Evaluating Diabetic Retinopathy Using Ultra-widefield Swept-Source Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography
Year: 2025
Type: article
Study design: Case Report
Abstract: Purpose: To highlight the clinical utility of ultra-widefield swept-source optical coherence tomography angiography (SS-OCTA) in evaluating diabetic retinopathy (DR), particularly focusing on its ability to detect peripheral ischemia and neovascularization. Methods : Eyes of 5 participants with varying severity of DR were imaged with expanded-field 12 × 12-mm SS-OCTA scans and ultra-widefield SS-OCTA montages. Montages were created by stitching five 21 × 26-mm scans, offering up to a 200° field of view. Cases were assessed for areas of nonperfusion, intraretinal microvascular abnormalities, and neovascularization extending beyond the posterior pole. Results : Ultra-widefield SS-OCTA imaging demonstrated progressive mid-peripheral and peripheral nonperfusion, intraretinal microvascular abnormalities, and neovascularization in association with increasing DR severity. Peripheral nonperfusion and neovascular changes were detected beyond the scope of standard 12 × 12-mm scan areas. Conclusions : Ultra-widefield SS-OCTA is effective in noninvasively detecting peripheral retinal lesions such as ischemia and neovascularization. This technology offers potential to refine DR staging, improve risk stratification, and guide earlier clinical interventions.
Institutions: Harvard University, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary
Language: English
Subfield: Ophthalmology
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7117334206