau
- University Hospital Würzburg, Department of Ophthalmology, Würzburg, Germany
- Asklepios Hospital Hamburg, Department of Ophthalmology, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Nikolai Kleefeldt
- University Hospital Würzburg, Department of Ophthalmology, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Clara Reichel
- University Hospital Würzburg, Department of Ophthalmology, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Jost Hillenkamp
- University Hospital Würzburg, Department of Ophthalmology, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Frank G Holz
- University Hospital Bonn, Department of Ophthalmology, Bonn, Germany
| | - Kenneth R Sloan
- Asklepios Hospital Hamburg, Department of Ophthalmology, Hamburg, Germany
| | | | - Thomas Ach
- University Hospital Würzburg, Department of Ophthalmology, Würzburg, Germany
- University Hospital Bonn, Department of Ophthalmology, Bonn, Germany
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15
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Ersoz MG, Kırık F, Isik B, Ozdemir H. HENLE FIBER LAYER THICKNESS AND AREA MEASUREMENT IN TYPE 2 DIABETES MELLITUS WITH AND WITHOUT RETINOPATHY USING A MODIFIED DIRECTIONAL OPTICAL COHERENCE TOMOGRAPHY STRATEGY. Retina 2023; 43:1097-1106. [PMID: 36913623 DOI: 10.1097/iae.0000000000003778] [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: 03/14/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate the thicknesses and areas of Henle fiber layer (HFL), outer nuclear layer, and outer plexiform layer in the eyes of patients with diabetes with no diabetic retinopathy, in eyes with nonproliferative diabetic retinopathy without diabetic macular edema, and in healthy eyes using a modified directional optical coherence tomography strategy. METHODS In this prospective study, the no diabetic retinopathy group included 79 participants, the nonproliferative diabetic retinopathy group comprised 68 participants, and the control group had 58 participants. Thicknesses and areas of Henle fiber layer, outer nuclear layer, and outer plexiform layer were measured on a horizontal single optical coherence tomography scan centered on the fovea using directional optical coherence tomography. RESULTS The foveal, parafoveal, and total HFL were significantly thinner in the nonproliferative diabetic retinopathy group than in the no diabetic retinopathy group and the control group (all P < 0.05). The no diabetic retinopathy group had significantly thinner foveal HFL thickness and area compared with the control group (all P < 0.05). The nonproliferative diabetic retinopathy group had significantly thicker outer nuclear layer thickness and area in all regions than the other groups (all P < 0.05). The outer plexiform layer measurements did not differ between the groups (all P > 0.05). CONCLUSION Directional optical coherence tomography provides isolated thickness and area measurement of HFL. In patients with diabetes, the HFL is thinner, and HFL thinning begins before the presence of diabetic retinopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Giray Ersoz
- Department of Ophthalmology, Biruni University Medical School, Istanbul, Turkey; and
| | - Furkan Kırık
- Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine, Bezmialem Vakif University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Burcu Isik
- Department of Ophthalmology, Biruni University Medical School, Istanbul, Turkey; and
| | - Hakan Ozdemir
- Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine, Bezmialem Vakif University, Istanbul, Turkey
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16
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Birtel J, Bauer T, Pauleikhoff L, Rüber T, Gliem M, Charbel Issa P. Fundus autofluorescence imaging using red excitation light. Sci Rep 2023; 13:9916. [PMID: 37336979 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-36217-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2022] [Accepted: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 06/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Retinal disease accounts significantly for visual impairment and blindness. An important role in the pathophysiology of retinal disease and aging is attributed to lipofuscin, a complex of fluorescent metabolites. Fundus autofluorescence (AF) imaging allows non-invasive mapping of lipofuscin and is a key technology to diagnose and monitor retinal disease. However, currently used short-wavelength (SW) excitation light has several limitations, including glare and discomfort during image acquisition, reduced image quality in case of lens opacities, limited visualization of the central retina, and potential retinal light toxicity. Here, we establish a novel imaging modality which uses red excitation light (R-AF) and overcomes these drawbacks. R-AF images are high-quality, high-contrast fundus images and image interpretation may build on clinical experience due to similar appearance of pathology as on SW-AF images. Additionally, R-AF images may uncover disease features that previously remained undetected. The R-AF signal increases with higher abundance of lipofuscin and does not depend on photopigment bleaching or on the amount of macular pigment. Improved patient comfort, limited effect of cataract on image quality, and lack of safety concerns qualify R-AF for routine clinical monitoring, e.g. for patients with age-related macular degeneration, Stargardt disease, or for quantitative analysis of AF signal intensity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johannes Birtel
- Oxford Eye Hospital, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, OX3 9DU, UK
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Tobias Bauer
- Department of Epileptology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Laurenz Pauleikhoff
- Oxford Eye Hospital, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, OX3 9DU, UK
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Theodor Rüber
- Department of Epileptology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Martin Gliem
- Oxford Eye Hospital, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, OX3 9DU, UK
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Peter Charbel Issa
- Oxford Eye Hospital, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, OX3 9DU, UK.
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.
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17
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Greenstein VC, Castillejos DS, Tsang SH, Lee W, Sparrow JR, Allikmets R, Birch DG, Hood DC. Monitoring Lesion Area Progression in Stargardt Disease: A Comparison of En Face Optical Coherence Tomography and Fundus Autofluorescence. Transl Vis Sci Technol 2023; 12:2. [PMID: 37126335 PMCID: PMC10153573 DOI: 10.1167/tvst.12.5.2] [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: 12/12/2022] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 05/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose To compare longitudinal changes in en face spectral domain-optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) measurements of ellipsoid zone (EZ) and retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) loss to changes in the hypoautofluorescent and hyperautofluorescent (AF) areas detected with short-wavelength (SW)-AF in ABCA4-associated retinopathy. Methods SD-OCT volume scans were obtained from 20 patients (20 eyes) over 2.6 ± 1.2 years (range 1-5 years). The EZ, and RPE/Bruch's membrane boundaries were segmented, and en face slab images generated. SubRPE and EZ slab images were used to measure areas of atrophic RPE and EZ loss. These were compared to longitudinal measurements of the hypo- and abnormal AF (hypoAF and surrounding hyperAF) areas. Results At baseline, the en face area of EZ loss was significantly larger than the subRPE atrophic area, and the abnormal AF area was significantly larger than the hypoAF area. The median rate of EZ loss was significantly greater than the rate of increase in the subRPE atrophic area (1.2 mm2/yr compared to 0.5 mm2/yr). The median rate of increase in the abnormal AF area was significantly greater than the increase in the hypoAF area (1.6 mm2/yr compared to 0.6 mm2/yr). Conclusions En face SD-OCT can be used to quantify changes in RPE atrophy and photoreceptor integrity. It can be a complementary or alternative technique to SW-AF with the advantage of monitoring EZ loss. The SW-AF results emphasize the importance of measuring changes in the hypo- and abnormal AF areas. Translational Relevance The findings are relevant to the selection of outcome measures for monitoring ABCA4-associated retinopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vivienne C. Greenstein
- Department of Ophthalmology, Harkness Eye Institute, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - David S. Castillejos
- Department of Ophthalmology, Harkness Eye Institute, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Stephen H. Tsang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Harkness Eye Institute, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Winston Lee
- Department of Ophthalmology, Harkness Eye Institute, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Genetics and Development, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Janet R. Sparrow
- Department of Ophthalmology, Harkness Eye Institute, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Rando Allikmets
- Department of Ophthalmology, Harkness Eye Institute, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | | | - Donald C. Hood
- Department of Ophthalmology, Harkness Eye Institute, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Psychology, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
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18
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Dhooge PPA, Möller PT, Meland N, Stingl K, Boon CJF, Lotery AJ, Parodi MB, Herrmann P, Klein W, Fsadni MG, Wheeler-Schilling TH, Holz FG, Hoyng CB, Schmitz-Valckenberg S. Repeatability of Quantitative Autofluorescence Imaging in a Multicenter Study Involving Patients With Recessive Stargardt Disease 1. Transl Vis Sci Technol 2023; 12:1. [PMID: 36723966 PMCID: PMC9904328 DOI: 10.1167/tvst.12.2.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose This study assesses the repeatability of quantitative autofluorescence (qAF) in a multicenter setting and evaluates qAF as the end point for clinical trials in recessive Stargardt disease 1 (STGD1). Methods A total of 102 patients with STGD1 underwent qAF imaging as part of the Stargardt Remofuscin Treatment Trial (STARTT; EudraCT No. 2018-001496-20). For 166 eyes, we obtained qAF imaging at 2 visits, with 2 recordings per visit. The qAF8 values were independently determined by the study site and a central reading center. Intra- and inter-visit reproducibility, as well as interobserver (study site versus reading center) reproducibility were obtained using intraclass correlation (ICC), one-sample t-test, and Bland-Altman coefficient of repeatability. Results The qAF repeatability was ± 26.1% for intra-visit, ± 40.5% for inter-visit, and ± 20.2% for the interobserver reproducibility measures. Intra-visit repeatability was good to excellent for all sites (ICC of 0.88-0.96). Variability between visits was higher with an overall ICC of 0.76 (0.69-0.81). We observed no significant difference in qAF values across sites between visits (7.06 ± 93.33, P = 0.238). Conclusions Real-life test-retest variability of qAF is higher in this set of data than previously reported in single center settings. With improved operator training and by selecting the better of two recordings for evaluation, qAF serves as a useful method for assessing changes in autofluorescence signal. Translational Relevance The qAF can be adopted as a clinical trial end point, but steps to counterbalance variability should be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patty P. A. Dhooge
- Department of Ophthalmology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands,Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Philipp T. Möller
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany,GRADE Reading Center, Bonn, Germany
| | - Nils Meland
- SMERUD Medical Research International AS, Thunes vei 2, Oslo, Norway
| | - Katarina Stingl
- Univeristy Eye Hospital, Center for Ophthalmology, University of Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Camiel J. F. Boon
- Department of Ophthalmology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands,Department of Ophthalmology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | | | - Philipp Herrmann
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany,Center for Rare Diseases Bonn (ZSEB), University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | | | - Mario G. Fsadni
- Katairo GmbH, Kusterdingen, Germany,International Pharm-Med Ltd., Bramhall, UK
| | | | - Frank G. Holz
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany,GRADE Reading Center, Bonn, Germany
| | - Carel B. Hoyng
- Department of Ophthalmology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands,Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Steffen Schmitz-Valckenberg
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany,GRADE Reading Center, Bonn, Germany,John A. Moran Eye Center, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
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Dysli C, Dysli M, Wolf S, Zinkernagel M. Fluorescence lifetime distribution in phakic and pseudophakic healthy eyes. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0279158. [PMID: 36608033 PMCID: PMC9821472 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0279158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2020] [Accepted: 11/14/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate the influence of the lens status and to describe fundus autofluorescence lifetimes (FLT) in a large cohort of healthy eyes across a wide age range. MATERIALS AND METHODS FLT data were acquired from healthy phakic and pseudophakic eyes using fluorescence lifetime imaging ophthalmoscopy (FLIO). Retinal autofluorescence was excited with a 473 nm laser and emitted autofluorescence was detected in a short and a long spectral channel (SSC: 498-560 nm; LSC: 560-720 nm). RESULTS 141 healthy eyes from 141 participants (56 ± 18 years) were included. The shortest mean FLTs were measured within the macular center, followed by the temporal inner and outer ETDRS (Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study) grid segments, and the remaining areas of the inner and the outer ETDRS ring. In phakic participants (81%), mean, short and long FLTs correlated with the age (SSC: r2 = 0.54; LSC: r2 = 0.7; both p<0.0001) with an increase of about 33 ps in the SSC resp. 28 ps in the LSC per decade. In pseudophakic subjects (19%), mean FLTs only correlated with age in the long spectral channel (r2 = 0.44; p = 0.0002) but not in the short spectral channel (r2 = 0.066; p = 0.2). CONCLUSIONS Fundus autofluorescence lifetimes are age dependent. FLTs in the SSC are more susceptible to lens opacities but less dependent on age changes, whereas FLTs in the LSC are largely independent of the lens status but display a higher degree of age dependency. STUDY REGISTRY ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01981148.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chantal Dysli
