Multispectral diagnostic imaging of the iris

Lukic, Ana

Abstract

? The objective of this project is to develop an initial prototype of a new diagnostic imaging device for use by eye care practitioners. Research in this Phase I SBIR project will focus on feasibility issues relating to technical development of the imaging instrumentation and image processing approaches required. If successful, the proposed instrument will permit visualization of eye disease in cases where detection is difficult or impossible by currently available technology. Specifically, the instrument we envision will detect, quantify, and report information obtained by multispectral imaging of the iris using visible and near-infrared transillumination (i.e., light directed through the skin, then reflected out through the iris from within the eye). Visible-light transillumination, with visual evaluation by the practitioner, is routinely used in clinical practice. However, this approach suffers from low sensitivity, especially when the subject has dark-colored irides and/or when the disease is in its early stages or is otherwise subtle. We propose that multispectral digital imaging, with automated image analysis, will be a major step forward for evaluation of diseases of the iris. The anticipated advantages of this approach lie not only in improved diagnostic performance, but also in the benefits offered by digital imaging, including automated image analysis, archiving and reporting of results, and longitudinal tracking of disease progression. The device is expected to have clinical importance for the following disorders: pigmentary dispersion syndrome and secondary glaucoma, Fuchs' heterochromic iridocyclitis, ocular albinism in infants, and iridociliary cysts. ? ?