Slit lamp microscope, ophthalmic information processing device, ophthalmic system, control method for slit lamp microscope, and recording medium

Abstract

A slit lamp microscope according to an exemplary embodiment includes a scanning unit and a data processing unit. The scanning unit collects multiple cross-sectional images by scanning the anterior segment of a subject's eye with slit light. The data processing unit generates opacity distribution information indicating the distribution of opacities in the lens of the subject's eye based on the multiple cross-sectional images collected by the scanning unit.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a slit lamp microscope, an ophthalmological information processing device, an ophthalmological system, a control method for the slit lamp microscope, and a recording medium. Background Art

[0002] Diagnostic imaging plays a vital role in ophthalmology. Various ophthalmic imaging devices are used for diagnostic imaging, including slit lamp microscopes, fundus cameras, scanning laser ophthalmoscopy (SLO), and optical coherence tomography (OCT).

[0003] One of the most widely used and frequently used ophthalmic devices is the slit lamp microscope, which illuminates the eye with slit light and observes or photographs the illuminated cross-section from an oblique or lateral angle (see, for example, Patent Documents 1 to 3).

[0004] One of the main uses of a slit lamp microscope is observing the anterior ocular segment. During this procedure, the doctor observes the entire anterior ocular segment while adjusting the illumination area and focal position of the slit lamp to determine if there are any abnormalities. Slit lamp microscopes are also sometimes used to confirm the condition of contact lenses during trial fitting, for example, when prescribing vision correction devices.

[0005] The anterior ocular segment can be observed using the transillumination method (see, for example, Patent Document 3). Transillumination is an observation method that uses the reflection of illuminating light from the retina to depict the state of the eye. Typically, the opacities of the lens are depicted as shadows of the light reflected from the retina. The image obtained by transillumination is called a transillumination image. Transillumination is a common method widely used to observe cataracts, but it has the following problems.

[0006] First, because it uses reflected light from the retina, it's difficult to manage the brightness of the through-illumination image and manage (control and adjust) the image quality, making it unsuitable for quantitative diagnosis. Consequently, diagnosis using through-illumination relies heavily on the subjectivity of the image reader, making it impossible to objectively assess the grade of cataracts, for example. Furthermore, while automated image analysis using analysis programs and machine learning has advanced rapidly in recent years, the difficulty of managing image quality is one factor hindering its application to through-illumination images.

[0007] Second, a problem exists: a through-illumination image is a two-dimensional image (projected image, projected image) using the fundus as a secondary light source. It lacks depth information (depth direction, Z direction), making it impossible to determine the three-dimensional distribution of opacity. Specifically, a through-illumination image only provides the distribution of opacity in the XY plane, which is orthogonal to the Z direction, and cannot provide information about the distribution of opacity in the Z direction.

[0008] Prior art literature

[0009] Patent Literature

[0010] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2016-159073

[0011] Patent Document 2: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2016-179004

[0012] Patent Document 3: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2009-56149 Summary of the Invention

[0013] An object of the present invention is to provide a novel ophthalmic observation method that eliminates the disadvantages of the transillumination method.

[0014] A slit lamp microscope according to some exemplary embodiments includes: a scanning unit that collects a plurality of cross-sectional images by scanning the anterior segment of a subject's eye with slit light; and a data processing unit that generates turbidity distribution information indicating distribution of turbid portions of a lens based on the plurality of cross-sectional images.

[0015] In some exemplary embodiments of the slit lamp microscope, the data processing unit includes: a lens image construction unit that constructs a three-dimensional lens image from the multiple cross-sectional images; and a turbidity distribution information generation unit that generates the turbidity distribution information by analyzing the three-dimensional lens image.

[0016] In some exemplary embodiments of the slit lamp microscope, the lens image construction unit includes: a first reconstruction unit that applies three-dimensional reconstruction to the multiple cross-sectional images collected by the scanning unit; and a first segmentation unit that specifies the three-dimensional lens image by applying segmentation to the three-dimensional reconstructed image constructed by the first reconstruction unit.

[0017] In some exemplary embodiments of the slit lamp microscope, the lens image construction unit includes: a second segmentation unit that specifies a two-dimensional lens image by applying segmentation to each of the multiple cross-sectional images collected by the scanning unit; and a second reconstruction unit that constructs the three-dimensional lens image by applying three-dimensional reconstruction to the multiple two-dimensional lens images specified by the second segmentation unit.

[0018] In some exemplary embodiments of the slit lamp microscope, the turbidity distribution information generating unit includes: a local distribution information generating unit that generates local distribution information representing the distribution of turbidity in each of the multiple three-dimensional partial regions of the three-dimensional lens image.

[0019] In the slit lamp microscope of some exemplary embodiments, the data processing unit includes a turbidity distribution map creating unit that creates a turbidity distribution map based on the plurality of local distribution information generated by the local distribution information generating unit.

[0020] In the slit lamp microscope of some exemplary embodiments, the turbidity distribution map indicates a depth position of a turbid portion in each of the plurality of three-dimensional partial regions.

[0021] In some exemplary embodiments of the slit lamp microscope, the turbidity distribution map is represented by a two-dimensional coordinate system in which a first coordinate axis represents a depth direction and a second coordinate axis represents a direction orthogonal to the depth direction.

[0022] In some exemplary embodiments of the slit lamp microscope, the plurality of three-dimensional partial regions are obtained by performing equal-angle segmentation on the three-dimensional lens image in a plane orthogonal to the depth direction, and the second coordinate axis represents an angular direction in the equal-angle segmentation.

[0023] In some exemplary embodiments of the slit lamp microscope, the data processing unit includes: a first transmittance distribution information generating unit that generates transmittance distribution information representing light transmittance distribution of the lens based on the plurality of local distribution information generated by the local distribution information generating unit.

[0024] In the slit lamp microscope of some exemplary embodiments, the data processing unit includes a first transmittance distribution map creating unit that creates a transmittance distribution map based on the transmittance distribution information generated by the first transmittance distribution information generating unit.

[0025] In the slit lamp microscope of some exemplary embodiments, the data processing unit includes a second transmittance distribution map creating unit that creates a transmittance distribution map representing light transmittance distribution of the lens based on the turbidity distribution map created by the turbidity distribution map creating unit.

[0026] In some exemplary embodiments of the slit lamp microscope, the data processing unit includes: a second transmittance distribution information generating unit, which generates, for each of the multiple three-dimensional partial regions, transmittance distribution information representing the light transmittance distribution of the lens by dividing the area of the turbid portion in the corresponding three-dimensional partial region defined in the two-dimensional coordinate system by the area of the corresponding three-dimensional partial region.

[0027] In the slit lamp microscope of some exemplary embodiments, the data processing unit includes: a third transmittance distribution map creating unit that creates a transmittance distribution map based on the transmittance distribution information generated by the second transmittance distribution information generating unit.

[0028] In some exemplary embodiments of the slit lamp microscope, the data processing unit includes a rendering unit configured to apply rendering to the three-dimensional image including the three-dimensional lens image.

[0029] In the slit lamp microscope of some exemplary embodiments, the rendering unit applies a projection onto a predetermined plane to the three-dimensional image.

[0030] In some exemplary embodiments of the slit lamp microscope, the predetermined plane is orthogonal to the depth direction.

[0031] The slit lamp microscope according to some exemplary embodiments includes a first display control unit configured to superimpose one of the rendered image constructed by the rendering unit and the information based on the turbidity distribution information on the first display device and display the superimposed image on the first display device.

[0032] The slit lamp microscope of some exemplary embodiments includes a second display control unit configured to superimpose one of the two-dimensional image constructed by the projection and the distribution image based on the turbidity distribution information on the other and display the superimposed images on a second display device.

[0033] In some exemplary embodiments of the slit lamp microscope, the data processing unit includes: a first time-varying information generating unit that generates first time-varying information indicating time-varying distribution of the opacity of the lens based on a plurality of opacity distribution information of the anterior ocular segment.

[0034] In some exemplary embodiments of the slit lamp microscope, the data processing unit includes: a second time-varying information generating unit configured to generate second time-varying information indicating time-varying light transmittance distribution of the lens based on the transmittance distribution information.

[0035] The slit lamp microscope according to some exemplary embodiments includes a third display control unit configured to display a graph indicating temporal changes in light transmittance in each of the plurality of three-dimensional partial regions on a third display device based on the second temporal change information.

[0036] In some exemplary embodiments of the slit lamp microscope, the data processing unit includes: a normalization unit that applies normalization to the multiple cross-sectional images collected by the scanning unit, and the data processing unit generates the turbidity distribution information based on the multiple cross-sectional images to which the normalization is applied.

[0037] In the slit lamp microscope according to some exemplary embodiments, the normalization unit applies brightness normalization to the plurality of cross-sectional images.

[0038] In the slit lamp microscope of some exemplary embodiments, the normalizing section performs the brightness normalization on the plurality of cross-sectional images based on the brightness of an image corresponding to the posterior surface of the cornea of the anterior ocular segment.

[0039] In some exemplary embodiments of the slit lamp microscope, the slit light includes visible light, and the normalization unit applies color normalization to the plurality of cross-sectional images.

[0040] In some exemplary embodiments of the slit lamp microscope, the data processing unit includes an evaluation unit configured to evaluate a predetermined cataract index based on at least one of the plurality of cross-sectional images and the turbidity distribution information.

[0041] In some exemplary embodiments of the slit lamp microscope, the slit light includes white light, and the evaluation unit evaluates the hardness of the lens nucleus based on color information of the plurality of cross-sectional images.

[0042] In the slit lamp microscope of some exemplary embodiments, the evaluation section estimates the type of cataract based on the turbidity distribution information.

[0043] In the slit lamp microscope of some exemplary embodiments, the data processing section includes a simulation section that performs simulation according to a visual recognition state of the eye to be inspected based on the turbidity distribution information.

[0044] In some exemplary embodiments of the slit lamp microscope, the data processing unit includes a measuring unit configured to measure predetermined anterior ocular parameters based on the plurality of cross-sectional images.

[0045] In some exemplary embodiments of the slit lamp microscope, the anterior ocular parameters include at least one of corneal thickness, corneal curvature, anterior chamber depth, lens thickness, lens curvature, lens diameter, lens tilt angle, and offset between the center of the cornea and the center of the lens.

[0046] In some exemplary embodiments of the slit lamp microscope, the scanning unit includes: an illumination system that irradiates the slit light toward the anterior ocular segment; a photographing system that photographs the anterior ocular segment from a direction different from that of the illumination system; and a moving mechanism that moves the illumination system and the photographing system.

[0047] In some exemplary embodiments of the slit lamp microscope, the imaging system includes: an optical system that guides light from the anterior ocular portion illuminated by the slit light; and a imaging element that receives the light guided by the optical system on a imaging surface, and the object plane along the optical axis of the illumination system, the optical system, and the imaging surface satisfy the Xiang Furu condition.

[0048] The slit lamp microscope according to some exemplary embodiments includes a fourth display control unit configured to display information on a fourth display device based on the output from the data processing unit.

[0049] An ophthalmic information processing apparatus according to some exemplary embodiments includes: a receiving unit that receives a plurality of cross-sectional images collected by scanning the anterior segment of a subject's eye with slit light; and a data processing unit that generates, based on the plurality of cross-sectional images, turbidity distribution information indicating the distribution of turbid portions of the lens.

