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Smartphone platform accurately images anterior, posterior segments
A smartphone-based telemedicine system demonstrated sensitivity and specificity to detect potential diabetic eye disease, according to Brian C. Toy, MD, and colleagues.
In 100 eyes of 50 adults, a smartphone estimated near visual acuity and captured anterior and dilated posterior segment photographs, which underwent masked review, according to a study published in Retina.
Patients were an average age of 60.5 years with a mean duration of diabetes for 11.9 years.
Researchers reported mean distance spectacle-corrected visual acuity of 69 letters, and the near spectacle-corrected visual acuity with the smartphone application was also 69 letters.
A paired t-test demonstrated no difference between the two methods, according to the study.
Out of 100 captured anterior segment photographs, 96 were judged to be of sufficient quality to evaluate for neovascularization of the iris.
Decreased photo quality resulted from insufficient lid opening, glare and poor image focus, according to the researchers.
Masked reviewers graded fundus photographers on a 6-point scale. Consensus between the two reviewers was good, with 88% agreement and a kappa of 0.70.
Photograph grade was found to be 91% sensitive and 99% specific, when compared to clinical grade as the reference.
This study confirms findings by others in using smartphone applications to measure and follow visual acuity in patients with diabetes and age-related macular degeneration, the researchers said. – by Abigail Sutton
Disclosure: The researchers reported no relevant financial disclosures.