Confocal scanning laser evaluation of repeated Q-switched laser exposure and possible retinal NFL damage

Harry Zwick; Donald A. Gagliano; Joseph A. Zuclich; Bruce E. Stuck; David J. Lund; Randolph D. Glickman

doi:10.1117/12.209933

22 May 1995 Confocal scanning laser evaluation of repeated Q-switched laser exposure and possible retinal NFL damage

Harry Zwick, Donald A. Gagliano, Joseph A. Zuclich, Bruce E. Stuck, David J. Lund, Randolph D. Glickman

Proceedings Volume 2391, Laser-Tissue Interaction VI; (1995) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.209933
Event: Photonics West '95, 1995, San Jose, CA, United States

Abstract

Repeated extended source Q-switched exposure centered on the macula has been shown to produce a Bullseye maculopathy. This paper provides a confocal scanning laser ophthalmoscopic evaluation with regard to the retinal nerve fiber layer (NFL) and deeper choroidal vascular network. Confocal imaging revealed that the punctate annular appearance of this lesion in the deeper retinal layers is associated with retinal nerve fiber bundle disruptions and small gaps in the retinal NFL. No choroidal dysfunction was noticed with Indocyanine green angiography. It is hypothesized that retinal NFL damage occurs either through disruption of retinal pigment epithelial cell layer support to the NFL or through direct exposure to high spatial peak powers within the extended source beam profile, causing direct microthermal injury to the NFL. The apparent sparring of the fovea reflects central retinal morphology rather than a lack of retinal damage to the fovea.

Citation Download Citation

Harry Zwick, Donald A. Gagliano, Joseph A. Zuclich, Bruce E. Stuck, David J. Lund, and Randolph D. Glickman "Confocal scanning laser evaluation of repeated Q-switched laser exposure and possible retinal NFL damage", Proc. SPIE 2391, Laser-Tissue Interaction VI, (22 May 1995); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.209933

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