Abstract
Purpose :
This study aims to analyze AMD Atrophy Complication using a precise and efficient methodology to maximize the understanding of its characteristics, evolution, and prognosis
Methods :
A total of 572 eyes from 401 patients with AMD Atrophy Complication were examined using OCT (Spectralis HRA-OCT, spectral domain OCT) and Automatic OCT segmentation (Ikerian). Various parameters, including characteristics, size, number, topography, surface, growth pattern of atrophic areas, particularly focusing on edge of atrophic areas, and involvement of retina layers, particularly the photoreceptor (PR) and retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) layers, were evaluated. Follow-up assessments were conducted every 6 months over a 4-year period
Results :
The use of OCT allowed for a comprehensive analysis of all atrophic areas characteristics, retina layers. Automatic OCT segmentation facilitated enhanced analysis and evaluation through automation, providing insights into the atrophic lesion's characteristics: size (mean:5,646 mm2), growth (mean:1,954 mm2, between exams mean:0,883 mm2), growth speed (mean:1,345 mm2 / year), topography (mainly central macula, nasal inferior). Notably atrophic area border too: PR and RPE layers at atrophy edge, extent topography, evolution (size, depth atrophy), feature and retina layers involved and the adjoining retina, and also the surrounding retina. This approach enabled a closer examination and characterization of atrophy, edge of atrophic area too, as well as area itself, establishing a better understanding of its evolution and physiopathology, particularly through the study of atrophy areas and PR and RPE layers. Consequently, criteria for risk evolution, biomarkers, and predictors of AMD Atrophy complication were determined
Conclusions :
The study of AMD Atrophy Complication with OCT and Automatic OCT segmentation significantly improves the criteria for analysis, evaluation, evolution, and prognosis. This enhanced knowledge and understanding of physiopathology contribute to increased relevance and efficiency in therapeutic effectiveness and evaluations
This abstract was presented at the 2024 ARVO Imaging in the Eye Conference, held in Seattle, WA, May 4, 2024.