Semiautomatic detection and evaluation of autofluorescent areas in retinal images.

A semiautomatic approach to the detection and evaluation of the autofluorescent zones in retinal images, recognized as having a diagnostic value, has been designed based on fusing information from two Heidelberg Retina Angiograph imaging modalities - autofluorescent and infrared modes. The procedure, initiated by automatic preprocessing and region-of-interest determination continues by manually initiated segmentation via constrained region growing and ends with evaluating the size and geometrical coordinates of the AF regions with respect to the centre of the optic disc. Results are compared with those obtained by experienced ophthalmologists.