Research Progress of OCT and OCTA Imaging Features in Retinal Vein Occlusion

Abstract

Retinal vein occlusion (RVO) is the occlusion of the retinal venous system by thrombosis. It is the second most common retinal vascular disease and an important cause of visual loss and impairment. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is a reliable imaging examination for the diagnosis of macular edema caused by RVO, which can qualitatively and quantitatively evaluate the structure of each layer of the retina. Optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) enables noninvasive, depth selective visualization of retinal and choroidal vascular networks by detecting intra-vinal blood flow, resulting in three-dimensional high-resolution images that cannot be achieved with conventional fluorescein angiography (FFA). Therefore, OCTA can be used to observe micro-perfusion of retinal and choroidal vessels, as well as changes in retinal and choroidal vessels during different pathological types and treatments. This article reviews the application of OCT and OCTA imaging features in the development of RVO and its anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) therapy, in order to provide reference for assessing the severity of RVO, adjusting the treatment plan and judging the prognosis of the disease.