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Quantitative Fundus Autofluorescence for the Evaluation of Retinal Diseases
Published on: March 11, 2016
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Iris autofluorescence in Fuchs' heterochromic uveitis.
Qian Liu1, Yading Jia1, Suhua Zhang1
1Retinal Department, Shanxi Eye Hospital, Taiyuan, Shanxi Province, China.
The British Journal of Ophthalmology
|January 14, 2016
Summary
Characteristic near-infrared autofluorescence patterns were identified in eyes with Fuchs' heterochromic uveitis (FHU). This imaging technique shows promise for objectively documenting iris changes in FHU patients.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Medical Imaging
- Uveitis Research
Background:
- Fuchs' heterochromic uveitis (FHU) is a chronic condition affecting the iris.
- Iris depigmentation is a common feature of FHU, but objective documentation can be challenging.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate and characterize the autofluorescence patterns of the iris in patients with FHU.
- To assess the utility of near-infrared autofluorescence imaging for diagnosing FHU.
Main Methods:
- Near-infrared autofluorescence and color imaging of the iris were performed using a confocal scanning laser ophthalmoscope (Heidelberg Retina Angiograph 2).
- Imaging included 21 eyes with FHU, 15 normal subjects, 20 patients with other uveitis, and 15 with age-related iris atrophy.
- Melanin-related autofluorescence imaging utilized a 795 nm excitation laser.
Main Results:
- Normal irises showed moderate autofluorescence at the pupillary border, crests, and collarette, with mild fluorescence in the ciliary zone.
- Eyes with age-related iris atrophy and other uveitis exhibited significantly less autofluorescence compared to normal irises.
- Eyes with FHU displayed distinct patterns: discontinuous autofluorescence in the pigment ruff, petaloid patterns in the pupillary zone, moderate fluorescence in the collarette, and reticular patterns in the ciliary zone.
Conclusions:
- Distinctive near-infrared autofluorescence patterns are observed in the iris of individuals with Fuchs' heterochromic uveitis.
- Near-infrared autofluorescence imaging offers a promising, objective method for documenting iris alterations associated with FHU.
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