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Drusen regression linked to autofluorescence changes in intermediate AMD
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Drusen regression was frequently associated with changes in local autofluorescence signal in eyes with intermediate age-related macular degeneration, according to a study.
The prospective study included 58 eyes of 58 patients with intermediate AMD and large drusen with a diameter of 125 µm or greater. All eyes underwent color fundus photography, red-free monochromatic fundus photography and fundus autofluorescence at baseline and 2-year follow-up.
Investigators used manual segmentation and computer-based image analysis to identify and define areas of drusen regression. Changes in fundus autofluorescence signal were graded manually and quantified with automated image analysis.
At least one area of drusen regression was identified in 28 eyes (48%) with manual segmentation and 29 eyes (50%) with computer-based image analysis.
Areas of drusen regression were associated with local changes on fundus autofluorescence that were markedly more pronounced than changes on fundus photography.
Sixty-four percent to 66% of eyes showed a predominant decrease in fundus autofluorescence signal; 14% to 21% showed a predominant increase in fundus autofluorescence signal.
“The current findings indicate that close long-term follow-up of [fundus autofluorescence] signal in areas of drusen regression will be necessary to discover the precise sequence of cellular changes occurring in the aftermath of drusen regression,” the study authors said.
Disclosure: See the study for a full list of the authors’ relevant financial disclosures.
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