[Application of optical coherence tomography in paediatric neuroophthalmology]

Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is a non-invasive imaging technique which provides the possibility to record transpupillarily cross-sectional scans of the retina and the optic disc. The exact localisation and reproducibility of the scans are ensured by the combination with a scanning laser ophthalmoscope. The outcome of this is the possibility to collect additional morphological data for the diagnosis of neuroophthalmological diseases particularly in children. OCT data allow for the differentiation of macular diseases from optic nerve pathology in unexplained visual loss. Various forms of optic neuropathies can be distinguished and quantitatively characterised with regard to their severity and clinical course. Serial assessment of papilloedema or optic atrophy over time gives valuable objective information about the prognosis of the underlying disease and the therapy planning.