Introduction
The macula is a small area of the retina located at the posterior pole of the eye. It is responsible for the central portion of the visual field, which is responsible for seeing fine detail, color perception and the ability to differentiate between light and dark. The macula is composed of several layers of cells, including the photoreceptor cells, the retinal pigment epithelium, and the retinal nerve fiber layer. The function of the macula is to provide sharp, high acuity central vision.
Methods
To study the macula, several imaging techniques are available. Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) is a non-invasive imaging technique that allows for the visualization of the macula and its layers. Fluorescein angiography is a technique used to evaluate the vascular supply to the macula. Fundus autofluorescence (FAF) is a technique used to assess macular autofluorescence or metabolic activity.
Results
The macula is an important structure in the eye that provides central vision. It is composed of several layers of cells, including the photoreceptor cells, the retinal pigment epithelium, and the retinal nerve fiber layer. Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT), fluorescein angiography, and fundus autofluorescence (FAF) are imaging techniques used to assess the macula.
Conclusion
The macula is an important structure in the eye and is responsible for providing sharp, high acuity central vision. Several imaging techniques can be used to study the macula, including OCT, fluorescein angiography, and FAF.
References
Fujimoto, J. G., & Fujimoto, J. G. (2015). Optical coherence tomography. An introduction, 2nd ed. Berlin: Springer.
Khademi, M., & Wirostko, W. J. (2015). Fundus autofluorescence: A review. Survey of Ophthalmology, 60(6), 583-594.
Rappaport, E. F., & Miller, M. A. (2017). Fluorescein angiography. Optometry and Vision Science, 94(2), 143-152.