Open AccessImaging in Retinopathy of Prematurity
Author(s) -
Nita Valikodath,
Edward I. Cole,
Michael F. Chiang,
J. Peter Campbell,
Rachel W. Chan
Publication year - 2019
Publication title -
asia-pacific journal of ophthalmology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.163
H-Index - 20
ISSN - 2162-0989
DOI - 10.22608/apo.201963
Subject(s) - retinopathy of prematurity , childhood blindness , medicine , telemedicine , coats' disease , optometry , medical imaging , retinal , optical coherence tomography , digital imaging , medical physics , health care , ophthalmology , computer science , digital image , image processing , radiology , artificial intelligence , pregnancy , genetics , economic growth , economics , image (mathematics) , biology , gestational age
Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is a leading cause of preventable childhood blindness worldwide. Barriers to ROP screening and difficulties with subsequent evaluation and management include poor access to care, lack of physicians trained in ROP, and issues with objective documentation. Digital retinal imaging can help address these barriers and improve our knowledge of the pathophysiology of the disease. Advancements in technology have led to new, non-mydriatic and mydriatic cameras with wider fields of view as well as devices that can simultaneously incorporate fluorescein angiography, optical coherence tomography (OCT), and OCT angiography. Image analysis in ROP is also being employed through smartphones and computer-based software. Telemedicine programs in the United States and worldwide have utilized imaging to extend ROP screening to infants in remote areas and have shown that digital retinal imaging can be reliable, accurate, and cost-effective. In addition, tele-education programs are also using digital retinal images to increase the number of healthcare providers trained in ROP. Although indirect ophthalmoscopy is still an important skill for screening, digital retinal imaging holds promise for more widespread screening and management of ROP.