NEW INSIGHTS INTO THE ASSOCIATION BETWEEN CHOROIDAL VESSELS AND CHORIOCAPILLARIS IN NORMAL EYES

To determine the relationship between large-sized and medium-sized choroidal vessels and choriocapillaris using the three-dimensional choroidal vascularity index (3D CVI) and percentage of flow deficits (FD%).

Prospective observational study. The main outcome measures included choroidal volume parameters (3D CVI, mean choroidal thickness, total choroidal volume, choroidal luminal volume, and choroidal stromal volume), choriocapillaris parameters (FD%, average area of FD, and FD count), and age and axial length.

A total of 63 healthy individuals with an average age of 40.60 ± 12.32 years were included in this study. Univariate analysis showed that FD% (R = 0.295, P = 0.019) and area of FD (R = 0.276, P = 0.028) were significantly positively associated with 3D CVI, and FD count was negatively associated with 3D CVI (R = -0.297, P = 0.018). After adjusting for age and axial length, a significant correlation between FD% and 3D CVI (R = 0.264, P = 0.039) and between area of FD and 3D CVI remained (R = 0.267, P = 0.037). However, no significant correlation was found between FD count and 3D CVI after adjusting for axial length (R = -0.220, P = 0.085).

In healthy individuals, choroidal vessel dilatation as suggested by elevated 3D CVI may lead to decreased choriocapillaris perfusion, which was correlated with an enlarged area of FD in choriocapillaris.