Autofluorescence : additional value in clinical management of ARMD

• Published in: Acta ophthalmologica Scandinavica Vol. 85; no. s240
• Main Authors: VACLAVIK, V, BIRD, AC
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Oxford, UK Blackwell Publishing Ltd 01-09-2007
• ISSN: 1395-3907; 1600-0420
• DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-0420.2007.01063_2991.x

Purpose: Autofluorescence is a noninvasive technique that allows the assessment of the viability of the RPE/photoreceptor complex. With the higher expectations of newer biological treatments in age related macular degeneration (ARMD), the assessment of the viability of retina and RPE at the beginning of treatment is a precious indication on the potential therapeutic results.
Methods: We studied 79 eyes with untreated early‐stage subfoveal neovascular AMD. Autofluorescence images were compared with digital fluorescein angiography and fundus color photographs. Autofluorescence at the macula was correlated with visual acuity, angiographic lesions characteristics, lesion size and length of symptoms.
Results: In 54 eyes, the autofluorescence was present, continuous at the macula and this correlated significantly with visual acuity, lesion size, length of symptoms, but not choroidal neovascularization type.
Conclusions: Intact autofluorescence at the macula correlating with visual acuity confirmed the hypothesis that visual outcome is determined by maintenance of RPE function. Autofluorescence assessment may allow a better identification of patients who would benefit substantially from ARMD treatment.