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Abstract #15366 Published in IGR 1-3
Evaluating the retinal nerve fiber layer in glaucoma with scanning laser polarimetry
Weinreb RNArchives of Ophthalmology 1999; 117: 1403-1406
In this editorial the author discusses the pros and cons of scanning laser polarimetry. Although none of the nerve fiber layer measures in two studies individually identified even half of the patients with early and moderate glaucoma as outside normal limits. The author feels that a combination of measures may improve the situation. Optimal weighing of various parameters is not generalizable from one population group to another. He concludes that present day measurements of the retinal nerve fiber layer should not be considered solely by themselves but rather in conjunction with other clinical measurements. He expresses the hope that statistical packages may improve the discriminative power of the technique. Clearly there is much new information that is acquired with scanning laser polarimetry. Whether it fully reflects the condition of the retinal nerve fiber layer remains to be determined. The review discusses standard clinical assessment of the retinal nerve fiber layer with its limitations and clinical uses. It is also of interest to read about the background of scanning laser polarimetry, the clinical studies that have been performed and the seven potential limitations of the technique that are considered by the author. This editorial is recommended for understanding of the potential and limitations of laser polarimetry
Robert N.Weinreb, MD, Glaucoma Center(0946), University of California at San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, CA 92093-0946
Classification:
2.13 Retina and retinal nerve fibre layer (Part of: 2 Anatomical structures in glaucoma)
6.9.1 Laser scanning (Part of: 6 Clinical examination methods > 6.9 Computerized image analysis)
