Ricerc@Sapienza

PURPOSE:
To investigate the risk factors predictive for the development of neovascular age-related macular degeneration (NVAMD) by means of spectral-domain optical coherence tomography.
METHODS:
Retrospective study of 73 eyes graded Stage 2 and Stage 3 according to the AMD International Grading System with minimum follow-up of 24 months. Drusenoid pigment epithelial detachment, hyperreflective foci, external limiting membrane, inner ellipsoid band, and retinal pigment epithelium integrity were analyzed at baseline and last follow-up. Binary logistic regression model analyzed significant predictors of neovascular conversion.
RESULTS:
The discontinuity of external limiting membrane, inner ellipsoid band, and retinal pigment epithelium bands were significantly more prevalent in the NVAMD group at baseline and last follow-up (P CONCLUSION:
Hyperreflective foci significantly increase the risk of NVAMD progression. The delta width of drusenoid pigment epithelial detachment also predicts disease progression, integrating the stratification of NVAMD progression risk.