Evaluation of Feasability of Detection of Age-Related Macular Degeneration Using a Digital Non Mydriatic Camera

Abstract

Purpose: : To evaluate the feasibility of detection of age-related maculopathy (ARM) and age-related macular degeneration (AMD) using a nonmydriatic digital camera in two different groups of elderly people.

Methods: : This prospective study included a series of patients hospitalised over 70 years in a Department of Gerontology and a series of healthy asymptomatic people over 55 years. Fundus photographs without pharmacological mydriasis were performed using a non mydriatic digital camera in both series. All images were graded independently by two ophthalmologists for quality of images, drusen size and type, pigment abnormalities, geographic atrophy (GA) and choroidal neovascularization (CNV). Main outcome measures were: frequencies of ARM and AMD and inter and intra-observers agreement.

Results: : Among 233 patients of the first series, only 51 % were examined due to associate multimorbidities. For the second series, 358 individuals were included. Frequencies of ARM and AMD were 30.3 % and 5.9 % versus 12.6 % and 2.6 % respectively. Inter and intra-observers agreement was "good" or "excellent" (Κ > 0.6) in both series. No adverse effects were reported.

Conclusions: : Screening of ARM and AMD seems possible using non mydriatic digital camera without pharmacologic dilatation and allows the detection of AMD's precursors for high-risk people who could benefit from specific follow-up and treatment.

Keywords: age-related macular degeneration • drusen • imaging/image analysis: clinical