Macular disease and optical coherence tomography.

Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is a new diagnostic tool for high-resolution cross-sectional imaging of the retina. By measuring the "echo" delay time of light as it reflects from tissue at different ranges and by performing multiple axial scans in the transverse direction, OCT generates two-dimensional images detailing retinal architecture. OCT is a powerful new modality because it has a longitudinal resolution of 10 microns in the retina, which is superior to other currently available imaging techniques. Examinations are exceptionally tolerable for patients because OCT is noninvasive, the probe beam is near-infrared and thus not very bright, and scan acquisition time is only 2.5 seconds. OCT appears to be a useful device for evaluating a variety of retinal diseases, including macular holes, macular edema, and central serous chorioretinopathy.