Automated Detection of Sickle Cell Retinopathy
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Automated detection of sickle cell retinopathy using wide field fundus images and optical coherence tomography
IRAS ID
286667
Contact name
Riaz Asaria
Contact email
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 10 months, 13 days
Research summary
Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a set of inherited disorders that impact the ability of red blood cells to carry oxygen. Sickle cell retinopathy (SCR) is the most common eye issue associated with SCD, caused by sickle-shaped cells blocking the small blood vessels in the eye. If not treated, it can lead to complications such as retinal detachment and vision loss. It is recommended that patients with SCD undergo annual eye screening, which involves using wide field optical coherence tomography.
Our goal is to gather wide field OCT images of patients currently being screened for sickle cell retinopathy at the Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust and the Whittington Health NHS Trust. Additionally, we will look back and gather images taken using field OCT images for sickle cell patients who attended the eye services before the start of the study and therefore gather some imaging data retrospectively.
Using both traditional statistical methods and advanced artificial intelligence learning methods, we aim to create a computer program capable of interpreting wide field OCT images and automatically identifying sickle cell retinopathy. The ultimate aim is to use this algorithm for screening outside of busy ophthalmology clinics, reduce the number of images requiring review by ophthalmologists, and potentially detect retinopathy at earlier stages, leading to improved visual outcomes.
REC name
East Midlands - Nottingham 2 Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
23/EM/0286
Date of REC Opinion
30 Jan 2024
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion