Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is an imaging test that looks closely at the retina to obtain a virtual, non-invasive biopsy. Similar to a CAT scan, the OCT uses infrared light rather than x-rays to form a cross-sectional view of your retina. This detailed image of the retina allows Dr. Lovinggood to see the retina at a microscopic level and detect swelling in the retina. With OCT imaging, Dr. Lovinggood can see each of the retina’s distinctive layers. This allows her to map and measure their thickness. These measurements help with diagnosis. They also provide treatment guidance for glaucoma and diseases of the retina. These retinal diseases include age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and diabetic eye disease, or diabetic retinopathy.