Introduction The diagnostic potential of optical coherence tomography (OCT) in
neurological diseases is intensively discussed. Besides the sectional view of
the retina, modern OCT scanners produce a simultaneous top-view confocal
scanning laser ophthalmoscopy (cSLO) image including the option to evaluate
retinal vessels. A correct discrimination between arteries and veins
(labeling) is vital for detecting vascular differences between healthy
subjects and patients. Up to now, criteria for labeling (cSLO) images
generated by OCT scanners do not exist. Objective This study reviewed labeling
criteria originally developed for color fundus photography (CFP) images.
Methods The criteria were modified to reflect the cSLO technique, followed by
development of a protocol for labeling blood vessels. These criteria were
based on main aspects such as central light reflex, brightness, and vessel
thickness, as well as on some additional criteria such as vascular crossing
patterns and the context of the vessel tree. Results and Conclusion They
demonstrated excellent inter-rater agreement and validity, which seems to
indicate that labeling of images might no longer require more than one rater.
This algorithm extends the diagnostic possibilities offered by OCT
investigations
