INFRARED IMAGING OF CENTRAL SEROUS CHORIORETINOPATHY - A FOLLOW-UP-STUDY

Background: Infrared (IR) imaging improved by using scanning laser oph thalmoscopy. The greater penetration of infrared light compared with v isible wavelengths permits better visualization of subretinal structur es such as drusen, hyperpigmentations and choroidal new vessels. Furth ermore, using the indirect mode of the instrument to detect laterally scattered light, drusen and shallow detachments of the neuroretina can easily be visualized as prominent structures. In this study we invest igated the potential use of non-invasive infrared imaging in follow-up examination of patients with central serous chorioretinopathy (CSCR). Methods: All patients with an acute CSCR underwent fluorescein angiog raphic studies (488 nm) and infrared imaging (788 nm) in indirect mode using a scanning laser ophthalmoscope (SLO 101; Rodenstock) at baseli ne and follow-up after 3-5 weeks, Results: The detachment of the neuro retina could easily be visualized by infrared imaging as prominent, ov al-shaped structures. The height varied corresponding to the clinical course, whereas the extent showed no relation to the change in symptom s. Conclusion: IR-imaging is a quick, non-invasive tool which may effi ciently be used in chorioretinal diseases. In CSCR patients it provide s an adjunct in clinical follow-up by monitoring the course of the dis ease and the effect of treatment concepts.