Ultra-Widefield Fundus Autofluorescence Findings as an Indicator of Duration in Rhegmatogenous Retinal Detachment

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Medical Imaging
• Retinal Diseases

Background:

• Rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) is a sight-threatening condition.
• Accurate assessment of RRD duration is crucial for surgical planning and prognosis.
• Ultra-widefield (UWF) imaging modalities offer comprehensive views of the retina.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the characteristics of RRDs using UWF color fundus photography and UWF fundus autofluorescence (FAF).
• To evaluate the utility of FAF features in determining RRD duration.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective observational study of 93 eyes with RRDs.
• Comparison of RRD grading (clock hours, quadrants, macular involvement) between UWF color photography and FAF.
• Assessment of FAF features (hyperautofluorescent dots, leading edge) and their association with RRD duration (acute <2 weeks vs. chronic >2 weeks).

Main Results:

• UWF color photography and FAF showed equivalent performance in grading RRD extent.
• Bullous detachments correlated with a corrugated appearance on color photos, acute duration, and hypoautofluorescence on FAF.
• A hyperautofluorescent leading edge on FAF was significantly associated with acute RRDs (<2 weeks).
• Hyperautofluorescent dots on FAF were significantly associated with chronic RRDs (>2 weeks).

Conclusions:

• Fundus autofluorescence can be a valuable tool for estimating RRD duration.
• FAF findings, specifically hyperautofluorescent leading edges and dots, may serve as biomarkers for RRD chronicity.
• These findings can potentially aid in surgical planning for RRDs.