OCT – an innovative eye test. When is it performed, and what does it detect?
The visual system is one of the most stressed organs in our bodies. Daily exposure to adverse external factors, such as computer work, air conditioning, and UV radiation, ultimately results in pain and discomfort. Forgetting about daily eye care can lead to serious problems, and in such cases, an OCT scan is indispensable, as it can prevent serious eye diseases.
Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is a highly specialized and one of the most innovative methods of imaging the structures of the eyeball. We asked Dr. Monika Polak, MD, from our Ophthalmology Clinic about it.
When should a patient undergo an OCT examination?
– Patients who experience distorted vision, choppy text, a dark spot in the center of their vision, or who suffer from diabetes or age-related macular degeneration (AMD) should undergo an OCT scan, as it is a quick, safe, and highly precise diagnostic method that allows for immediate implementation of appropriate treatment.
This examination is not only non-invasive and contactless, but also, with the use of modern cameras, often does not require pupil dilation. OCT uses a coherent beam of infrared light, presenting an image with a precision similar to that of a histological section. This makes it a popular method for diagnosing eye diseases, both in the anterior and posterior segments of the eye.
Diabetes
The main indication for OCT examination is changes in the fundus of the eye. OCT is most often performed in cases of lifestyle diseases, such as diabetes. One of the fundus changes associated with diabetic retinopathy may be diabetic macular edema, which requires prompt treatment and laser therapy.
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD)
AMD is currently the most commonly treated eye disease in the world. Initially, it causes distortion of vision or a dark spot in the center of vision, a developing macular hole, or vitreoretinal traction. OCT can reveal the initial changes of dry or wet age-related macular degeneration.
Glaucoma
OCT is also required for the diagnosis and monitoring of glaucoma treatment. In the case of angle-closure glaucoma, the built-in module for assessing the anterior segment of the eyeball allows for the assessment of the angle width. In the case of narrow angles, referring the patient for laser treatment can prevent an acute glaucoma attack. Monitoring the effectiveness of treatment in all types of glaucoma depends not only on visual field results and intraocular pressure measurements, but also on the assessment of nerve fiber thickness on the optic nerve head (optic nerve II disc OCT).
Other
Often, during a routine fundus examination, choroidal nevi, congenital pigment epithelial hyperplasia, and retinal scars resulting from toxoplasmosis-related inflammation can be identified (the device allows for this to be demonstrated by taking additional color fundus photos), as well as the location of the lesion in relation to the macula, blood vessels, and the optic disc. Performing the examination at regular intervals facilitates monitoring of their possible progression.
Does OCT emit harmful radiation?
"The OCT device is completely safe. It emits no harmful radiation, so it can be used on people of all ages, including pregnant women. This type of diagnostic work can be repeated multiple times. The test requires no special preparation, takes only a few minutes, and is not burdensome for the patient.".
It is currently one of the most modern, fast, safe and highly accurate diagnostic methods, which enables precise detection of threats to the eye and implementation of appropriate treatment.
We perform OCT examinations in Lublin at our facility at 4D Koncertowa Street. A referral is not required.
If you notice deterioration of vision, image distortion or suffer from diabetes, it is worth performing an OCT test and discussing the results with an ophthalmologist.
Frequently asked questions – FAQ
What is an OCT scan?
OCT, or optical coherence tomography, is a modern eye imaging test. It allows for a very precise assessment of the structures of the eyeball, including the retina, macula, and optic disc.
When is it worth performing an OCT test?
An OCT examination is recommended in case of deterioration of vision, distortion of vision, a dark spot in the center of vision, suspicion of retinal diseases, glaucoma, AMD or changes in the fundus of the eye related to diabetes.
What does an OCT scan detect?
OCT can help detect and monitor conditions such as age-related macular degeneration, macular edema, diabetic changes in the fundus of the eye, glaucoma, macular hole, and other diseases of the retina and optic nerve.
Is OCT necessary for diabetes?
In people with diabetes, OCT can be helpful in assessing changes in the ocular fundus, including diabetic retinopathy and diabetic macular edema. The frequency of follow-up examinations is determined by the ophthalmologist.
Does OCT help in diagnosing glaucoma?
Yes. OCT allows for the assessment of, among other things, the optic disc and the retinal nerve fiber layer. This test can be helpful in both diagnosing and monitoring glaucoma treatment.
What does an OCT examination look like?
The examination is non-contact and non-invasive. The patient sits in front of the device, resting their chin and forehead, and the device uses a beam of infrared light to capture images of the eye's structures.
Is OCT testing safe?
Yes. OCT does not emit harmful radiation, is painless, and can be repeated many times. The examination is not burdensome for the patient and usually takes only a few minutes.
Do I need to prepare for an OCT examination?
An OCT scan usually requires no special preparation. In some cases, it may be necessary to dilate your pupils, so it's a good idea to plan your appointment so that you don't drive after the scan if your vision becomes temporarily blurred.
The information contained in this article is for general informational and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It is recommended that you consult a physician or other qualified healthcare professional for advice regarding specific symptoms, ailments, or health conditions.