PURPOSE: To investigate morphologic age-related changes in the human choroid and quantify choriocapillaris density and diameter, Bruch's membrane and entire choroid thickness. MATERIAL AND METHODS: 45 human eyes (aged from 17 to 84) were examined. After fixation of the eyeballs, cross-sections were done and the material was processed for light and electron transmission microscopy. Histomorphometric analysis was performed using H + E slides. Four measurements were performed in each slide at the area of 1000 microns located 4.5 mm temporally from the center of optic disc: Bruch's membrane thickness, longer and shorter diameter of the choriocapillaris, and thickness of the choroid. Statistical analysis was performed. RESULTS: In light and electron microscopy age-related changes were observed at the level of the retinal pigment epithelium, Bruch's membrane, choriocapillaris, and vessels of Sattler's and Haller's layer. Histomorphometric relationships between analyzed features were demonstrated at correlation diagrams. CONCLUSIONS: Age-related thickening of Bruch's membrane, decreased density and diameter of choriocapillaris, and also thinning of the entire choroid was observed.
PURPOSE: To investigate morphologic age-related changes in the human choroid and quantify choriocapillaris density and diameter, Bruch's membrane and entire choroid thickness. MATERIAL AND METHODS: 45 human eyes (aged from 17 to 84) were examined. After fixation of the eyeballs, cross-sections were done and the material was processed for light and electron transmission microscopy. Histomorphometric analysis was performed using H + E slides. Four measurements were performed in each slide at the area of 1000 microns located 4.5 mm temporally from the center of optic disc: Bruch's membrane thickness, longer and shorter diameter of the choriocapillaris, and thickness of the choroid. Statistical analysis was performed. RESULTS: In light and electron microscopy age-related changes were observed at the level of the retinal pigment epithelium, Bruch's membrane, choriocapillaris, and vessels of Sattler's and Haller's layer. Histomorphometric relationships between analyzed features were demonstrated at correlation diagrams. CONCLUSIONS: Age-related thickening of Bruch's membrane, decreased density and diameter of choriocapillaris, and also thinning of the entire choroid was observed.