Advanced ImageJ Analysis in Degenerative Acquired Vitelliform Lesions Using Techniques Based on Optical Coherence...

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Retinal Diseases
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• Acquired vitelliform lesions (AVLs) are linked to various retinal conditions, including age-related macular degeneration (AMD).
• Understanding AVL evolution is crucial for managing AMD progression.

Purpose of the Study:

• To characterize the evolution of AVLs in AMD patients.
• To assess the impact of AVLs on retinal layers using optical coherence tomography (OCT).

Main Methods:

• Utilized OCT technology and ImageJ software for quantitative analysis.
• Measured AVL size, density, and changes in retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and outer nuclear layer (ONL) thickness.
• Monitored structural integrity of external limiting membrane (ELM) and ellipsoid zone (EZ).

Main Results:

• Significant increase in average RPE thickness (45.89 µm) and decrease in ONL thickness (77.94 µm) in the vitelliform group compared to controls.
• Continuous ELM observed in 55.5% and continuous EZ in 22.2% of eyes with AVLs.
• No significant change in AVL volume over follow-up (p=0.725); anti-VEGF treatment showed no BCVA improvement.

Conclusions:

• Increased RPE thickness may indicate hyperplasia, while decreased ONL thickness suggests photoreceptor impact from AVLs.
• AVLs in AMD do not appear to significantly change in volume over an 11-month median follow-up.
• Current anti-VEGF treatment strategies may not restore visual acuity in eyes with AVLs.