Age-Related Differences of Optical Coherence Tomography Data in Koreans

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is a new imaging technique that can provide cross-sectional images of the retina. This study was designed to evaluate the thickness of the retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) and optic nerve head shape in normal eyes using OCT. METHODS: A total of 134 normal Korean volunteers in different age groups (age range, 10-50 years) were recruited for this study. Fifty-nine males and 75 females were enrolled. The mean age of the subjects was 24.0+/-12.91 years. RESULTS: At optic disc scan, the horizontal and vertical C/D ratios were 0.55 and 0.48, respectively, which were statistically significant (p<0.05). A significant positive correlation with increasing age was identified in the C/D area ratio and horizontal C/D ratio. According to the RNFL scan, the inferior and superior areas were significantly thicker than the nasal and superior areas. These areas were thinner with age. In addition, RNFL thickness in the superonasal, inferotemporal and superotemporal areas differed between subjects under 20 years old and those over 21 years old. CONCLUSIONS: We determined that RNFL thickness and optic nerve head shape in normal Koreans had age-related differences. These results could provide correctness with OCT scan in glaucoma patients.