Retina

What is an OCT scan of the retina?

Optical coherence tomography uses light to build a cross sectional image of the retina, rather like an ultrasound picture made with light. It shows the layers of the macula in detail and reveals fluid, thickening, thinning or scarring that cannot be seen by examination alone. It is quick, painless and involves no injection and no radiation.

What the test involves

You rest your chin on a support and look at a target while the scanner passes light across the back of the eye. It takes a few minutes for both eyes. Nothing touches the eye and no dye is injected. Dilating drops are sometimes used to improve the image quality.

What it is used for

Confirming and measuring macular swelling in diabetes and vein occlusion
Distinguishing dry from wet macular degeneration
Monitoring the response to intravitreal injections
Assessing the interface between the jelly and the macula, for example macular holes and puckers
Measuring the optic nerve fibre layer in glaucoma assessment

How results are used

The thickness measurement and the appearance of the layers are compared with your previous scans. A reduction in fluid suggests treatment is working and intervals between injections may be extended. Persistent or increasing fluid may lead to a change in treatment. The scan is a tool to guide decisions, always read alongside your vision and examination.

Frequently asked questions

Is an OCT scan safe in pregnancy?: Yes. It uses light rather than radiation and no dye is injected, so it is considered safe.
Is it the same as a retinal photograph?: No. A photograph shows the surface view of the retina. OCT shows a cross section through its layers, so it detects fluid and thinning that a photograph cannot.

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