[0050] Some exemplary embodiments of an ophthalmologic system include a slit lamp microscope and an information processing device. The slit lamp microscope includes a scanning unit that collects multiple cross-sectional images by scanning the anterior segment of a subject's eye with slit light; and a transmitting unit that transmits the multiple cross-sectional images collected by the scanning unit to the information processing device via a communication line. The information processing device includes a receiving unit that receives the multiple cross-sectional images; and a data processing unit that generates opacity distribution information indicating the distribution of opacities in the lens based on the multiple cross-sectional images.

[0051] The method of some exemplary embodiments is a method of controlling a slit lamp microscope, which includes a processor and a scanning unit that collects multiple cross-sectional images by scanning the anterior part of the eye to be inspected with slit light, wherein the control method of the slit lamp microscope causes the processor to perform processing to generate turbidity distribution information representing the distribution of cloudy parts of the lens based on the multiple cross-sectional images collected by the scanning unit.

[0052] The program of some exemplary embodiments causes a computer to execute the method of any embodiment.

[0053] The recording medium of some exemplary embodiments is a computer-readable non-transitory recording medium having the program of any one of the embodiments recorded thereon.

[0054] According to the ophthalmic observation method provided by the exemplary embodiment, it is possible to manage the brightness of an image and provide three-dimensional information. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0055] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram showing the structure of a slit lamp microscope according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0056] Figure 2A is a schematic diagram for explaining the operation of the slit lamp microscope according to the exemplary embodiment.

[0057] Figure 2B is a schematic diagram for explaining the operation of the slit lamp microscope according to the exemplary embodiment.

[0058] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram for explaining the operation of the slit lamp microscope according to the exemplary embodiment.

[0059] Figure 4is a schematic diagram showing the structure of a slit lamp microscope according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0060] Figure 5A is a schematic diagram showing the structure of a slit lamp microscope according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0061] Figure 5B is a schematic diagram showing the structure of a slit lamp microscope according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0062] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram showing the structure of a slit lamp microscope according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0063] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram showing the structure of a slit lamp microscope according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0064] Figure 8A is a schematic diagram showing the structure of a slit lamp microscope according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0065] Figure 8B is a schematic diagram showing the structure of a slit lamp microscope according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0066] Figure 8C is a schematic diagram showing the structure of a slit lamp microscope according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0067] Figure 9A is a schematic diagram showing the structure of a slit lamp microscope according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0068] Figure 9B is a schematic diagram showing the structure of a slit lamp microscope according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0069] Figure 10A is a schematic diagram showing the structure of a slit lamp microscope according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0070] Figure 10B is a schematic diagram showing the structure of a slit lamp microscope according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0071] Figure 11 is a schematic diagram showing the structure of a slit lamp microscope according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0072] Figure 12 is a schematic diagram showing the structure of a slit lamp microscope according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0073] Figure 13 is a schematic diagram showing the structure of a slit lamp microscope according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0074] Figure 14is a schematic diagram showing the structure of a slit lamp microscope according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0075] Figure 15 is an outline diagram for explaining processing performed by a slit lamp microscope according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0076] Figure 16A is an outline diagram for explaining processing performed by a slit lamp microscope according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0077] Figure 16B is an outline diagram for explaining processing performed by a slit lamp microscope according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0078] Figure 17 is an outline diagram for explaining processing performed by a slit lamp microscope according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0079] Figure 18 is an outline diagram for explaining processing performed by a slit lamp microscope according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0080] Figure 19 is an outline diagram for explaining processing performed by a slit lamp microscope according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0081] Figure 20 is an outline diagram for explaining processing performed by a slit lamp microscope according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0082] Figure 21 is a flow chart illustrating the operation of a slit lamp microscope according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0083] Figure 22 are diagrams for explaining the operation of the slit lamp microscope according to the exemplary embodiment.