- Department of Ophthalmology, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital and Department of BioMedical Research, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Muriel Dysli
- Department of Ophthalmology, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital and Department of BioMedical Research, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Sebastian Wolf
- Department of Ophthalmology, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital and Department of BioMedical Research, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Martin Zinkernagel
- Department of Ophthalmology, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital and Department of BioMedical Research, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- * E-mail:
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20
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Arrigo A, Aragona E, Battaglia Parodi M, Bandello F. Quantitative approaches in multimodal fundus imaging: State of the art and future perspectives. Prog Retin Eye Res 2023; 92:101111. [PMID: 35933313 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2022.101111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2022] [Revised: 07/16/2022] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
When it first appeared, multimodal fundus imaging revolutionized the diagnostic workup and provided extremely useful new insights into the pathogenesis of fundus diseases. The recent addition of quantitative approaches has further expanded the amount of information that can be obtained. In spite of the growing interest in advanced quantitative metrics, the scientific community has not reached a stable consensus on repeatable, standardized quantitative techniques to process and analyze the images. Furthermore, imaging artifacts may considerably affect the processing and interpretation of quantitative data, potentially affecting their reliability. The aim of this survey is to provide a comprehensive summary of the main multimodal imaging techniques, covering their limitations as well as their strengths. We also offer a thorough analysis of current quantitative imaging metrics, looking into their technical features, limitations, and interpretation. In addition, we describe the main imaging artifacts and their potential impact on imaging quality and reliability. The prospect of increasing reliance on artificial intelligence-based analyses suggests there is a need to develop more sophisticated quantitative metrics and to improve imaging technologies, incorporating clear, standardized, post-processing procedures. These measures are becoming urgent if these analyses are to cross the threshold from a research context to real-life clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Arrigo
- Department of Ophthalmology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, via Olgettina 60, 20132, Milan, Italy.
| | - Emanuela Aragona
- Department of Ophthalmology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, via Olgettina 60, 20132, Milan, Italy
| | - Maurizio Battaglia Parodi
- Department of Ophthalmology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, via Olgettina 60, 20132, Milan, Italy
| | - Francesco Bandello
- Department of Ophthalmology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, via Olgettina 60, 20132, Milan, Italy
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21
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Autofluorescence Imaging to Evaluate Retinal Disease Progression in Rodent. Methods Mol Biol 2022; 2560:229-232. [PMID: 36481899 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-2651-1_21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Fundus autofluorescence (FAF) imaging is a noninvasive retinal imaging methodology that allows mapping of lipofuscin distribution in the retinal pigment epithelium cell (RPE). Excessive accumulation of lipofuscin granules in the lysosomal compartment of RPE cells represents a common downstream pathogenetic pathway in various hereditary and complex retinal diseases, including age-related macular degeneration. The clinical applications of FAF coupled with its ease of use, and the noninvasive nature of characterizing retinal diseases, are increasingly valuable to the field of ophthalmology and in assessing the progression of retinitis pigmentosa (RP). Quantitative AF (qAF) enhances the understanding of retinal disease processes, serves as a diagnostic aid, and allows for the monitoring of the effects of therapeutic interventions. This chapter introduces basic principles of FAF and general protocols of FAF evaluating retinal disease progression in rodents.
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22
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Fundus Photography Methodologies to Assess RP Patients. Methods Mol Biol 2022; 2560:81-90. [PMID: 36481885 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-2651-1_7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The development of fundus photography and imaging has improved our ability to diagnose and monitor inherited retinal degenerations. Nowadays, color fundus photography has become a staple in evaluating patients with retinitis pigmentosa (RP). Other important multimodal forms of fundus photography used today include red-free fundus photography, short-wavelength autofluorescence, and near-infrared autofluorescence. These photography methodologies provide valuable information on the natural history of disease progression, which in turn can lead to the identification of viable outcome measurements for current and future therapeutic trials. Further advances and developments in the field of fundus imaging will help in our understanding of RP and allied disorders.
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Berlin A, Clark ME, Swain TA, Fischer NA, McGwin G, Sloan KR, Owsley C, Curcio CA. Impact of the Aging Lens and Posterior Capsular Opacification on Quantitative Autofluorescence Imaging in Age-Related Macular Degeneration. Transl Vis Sci Technol 2022; 11:23. [PMID: 36239964 PMCID: PMC9586138 DOI: 10.1167/tvst.11.10.23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose The purpose of this study was to investigate quantitative autofluorescence (qAF8) in patients with and without early or intermediate age-related macular degeneration (AMD); to determine the impact of the aged crystalline lens and posterior capsular opacification (PCO). Methods In phakic and pseudophakic eyes ≥60 years, AMD status was determined by the Beckman system. PCO presence and severity was extracted from clinical records. qAF8 was calculated using custom FIJI plugins. Differences in qAF8, stratified by lens status, PCO severity, and AMD status, were analyzed using generalized estimating equations. Results In 210 eyes of 115 individuals (mean age = 75.7 ± 6.6 years), qAF8 was lower in intermediate AMD compared to early AMD (P = 0.05). qAF8 did not differ between phakic and pseudophakic eyes (P = 0.8909). In phakic (n = 83) and pseudophakic (n = 127) eyes considered separately, qAF8 did not differ by AMD status (P = 0.0936 and 0.3494, respectively). Qualitative review of qAF images in phakic eyes illustrated high variability. In pseudophakic eyes, qAF8 did not differ with PCO present versus absent (54.5% vs. 45.5%). Review of implanted intraocular lenses (IOLs) revealed that 43.9% were blue-filter IOLs. Conclusions qAF8 was not associated with AMD status, up to intermediate AMD, considering only pseudophakic eyes to avoid noisy images in phakic eyes. In pseudophakic eyes, qAF8 was not affected by PCO. Because blue-filter IOLs may reduce levels of exciting light for qAF8, future studies investigating qAF in eyes with different IOL types are needed. Translational Relevance To reduce variability in observational studies and clinical trials requiring qAF8, pseudophakic participants without blue-filter IOLs or advanced PCO should be preferentially enrolled.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Berlin
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA,University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Mark E. Clark
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Thomas A. Swain
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Nathan A. Fischer
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Gerald McGwin
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA,Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Kenneth R. Sloan
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Cynthia Owsley
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Christine A. Curcio
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
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24
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Hammer M, Simon R, Meller D, Klemm M. Combining fluorescence lifetime with spectral information in fluorescence lifetime imaging ophthalmoscopy (FLIO). BIOMEDICAL OPTICS EXPRESS 2022; 13:5483-5494. [PMID: 36425633 PMCID: PMC9664887 DOI: 10.1364/boe.457946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2022] [Revised: 04/05/2022] [Accepted: 04/07/2022] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Fluorescence lifetime imaging ophthalmoscopy (FLIO) provides information on fluorescence lifetimes in two spectral channels as well as the peak emission wavelength (PEW) of the fluorescence. Here, we combine these measures in an integral three-dimensional lifetime-PEW metric vector and determine a normal range for this vector from measurements in young healthy subjects. While for these control subjects 97 (±8) % (median (interquartile range)) of all para-macular pixels were covered by this normal vector range, it was 67 (±55) % for the elderly healthy, 38 (±43) % for age-related macular degeneration (AMD)-suspect subjects, and only 6 (±4) % for AMD patients. The vectors were significantly different for retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) lesions in AMD patients from that of non-affected tissue (p < 0.001). Lifetime- PEW plots allowed to identify possibly pathologic fundus areas by fluorescence parameters outside a 95% quantile per subject. In a patient follow-up, changes in fluorescence parameters could be traced in the lifetime-PEW metric, showing their change over disease progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Hammer
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Jena, Jena, Germany
- Center for Medical Optics and Photonics, Univ. of Jena, Jena, Germany
| | - Rowena Simon
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Jena, Jena, Germany
| | - Daniel Meller
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Jena, Jena, Germany
| | - Matthias Klemm
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Informatics, Technical Univ. Ilmenau, Ilmenau, Germany
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25
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Dhooge PP, Möller PT, Boon CJ, Lotery AJ, Herrmann P, Battaglia Parodi M, Klein W, Fsadni MG, Wheeler-Schilling TH, Jungmann O, Müller H, Holz FG, Schmitz-Valckenberg S, Peters TM, Stingl K, Hoyng CB. The STArgardt Remofuscin Treatment Trial (STARTT): design and baseline characteristics of enrolled Stargardt patients. OPEN RESEARCH EUROPE 2022; 1:96. [PMID: 37645124 PMCID: PMC10445898 DOI: 10.12688/openreseurope.13872.3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/21/2022] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Abstract
Background: This report describes the study design and baseline characteristics of patients with Stargardt disease (STGD1) enrolled in the STArgardt Remofuscin Treatment Trial (STARTT). Methods: In total, 87 patients with genetically confirmed STGD1 were randomized in a double-masked, placebo-controlled proof of concept trial to evaluate the safety and efficacy of 20 milligram oral remofuscin for 24 months. The primary outcome measure is change in mean quantitative autofluorescence value of an 8-segment ring centred on the fovea (qAF 8). Secondary efficacy variables are best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), low-luminance visual acuity (LLVA), mesopic microperimetry (mMP), spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT), reading speed on Radner reading charts, and patient-reported visual function as assessed by the National Eye Institute Visual Functioning Questionnaire 25 (NEI VFQ-25) and Functional Reading Independence (FRI) Index. Results: Mean age of participants was 35±11 years with 49 (56%) female. Median qAF 8 value was 438 Units (range 210-729). Median BCVA and LLVA in decimal units were 0.50 (range 0.13-0.80) and 0.20 (range 0.06-0.63), respectively. The median of the mean retinal sensitivity with mMP was 20.4 dB (range 0.0-28.8). SD-OCT showed median central subfield retinal thickness of 142 µm (range 72-265) and median macular volume of 1.65 mm 3 (range 1.13-2.19). Compared to persons without vision impairment, both reading performance and patient-reported visual function were significantly lower (p<0.001, one sample t-test). Mean reading speed was 108±39 words/minute with logRAD-score of 0.45±0.28. Mean VFQ-25 composite score was 72±13. Mean FRI Index score 2.8±0.6. Conclusions: This trial design may serve as reference for future clinical trials as it explores the utility of qAF 8 as primary outcome measure. The baseline data represent the largest, multi-national, STGD1 cohort to date that underwent standardized qAF imaging, reading speed assessment and vision-related quality of life measures which all contribute to the characterization of STGD1. EudraCT registration: 2018-001496-20 (09/05/2019).
