New study investigates correlation between imaging technologies for congenital corneal opacity

Although swept-source anterior segment optical coherence tomography (AS-OCT) offers valuable preliminary data for assessing congenital corneal opacity (CCO), it may not consistently provide precise assessments in all cases, according to a study that highlights the importance of using ultrasound biomicroscopy (UBM) for definitive evaluation, particularly in cases where AS-OCT fails to provide detailed information.

The investigation included children with unilateral or bilateral CCO who underwent examination under anesthesia (EUA) along with AS-OCT imaging. A total of 22 eyes from 15 patients were analyzed.

Results indicated a significant correlation between AS-OCT and UBM findings in 82% of cases. However, in 18% of cases, AS-OCT failed to provide detailed information that UBM revealed. Phenotypes identified included Peters anomaly, congenital corneal staphyloma, coloboma, peripheral sclerocornea, and congenital primary aphakia.

The researchers emphasized that while AS-OCT offers valuable preliminary data, it may not consistently provide precise assessments in all cases, and therefore, UBM should be considered for definitive evaluation.

Reference
Yangzes S, Kaushik S, Malhotra C, et al. Correlation of anterior segment optical coherence tomography and ultrasound biomicroscopy in congenital corneal opacity. J AAPOS. 2024 Mar103863. doi: 10.1016/j.jaapos.2024.103863. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 38458600.