Abstract

Summary

This study demonstrates the feasibility of Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) for non-invasive, in vivo imaging of raptor retinal structures across 12 species, validated against histological sections. The findings reveal species-specific retinal thickness differences between diurnal and nocturnal raptors, providing a baseline for detecting pathological retinal changes in avian ophthalmology.
Abstract

Key Findings

  • Total retinal thickness (TRT) and retinal nerve fiber layer plus ganglion cell layer (RNFL+GCL) were maximal in the region superior to the pecten oculi and decreased toward peripheral regions across all species.
  • TRT was greater in diurnal raptors compared to nocturnal raptors, while outer retina (OR) and RPE-ELM layer thickness values were greater in nocturnal raptors.
  • 56 wild raptors from 3 families and 12 species were examined; OCT findings were validated histologically in euthanized birds, confirming near-histological resolution of the imaging technique.
Categories

Categories

Eye Health & Vision: This study evaluates OCT imaging of retinal structures in raptors, contributing to understanding of retinal anatomy and imaging techniques applicable to eye health research.
Authors

Author(s)

ML Velasco Gallego
Publication Date

Publication Year

2015
Citations

Number of Citations

7
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