[0084] Figure 23 is a schematic diagram showing the structure of an ophthalmologic information processing apparatus according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0085] Figure 24 is a schematic diagram showing the structure of an ophthalmologic system according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0086] Figure 25 is a schematic diagram showing the structure of an ophthalmologic system according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0087] Figure 26 is a schematic diagram showing the structure of an ophthalmologic system according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0088] Figure 27 is a schematic diagram showing the structure of an ophthalmologic system according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0089] Figure 28 is a schematic diagram showing the structure of an ophthalmologic system according to an exemplary embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0090] Hereinafter, some exemplary embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In addition, any known technologies such as those disclosed in the documents cited in this specification may be combined with the exemplary embodiments.

[0091] The slit lamp microscope according to the exemplary embodiment can be a fixed-installation type or a portable type. The slit lamp microscope according to the exemplary embodiment has an (automatic) scanning function that acquires multiple cross-sectional images by scanning the anterior ocular segment with slit light, and can typically be used in situations or environments where a person with expertise in the device (a skilled person) is not nearby. Furthermore, the slit lamp microscope according to the exemplary embodiment can be used in situations or environments where a skilled person is not nearby, or in situations or environments where a skilled person can remotely monitor, instruct, or operate the device.

[0092] Examples of facilities where slit lamp microscopes are installed include optical shops, optometrists, medical institutions, health check-up locations, examination centers, patients' homes, welfare facilities, public facilities, examination vehicles, and the like.

[0093] The slit lamp microscope according to the exemplary embodiment is an ophthalmic photographing device that at least has the function of being used as a slit lamp microscope, and may also have other photographing functions (modes). Examples of other modes include anterior ocular cameras, fundus cameras, SLO, OCT, and the like. The slit lamp microscope according to the exemplary embodiment may also have the function of measuring the characteristics of the eye to be examined. Examples of measurement functions include visual acuity measurement, refraction measurement, intraocular pressure measurement, corneal endothelial cell measurement, aberration measurement, visual field measurement, and the like. The slit lamp microscope according to the exemplary embodiment may also have an applicable program for analyzing captured images and measurement data. The slit lamp microscope according to the exemplary embodiment may also have functions for treatment and surgery. Other examples include photocuring therapy and photodynamic therapy.

[0094] An ophthalmic information processing device according to an exemplary embodiment includes a processor (circuit) for processing multiple cross-sectional images collected by a slit lamp microscope having the aforementioned scanning function. The ophthalmic information processing device according to an exemplary embodiment may be a peripheral device for a slit lamp microscope, or may be connected to the slit lamp microscope via a local area network (LAN) or a wide area network (WAN). Alternatively, the ophthalmic information processing device according to an exemplary embodiment may include a function for receiving input of multiple cross-sectional images recorded on a recording medium.

[0095] An ophthalmologic system according to an exemplary embodiment may include one or more slit lamp microscopes and one or more information processing devices, and may be used, for example, for telemedicine. The slit lamp microscope may be the slit lamp microscope according to any exemplary embodiment, or may be a slit lamp microscope having at least a portion thereof.

[0096] The information processing device has the function of receiving and processing images acquired by the slit lamp microscope. The information processing device can be, for example, a server or a computer terminal on the network. The computer terminal can be, for example, an image reading terminal and / or an image reading device. When the information processing device is an image reading terminal and / or an image reading device, the ophthalmic system can include other information processing devices (servers, etc.) that receive images acquired by the slit lamp microscope and transmit them to the image reading terminal and / or the image reading device. The architecture of the ophthalmic system is not limited to the client-server mode, but can also be a peer-to-peer mode. The following exemplary client-server mode ophthalmic system will be mainly described, but the functions, structures, elements, operations, processing, etc. in the client-server mode can be applied to the peer-to-peer mode by analogy.

