Comparison of Optical Coherence Tomography Imaging of Cataracts With Histopathology

Abstract

This paper presents a comparison of in vivo optical coherence tomography (OCT) captured cataract images to subsequent histopathological examination of the lenticular opacities. OCT imaging was performed on anesthetized Rhesus monkeys, known as the delayed effects colony (DEC), with documented cataracts. These monkeys were exposed to several types of radiation during the mid and late 1960s. The radiation and age related cataracts in these animals were closely monitored using a unique grading system developed specifically for the DEC. In addition to this system, a modified version of a common cataract grading scheme for use in humans was applied. Of the original 18 monkeys imaged, lenses were collected at necropsy from seven of these animals, processed, and compared to OCT images. Results showed a direct correlation between the vertical OCT images and the cataractous lesions seen on corresponding histopathologic sections of the lenses. Based on the images obtained and their corresponding documented comparison to histopathology, OCT showed tremendous potential to aid identification and characterization of cataracts. There can be artifactual problems with the images related to movement and shadows produced by opacities. However, with the advent of increased speed in imaging and multiplanar imaging, these disadvantages may easily be overcome. © 1999 Society of Photo-Optical Instrumentation Engineers.

Nonmydriatic screening for diabetic retinopathy by ultra-widefield scanning laser ophthalmoscopy (Optomap)

“…Additionally the presence of clinically significant macular edema (CSME) was assessed independently. The lens opacity was assessed clinically by slit-lamp grading based on a simplified clinical scale ranging from 0 (clear lens) to 5 (very mature cataract) [5,11]. Additional tests such as fluorescein angiography were performed if needed.…”

Three-Dimensional Cataract Crystalline Lens Imaging With Swept-Source Optical Coherence Tomography

“…17,18 Also, in vivo OCT images of cataract crystalline lenses in Rhesus monkeys showed a direct correlation with the cataractous lesions seen on corresponding histopathologic sections, showing the potential of the imaging technique to identify and characterize cataracts. 19 Although different metrics can be used to describe the cataract and determine its influence on vision, three-dimensional (3-D) volumetric imaging of the cataracts of the lens allows a comprehensive and detailed description of its shape, location, and size. Also, with enough resolution, the images would allow the study of small changes as the cataract evolves with time.…”

Image quality characteristics of a novel colour scanning digital ophthalmoscope (SDO) compared with fundus photography

“…Additionally, the lens opacity was assessed clinically on a simple scale ranging from 0 (clear lens) to 5 (very mature cataract) or pseudophakia (Keng et al. , 1982; DiCarlo et al. , 1999).…”