Opening of Blood–Ocular Barrier Demonstrated by Contrast-Enhanced MR Imaging

Abstract

Opening of the blood-ocular barrier following infusion of hyperosmolar agents into the internal carotid artery has been demonstrated by gadolinium enhanced magnetic resonance (MR) imaging. In five rhesus monkeys the disruption of the barrier was shown as increased signal intensity within the aqueous and vitreous humors. These findings suggest a potential use of contrast-enhanced MR imaging for detecting and evaluating the ocular microangiopathy of diabetic and hypertensive retinopathy and other diseases.