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Affiliation(s)
- Patty P.A. Dhooge
- Department of Ophthalmology, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Centre, Nijmegen, 6500HB, The Netherlands
- Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Nijmegen, 6525EN, The Netherlands
| | - Philipp T. Möller
- GRADE reading center, Bonn, 53127, Germany
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Bonn, Bonn, 53127, Germany
| | - Camiel J.F. Boon
- Department of Ophthalmology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam, 1081HV, The Netherlands
- Department of Ophthalmology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, 2333ZA, The Netherlands
| | - Andrew J. Lotery
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, SO17 1BJ, UK
| | - Philipp Herrmann
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Bonn, Bonn, 53127, Germany
- Center for Rare Diseases Bonn (ZSEB), University of Bonn, Bonn, 53113, Germany
| | | | | | - Mario G. Fsadni
- Katairo GmbH, Kusterdingen, 72127, Germany
- International Pharm-Med Ltd, Hemel Hempstead, HP1 1LD, UK
| | - Thomas H. Wheeler-Schilling
- University Eye Hospital, Center for Ophthalmology, Institute for Ophthalmic Research, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, 72076, Germany
| | - Oliver Jungmann
- Smerud Medical Research Germany GmbH, Mannheim, D-68161, Germany
| | - Hans Müller
- Smerud Medical Research Germany GmbH, Mannheim, D-68161, Germany
| | - Frank G. Holz
- GRADE reading center, Bonn, 53127, Germany
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Bonn, Bonn, 53127, Germany
| | - Steffen Schmitz-Valckenberg
- GRADE reading center, Bonn, 53127, Germany
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Bonn, Bonn, 53127, Germany
- John A. Moran Eye Center, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, 84132, USA
| | - Tobias M. Peters
- University Eye Hospital, Center for Ophthalmology, Institute for Ophthalmic Research, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, 72076, Germany
| | - Katarina Stingl
- University Eye Hospital, Center for Ophthalmology, Institute for Ophthalmic Research, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, 72076, Germany
- Center for Rare Eye Diseases, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, 72076, Germany
| | - Carel B. Hoyng
- Department of Ophthalmology, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Centre, Nijmegen, 6500HB, The Netherlands
- Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Nijmegen, 6525EN, The Netherlands
| | - Soraprazan Consortium
- Department of Ophthalmology, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Centre, Nijmegen, 6500HB, The Netherlands
- Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Nijmegen, 6525EN, The Netherlands
- GRADE reading center, Bonn, 53127, Germany
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Bonn, Bonn, 53127, Germany
- Department of Ophthalmology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam, 1081HV, The Netherlands
- Department of Ophthalmology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, 2333ZA, The Netherlands
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, SO17 1BJ, UK
- Center for Rare Diseases Bonn (ZSEB), University of Bonn, Bonn, 53113, Germany
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, 20132, Italy
- Katairo GmbH, Kusterdingen, 72127, Germany
- International Pharm-Med Ltd, Hemel Hempstead, HP1 1LD, UK
- University Eye Hospital, Center for Ophthalmology, Institute for Ophthalmic Research, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, 72076, Germany
- Smerud Medical Research Germany GmbH, Mannheim, D-68161, Germany
- John A. Moran Eye Center, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, 84132, USA
- Center for Rare Eye Diseases, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, 72076, Germany
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26
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Parmann R, Greenstein VC, Tsang SH, Sparrow JR. Choroideremia Carriers: Dark-Adapted Perimetry and Retinal Structures. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2022; 63:4. [PMID: 35816046 PMCID: PMC9284471 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.63.8.4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose In choroideremia (CHM) carriers, scotopic sensitivity was assessed by dark adapted chromatic perimetry (DACP) and outer retinal structure was evaluated by multimodal imaging. Methods Nine carriers (18 eyes) and 13 healthy controls (13 eyes) underwent DACP testing with cyan and red stimuli. Analysis addressed peripapillary (4 test locations closest to the optic disc), macular (52 locations), and peripheral (60 locations outside the macula) regions. Responses were considered to be rod-mediated when cyan relative to red sensitivity was >5 dB. Fundus imaging included spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT), short-wavelength (SW-AF), near-infrared (NIR-AF), ultrawide-field (200 degrees) pseudocolor fundus imaging, and quantitative (qAF) fundus autofluorescence. Results Detection of the cyan stimulus was rod mediated in essentially all test locations (99.7%). In the macular and peripheral areas, DACP sensitivity values were not significantly different from healthy eyes. In the peripapillary area, sensitivities were significantly decreased (P < 0.05). SD-OCT imaging ranged from hyper-reflective lesions and discontinuities of the outer retinal bands to hypertransmission of signal. SW-AF and NIR-AF images presented with peripapillary atrophy in seven patients (14 eyes). Mosaicism was detectable in SW-AF images in seven patients and in NIR-AF images in five patients. Frank hypo-autofluorescence was visible in eight patients with distinct chorioretinopathy in seven patients. The qAF values were below the 95% confidence interval (CI) of healthy age-matched individuals in 12 eyes. Conclusions Rod mediated scotopic sensitivity was comparable to that in control eyes in macular and peripheral areas but was decreased in the peripapillary area where changes in retinal structure were also most severe.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rait Parmann
- Departments of Ophthalmology, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
| | | | - Stephen H Tsang
- Departments of Ophthalmology, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States.,Departments of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Janet R Sparrow
- Departments of Ophthalmology, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States.,Departments of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
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27
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Parrulli S, Cozzi M, Airaldi M, Romano F, Viola F, Sarzi‐Puttini P, Staurenghi G, Invernizzi A. Quantitative autofluorescence findings in patients undergoing hydroxychloroquine treatment. Clin Exp Ophthalmol 2022; 50:500-509. [PMID: 35503294 PMCID: PMC9545387 DOI: 10.1111/ceo.14090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2021] [Revised: 04/27/2022] [Accepted: 04/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Background Methods Results Conclusions
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Affiliation(s)
- Salvatore Parrulli
- Eye Clinic, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Science “Luigi Sacco”, Sacco Hospital University of Milan Milan Italy
| | - Mariano Cozzi
- Eye Clinic, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Science “Luigi Sacco”, Sacco Hospital University of Milan Milan Italy
| | - Matteo Airaldi
- Eye Clinic, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Science “Luigi Sacco”, Sacco Hospital University of Milan Milan Italy
| | - Francesco Romano
- Eye Clinic, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Science “Luigi Sacco”, Sacco Hospital University of Milan Milan Italy
| | - Francesco Viola
- Ophthalmological Unit Fondazione IRCCS Cà Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico Milan Italy
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health University of Milan Milan Italy
| | | | - Giovanni Staurenghi
- Eye Clinic, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Science “Luigi Sacco”, Sacco Hospital University of Milan Milan Italy
| | - Alessandro Invernizzi
- Eye Clinic, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Science “Luigi Sacco”, Sacco Hospital University of Milan Milan Italy
- The University of Sydney, Save Sight Institute, Discipline of Ophthalmology Sydney Medical School Sydney New South Wales Australia
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28
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Sakai D, Takagi S, Totani K, Yamamoto M, Matsuzaki M, Yamanari M, Sugiyama S, Yokota S, Maeda A, Hirami Y, Mandai M, Takahashi M, Nakamura M, Kurimoto Y. Retinal pigment epithelium melanin imaging using polarization-sensitive optical coherence tomography for patients with retinitis pigmentosa. Sci Rep 2022; 12:7115. [PMID: 35504937 PMCID: PMC9065024 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-11192-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to evaluate the distribution of retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) melanin in patients with retinitis pigmentosa (RP) using entropy measurements by custom-made polarization-sensitive optical coherence tomography (PS-OCT) images, and compare entropy with the intensity of short-wavelength (SW) and near-infrared (NIR) autofluorescence (AF). We retrospectively reviewed the retinal images, including PS-OCT, SW-AF, and NIR-AF of patients with RP who had a hyperautofluorescent ring on AF. A total of 12 eyes of 12 patients (8 women and 4 men; mean age: 37.9 years) were included. There was a strong positive correlation between entropy value and NIR-AF intensity (r = 0.626, p < 0.001), and there was a very weak negative correlation between entropy value and SW-AF (r = − 0.197, p = 0.001). The mean values of the entropy in the foveal, temporal (2 mm from the fovea), and nasal (2 mm from the fovea) sections were 0.41 (± 0.09), 0.29 (± 0.08), and 0.26 (± 0.08), respectively. The entropy was significantly higher in the foveal section than in the temporal and nasal sections (p = 0.002 and p = 0.003, respectively). There was no significant difference between the entropies values for the temporal and nasal sections (p = 0.157). Age, logMAR best-corrected visual acuity, ellipsoid zone width, and central retinal thickness were not correlated with foveal entropy. We presented RPE melanin imaging in patients with RP using PS-OCT for the first time. PS-OCT can be a useful tool for monitoring patients with RP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daiki Sakai
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kobe City Eye Hospital, 2-1-8 Minatojima Minamimachi, Chuo-ku, Kobe-shi, Hyogo, 650-0047, Japan. .,Department of Ophthalmology, Kobe City Medical Center General Hospital, Kobe, Japan. .,Department of Surgery, Division of Ophthalmology, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe, Japan.
