Infrared reflectance imaging in age-related macular degeneration.
The purpose of this article is to describe the appearance of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) phenotypes using infrared (IR) reflectance imaging. IR reflectance imaging of the retina has the potential to highlight specific sub-retinal features and pathology. However, its role in macular disease, specifically AMD, is often underestimated and requires clarification.



Recent advances in clinical methods, imaging and scientific knowledge may be integrated to improve the accuracy of disease stratification in AMD. In particular, IR imaging holds an underutilised sensitivity to detect reticular pseudodrusen, which have been repeatedly described as a high-risk sign for late AMD.



This article provides clinically relevant descriptions of AMD phenotypes using IR reflectance imaging. The findings are integrated with images from cases seen at the Centre for Eye Health. As primary eye-care providers assume a critical role in the detection, diagnosis and management of AMD, we also provide a chair-side reference to assist clinicians in interpreting IR images in AMD.
Centre for Eye Health, Sydney, Australia.|School of Optometry and Vision Science, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia.
Angelica
A
Ly
Centre for Eye Health, Sydney, Australia.|School of Optometry and Vision Science, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia.
Lisa
L
Nivison-Smith
Centre for Eye Health, Sydney, Australia.|Department of Ophthalmology, Prince of Wales Hospital, Randwick, Australia.
Nagi
N
Assaad
Centre for Eye Health, Sydney, Australia.|School of Optometry and Vision Science, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia.
Michael
M
Kalloniatis
D006801:Humans; D007259:Infrared Rays; D008266:Macula Lutea / Q000473:pathology*; D008268:Macular Degeneration / Q000175:diagnosis*; D015203:Reproducibility of Results; D041623:Tomography, Optical Coherence / Q000379:methods*; D014792:Visual Acuity
age-related macular degeneration; chair-side reference; drusen; infrared; retina