Peripapillary RNFL analysis is the most commonly used scanning protocol for glaucoma diagnosis, as it samples RGCs from the entire retina however, it does suffer certain drawbacks related to inter-patient variability in ONH morphology. OCT is highly reproducible, and is thus widely used as an adjunct in routine glaucoma patient management. An interferometer (beam splitter) is used to record the path of scattered photons and create three-dimensional images. Low coherence infrared light is directed toward the tissue being imaged, from which it scatters at large angles. Image acquisition is analogous to ultrasound, where light waves is used in lieu of sound waves. OCT is a non-invasive, non-contact imaging modality that provides high-resolution cross-sectional imaging of ocular tissues (retina, optic nerve, and anterior segment). However, imaging technologies such as optic coherence technology (OCT) are playing an increasing role in glaucoma diagnosis, monitoring of disease progress, and quantification of structural damage. The currently accepted gold standards for glaucoma diagnosis are optic disc assessment for structural changes, and achromatic white-on-white perimetry to monitor changes in function. Early diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma has been shown to reduce the rate of disease progression, and improve patients’ quality of life. Glaucoma is a multifactorial, chronic optic nerve neuropathy that is characterized by progressive loss of retinal ganglion cells (RGC), which leads to structural damage to the optic nerve head (ONH), retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL), and consequent visual field defects. Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of blindness in working-age populations of industrialized nations, and is the most common cause of permanent vision loss in persons older than 40 years of age, after age-related macular degeneration. As the population continues to age, and average life expectancies increase, the prevalence of this debilitating disease will grow. Glaucoma is the leading cause of irreversible blindness worldwide.
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