September 11, 2004. Hi-tech images of the retina could allow
earlier diagnosis of eye diseases, researchers suggest. The
spectral imaging technique enables doctors to spot changes in
blood vessels in the eye. The Heriot Watt University researchers
who developed it said it could help detect glaucoma, diabetic
retinopathy and age-related macular degeneration. Details of the
imaging technique were presented to the Institute of Physics
conference in Glasgow. Anything which can safely help to
identify diabetic retinopathy at an early stage is to be
welcomed Natasha Ede, Diabetes UK It is estimated that by 2020,
there will be 200m visually impaired people in the world, but
80% could be prevented or treated. The spectral imaging
technique uses a standard ophthalmoscope which has been adapted
so it can take a series of images of the retina at specific
wavelengths. It shows how oxygenated the blood flowing out of
the retina is. The higher the oxygenation level, the less
healthy the retina. Spotting this early allows d