Quantitative assessments of retinal macular structure among rural-dwelling older adults in China: a population-based, cross-sectional, optical coherence tomography study

Qinghua Zhang ^1,2,3, Cong Zhang ², Yongxiang Wang ^1,2,3

⁰Department of Neurology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, China.

Bmj Open +

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February 6, 2024

View abstract on PubMed

Summary

Optical coherence tomography (OCT) scanners show differences in measuring macular thickness and volume in older Chinese adults. Age, sex, cardiovascular disease, education, and refractive error influence these retinal structures.

Area Of Science

Ophthalmology
Gerontology
Medical Imaging

Background

Rural-dwelling older adults in China represent a significant demographic.
Understanding retinal macular structure is crucial for age-related eye health.
Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is a key technology for in vivo retinal imaging.

Purpose Of The Study

To quantitatively compare macular parameters between two OCT scanners (Spectralis and Primus 200).
To investigate associations between macular structures and demographic, lifestyle, clinical, and ocular factors in older Chinese adults.

Main Methods

A population-based, cross-sectional study of 971 participants (≥60 years) from the MIND-China study.
Data collection included demographics, lifestyle, clinical conditions (e.g., cardiovascular disease), and ocular factors.
Macular parameters were measured using two spectral-domain OCT models, analyzed with multiple general linear models.

Main Results

Spectralis OCT showed higher macular thickness but lower volume than Primus 200 OCT (p<0.05).
Older age and female sex correlated with reduced macular thickness and volume.
Cardiovascular disease, higher education, and spherical equivalent were significantly associated with specific macular parameters.

Conclusions

Macular measurements vary between Spectralis and Primus 200 OCT scanners.
Age, sex, education, cardiovascular disease, and refractive error are significant factors influencing macular structures in this population.

Keywords:

Aging Diagnostic radiology Epidemiology Neurology