| | - Seiji Takagi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Toho University Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kota Totani
- Engineering Department, Tomey Corporation, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Midori Yamamoto
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kobe City Eye Hospital, 2-1-8 Minatojima Minamimachi, Chuo-ku, Kobe-shi, Hyogo, 650-0047, Japan
| | - Mitsuhiro Matsuzaki
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kobe City Eye Hospital, 2-1-8 Minatojima Minamimachi, Chuo-ku, Kobe-shi, Hyogo, 650-0047, Japan.,Department of Ophthalmology, Kobe City Medical Center General Hospital, Kobe, Japan
| | | | | | - Satoshi Yokota
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kobe City Eye Hospital, 2-1-8 Minatojima Minamimachi, Chuo-ku, Kobe-shi, Hyogo, 650-0047, Japan.,Department of Ophthalmology, Kobe City Medical Center General Hospital, Kobe, Japan
| | - Akiko Maeda
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kobe City Eye Hospital, 2-1-8 Minatojima Minamimachi, Chuo-ku, Kobe-shi, Hyogo, 650-0047, Japan
| | - Yasuhiko Hirami
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kobe City Eye Hospital, 2-1-8 Minatojima Minamimachi, Chuo-ku, Kobe-shi, Hyogo, 650-0047, Japan.,Department of Ophthalmology, Kobe City Medical Center General Hospital, Kobe, Japan
| | - Michiko Mandai
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kobe City Eye Hospital, 2-1-8 Minatojima Minamimachi, Chuo-ku, Kobe-shi, Hyogo, 650-0047, Japan
| | - Masayo Takahashi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kobe City Eye Hospital, 2-1-8 Minatojima Minamimachi, Chuo-ku, Kobe-shi, Hyogo, 650-0047, Japan.,Vision Care Inc, Kobe, Japan
| | - Makoto Nakamura
- Department of Surgery, Division of Ophthalmology, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe, Japan
| | - Yasuo Kurimoto
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kobe City Eye Hospital, 2-1-8 Minatojima Minamimachi, Chuo-ku, Kobe-shi, Hyogo, 650-0047, Japan.,Department of Ophthalmology, Kobe City Medical Center General Hospital, Kobe, Japan
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29
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Marchese A, Cicinelli MV, Amato A, Bandello F, Gupta V, Miserocchi E, Agarwal A. The Next Steps in Ocular Imaging in Uveitis. Ocul Immunol Inflamm 2022; 31:785-792. [PMID: 35412936 DOI: 10.1080/09273948.2022.2055579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To describe the future steps and advances in the field of ocular imaging in uveitis. METHODS Narrative review. RESULTS There have been numerous advances in the field of imaging in uveitis in the past decade. Advanced techniques of imaging of the vitreous, vitreo-retinal interface, retinochoroid, and the sclera can provide significant information that helps in understanding the disease pathogenesis and manifestations. Imaging also helps in establishing a diagnosis in challenging cases, along with the laboratory and other assays. Notable developments in ocular imaging include wide-field and ultra-wide field imaging (including angiographies), automated quantification of the retinochoroidal vasculature using optical coherence tomography (OCT) and OCT angiography, quantification of vitreous cells, and intraoperative use of imaging in uveitis, among others. CONCLUSIONS We have summarized several technological achievements in ocular imaging in the field of uveitis and provided insights into the potential future developments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Marchese
- Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy.,Department of Ophthalmology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Maria Vittoria Cicinelli
- Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy.,Department of Ophthalmology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Alessia Amato
- Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy.,Department of Ophthalmology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Francesco Bandello
- Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy.,Department of Ophthalmology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Vishali Gupta
- Department of Ophthalmology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh, India
| | | | - Aniruddha Agarwal
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Eye Institute, Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates (UAE)
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30
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Bindewald-Wittich A, Holz FG, Ach T, Fiorentzis M, Bechrakis NE, Willerding GD. Fundus Autofluorescence Imaging in Patients with Choroidal Melanoma. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14071809. [PMID: 35406581 PMCID: PMC8997882 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14071809] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2022] [Revised: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The ocular fundus contains molecules that emit fluorescence when excited with light of an appropriate wavelength. Fundus autofluorescence imaging is based on the in vivo detection of intrinsic fluorescence and results in topographic autofluorescence mapping of the ocular fundus. In contrast to fluorescence angiography, where the fluorescing agents need to be administered intravenously, autofluorescence imaging is a non-invasive technique. Even though choroidal melanomas do not contain significant autofluorescent molecules themselves, they may lead to secondary alterations in neighbouring tissues with an impact on the autofluorescence signal recording. Fundus autofluorescence imaging in the context of choroidal melanoma is helpful for differential diagnosis and for monitoring variations over time in affected patients before and after treatment. Abstract Choroidal melanocytic lesions require reliable and precise clinical examination and diagnosis to differentiate benign choroidal nevi from choroidal melanoma, as the latter may become life-threatening through metastatic disease. To come to an accurate diagnosis, as well as for monitoring, and to assess the efficacy of therapy, various imaging modalities may be used, one of which is non-invasive fundus autofluorescence (FAF) imaging using novel high-resolution digital imaging technology. FAF imaging is based on the visualization of intrinsic fluorophores in the ocular fundus. Lipofuscin and melanolipofuscin within the postmitotic retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells represent the major fluorophores that contribute to the FAF signal. In addition, the presence or loss of absorbing molecular constituents may have an impact on the FAF signal. A choroidal melanoma can cause secondary retinal and RPE alterations that affect the FAF signal (e.g., occurrence of orange pigment). Therefore, FAF imaging supports multimodal imaging and gives additional information over and above conventional imaging modalities regarding retinal metabolism and RPE health status. This article summarises the features of FAF imaging and the role of FAF imaging in the context of choroidal melanoma, both before and following therapeutic intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Almut Bindewald-Wittich
- Augenkompetenz Zentren Heidenheim, 89518 Heidenheim, Germany
- Augenkompetenz Zentren Bopfingen, 73441 Bopfingen, Germany
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Bonn, 53127 Bonn, Germany; (F.G.H.); (T.A.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Frank G. Holz
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Bonn, 53127 Bonn, Germany; (F.G.H.); (T.A.)
| | - Thomas Ach
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Bonn, 53127 Bonn, Germany; (F.G.H.); (T.A.)
| | - Miltiadis Fiorentzis
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, 45147 Essen, Germany; (M.F.); (N.E.B.)
| | - Nikolaos E. Bechrakis
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, 45147 Essen, Germany; (M.F.); (N.E.B.)
