Journal of Otolaryngology and Ophthalmology of Shandong University ›› 2022, Vol. 36 ›› Issue (2): 157-162.doi: 10.6040/j.issn.1673-3770.0.2021.141

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Research progress of optical coherence tomography and angiography in the diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease

ZHANG Min1,LI Yan2   

  1. 1. School of Clinical Medicine, Weifang Medical University, Weifang 261053, Shandong, China;
    2. Ophthalmology Center, the Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang 261031, Shandong, China
  • Published:2022-04-15

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Abstract: Alzheimer's disease(AD)is a progressive and irreversible neurological disease characterized by changes in neurons and blood vessels of the brain. Its etiology is unknown, and there is no feasible non-invasive technique for early diagnosis. Because the retina and the central nervous system have similar embryonic origins and physiological characteristics, an ophthalmic examination may provide a simple and non-invasive diagnostic method. Optical coherence tomography(OCT)can accurately measure the thickness of various tissue layers of the retina to assess degenerative changes of the retina. Optical coherence tomography angiography(OCTA)can provide high-resolution three-dimensional imaging, which can more directly detect the changes in retinal vessels and reflect the pathological characteristics of brain neurons and blood vessels noninvasively. This article mainly reviews the research progress of retinal thickness measured by means of OCT and retinal blood flow measured using OCTA in the diagnosis of AD.

Key words: Optical coherence tomography, Angiography, Alzheimer's disease, Retinal thickness, Vessel density

CLC Number: 

  • R741.02
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