Fundus autofluorescence and optical coherence tomography of congenital grouped albinotic spots.
OBJECTIVE
The purpose of this study was to describe the findings of fundus autofluores-cence (FAF) and optical coherence tomography in a series of patients with congenital grouped albinotic spots.


METHODS
Three eyes of three patients with congenital grouped albinotic spots were evaluated with FAF and optical coherence tomography imaging to evaluate the nature of the albinotic spots.


RESULTS
In all three eyes with congenital grouped albinotic spots, FAF imaging showed autofluorescent spots corresponding to the albinotic spots seen on stereo biomicroscopy. One eye also had additional spots detected on FAF imaging that were not visible on stereo biomicroscopy or color fundus photographs. Fundus autofluorescence imaging of the spots showed decreased general autofluorescence and decreased peripheral autofluorescence surrounding central areas of retained or increased autofluorescence. Optical coherence tomography showed a disruption in signal from the hyperreflective layer corresponding to the inner and outer segment junction and increased signal backscattering from the choroid in the area of the spots. Fluorescein angiography showed early and stable hyperfluorescence of the spots without leakage.


CONCLUSIONS
In this case series, FAF showed decreased autofluorescence of the spots consistent with focal retinal pigment epithelium atrophy or abnormal material blocking normal autofluorescence and areas of increased autofluorescence suggesting retinal pigment epithelium dysfunction. The findings of optical coherence tomography and fluorescein angiography suggest photoreceptor and retinal pigment epithelium layer abnormalities. Fundus autofluorescence and optical coherence tomography are useful noninvasive diagnostic adjuncts that can aid in the diagnosis of congenital grouped albinotic spots, help determine extent of disease, and contribute to our understanding of its pathophysiology.
Bernard and Shirlee Brown Glaucoma Laboratory, Department of Ophthalmology, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, New York, USA.
David Y
DY
Kim
John C
JC
Hwang
Anthony T
AT
Moore
Alan C
AC
Bird
Stephen H
SH
Tsang
D000328:Adult; D005124:Eye Abnormalities / Q000175:diagnosis*; D005260:Female; D005451:Fluorescein Angiography; D005654:Fundus Oculi; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D020419:Photoreceptor Cells, Vertebrate / Q000473:pathology; D012164:Retinal Diseases / Q000151:congenital*; D055213:Retinal Pigment Epithelium / Q000002:abnormalities*; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D041623:Tomography, Optical Coherence