Optical coherence tomography findings in central retinal artery occlusion

Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging. 2006 Nov-Dec;37(6):502-5. doi: 10.3928/15428877-20061101-12.

Abstract

This article describes optical coherence tomography (OCT) findings in patients with central retinal artery occlusion by conducting a retrospective review of two cases. Central retinal artery occlusion shows a distinct pattern on OCT images. In the acute phase, OCT images demonstrate the increased reflectivity and thickness of the inner retina and a corresponding decrease of reflectivity in the outer layer of the retina and retinal pigment epithelium/choriocapillaris layer. Follow-up OCT images demonstrate a decrease in the reflectivity and thickness of the inner retinal layers and a corresponding increase of reflectivity in the outer retina and retinal pigment epithelium/choriocapillaris layer compared with the baseline OCT image, suggesting a generalized atrophy of the neurosensory retina as a late finding. Therefore, the use of OCT may help facilitate prompt recognition of acute and chronic central retinal artery occlusion.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Disease Progression
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Retina / pathology*
  • Retinal Artery Occlusion / pathology*
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Severity of Illness Index
  • Tomography, Optical Coherence*