Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography in Retinal Diseases

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Medical Imaging
• Angiography

Background:

• Optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) is an advanced, non-invasive imaging technique.
• It provides volumetric data of retinal and choroidal layers, offering both structural and blood flow information.
• The Split-spectrum amplitude-decorrelation angiography (SSADA) algorithm enhances visualization of retinal vasculature.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current knowledge on OCTA in English language publications.
• To compare OCTA with fluorescein angiography (FA).
• To summarize potential applications of OCTA in retinal vascular diseases.

Main Methods:

• Review of published English language literature on OCTA.
• Comparison of OCTA findings with conventional angiography (FA).

Main Results:

• OCTA demonstrates efficacy in evaluating diabetic retinopathy, age-related macular degeneration (AMD), retinal vascular occlusions, and sickle cell disease.
• It accurately delineates microvascular abnormalities and quantifies vascular compromise in diabetic retinopathy.
• OCTA can identify choroidal neovascularization (CNV) in wet AMD.

Conclusions:

• OCTA is a promising non-invasive tool for visualizing retinal vasculature.
• Its ability to detect microvascular changes aids in early diagnosis and intervention for retinal diseases.
• Further research is needed to overcome limitations like field of view and artifacts, and to establish its clinical utility.