Retinal and Choroidal Thickness in relation to C-Reactive Protein on Swept-Source Optical Coherence Tomography

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Inflammation Research
• Biomarkers

Background:

• C-reactive protein (CRP) is a key marker of systemic inflammation.
• Ocular structures may be affected by systemic inflammatory processes.
• Optical coherence tomography (OCT) allows detailed imaging of retinal and choroidal layers.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between C-reactive protein (CRP) levels and retinal and choroidal thickness.
• To utilize swept-source optical coherence tomography (SS-OCT) for precise thickness measurements.

Main Methods:

• A prospective cross-sectional study involving a comprehensive ophthalmic examination.
• Participants were categorized into CRP-positive (CRP ≥ 8.2 mg/L) and CRP-negative (CRP < 8.2 mg/L) groups.
• Retinal and choroidal thicknesses were compared between the two groups using SS-OCT.

Main Results:

• The CRP-positive group exhibited thinner choroidal thickness compared to the CRP-negative group, with exceptions in specific sectors.
• Significant differences in retinal thickness were observed only in the inner temporal sector.
• Pearson's correlation analysis revealed a significant negative correlation between CRP levels and choroidal thickness across all sectors, and with retinal thickness in specific sectors.

Conclusions:

• CRP levels demonstrate a significant association with both retinal and choroidal thickness.
• These findings contribute to understanding the pathogenesis of ocular abnormalities in systemic inflammation.
• Changes in retinal and choroidal thickness may serve as indicators in inflammatory conditions.