Studies of the distribution of lipofuscin in the retinal pigment epithelium using high-resolution TV laser scanning ophthalmoscopy

BACKGROUND: The fundus autofluorescence imaging technique has been modified allowing improved image resolution (768 x 572 pixel). We present results of fundus autofluorescence studies using this technique. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Fundus autofluorescence was studied in 286 eyes of 143 patients with retinitis pigmentosa, macular dystrophies and age-related macular degeneration using a confocal laser scanning ophthalmoscope prototype (Zeiss, Oberkochen; excitation wavelength: 488 nm, cut-off filter at 521 nm). RESULTS: The spatial distribution of autofluorescence was different in all diseased eyes investigated compared to the normal pattern of fundus autofluorescence. Each disorder showed a specific fundus autofluorescence appearance. CONCLUSIONS: The advanced technique of imaging fundus autofluorescence allows detailed studies of the lipofuscin distribution. In vivo analysis of the dynamics of accumulation and degradation of lipofuscin in eyes with tapeto-retinal dystrophies and age-related macular disease may contribute to elucidation of the pathogenesis of these disorders.