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Measurement of Carotenoids in Perifovea using the Macular Pigment Reflectometer
Published on: January 29, 2020
Macular pigment in ophthalmic practice; a survey
Ian J Murray1, Batul Hassanali, David Carden
1Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Manchester, Carys Bannister Building, Dover St, Manchester, M13 9PL, UK, ian.j.murray@manchester.ac.uk.
Summary
Macular pigment optical density (MPOD) was measured in a UK population. Dark irises and non-diabetic status were associated with higher MPOD, while age showed a slight decline.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Nutritional Science
- Public Health
Background:
- Macular pigment (MP) may protect against age-related eye diseases.
- MP measurement is increasingly used in ophthalmic practice.
- Understanding MP distribution in the general population is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the distribution of macular pigment (MP) in a random UK population.
- To assess MP optical density (MPOD) using a simplified measurement technique.
Main Methods:
- MPOD was measured in 56 patients (age 11-87) using a centre-only technique.
- A comparison was made with the centre and periphery method in 32 observers.
- Data on smoking, iris colour, diabetes, and ethnicity were collected.
Main Results:
- The average MPOD was 0.400 ± 0.165, with high correlation between eyes (r=0.7).
- Dark irises were significantly associated with higher MPOD (r=0.28, p<0.05).
- Type II diabetic patients had 27% lower MPOD than non-diabetics (r=0.29, p<0.05).
Conclusions:
- The centre-only technique provides reliable MPOD values comparable to previous studies.
- A small percentage of older patients may require multiple measurements.
- MPOD distribution is influenced by factors like iris colour and diabetic status.
