Effect of Hemodialysis on Peripapillary Choroidal Thickness Measured by Swept-Source Optical Coherence Tomography

Abstract

Purpose: The aim was to investigate the effects of hemodialysis (HD) on peripapillary choroidal thickness (PCT) by swept-source optical coherence tomography and on other ophthalmologic parameters in patients with end-stage kidney disease. Materials and Methods: This was a prospective observational study. The authors evaluated 29 patients who underwent HD for end-stage kidney disease. Detailed ophthalmologic examinations and swept-source optical coherence tomography were performed immediately before and after HD. PCT was measured using the modification tool in the built-in OCT image viewer program. Changes in PCT before and after HD were statistically analyzed. Results: The average PCT significantly decreased from 127.3 +/- 49.2 mu m before HD to 117.1 +/- 50.9 mu m after HD (P<0.001). A significant correlation was found between changes in PCT and macular choroidal thickness (rho=0.547, P=0.002). Changes in mean ocular perfusion pressure did not significantly correlate with changes in PCT (rho=-0.049, P=0.803). Conclusions: PCT significantly decreased after HD. HD could influence the optic nerve head and its surrounding structures.