Diagnostic importance of autofluorescence and microperimetry in patients with wet age-related macular degeneration

    Purpose. The aim of the study was to compare short-wavelength and near-infrared autofluorescence (AF) data with retinal photosensitivity in patients with wet age-related macular degeneration.

    Material and methods. We examined 24 patients (24 eyes) with choroidal neovascularization (CNV), aged from 49 to 67 years; their optical media were transparent.

    All patients underwent short-wavelength (488 nm) and near-infrared (787 nm) autofluorescence with the Heidelberg Engineering confocal scanning laser ophthalmoscope (HRA-2). Photosensitivity of central retina was measured with the Nidek MP-1 microperimeter.

    Results. In all eyes with CNV we detected various deviations in AF signal. Compared to normal homogenous signal, AF signal from pathological areas has increased or decreased. These areas exhibited lower photosensitivity independent of the behavior of AF signal.

    The mean retinal photosensitivity in the areas with pathological AF signal was 9.5±3.3 dB while that in the areas with normal AF signal was 15.3±3.7 dB.

    Conclusion. 488 nm AF, 787 nm AF, and microperimetry are informative non-invasive techniques for evaluation of degenerative changes in photoreceptors, retinal pigment epithelium and choroid.

    Key words: age-related macular degeneration, short-wavelength autofluorescence, near-infrared autofluorescence, microperimetry.