Chorioretinal topography and histopathology in laser-induced choroidal neovascularization

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the correspondence between topographic mapping of the vitreoretinal and chorioretinal surfaces in vivo and histopathology findings. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Choroidal neovascularization was induced in the retina of a primate by an argon laser. Serial optical section images of the retina were obtained using an optical imaging system based on the Retinal Thickness Analyzer. Topography of the vitreoretinal and chorioretinal surfaces was mapped. The animal was killed and the eyes enucleated for histopathologic examination. RESULTS: In the normal retina, the topography of the vitreoretinal surface showed a depression at the center of the fovea while the chorioretinal surface was relatively flat, corresponding to normal anatomy. In the retina with choroidal neovascularization, the topography of the vitreoretinal surface indicated a smooth elevation while there were irregular elevations in the topography of the chorioretinal surface. Histological sections displayed focal serous retinal detachment, metaplasia of retinal pigment epithelium, and choroidal neovascularization. CONCLUSION: Topographic mapping of the vitreoretinal and chorioretinal surfaces in vivo corresponds with histological findings and shows promise for quantitative evaluation of pathologic alterations caused by chorioretinal diseases.