EVALUATION OF FELLOW EYES IN IDIOPATHIC MACULAR HOLE CASES WITH OPTICAL COHERENCE TOMOGRAPHY ANGIOGRAPHY

This study aimed to evaluate the fellow eyes of patients with idiopathic macular hole using optical coherence tomography angiography.

This retrospective observational case series assessed 48 fellow eyes of patients with idiopathic macular hole and 52 healthy eyes. The data for all patients were recorded, including the findings of the complete ophthalmologic examination, optical coherence tomography, and optical coherence tomography angiography. The patients were classified based on the presence of posterior vitreous detachment, foveal bulge, and foveal base shape.

The foveal vessel densities in the superficial capillary plexus and deep capillary plexus in the fellow eye group were statistically significantly lower than those in the control group. Based on the presence of posterior vitreous detachment and the absence of a foveal bulge, no statistical difference was observed between the optical coherence tomography angiography parameters. The eyes with a smooth base had a significantly lower foveal vessel densities in the superficial capillary plexus compared with those having an irregular base.

While it is well-established that features of vitreomacular traction in the fellow eye may progress to a full-thickness macular hole, even without optical coherence tomography-evidenced vitreomacular interface abnormalities, there can be alterations in the microvasculature. This suggests a possible role in the pathogenesis of a macular hole.