OCT and OCTA quantitative metrics for polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Medical Imaging
• Vascular Biology

Background:

• Polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy (PCV) presents with unique polypoidal lesions and neovascular networks, disproportionately affecting Asian populations.
• The pathogenesis of PCV and its relationship with neovascular age-related macular degeneration are subjects of ongoing research.
• PCV can lead to significant vision impairment if left untreated.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the role of quantitative optical coherence tomography (OCT) and OCT angiography (OCTA) biomarkers in understanding PCV.
• To highlight the diagnostic, prognostic, and clinical management implications of these advanced imaging biomarkers.
• To provide a comprehensive overview of novel OCT and OCTA findings in PCV.

Main Methods:

• Review of current literature on PCV and advanced OCT/OCTA imaging techniques.
• Analysis of established and emerging OCT/OCTA biomarkers for PCV.
• Discussion of quantitative choroidal analysis in the context of PCV pathogenesis.

Main Results:

• Optical coherence tomography (OCT) and OCT angiography (OCTA) have transformed PCV diagnosis and understanding.
• Key biomarkers include the double layer sign, polyps, vessel density, choroidal vessel diameter, choroidal vascularity index, and choroidal vortex.
• Quantitative choroidal analysis offers critical insights into PCV mechanisms.

Conclusions:

• Quantitative OCT and OCTA biomarkers are indispensable for the accurate diagnosis and effective management of PCV.
• These imaging parameters are vital for assessing prognosis and guiding treatment strategies in PCV patients.
• Continued research into OCT/OCTA biomarkers will further refine our approach to this complex vascular condition.