Glaucoma specialists depend on the classification provided by the OCT machine for the retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL), macular thickness or the optic nerve head as normal or abnormal. We need accurate and reproducible measurements of such structures to utilize it for disease progression.

Different machines provide us with different software patterns by which data is acquired, which influences their results as well as our interpretation of the presented data. This course will describe the strategies and interpretations of the results of different OCT machines when used for glaucoma management.

Recognition of artifacts is critical for us to be able to interpret the data intelligently. Many artifacts can occur in the measurement of the retina in disease states such as uveitis, epiretinal membranes, diabetic retinopathy or macular degeneration. However, even in the absence of retinal pathology, artifacts do occur. We need to avoid making therapeutic decisions based on thickness measurements without first assessing scans for artifacts. Many examples of such artifacts will be shared.

Certain other non-glaucomatous ocular and systemic conditions manifest in changes of the RNFL, macular and optic nerve and masquerade as glaucoma. It is vital to be able to differentiate these from glaucoma. Multiple case examples will be shared.

OCT measurements used for monitoring glaucoma progression. The software strategies for such as well the artifacts that impact their interpretation will be discussed. Their co-relation to visual field testing will also be discussed.