Naevi Characterization Using Hyperspectral Imaging: A Pilot Study.

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Medical Imaging
• Optical Physics

Background:

• Choroidal naevi are common, affecting up to 10% of the population.
• The optical properties of choroidal naevi are not well understood.
• Novel imaging techniques are needed to characterize these lesions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the optical density spectra of choroidal naevi using a novel hyperspectral eye fundus camera.
• To determine if optical properties can differentiate or characterize choroidal naevi.
• To explore potential clinical applications of hyperspectral imaging in ophthalmology.

Main Methods:

• Employed a hyperspectral eye fundus camera with 12 nm spectral resolution (450-700 nm).
• Measured optical density spectra across 11 choroidal naevi in nine patients.
• Utilized optical coherence tomography and fundus photography as reference standards.

Main Results:

• Choroidal naevi showed higher optical density at longer wavelengths (695 nm) compared to shorter wavelengths (555 nm).
• Visual acuity and intraocular pressure were unaffected in patients with naevi.
• Naevi optical density spectra could be clustered into three distinct groups, one resembling lipofuscin absorption spectra.

Conclusions:

• Choroidal naevi exhibit wavelength-dependent visibility, enhancing visualization at longer wavelengths.
• The distinct spectral clusters suggest potential for classifying choroidal naevi based on optical properties.
• One spectral cluster's similarity to lipofuscin absorption spectra warrants further investigation into pigment composition.