Clarification of foveomacular nomenclature and grid for quantitation of macular disorders

Standardization of terminology and precise localization of lesions are imperative in the study of the natural course of various retinal vascular and macular disorders. The RAZ localizing system provides an easy and accurate way of documenting and following lesions of the posterior pole in terms of RAZ diameters rather than disc diameters. This type of quantitation is important because consideration regarding prognosis and management is often in terms of involvement of the retinal avascular zone. This type of grid system also permits the clinician to measure and follow the size of some choroidal masses. Based on our preliminary studies, it appears that at this stage of development, this method of studying and recording posterior pole lesions is of useful accuracy. Hopefully, certain guidelines, such as how close one may approach the retinal avascular zone with photocoagulation and still maintain reasonably good vision, can be more accurately determined.