Ophthalmic imaging

Introduction or background: The last two decades have seen a revolution in Ophthalmic Imaging. In this review we present an overview of the breadth of ophthalmic imaging modalities in use today and describe how the role of ophthalmic imaging has changed from documenting abnormalities visible on clinical examination to the detection of clinically silent abnormalities which can lead to an earlier and more precise diagnosis.

Sources of data: This review is based on published literature in the fields of ophthalmic imaging and with focus on most commonly used imaging modalities.

Areas of agreement: New imaging techniques enable non-invasive evaluation of ocular structures at a resolution of a few micrometres. This has led to a re-evaluation of diagnostic criteria for ocular disease, which were previously defined by clinical findings without significant reference to imaging.

Areas of controversy: Lack of formal training and clinical guidelines regarding use of new imaging techniques in diagnosing and monitoring various ocular conditions. Lack of large normative databases and interchangeability issues between different commercial machines can hinder the detection of disease progression.

Growing points: Imaging devices are being constantly refined with improved image capture and image analysis tools.

Areas timely for developing research: Clinical applications of new techniques and devices have yet to be determined using systematic scientific research methods.