Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) is a sensitive, noninvasive test used to create high-resolution images of the central retina (macula). OCT uses light (not X-ray) that is shone onto and reflected by the different layers of the retina to measure thickness and to detect the extent of various conditions which affect the macula. Macular edema causes the retina to be abnormally thickened. Active wet macular degeneration is characterized by the presence of fluid under and within the central retina while Macular puckering causes distortion on the surface of the retina. OCT also clearly shows the size and extent of macular holes. OCT images are quite useful for monitoring disease progression and response to therapy.
