Diagnostic imaging

Retinal image analysis makes it possible to accurately detect and diagnose various abnormalities. The optical coherence tomograph (OCT) has cross-sectional imaging capabilities that allow examining the retina layer by layer. Its impressive high resolution (5-7 microns) makes it an indispensable tool. Before its advent in ophthalmology, the retina could be examined only by observation through the pupil. The disadvantage of this technique is that it can be influenced by the condition of the ocular media, that is, the cornea and natural lens. If these are not clear owing to disease, they can contribute to the deterioration of the quality of the image observed by the doctor. Finer retinal details, too, are harder to see under these conditions. The OCT can eliminate doubts and confirm findings. Among other things, it can be used to detect age-related macular degeneration (ARMD), both dry and wet. As far as the patient is concerned, the test is no more complicated than a retinal picture. The technique is painless and takes but a few minutes to complete.