[Corneal topography and keratoconus diagnostics with Scheimpflug photography]

Abstract

Background: Corneal Scheimpflug tomography is a commonly used non-invasive imaging technique.

Objectives: This review article summarizes the principles of the technique and recent results from the literature with a focus on keratoconus diagnostics.

Material and methods: Review of the literature, own data and expert opinions.

Results: Corneal Scheimpflug tomography allows topography of the anterior and posterior surfaces as well as spatially resolved pachymetry and densitometry. Measurements obtained with currently available systems are highly reproducible but not interchangeable. Combining topographic and pachymetric data allows a highly sensitive and specific diagnostic modality for the early diagnosis of keratoconus.

Conclusions: Due to the versatility, precision and easy handling, corneal Scheimpflug tomography is the most important imaging technique for the anterior segment of the eye.