Lattice Degeneration Imaging with Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Retinal Imaging
• Vascular Biology

Background:

• Lattice degeneration is a common peripheral retinal finding.
• Its exact pathophysiology and associated microcirculatory changes are not fully understood.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the microcirculatory and structural changes in lattice degeneration using optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA).

Main Methods:

• Four cases of lattice degeneration were evaluated using confocal scanning laser ophthalmoscopy with green reflectance and OCTA.
• Assessment included retinal and choriocapillary microcirculation and sub-lesional choroidal thickness.

Main Results:

• OCTA demonstrated reduced retinal perfusion and choriocapillary rarefaction within lesions.
• Sub-lesional choroidal thinning and venous collectors were observed.
• OCT scans revealed retinal thinning, vitreal adhesion, atrophic holes, and subretinal fluid.

Conclusions:

• Lattice degeneration is associated with significant local alterations in retinal and choroidal microcirculation.
• These microcirculatory changes are likely important in the pathophysiology of lattice degeneration.