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Optical coherence tomography angiography-derived flow density: a review of the influencing factors

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Abstract

Research interest in the possibility of quantifying macular and optic nerve head perfusion through optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) is rapidly advancing. Numerous scientific trials have furthered our understanding of the capabilities and the limitations of this novel technology, while applying OCTA to various ocular pathologies. In recent years, different parameters such as age, gender, intraocular pressure, spherical equivalent, physical activity, systemic diseases, and medication have been shown to have a significant impact on quantitative OCTA metrics. Since OCTA is likely to remain a “hot topic” in the near future, it is crucial to be aware of influencing factors in order to ensure correct interpretation of imaging results. This article reviews the factors currently known to influence flow density (FD) as measured by OCTA in healthy eyes.

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Acknowledgments

V.B. acknowledges support from the Deanship of the University of Münster, North Rhine-Westphalia in Germany.

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  1. Department of Ophthalmology, University of Muenster Medical Center, Albert-Schweitzer-Campus 1, Building D15, 48149, Muenster, Germany

    Viktoria C. Brücher, Jens J. Storp, Nicole Eter & Maged Alnawaiseh

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Brücher, V.C., Storp, J.J., Eter, N. et al. Optical coherence tomography angiography-derived flow density: a review of the influencing factors. Graefes Arch Clin Exp Ophthalmol 258, 701–710 (2020). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00417-019-04553-2

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