optic nerve head characteristics using confocal laser scanning tomography in healthy adults

Abstract

Abstract: : Purpose: To study the optic nerve head (ONH) characteristics in a cross–sectional study with confocal laser scanning tomography and thereby to obtain a new HRT reference database for comparison of healthy and glaucomatous eyes. Methods: Optic disc topography was assessed with a confocal scanning laser ophthalmoscope (HRT I) in adults aged 35–70 years with no history of glaucoma, ocular hypertension or other ocular pathology. The examination included assessment of visual acuity, slitlamp examination, tonometry and computerised perimetry. Eyes with ocular hypertension, glaucoma, papilla leporina or papilledema were excluded. Right and left eyes were analysed separately. Micro– and macropapillae were included. Results: We included 3866 eyes of 1933 Patients (687 females and 1267 males; mean age: 51.1 ±9.9 years). The linear regression coefficient between cup– and disc area was 0.68. Forms and frequency of optic disc asymmetry were analyzed with regards to refraction, age and other parameters. Conclusions: The presented results differ from published data on ONH topographies using various techniques. The presented data may describe a larger basis for comparison of ONH characteristics between healthy eyes and glaucomatous eyes. HRT mean data 

Keywords: optic disc • topography • imaging/image analysis: non–clinical