Spectral-domain Optical Coherence Tomography in Limbal Stem Cell Deficiency. A Case-Control Study

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• Limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD) is a sight-threatening condition affecting the ocular surface.
• Accurate imaging of the ocular surface is crucial for diagnosing and managing LSCD.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) as a noncontact imaging method for the ocular surface in eyes with LSCD and normal eyes.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective case-control study involving 22 eyes with LSCD and 10 normal eyes.
• Spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) and confocal microscopy were used to image the limbal and central corneal zones.
• Pachymetry, palisades of Vogt, limbal crypts, and epithelial-conjunctival transition were assessed using various SD-OCT section orientations.

Main Results:

• Eyes with LSCD showed significantly higher epithelial thickness variation (difference and standard deviation) compared to normal eyes.
• Limbal imaging scores (parallel, perpendicular, and en face) were significantly lower in LSCD eyes.
• Poorer visual acuity correlated with increased epithelial thickness variation and lower limbal imaging scores.

Conclusions:

• Spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) is a valuable, noninvasive imaging modality for assessing the ocular surface in both normal and LSCD eyes.
• SD-OCT allows for rapid and precise evaluation of corneal and limbal structures, aiding in the diagnosis and management of LSCD.