| | - Gregor D. Willerding
- Department of Ophthalmology, DRK Kliniken Berlin Westend, 14050 Berlin, Germany;
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31
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Iwasaki M, Ando R, Aoki S, Miyamoto H. RESTORATION PROCESS OF THE OUTER RETINAL LAYERS AFTER SURGICAL MACULAR HOLE CLOSURE. Retina 2022; 42:313-320. [PMID: 34723901 DOI: 10.1097/iae.0000000000003323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate the interrelationship among the outer retinal layers after macular hole surgery and elucidate the restoration process. METHODS This retrospective observational study included 50 eyes of 47 consecutive patients with closed macular holes in the first vitrectomy. Optical coherence tomography was obtained before surgery; at 1, 3, and 6 months postsurgery; and at the last visit. The complete continuous layer rate and mean defect length were evaluated for the outer nuclear layer (ONL), external limiting membrane (ELM), and ellipsoid zone (EZ). RESULTS At all postoperative visits, the complete continuous layer rate was in the descending order of ELM, ONL, and EZ and the mean defect length was in the ascending order of ELM, ONL, and EZ. External limiting membrane was necessary for ONL restoration. External limiting membrane and ONL were necessary for EZ restoration. Hyperreflective protrusions were observed from the area lacking ELM into the subretinal space after surgery. Ellipsoid zone was not formed in coexistence with the hyperreflective protrusions. Intermediate reflective protrusions appeared under the ONL plus ELM after surgery and were eventually replaced by EZ. CONCLUSION Restoration of the outer retinal layers after surgical macular hole closure occurs in the order of ELM, ONL, and EZ.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masanori Iwasaki
- Department of Ophthalmology, Sapporo City General Hospital, Sapporo, Japan; and
| | - Ryo Ando
- Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine and Graduate School of Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Shuichiro Aoki
- Department of Ophthalmology, Sapporo City General Hospital, Sapporo, Japan; and
| | - Hirotomo Miyamoto
- Department of Ophthalmology, Sapporo City General Hospital, Sapporo, Japan; and
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Meleppat RK, Ronning KE, Karlen SJ, Burns ME, Pugh EN, Zawadzki RJ. In vivo multimodal retinal imaging of disease-related pigmentary changes in retinal pigment epithelium. Sci Rep 2021; 11:16252. [PMID: 34376700 PMCID: PMC8355111 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-95320-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2021] [Accepted: 07/20/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Melanosomes, lipofuscin, and melanolipofuscin are the three principal types of pigmented granules found in retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells. Changes in the density of melanosomes and lipofuscin in RPE cells are considered hallmarks of various retinal diseases, including Stargardt disease and age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Herein, we report the potential of an in vivo multimodal imaging technique based on directional back-scattering and short-wavelength fundus autofluorescence (SW-FAF) to study disease-related changes in the density of melanosomes and lipofuscin granules in RPE cells. Changes in the concentration of these granules in Abca4-/- mice (a model of Stargardt disease) relative to age-matched wild-type (WT) controls were investigated. Directional optical coherence tomography (dOCT) was used to assess melanosome density in vivo, whereas the autofluorescence (AF) images and emission spectra acquired with a spectrometer-integrated scanning laser ophthalmoscope (SLO) were used to characterize lipofuscin and melanolipofuscin granules in the same RPE region. Subcellular-resolution ex vivo imaging using confocal fluorescence microscopy and electron microscopy was performed on the same tissue region to visualize and quantify melanosomes, lipofuscin, and melanolipofuscin granules. Comparisons between in vivo and ex vivo results confirmed an increased concentration of lipofuscin granules and decreased concentration of melanosomes in the RPE of Abca4-/- mice, and provided an explanation for the differences in fluorescence and directionality of RPE scattering observed in vivo between the two mouse strains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ratheesh K Meleppat
- UC Davis Eyepod Imaging Laboratory, University of California Davis, Davis, CA, 95616, USA
- Department of Cell Biology and Human Anatomy, University of California Davis, Davis, CA, 95616, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Science, University of California Davis, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Kaitryn E Ronning
- Center for Neuroscience, University of California Davis, Davis, CA, 95618, USA
| | - Sarah J Karlen
- Department of Cell Biology and Human Anatomy, University of California Davis, Davis, CA, 95616, USA
| | - Marie E Burns
- Center for Neuroscience, University of California Davis, Davis, CA, 95618, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Science, University of California Davis, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Edward N Pugh
- UC Davis Eyepod Imaging Laboratory, University of California Davis, Davis, CA, 95616, USA
- Department of Cell Biology and Human Anatomy, University of California Davis, Davis, CA, 95616, USA
| | - Robert J Zawadzki
- UC Davis Eyepod Imaging Laboratory, University of California Davis, Davis, CA, 95616, USA.
- Department of Cell Biology and Human Anatomy, University of California Davis, Davis, CA, 95616, USA.
- Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Science, University of California Davis, Sacramento, CA, USA.
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Chen L, Messinger JD, Ferrara D, Freund KB, Curcio CA. Stages of Drusen-Associated Atrophy in Age-Related Macular Degeneration Visible via Histologically Validated Fundus Autofluorescence. Ophthalmol Retina 2021; 5:730-742. [PMID: 33217617 PMCID: PMC9749404 DOI: 10.1016/j.oret.2020.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2020] [Revised: 10/29/2020] [Accepted: 11/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To determine histologic correlates for stages of drusen-associated atrophy observed with fundus autofluorescence (FAF) and color fundus photography (CFP), of eyes with advanced age-related macular degeneration (AMD). DESIGN Case study and clinicopathologic correlation. PARTICIPANT A white woman with AMD findings of inactive subretinal fibrosis (right eye) and untreated nonexudative type 1 macular neovascularization (left eye) was followed for 9 years before death at 90 years of age. METHODS Eyes preserved 6.25 hours after death were postfixed in osmium tannic acid paraphenylenediamine and were prepared for submicrometer epoxy resin sections (115 and 90 from the right and left eye, respectively), with 19 aligned to clinical B-scans. Drusen visible by CFP at the last visit were assigned to 4 stages of FAF: stage 1, isoautofluorescence; stage 2, mildly uniform hyperautofluorescence; stage 3, a ring of hyperautofluorescence around a center of the hypoautofluorescence; and stage 4, uniform hypoautofluorescence. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Light microscopic morphologic features at known FAF stages, including druse size, druse contents, and changes in overlying retinal pigment epithelium (RPE), photoreceptors, and external limiting membrane (ELM). RESULTS Histologic examination of 166 drusen demonstrated that stage 1 isoautofluorescent drusen were visible on CFP. Hyperautofluorescence in stage 2 corresponded to short photoreceptors and complete coverage by RPE. Hypoautofluorescence in stages 3 and 4 corresponded to different extents of RPE atrophy (RPE gap and no RPE, respectively). Of stage 4 drusen, 67% showed no outer nuclear layer (ONL) and an undetectable ELM. Stage 4 included a high proportion of refractile drusen (82%) with many calcific nodules, visible on CFP. CONCLUSIONS We present the first direct clinicopathologic correlation for FAF imaging of drusen-associated atrophy. Our data support 4 FAF stages of drusen-associated atrophy. Stage 2 is the earliest detected stage in which loss of screening by photoreceptor photopigment contributes to uniform hyperautofluorescence. Stages 3 and 4 comport with incomplete RPE and outer retinal atrophy as defined by the Classification of Atrophy Meetings group. Loss of RPE, ONL, and ELM in stage 4 indicates that atrophy can begin over individual drusen. Findings will help the identification of new therapeutic approaches and clinical study end points.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Medicine, Birmingham Alabama, USA,The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, and Chongqing Eye Institute, Chongqing, China
| | - Jeffrey D. Messinger
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Medicine, Birmingham Alabama, USA
| | | | - K. Bailey Freund
- Vitreous Retina Macula Consultants of New York, New York, NY, USA,LuEsther T. Mertz Retinal Research Center, Manhattan Eye, Ear and Throat Hospital, New York, NY, USA,Department of Ophthalmology, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA,Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, Harkness Eye Institute, New York, NY, USA
| | - Christine A. Curcio
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Medicine, Birmingham Alabama, USA,Corresponding Address: Christine A. Curcio, PhD; Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences; EyeSight Foundation of Alabama Vision Research Laboratories; 1670 University Boulevard Room 360; University of Alabama School of Medicine; Birmingham AL 35294-0099;
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INVESTIGATING A GROWTH PREDICTION MODEL IN ADVANCED AGE-RELATED MACULAR DEGENERATION WITH SOLITARY GEOGRAPHIC ATROPHY USING QUANTITATIVE AUTOFLUORESCENCE. Retina 2021; 40:1657-1664. [PMID: 31584560 DOI: 10.1097/iae.0000000000002653] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate geographic atrophy (GA) progression using quantitative autofluorescence (qAF) in eyes with solitary GA. METHODS Forty-three eyes of 26 patients (age 79.7 ± 7.2 years; 28 women; 16 pseudophakic) underwent spectral-domain optical coherence tomography and qAF imaging at baseline and after 12 months. The junctional zone (AJZ) and a nonaffected 300-µm-wide control area (AC) were delineated on spectral-domain optical coherence tomography scans and transferred to the qAF image. Linear mixed models were calculated to investigate the association between GA progression and qAF, age, and baseline GA area. Mixed model analyses of variance were used to investigate differences in qAF between areas. RESULTS Quantitative autofluorescence of the three inferior sections of both the AJZ (P = 0.028; P = 0.014 and P = 0.032) and the AC (P = 0.043; P = 0.02 and P = 0.028) were significantly associated with GA progression after 12 months. However, qAF measurements were not associated with GA progression in the overall model (P > 0.05). Mean qAF was significantly lower in the AJZ and growth area (AG12) than in the AC (both P ≤ 0.001). CONCLUSION The authors report a statistically significant association between GA growth area and qAF measurements at specific retinal locations and a significant difference in qAF between the GA border and unaffected areas outside the lesion. Quantitative autofluorescence measurements may be limitedly useful for predicting GA progression.
