Optic Disc and Nerve Fiber Layer Assessment Using Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT)
This test measures the structure of your optic nerve and the nerve fibers at the back of your eye using a specialized imaging technique called Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT). It helps assess eye health and detect early signs of conditions like glaucoma.
OCT imaging can help identify potential eye problems early, often before you notice symptoms.
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 71487-3
- Short code
- Opt disc ret nerv abnor Eye-R Ophthal
- Synonyms
- Opt disc ret nerv abnor Eye-R Ophthal
- Category
- coagulation
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0.8
- Ref high
- 1.2
- Critical range
- — – 5 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- ophthalmoscopy
- CPT
- 85610
- SNOMED
- 396252006
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What Does This Test Measure?
The OCT test creates detailed cross-sectional images of your optic nerve head (the optic disc) and the nerve fiber layer (NFL). These images show the thickness and health of the nerve fibers that transmit visual information from your eyes to your brain. Changes in these layers can indicate nerve damage or other eye conditions.
Why Is This Test Important?
This test is primarily used in the evaluation and monitoring of glaucoma and other optic neuropathies. It helps doctors track changes in your eye health over time, especially if you have a family history of eye diseases or symptoms like vision changes or eye pain.
How Is This Test Performed?
You will sit in a comfortable chair with your head positioned securely. A handheld device will gently scan your eye using a low-level laser. The scan takes about 1-2 minutes, and you may hear a soft whirring sound. No eye drops are typically needed, but your doctor may instruct you to dilate your pupils beforehand if needed.
What Should You Expect Before or After the Test?
Before the test, you may be asked to avoid wearing contact lenses for a few hours if instructed by your eye care provider. After the test, you may experience mild blurry vision due to pupil dilation, which usually improves within a few hours. You can resume normal activities immediately.
Reference range
INR: 0.8-1.2 (warfarin: 2.0-3.0)N/A
Inform your healthcare provider if you are taking blood thinners. No special preparation required.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance: This test is critical for diagnosing and managing conditions that affect the optic nerve, such as glaucoma, which can lead to permanent vision loss if untreated. Early detection through OCT can help preserve vision and guide treatment decisions. It is also useful in monitoring the progression of other eye diseases or nerve-related conditions in patients with known risk factors.
Frequently asked questions
How often should I get this test if I have no symptoms?
What are the common symptoms that might lead to this test?
Is this test painful or uncomfortable?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy