New developments in optical coherence tomography for glaucoma.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Structural imaging is becoming a powerful adjunct for the diagnosis and progression of glaucoma. There are several competing technologies in this arena. Optical coherence tomography continues to evolve at a fast pace, so it can be challenging to keep up with the latest information. This review covers the recent papers relevant to optical coherence tomography for glaucoma.

RECENT FINDINGS: Retinal nerve fiber layer imaging by optical coherence tomography is reliable. Age, ethnicity, axial length and optic disc size can affect the machine's normative range. Scan quality can be affected by movement, media opacities, myopia and severity of disease. The sensitivity and specificity are variable across multiple studies. Despite this, the technology is beginning to help us understand the structure-function relationship in glaucoma.

SUMMARY: The next generation optical coherence tomography is around the corner. By understanding the current strengths and limitations of this advancing technology, one can better assess its use in clinical practice.