Structure-function relationships using the Cirrus spectral domain optical coherence tomograph and standard automated perimetry.

PURPOSE

To evaluate the relationship between glaucomatous structural damage assessed by the Cirrus Spectral Domain OCT (SDOCT) and functional loss as measured by standard automated perimetry (SAP).

METHODS

Four hundred twenty-two eyes (78 healthy, 210 suspects, 134 glaucomatous) of 250 patients were recruited from the longitudinal Diagnostic Innovations in Glaucoma Study and from the African Descent and Glaucoma Evaluation Study. All eyes underwent testing with the Cirrus SDOCT and SAP within a 6-month period. The relationship between parapapillary retinal nerve fiber layer thickness (RNFL) sectors and corresponding topographic SAP locations was evaluated using locally weighted scatterplot smoothing and regression analysis. SAP sensitivity values were evaluated using both linear as well as logarithmic scales. We also tested the fit of a model (Hood) for structure-function relationship in glaucoma.

RESULTS

Structure was significantly related to function for all but the nasal thickness sector. The relationship was strongest for superotemporal RNFL thickness and inferonasal sensitivity (R(2)=0.314, P<0.001). The Hood model fitted the data relatively well with 88% of the eyes inside the 95% confidence interval predicted by the model.

CONCLUSIONS

RNFL thinning measured by the Cirrus SDOCT was associated with correspondent visual field loss in glaucoma.