Background: 

Fluorescein angiography (FLAG) became a standard and essential diagnostic tool, especially in diabetic retinopathy (DR). Our computer program, developed for semi-automatic analysis (Dendron Pro Ret) of vascular ramification, enabled us to define a set of structural parameters resulting in a more powerful diagnosis of DR.

Materials and Method: 

FLAG was performed on 12 DR patiens of different age and gender (TOPCON TRC-50IX – 5 ml of 10 % Na-fluorescein i.v.). Series of pictures were taken from the 5^th to the 30^th sec of session and fed into a PC. First step of offline computerized analysis distincts the silhouette of vessels from the background. On the separated arterial and venous profiles, the contour- and midline of all the well presented branches are generated. An abundant set of geometrical parameters are then calculated for the branching areas and internode/terminal sections: i, general thickness, local strictures, and courseness of intersections, ii, angles, symmetry and related mouths thicknesses of branching points.

Results: 

Variable set of the above structural parameters apparently promote the diagnosis and follow up of DR and objective judgement of therapic interventions. Similarly, it can enhance the relevance of clinical pharmacologic trials. Refined classification of the different forms and stages of the illness can also be resulted.

Conclusions:

Multiparametricstructural analysis of retinal vessels appears to be a useful clinical diagnostic tool. As spaceflight induced microgravity changes result in cephalad fluid shifts, retinal angiography might provide insight into accompanying cerebral blood flow changes.