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Ma Y, Moroi SE, Roberts CJ. Non-invasive Clinical Measurement of Ocular Rigidity and Comparison to Biomechanical and Morphological Parameters in Glaucomatous and Healthy Subjects. Front Med (Lausanne) 2021; 8:701997. [PMID: 34291068 PMCID: PMC8287026 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2021.701997] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2021] [Accepted: 06/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose: To assess ocular rigidity using dynamic optical coherence tomography (OCT) videos in glaucomatous and healthy subjects, and to evaluate how ocular rigidity correlates with biomechanical and morphological characteristics of the human eye. Methods: Ocular rigidity was calculated using Friedenwald's empirical equation which estimates the change in intraocular pressure (IOP) produced by volumetric changes of the eye due to choroidal pulsations with each heartbeat. High-speed OCT video was utilized to non-invasively measure changes in choroidal volume through time-series analysis. A control-case study design was based on 23 healthy controls and 6 glaucoma cases. Multiple diagnostic modalities were performed during the same visit including Spectralis OCT for nerve head video, Pascal Dynamic Contour Tonometry for IOP and ocular pulse amplitude (OPA) measurement, Corvis ST for measuring dynamic biomechanical response, and Pentacam for morphological characterization. Results: Combining glaucoma and healthy cohorts (n = 29), there were negative correlations between ocular rigidity and axial length (Pearson R = −0.53, p = 0.003), and between ocular rigidity and anterior chamber volume (R = −0.64, p = 0.0002). There was a stronger positive correlation of ocular rigidity and scleral stiffness (i.e., stiffness parameter at the highest concavity [SP-HC]) (R = 0.62, p = 0.0005) compared to ocular rigidity and corneal stiffness (i.e., stiffness parameter at the first applanation [SP-A1]) (R = 0.41, p = 0.033). In addition, there was a positive correlation between ocular rigidity and the static pressure-volume ratio (P/V ratio) (R = 0.72, p < 0.0001). Conclusions: Ocular rigidity was non-invasively assessed using OCT video and OPA in a clinic setting. The significant correlation of ocular rigidity with biomechanical parameters, SP-HC and P/V ratio, demonstrated the validity of the ocular rigidity measurement. Ocular rigidity is driven to a greater extent by scleral stiffness than corneal stiffness. These in vivo methods offer an important approach to investigate the role of ocular biomechanics in glaucoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanhui Ma
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Sayoko E Moroi
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Cynthia J Roberts
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, United States.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
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Pole C, Ameri H. Fundus Autofluorescence and Clinical Applications. J Ophthalmic Vis Res 2021; 16:432-461. [PMID: 34394872 PMCID: PMC8358768 DOI: 10.18502/jovr.v16i3.9439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2021] [Accepted: 05/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Fundus autofluorescence (FAF) has allowed in vivo mapping of retinal metabolic derangements and structural changes not possible with conventional color imaging. Incident light is absorbed by molecules in the fundus, which are excited and in turn emit photons of specific wavelengths that are captured and processed by a sensor to create a metabolic map of the fundus. Studies on the growing number of FAF platforms has shown each may be suited to certain clinical scenarios. Scanning laser ophthalmoscopes, fundus cameras, and modifications of these each have benefits and drawbacks that must be considered before and after imaging to properly interpret the images. Emerging clinical evidence has demonstrated the usefulness of FAF in diagnosis and management of an increasing number of chorioretinal conditions, such as age-related macular degeneration, central serous chorioretinopathy, retinal drug toxicities, and inherited retinal degenerations such as retinitis pigmentosa and Stargardt disease. This article reviews commercial imaging platforms, imaging techniques, and clinical applications of FAF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cameron Pole
- Retina Division, USC Roski Eye Institute, Keck School of Medicine, University of South California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Hossein Ameri
- Retina Division, USC Roski Eye Institute, Keck School of Medicine, University of South California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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Past, present and future role of retinal imaging in neurodegenerative disease. Prog Retin Eye Res 2021; 83:100938. [PMID: 33460813 PMCID: PMC8280255 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2020.100938] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2020] [Revised: 12/11/2020] [Accepted: 12/17/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Retinal imaging technology is rapidly advancing and can provide ever-increasing amounts of information about the structure, function and molecular composition of retinal tissue in humans in vivo. Most importantly, this information can be obtained rapidly, non-invasively and in many cases using Food and Drug Administration-approved devices that are commercially available. Technologies such as optical coherence tomography have dramatically changed our understanding of retinal disease and in many cases have significantly improved their clinical management. Since the retina is an extension of the brain and shares a common embryological origin with the central nervous system, there has also been intense interest in leveraging the expanding armamentarium of retinal imaging technology to understand, diagnose and monitor neurological diseases. This is particularly appealing because of the high spatial resolution, relatively low-cost and wide availability of retinal imaging modalities such as fundus photography or OCT compared to brain imaging modalities such as magnetic resonance imaging or positron emission tomography. The purpose of this article is to review and synthesize current research about retinal imaging in neurodegenerative disease by providing examples from the literature and elaborating on limitations, challenges and future directions. We begin by providing a general background of the most relevant retinal imaging modalities to ensure that the reader has a foundation on which to understand the clinical studies that are subsequently discussed. We then review the application and results of retinal imaging methodologies to several prevalent neurodegenerative diseases where extensive work has been done including sporadic late onset Alzheimer's Disease, Parkinson's Disease and Huntington's Disease. We also discuss Autosomal Dominant Alzheimer's Disease and cerebrovascular small vessel disease, where the application of retinal imaging holds promise but data is currently scarce. Although cerebrovascular disease is not generally considered a neurodegenerative process, it is both a confounder and contributor to neurodegenerative disease processes that requires more attention. Finally, we discuss ongoing efforts to overcome the limitations in the field and unmet clinical and scientific needs.
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Wynne N, Carroll J, Duncan JL. Promises and pitfalls of evaluating photoreceptor-based retinal disease with adaptive optics scanning light ophthalmoscopy (AOSLO). Prog Retin Eye Res 2021; 83:100920. [PMID: 33161127 PMCID: PMC8639282 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2020.100920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2020] [Revised: 10/28/2020] [Accepted: 10/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Adaptive optics scanning light ophthalmoscopy (AOSLO) allows visualization of the living human retina with exquisite single-cell resolution. This technology has improved our understanding of normal retinal structure and revealed pathophysiological details of a number of retinal diseases. Despite the remarkable capabilities of AOSLO, it has not seen the widespread commercial adoption and mainstream clinical success of other modalities developed in a similar time frame. Nevertheless, continued advancements in AOSLO hardware and software have expanded use to a broader range of patients. Current devices enable imaging of a number of different retinal cell types, with recent improvements in stimulus and detection schemes enabling monitoring of retinal function, microscopic structural changes, and even subcellular activity. This has positioned AOSLO for use in clinical trials, primarily as exploratory outcome measures or biomarkers that can be used to monitor disease progression or therapeutic response. AOSLO metrics could facilitate patient selection for such trials, to refine inclusion criteria or to guide the choice of therapy, depending on the presence, absence, or functional viability of specific cell types. Here we explore the potential of AOSLO retinal imaging by reviewing clinical applications as well as some of the pitfalls and barriers to more widespread clinical adoption.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niamh Wynne
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Joseph Carroll
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA; Department of Cell Biology, Neurobiology & Anatomy, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Jacque L Duncan
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA.
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Heath Jeffery RC, Chen FK. Stargardt disease: Multimodal imaging: A review. Clin Exp Ophthalmol 2021; 49:498-515. [PMID: 34013643 PMCID: PMC8366508 DOI: 10.1111/ceo.13947] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2021] [Accepted: 05/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Stargardt disease (STGD1) is an autosomal recessive retinal dystrophy, characterised by bilateral progressive central vision loss and subretinal deposition of lipofuscin-like substances. Recent advances in molecular diagnosis and therapeutic options are complemented by the increasing recognition of new multimodal imaging biomarkers that may predict genotype and disease progression. Unique non-invasive imaging features of STDG1 are useful for gene variant interpretation and may even provide insight into the underlying molecular pathophysiology. In addition, pathognomonic imaging features of STGD1 have been used to train neural networks to improve time efficiency in lesion segmentation and disease progression measurements. This review will discuss the role of key imaging modalities, correlate imaging signs across varied STGD1 presentations and illustrate the use of multimodal imaging as an outcome measure in determining the efficacy of emerging STGD1 specific therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachael C. Heath Jeffery
- Centre for Ophthalmology and Visual Science (Incorporating Lions Eye Institute)The University of Western AustraliaNedlandsWestern AustraliaAustralia
- Department of OphthalmologyRoyal Perth HospitalPerthWestern AustraliaAustralia
| | - Fred K. Chen
- Centre for Ophthalmology and Visual Science (Incorporating Lions Eye Institute)The University of Western AustraliaNedlandsWestern AustraliaAustralia
- Department of OphthalmologyRoyal Perth HospitalPerthWestern AustraliaAustralia
- Australian Inherited Retinal Disease Registry and DNA Bank, Department of Medical Technology and PhysicsSir Charles Gairdner HospitalPerthWestern AustraliaAustralia
- Department of OphthalmologyPerth Children's HospitalNedlandsWestern AustraliaAustralia
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Lin KH, Tran T, Kim S, Park S, Stout JT, Chen R, Rogers J, Yiu G, Thomasy S, Moshiri A. Advanced Retinal Imaging and Ocular Parameters of the Rhesus Macaque Eye. Transl Vis Sci Technol 2021; 10:7. [PMID: 34111251 PMCID: PMC8107642 DOI: 10.1167/tvst.10.6.7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose To determine the range of normal ocular biometry and perform advanced retinal imaging and functional assessment of the rhesus macaque eye. Methods We performed ocular phenotyping on rhesus macaques at the California National Primate Research Center. This process consisted of anterior and posterior segment eye examination by ophthalmologists, advanced retinal imaging, and functional retinal electrophysiology. Results Full eye examinations were performed on 142 animals, consisting of pupillary light reflex, tonometry, external examination and photography, anterior slit lamp examination, and posterior segment examination by indirect ophthalmoscopy. Ages of the rhesus macaques ranged from 0.7 to 29 years (mean, 16.4 ± 7.5 years). Anterior segment measurements such as intraocular pressure (n = 142), corneal thickness (n = 84), lens thickness (n = 114), and axial length (n = 114) were acquired. Advanced retinal imaging in the form of fundus photography (n = 78), optical coherence tomography (n = 60), and quantitative autofluorescence (n = 44) was obtained. Electroretinography (n = 75) was used to assay retinal function. Quantitative analyses of the macular structure, retinal layer segmentation, and rod and cone photoreceptor electrical responses are reported. Quantitative assessments were made and variations between sexes were analyzed to compare with established sex changes in human eyes. Conclusions The rhesus macaque has an ocular structure and function very similar to that of the human eye. In particular macular structure and retinal function is very similar to humans, making this species particularly useful for the study of macular biology and development of therapies for cone photoreceptor disorders. Translational Relevance Rhesus macaques are an ideal model for future vision science studies of human eye diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kira H Lin
