Optical Coherence Tomography
OCT scans the Optic Disc for detection of Glaucoma and the Macula for the diagnosis of macula disease.
The Macula is the central part of sight and can be affected by many diseases – the most common being Age Related Macula Degeneration (AMD). OCT also allows the earliest detection of Glaucoma by measuring the nerve fibre layer.
Glaucoma
OCT scans the optic disc and measures the nerve fibre layer to create a three dimensional representation of the optic nerve. This allows the earliest possible detection of Glaucoma.
Glaucoma is a leading cause of blindness and is caused by high pressure at the back of the eye. Regular checks for Glaucoma are important because Glaucoma can be present without any symptoms at all.
You are more at risk of Glaucoma if:
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you have family members suffering with Glaucoma
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you are over 60
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you are of Afro/Carribean descent
Age-Related Macula Degeneration (AMD)
Macula Degeneration occurs when cells become damaged and stop working. AMD rarely leads to complete sight loss but is the most common cause of poor sight in people over the age of 60.
There are two types of AMD; wet and dry. Dry AMD is the most common form and develops very slowly and causes gradual loss of vision. Wet AMD is caused by new vessel growth at the back of the eye.
OCT can diagnose both of these conditions and allows us to refer for further treatment and monitor any progression of the disease. Imaging is also useful for reassurance and monitoring of AMD and many other conditions affecting the Macula. OCT Macula imaging is recommended to everybody over the age of 60 and anyone who is concerned that they may have some loss of vision, however small.
Other Macula Problems
OCT can detect many other Macula conditions such as Macula Holes (shown to the left).
Other detectable conditions include;
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Epi-retinal Membrane
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Diabetic Macula oedema
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Retinal Epithelial Detachment
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CSR (Central Serous Retinopathy)