[Fundus autofluorescence examination using a confocal scanning laser ophthalmoscope HRA (Heidelberg Retina Angiograph)].
OBJECTIVE
To present application of a confocal Scanning Laser Ophthalmoscope (cSLO) for fundus autofluorescence examination, as a new method of visualization of retinal pigment epithelium and its possible significance in the diagnosis of different retinal diseases.


METHODS
Typical autofluorescence images in age-related macular degeneration (AMD), Stargardt disease, Best disease and pattern dystrophies are presented, based on the own experience and literature data. Autofluorescence images were obtained with a cSLO using an argon laser for generation of excitation light at 488 nm and a barrier filter >500 nm for the detection of the emitted signals.


RESULTS
A variety of autofluorescence patterns, associated with the accumulation of lipofuscin in RPE cells, was found in the above entities.


CONCLUSIONS
Presented method of fundus autofluorescence examination gives new possibilities in studying the pathogenetic mechanisms in various retinal diseases and may be useful in monitoring the follow-up and the effects of the treatment.
Dolar-Szczasny
Joanna
J
Z Katedry i I Kliniki Okulistyki Akademii Medycznej w Lublinie.
Mackiewicz
Jerzy
J
Bindewald
Almut
A
Holz
Frank G
FG
Zagórski
Zbigniew
Z
D005451:Fluorescein Angiography / Q000379:methods*; D005654:Fundus Oculi; D006801:Humans; D007089:Image Enhancement; D007091:Image Processing, Computer-Assisted; D007834:Lasers; D008062:Lipofuscin / Q000378:metabolism; D008268:Macular Degeneration / Q000378:metabolism / Q000473:pathology*; D009887:Ophthalmoscopy / Q000379:methods*; D010857:Pigment Epithelium of Eye / Q000378:metabolism / Q000473:pathology
D008062:Lipofuscin