- William R. Pritchard Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California-Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Tu Tran
- Department of Ophthalmology & Vision Science, School of Medicine, University of California-Davis, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Soohyun Kim
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California-Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Sangwan Park
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California-Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | - J Timothy Stout
- Department of Ophthalmology, Cullen Eye Institute, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Rui Chen
- Human Genome Sequencing Center and Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Jeffrey Rogers
- Human Genome Sequencing Center and Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Glenn Yiu
- Department of Ophthalmology & Vision Science, School of Medicine, University of California-Davis, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Sara Thomasy
- Department of Ophthalmology & Vision Science, School of Medicine, University of California-Davis, Sacramento, CA, USA.,Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California-Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Ala Moshiri
- Department of Ophthalmology & Vision Science, School of Medicine, University of California-Davis, Sacramento, CA, USA
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Pröbster C, Tarau IS, Berlin A, Kleefeldt N, Hillenkamp J, Nentwich MM, Sloan KR, Ach T. Quantitative Fundus Autofluorescence in the Developing and Maturing Healthy Eye. Transl Vis Sci Technol 2021; 10:15. [PMID: 34003900 PMCID: PMC7884289 DOI: 10.1167/tvst.10.2.15] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose Quantitative fundus autofluorescence (QAF) enables comparisons of autofluorescence intensities among participants. While clinical QAF reports mostly focused on the healthy and diseased adult retina, only very limited data of QAF in the maturing eye are available. Here, we report QAF in a large cohort of healthy children. Methods In this prospective monocentric cross-sectional study, 70 healthy Caucasian children (5–18 years) were multimodal imaged, including QAF and spectral domain optical coherence tomography. QAF and retinal thicknesses were measured at predefined locations (along horizontal meridian; Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study [ETDRS] grid) and correlated using custom written Fiji plugins. Standard retinae for different age groups were generated. Results Fifty-three participants were included. QAF was low in childhood but increased steadily (P < 0.001), also at the fovea (P < 0.001), with no gender differences (P = 0.61). The QAF distribution was similar to adults showing highest values superior-temporally. At individual points, retinal thickness remained stable, while using the ETDRS pattern, the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) thickness increased significantly with aging. Standard QAF retinae of age groups also showed an increase with aging. Conclusions QAF can be reliably performed in young children. Function–structure correlation showed a thickening of the RPE and an increasing QAF with aging, probably related to the histologic low number of RPE autofluorescent granules at a younger age but further deposition of these granules during maturation. Standard retinae help to distinguish abnormal QAF in the diseased retina of age-matched patients. Translational Relevance Our data bridge the gap between preclinical QAF and clinical data application and structural OCT correlation in children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carla Pröbster
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Ioana-Sandra Tarau
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Andreas Berlin
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Nikolai Kleefeldt
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Jost Hillenkamp
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Martin M Nentwich
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Kenneth R Sloan
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Thomas Ach
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany.,Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
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Influence of lens opacities and cataract severity on quantitative fundus autofluorescence as a secondary outcome of a randomized clinical trial. Sci Rep 2021; 11:12685. [PMID: 34135449 PMCID: PMC8209039 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-92309-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2021] [Accepted: 05/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study is to investigate the impact of age-related lens opacities and advanced cataract, quantified by LOCS III grading, on quantitative autofluorescence (qAF) measurements in patients before and after cataract surgery. Images from a randomized controlled trial evaluating the impact of femtosecond-laser assisted cataract surgery (FLACS) on retinal thickness were analyzed post-hoc. One-hundred and twenty eyes from 60 consecutive patients with age-related cataract were included and assessed with qAF and optical coherence tomography (OCT) before, 1, 3 and 6 weeks after cataract surgery (randomized 1:1 to FLACS or phacoemulsification). LOCS III grading was performed before surgery. Pre- to post-surgical qAF values, as well as the impact of LOCS III gradings, surgery technique, gender, axial length and age on post-surgery qAF values was investigated using generalized linear mixed models. For this analysis, 106 eyes from 53 patients were usable. No difference in qAF was found between FLACS and phacoemulsification (p > 0.05) and results were pooled for the total cohort. Mean pre-surgical qAF was 89.45 ± 44.9 qAF units, with a significant mean increase of 178.4–191.6% after surgery (p < 0.001). No significant difference was found between the three follow-up visits after surgery (p > 0.05). Higher LOCS III cortical opacity quantifications were associated with a significantly greater increase in qAF after surgery (estimate: 98.56, p = 0.006) and nuclear opacities showed a trend toward an increased change (estimate: 48.8, p = 0.095). Considerable interactions were identified between baseline qAF and cortical opacities, nuclear opacities and posterior subcapsular opacities, as well as nuclear opacities and cortical opacities (p = 0.012, p = 0.064 and p = 0.069, respectively). Quantitative autofluorescence signals are significantly reconstituted after cataract surgery and LOCS III gradings are well associated with post-surgical qAF values. Careful consideration of age-related lens opacities is vital for the correct interpretation of qAF, especially in retinal diseases affecting the elderly. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03465124.
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Reiter GS, Hacker V, Told R, Schranz M, Krotka P, Schlanitz FG, Sacu S, Pollreisz A, Schmidt-Erfurth U. LONGITUDINAL CHANGES IN QUANTITATIVE AUTOFLUORESCENCE DURING PROGRESSION FROM INTERMEDIATE TO LATE AGE-RELATED MACULAR DEGENERATION. Retina 2021; 41:1236-1241. [PMID: 33084296 DOI: 10.1097/iae.0000000000002995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To prospectively investigate the development of quantitative autofluorescence (qAF) during progression from intermediate to late age-related macular degeneration (AMD). METHODS Quantitative autofluorescence images from patients with intermediate AMD were acquired every three months with a Spectralis HRA + OCT (Heidelberg Engineering, Heidelberg, Germany) using a built-in autofluorescence reference. The association between changes in longitudinal qAF and progression toward late AMD was assessed using Cox regression models with time-dependent covariates. RESULTS One hundred and twenty-one eyes of 71 patients were included, and 653 qAF images were acquired. Twenty-one eyes of 17 patients converted to late AMD (median follow-up: 21 months; 12 eyes: atrophic AMD; nine eyes: neovascular AMD). The converting patients' mean age was 74.6 ± 4.4 years. Eleven eyes in the converting group (52.4%) were pseudophakic. The presence of an intraocular lens did not affect the qAF regression slopes (P > 0.05). The median change for atrophic AMD was -2.34 qAF units/3 months and 0.78 qAF units/3 months for neovascular AMD. A stronger decline in qAF was significantly associated with an increased risk of developing atrophic AMD (hazard ratio = 1.022, P < 0.001). This association, however, was not present in the group progressing toward neovascular AMD (hazard ratio = 1.001, P = 0.875). CONCLUSION The qAF signal declines with progression to atrophy, contrary to developing neovascularization. Quantitative autofluorescence may allow identification of patients at risk of progressing to late AMD and benefits individualized patient care in intermediate AMD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregor S Reiter
- Department of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Christian Doppler Laboratory for Ophthalmic Image Analysis, Vienna Reading Center, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Center for Medical Statistics, Informatics, and Intelligent Systems, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Valentin Hacker
- Center for Medical Statistics, Informatics, and Intelligent Systems, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Reinhard Told
- Center for Medical Statistics, Informatics, and Intelligent Systems, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Markus Schranz
- Center for Medical Statistics, Informatics, and Intelligent Systems, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Pavla Krotka
- Center for Medical Statistics, Informatics, and Intelligent Systems, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Ferdinand G Schlanitz
- Center for Medical Statistics, Informatics, and Intelligent Systems, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Stefan Sacu
- Center for Medical Statistics, Informatics, and Intelligent Systems, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Andreas Pollreisz
- Center for Medical Statistics, Informatics, and Intelligent Systems, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Ursula Schmidt-Erfurth
- Department of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Christian Doppler Laboratory for Ophthalmic Image Analysis, Vienna Reading Center, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Center for Medical Statistics, Informatics, and Intelligent Systems, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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Lee W, Zernant J, Nagasaki T, Molday LL, Su PY, Fishman GA, Tsang SH, Molday RS, Allikmets R. Cis-acting modifiers in the ABCA4 locus contribute to the penetrance of the major disease-causing variant in Stargardt disease. Hum Mol Genet 2021; 30:1293-1304. [PMID: 33909047 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddab122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2020] [Revised: 04/01/2021] [Accepted: 04/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Over 1200 variants in the ABCA4 gene cause a wide variety of retinal disease phenotypes, the best known of which is autosomal recessive Stargardt disease (STGD1). Disease-causing variation encompasses all mutation categories, from large copy number variants to very mild, hypomorphic missense variants. The most prevalent disease-causing ABCA4 variant, present in ~ 20% of cases of European descent, c.5882G > A p.(Gly1961Glu), has been a subject of controversy since its minor allele frequency (MAF) is as high as ~ 0.1 in certain populations, questioning its pathogenicity, especially in homozygous individuals. We sequenced the entire ~140Kb ABCA4 genomic locus in an extensive cohort of 644 bi-allelic, i.e. genetically confirmed, patients with ABCA4 disease and analyzed all variants in 140 compound heterozygous and 10 homozygous cases for the p.(Gly1961Glu) variant. A total of 23 patients in this cohort additionally harbored the deep intronic c.769-784C > T variant on the p.(Gly1961Glu) allele, which appears on a specific haplotype in ~ 15% of p.(Gly1961Glu) alleles. This haplotype was present in 5/7 of homozygous cases, where the p.(Gly1961Glu) was the only known pathogenic variant. Three cases had an exonic variant on the same allele with the p.(Gly1961Glu). Patients with the c.[769-784C > T;5882G > A] complex allele exhibit a more severe clinical phenotype, as seen in compound heterozygotes with some more frequent ABCA4 mutations, e.g. p.(Pro1380Leu). Our findings indicate that the c.769-784C > T variant is major cis-acting modifier of the p.(Gly1961Glu) allele. The absence of such additional allelic variation on most p.(Gly1961Glu) alleles largely explains the observed paucity of affected homozygotes in the population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Winston Lee