[0097] The image reading terminal is a computer used by a doctor (typically, an ophthalmologist or a specialist such as an image reading doctor) to read images obtained by a slit lamp microscope (observe the image to obtain a diagnosis and treatment opinion). The information input into the image reading terminal by the image reader can be converted into an image reading report or electronic medical record information by the image reading terminal or other computers and sent to a server. In another example, the information input into the image reading terminal by the image reader can be sent to a server. In this case, the server or other computer can convert the information input by the image reader into an image reading report or electronic medical record information. The server can manage the image reading report or electronic medical record information by itself, or it can transmit it to another medical system (for example, an electronic medical record system).

[0098] The image reading device is a computer that uses, for example, an image processor and / or an artificial intelligence engine to read images captured by a slit lamp microscope. The information derived from the image by the image reading device can be converted by the image reading device or another computer into an image reading report or electronic medical record information, and sent to the information processing device. In another example, the information derived from the image by the image reading device can be sent to a server. In this case, the server or other computer can convert the information derived from the image by the image reading device into an image reading report or electronic medical record information. The server can manage the image reading report or electronic medical record information itself or transmit it to another medical system.

[0099] As described above, the slit lamp microscope, ophthalmic information processing device, and ophthalmic system according to the exemplary embodiments can be used for telemedicine. On the other hand, obtaining good images using conventional slit lamp microscopes is difficult, and effective image reading and diagnosis require "preliminary" acquisition of a wide range of anterior ocular images. In such circumstances, effective telemedicine using a slit lamp microscope is arguably impossible. Exemplary embodiments of technologies that facilitate this are provided. The exemplary embodiments can also be applied to other applications.

[0100] Hereinafter, some exemplary embodiments are described. For any of these embodiments, variations (additions, substitutions, omissions, etc.) based on any known techniques may be implemented. In addition, any two or more of these embodiments may be at least partially combined. For such combinations, variations (additions, substitutions, omissions, etc.) based on any known techniques may be implemented.

[0101] In the following exemplary embodiments, a "processor" refers to a circuit or circuit structure, such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), a programmable logic device (e.g., a SPLD (Simple Programmable Logic Device), a CPLD (Complex Programmable Logic Device), or an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array). The processor implements the functions of its embodiment by reading and executing programs or data stored in, for example, a storage circuit or storage device. Alternatively, the processor may include circuits for artificial intelligence or cognitive computing, typically including a computer system suitable for machine learning.

[0102] <First embodiment>

[0103] Figure 1 An example of a slit lamp microscope according to a first embodiment is shown in FIG.

[0104] The slit lamp microscope 1 is used to image the anterior segment of the eye E to be inspected, and includes an illumination system 2, an imaging system 3, a moving mechanism 6, a control unit 7, a data processing unit 8, and an output unit 9. Reference numeral C denotes the cornea, and reference numeral CL denotes the lens.

[0105] The slit lamp microscope 1 can be a single device or a system including two or more devices. As one example of a system, the slit lamp microscope 1 includes: a main device including an illumination system 2, an imaging system 3, and a moving mechanism 6; a computer including a control unit 7, a data processing unit 8, and an output unit 9; and a communication device that facilitates communication between the main device and the computer. As another example of a system, the slit lamp microscope 1 includes: a main device including an illumination system 2, an imaging system 3, and a moving mechanism 6; a computer including a control unit 7 and a data processing unit 8; an output device including an output unit 9; and a communication device that facilitates communication between the main device, the computer, and the output device. The computer can be provided with the main device or on a network. The same applies to the output device.

[0106] <Lighting System 2>

[0107] The illumination system 2 irradiates the anterior segment of the eye E with slit light. Reference numeral 2a denotes the optical axis (illumination optical axis) of the illumination system 2. The illumination system 2 can have the same structure as the illumination system of a conventional slit lamp microscope. For example, although not shown in the figure, the illumination system 2 includes, in order from the side away from the eye E, an illumination light source, a positive lens, a slit-forming portion, and an objective lens.

