Abstract
Purpose::
To study the relationship between fundus autofluorescence (FAF) in the macular area and visual function in patients with retinitis pigmentosa (RP).
Methods::
One hundred-eighty-six patients with RP were studied. The best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) in logMAR units, mean intensity of the FAF within the central 5° and 10° (TRC-50IX, Topcon), and the mean retinal sensitivity within the central 10° determined by fundus-related microperimetry (MP1, Nidek), were examined.
Results::
There was a weak but significant correlation between the BCVA and the FAF intensity within the central 5° (r=0.38, P<0.001), and between the retinal sensitivity and FAF intensity within the central 10° (r=0.33, P<0.02).
Conclusions::
The significant correlations between the FAF intensity of the macula and visual function in RP patients indicate that fundus autofluorescence can be a useful tool to assess the macular function in patients with retinitis pigmentosa.
Keywords: retinal pigment epithelium • imaging methods (CT, FA, ICG, MRI, OCT, RTA, SLO, ultrasound) • perimetry