Retinal optical coherence tomography angiography imaging in population studies for study of microvascular dysfunction in Alzheimer's disease and related dementias.

INTRODUCTION

Widespread use of retinal optical coherence tomography angiography (OCT-A) imaging requires methodological and analytical consensus to ensure reproducible and accurate results in epidemiological studies on Alzheimer's disease and related dementias (ADRD).

METHODS

A consensus framework for assessment of fovea-centered 3 × 3-mm and 6 × 6-mm OCT-A image quality was developed, and reproducibility was reported. Agreement was assessed for overall image quality and image quality relevant for vessel density (VD) quantification and foveal avascular zone (FAZ) metrics. An analytic framework was also developed.

RESULTS

Intergrader agreements for overall 3 × 3 mm image quality and quantitative assessment of VD and FAZ ranged between 71% and 87% (52 images). Intragrader agreements ranged between 82% and 93% (n = 27 images). Intergrader agreements were similar for 6 × 6-mm images. Three analytic scenarios were developed to account for bias that may result from image quality and ocular comorbidities.

DISCUSSION

These recommendations provide a framework for working with OCT-A imaging in epidemiological studies on ADRD.

HIGHLIGHTS

Multicentric consensus on quality criteria for use of optical coherence tomography angiography (OCT-A) images in population studies was achieved, considering commonly used protocols acquired with commercially available devices (Heidelberg, Zeiss, and Topcon). Considerable inter- and intrarater agreement was achieved for assessment of OCT-A image quality. A framework for harmonized data analyses was designed. Standardized analyses may accelerate the development of scalable retinal imaging biomarkers for ADRD.