- Department of Genetics & Development, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Jana Zernant
- Department of Ophthalmology, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Takayuki Nagasaki
- Department of Ophthalmology, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Laurie L Molday
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Pei-Yin Su
- Department of Ophthalmology, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Gerald A Fishman
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z3, Canada
- The Pangere Center for Inherited Retinal Diseases, The Chicago Lighthouse, Chicago, IL 60608, USA
| | - Stephen H Tsang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA
- Department of Pathology & Cell Biology, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Robert S Molday
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z3, Canada
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Rando Allikmets
- Department of Ophthalmology, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA
- Department of Pathology & Cell Biology, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA
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Deitch I, Ferenchak K, Miller JB. Quantitative autofluorescence: Review of Current Technical Aspects and Applications in Chorioretinal Disease. Semin Ophthalmol 2021; 36:346-350. [PMID: 33818290 DOI: 10.1080/08820538.2021.1908570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Purpose: In this review we discuss the broad clinical application of qAF and provide a descriptive summary of the phenotypic findings of different chorioretinal pathologies.Background: Quantitative Fundus autofluorescence (qAF) is a novel developing technology that can aid in diagnosis and longitudinal disease monitoring by measuring and comparing autofluorescence intensities. Fundus autofluorescence (FAF) is a noninvasive imaging method that creates a density map of the fluorophores of the ocular fundus and provides both functional and topographic anatomic information about retinal cells. Fluorophores are molecules that have the ability to temporarily absorb irradiated light, and emit a small amount of light of a different wavelength. Different endogenous fluorophores can be found in the ocular fundus. Changes in accumulation of retinal fluorophores usually indicate retinal pathology and create characteristic patterns of hyper-autofluorescence and hypo-autofluorescence that help establish a diagnosis.Conclusion: qAF allows a safe non-invasive visualization of the retina, enables a standard for AF intensities comparison and aids to the understanding of the genotype-phenotype correlations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iris Deitch
- Department of Ophthalmology, Retina Service Mass Eye and Ear Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Kevin Ferenchak
- Department of Ophthalmology, Retina Service Mass Eye and Ear Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - John B Miller
- Department of Ophthalmology, Retina Service Mass Eye and Ear Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
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NATURAL HISTORY OF QUANTITATIVE AUTOFLUORESCENCE IN INTERMEDIATE AGE-RELATED MACULAR DEGENERATION. Retina 2021; 41:694-700. [PMID: 32740494 DOI: 10.1097/iae.0000000000002923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate differences in quantitative autofluorescence (qAF) imaging measurements between eyes with and without large drusen, and whether qAF measurements change over time in the eyes with large drusen. METHODS Eighty-five eyes from participants with bilateral large drusen and 51 eyes from healthy participants underwent qAF imaging at least once, and the age-related macular degeneration participants were reviewed 6-monthly. Normalized grey values at 9° to 11° eccentricity from the fovea were averaged to provide a summary measure of qAF values (termed qAF8). RESULTS In a multivariable model, qAF8 measurements were not significantly different between age-related macular degeneration eyes with large drusen and healthy eyes (P = 0.130), and qAF8 measurements showed a decline over time in the age-related macular degeneration eyes (P = 0.013). CONCLUSION These findings add to the body of evidence that qAF levels are not increased in eyes with large drusen compared with healthy eyes, and qAF levels show a significant decline over time in the age-related macular degeneration eyes. These findings highlight how the relationship between qAF levels and retinal pigment epithelium health does not seem to be straightforward. Further investigation is required to better understand this relationship, especially if qAF levels are to be used as an outcome measure in intervention trials.
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Abstract
PURPOSE To correlate drusen morphology and outer retinal status with autofluorescence (AF) imaging in patients with intermediate age-related macular degeneration. METHODS Drusen type and morphology were analyzed using color fundus photography and spectral-domain optic coherence tomography, whereas fundus AF was used for drusen AF evaluation. Additional structural changes on spectral-domain optic coherence tomography, such as disruption of external limiting membrane, ellipsoid zone, and retinal pigment epithelium/Bruch membrane complex, as well as the presence of choroidal hypertransmission at correspondent locations were also evaluated and correlated with fundus AF findings. Spearman's correlation coefficient was used to analyze the correlation between spectral-domain optic coherence tomography morphological characteristics of drusen and AF appearance of the corresponding drusen. Strength of correlation was calculated (r), and a P value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. RESULTS Two hundred and twenty-eight drusen from 53 eyes of 53 patients were analyzed, 130 soft drusen (57.02%) and 98 cuticular drusen (42.98%). Sixty percent of the drusen were isoautofluorescent (n = 136), 35% hyperautofluorescent (n = 80), and 5% hypoautofluorescent (n = 12). We found positive correlation between drusen AF and hyperreflective foci (r = 0.4). Outer retinal layers morphology (external limiting membrane and ellipsoid zone status and hypertransmission) also correlates with autofluorescent findings (r = 0.3). CONCLUSION Multimodal imaging reveals a broad spectrum of ultrastructural changes, which may reflect different stages in the evolution of drusen. Our results suggest that drusen morphological characteristics and autofluorescent findings are correlated but other factors or cofactors may be involved. The described correlations will help us understand new progression biomarkers of nonexudative age-related macular degeneration.
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Müller PL, Gliem M, McGuinnes M, Birtel J, Holz FG, Charbel Issa P. Quantitative Fundus Autofluorescence in ABCA4-Related Retinopathy -Functional Relevance and Genotype-Phenotype Correlation. Am J Ophthalmol 2021; 222:340-350. [PMID: 32891696 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajo.2020.08.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2020] [Revised: 08/25/2020] [Accepted: 08/25/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate lipofuscin-related quantitative autofluorescence measures and their association with demographic characteristics, retinal structure, retinal function and genotype in ABCA4-related retinopathy (Stargardt disease 1). DESIGN Cross-sectional study with age-matched healthy control subjects. METHODS A total of 77 patients with ABCA4-related retinopathy and 110 control subjects underwent quantitative fundus autofluorescence (qAF) imaging using a confocal scanning laser ophthalmoscope equipped with an internal fluorescent reference to measure qAF as surrogate for lipofuscin accumulation. Measures of qAF were correlated with demographic characteristics, structural alterations on optical coherence tomography and fundus autofluorescence imaging, retinal function assessed by full-field electroretinography (ERG) and fundus-controlled perimetry, and genotype. RESULTS Most patients (76.6%) had qAF levels >95% prediction interval of the age-related control group, with best discrimination between cases and control subjects in younger patients. Reduced discrimination based on qAF measures was associated with mild disease, more advanced disease with dark flecks, or older age because of the physiological age-related increase in qAF and a ceiling effect in patients. Nullizygous patients presented with high qAF levels earlier in life compared with those with at least 1 milder ABCA4 variant. Within the sectors of qAF measurements, at approximately 7-9° eccentricity, increased qAF without flecks or with only bright flecks was associated with topographically related preserved retinal thickness and fundus-controlled perimetry results, and with normal full-field ERG recordings. All 3 parameters were increasingly abnormal with the development of dark flecks and decreasing qAF. CONCLUSIONS The accumulation of lipofuscin depends on the severity of ABCA4 variants, precedes other structural changes, and may remain without clinically relevant effect on retinal function.
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Comment and response to the article "The clinical relevance of visualizing the peripheral retina"by Nicola Quinn, Lajos Csincsik, Erin Flynn, Christine A. Curcio, Szilard Kiss, SriniVas R. Sadda, Ruth Hogg, Tunde Peto & Imre Lengyel. Prog Retin Eye Res 2021; 83:100939. [PMID: 33453363 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2020.100939] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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Tran TM, Kim S, Lin KH, Chung SH, Park S, Sazhnyev Y, Wang Y, Cunefare D, Farsiu S, Thomasy SM, Moshiri A, Yiu G. Quantitative Fundus Autofluorescence in Rhesus Macaques in Aging and Age-Related Drusen. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2021; 61:16. [PMID: 32663290 PMCID: PMC7425688 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.61.8.16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose To employ quantitative fundus autofluorescence (qAF) imaging in rhesus macaques to noninvasively assess retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) lipofuscin in nonhuman primates (NHPs) as a model of aging and age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Methods The qAF imaging was performed on eyes of 26 rhesus macaques (mean age 18.8 ± 8.2 years, range 4–27 years) with normal-appearing fundus or with age-related soft drusen using a confocal scanning laser ophthalmoscope with 488 nm excitation and an internal fluorescence reference. Eyes with soft drusen also underwent spectral-domain optical coherence tomography imaging to measure drusen volume and height of individual drusen lesions. The qAF levels were measured from the perifoveal annular ring (quantitative autofluorescence 8 [qAF8]) using the Delori grid, as well as focally over individual drusen lesions in this region. The association between qAF levels and age, sex, and drusen presence and volume were determined using multivariable regression analysis. Results Mean qAF levels increased with age (P < 0.001) and were higher in females (P = 0.047). Eyes with soft drusen exhibited reduced mean qAF compared with age-matched normal eyes (P = 0.003), with greater drusen volume showing a trend toward decreased qAF levels. However, qAF levels are focally increased over most individual drusen (P < 0.001), with larger drusen appearing more hyperautofluorescent (R2 = 0.391, P < 0.001). Conclusions In rhesus macaques, qAF levels are increased with age and female sex, but decreased in eyes with soft drusen, similar to human AMD. However, drusen lesions appear hyperautofluorescent unlike those in humans, suggesting similarities and differences in RPE lipofuscin between humans and NHPs that may provide insight into drusen biogenesis and AMD pathogenesis.
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