Ocular imaging in diabetic retinopathy

Imaging of the fundus has revolutionized our understanding of the pathogenesis of diabetic retinopathy (DR), allowed standardized grading and follow-up with the ability to evaluate treatments in randomized clinical studies. Ocular imaging provides the tools for screening of diabetic individuals to detect and treat changes before vision loss. Modern instruments allow rapid in vivo imaging of the diabetic fundus using multiple modalities with higher resolution. Images can be transmitted, manipulated, analyzed, and graded with increasing ease. These imaging techniques are now entwined in the paradigms for newer treatments for DR. This paper aimed to provide a brief overview of current imaging modalities including conventional and digital fundus imaging, scanning laser ophthalmoscopy, fluorescein angiography, wide-field retinal imaging, and optical coherence tomography. Future developments in these imaging techniques are discussed.