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Abstract
To compare optical coherence tomography (OCT) retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness
measurements with established methods for assessment of glaucomatous damage using
RNFL photography and visual field testing.
Cross-sectional study.
Fifty-eight eyes of 58 healthy volunteer ocular hypertensive patients, glaucoma suspect
patients, and glaucoma patients were included.
Optical coherence tomography 3.4-mm diameter circular scans were obtained within 3
months of RNFL photography and standard achromatic visual field testing. Three independent
observers graded RNFL photographs using two standardized protocols. For each method,
superior and inferior arcuate bundles were scored separately, and interobserver and
intraobserver variation was measured. Standard achromatic visual field mean deviation
in the superior and inferior hemifields was compared with RNFL damage as assessed
by photography and OCT RNFL thickness measurements.
Visual field mean deviation and severity of glaucomatous RNFL damage as assessed by
photography.
Optical coherence tomography RNFL thickness decreased with increasing RNFL damage
as assessed by photography using both methods of photographic assessment. Standard
achromatic perimetry mean deviation was significantly associated with OCT RNFL thickness
(R(2) = 35%-43%) and RNFL photography severity score (R(2) = 18%-29%).
These results suggest that the OCT shows promise for providing quantitative measures
of RNFL thickness for diagnosing and monitoring glaucoma.