Regional Age-Related Changes on Macular Function as Measured by Scanning Laser Ophthalmoscopy Microperimetry

Abstract

 

Purpose:

 

To evaluate the relationship between age and regional macular sensitivity values in normal subjects by scanning laser ophthalmoscopy microperimetry (SLO-MP).

 

Methods:

 

We prospectively enrolled 147 normal subjects (147 eyes), mean age 44.4±14.7 years (range 21-85 years). After a complete ophthalmological examination, all patients underwent microperimetry testing using a SLO-MP device (Spectral OCT/SLO, OPKO-OTI, Miami, FL). The "Polar 3" scan was used and the macular area was divided into 3 concentric circles (inner, middle and outer regions). Test parameters were Goldman III size stimulus, 200ms stimulus duration, stimulus interval of 1.5 sec and 4-2 threshold strategy. SLO-MP thresholds in each macular region were compared among age groups using analysis of variance (group 1, 21 - 39 yrs; group 2, 40 - 59 yrs; group 3, ≥60 yrs). The correlation between age and SLO-MP threshold values was analyzed using regression analysis.

 

Results:

 

The SLO-MP thresholds for all macular regions were significantly reduced in Group 3 compared to the other groups (p<0.05). Macular sensitivity thresholds significantly decreased with increasing age in all macular regions, with a steeper slope after 60 years of age (r2≥0.04, p≤0.01). Although a faster slope was found for the inner macula (-0.03dB/year) compared to the middle (-0.02dB/year) and outer macular regions (-0.02dB/year), this difference was not statistically significant based on 95% confidence intervals (-0.09 - 0.03 dB/year, -0.06 - 0.02 dB/year, -0.06 - 0.02 dB/year, respectively).

 

Conclusions:

 

Our data suggest that macular sensitivity thresholds, as assessed by SLO-MP, decrease with age. This reduction seems to be homogenous for all macular eccentricities and more pronounced after 60 years of age. These facts should be considered when assessing eyes over time.  

 

Keywords: perimetry • aging: visual performance • retina