[0108] The illumination light source outputs illumination light. The illumination system 2 may include multiple illumination light sources. For example, the illumination system 2 may include an illumination light source that outputs continuous light and an illumination light source that outputs flashing light. Furthermore, the illumination system 2 may include an illumination light source for the anterior eye and an illumination light source for the posterior eye. Furthermore, the illumination system 2 may include two or more illumination light sources that output different wavelengths. A typical illumination system 2 includes a visible light source as the illumination light source. The illumination system 2 may also include an infrared light source. The illumination light output from the illumination light source passes through a positive lens and is projected onto the slit-forming portion.

[0109] The slit forming portion allows a portion of the illumination light to pass through and generates slit light. A typical slit forming portion has a pair of slit blades. The width of the area (slit) through which the illumination light passes is changed by changing the spacing between these slit blades (slit width), thereby changing the width of the slit light. In addition, the slit forming portion can be configured to be able to change the length of the slit light. The length of the slit light refers to the cross-sectional dimension of the slit light in a direction orthogonal to the cross-sectional width direction of the slit light corresponding to the slit width. Typically, the width of the slit light and the length of the slit light are expressed as the size of the projection image of the slit light toward the anterior ocular segment, but are not limited to this. For example, the slit light can also be expressed as the size in the cross section of the slit light at any position, or as the size of the slit formed by the slit forming portion.

[0110] The slit light generated by the slit forming portion is refracted by the objective lens and irradiated onto the anterior segment of the eye E to be inspected.

[0111] The illumination system 2 may also include a focusing mechanism for changing the focal position of the slit light. The focusing mechanism, for example, moves the objective lens along the illumination optical axis 2a. Movement of the objective lens can be performed automatically and / or manually. Alternatively, a focusing lens may be disposed at a position on the illumination optical axis 2a between the objective lens and the slit-forming portion, and the focal position of the slit light may be changed by moving the focusing lens along the illumination optical axis 2a.

[0112] also, Figure 1 This is a top view. As shown in this figure, in this embodiment, the direction along the axis of the subject's eye E is defined as the Z direction, the left-right direction relative to the subject, which is a direction perpendicular to the Z direction, is defined as the X direction, and the direction perpendicular to both the X and Z directions is defined as the Y direction. Typically, the X direction is the direction in which the left and right eyes are aligned, and the Y direction is the direction along the subject's body axis (body axis direction).

[0113] <Camera System 3>

[0114] The imaging system 3 captures images of the anterior ocular segment irradiated with slit light from the illumination system 2. Reference numeral 3a denotes an optical axis (imaging optical axis) of the imaging system 3. The imaging system 3 of this embodiment includes an optical system 4 and an imaging element 5.

[0115] The optical system 4 guides light from the anterior segment of the eye E to be inspected, which is irradiated with the slit light, to the imaging element 5. The imaging element 5 receives the light guided by the optical system 4 on an imaging surface.

[0116] The light guided by the optical system 4 (i.e., light from the anterior segment of the eye E to be examined) includes return light from the slit light irradiating the anterior segment and may also include other light. Examples of return light include reflected light, scattered light, and fluorescence. Examples of other light include light from the environment in which the slit lamp microscope 1 is installed (indoor light, sunlight, etc.). In the case where the anterior segment illumination system for illuminating the entire anterior segment is provided separately from the illumination system 2, the return light of the anterior segment illumination light may be included in the light guided by the optical system 4.

[0117] The imaging element 5 is an area sensor having a two-dimensional imaging area, and may be, for example, a charge coupled device (CCD) image sensor or a complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) image sensor.

[0118] The optical system 4 can have the same structure as the imaging system of a conventional slit lamp microscope. For example, the optical system 4 includes, in order from the side closest to the eye E, an objective lens, a variable magnification optical system, and an imaging lens. Light from the anterior segment of the eye E, illuminated by the slit light, passes through the objective lens and the variable magnification optical system and is formed by the imaging lens onto the imaging surface of the imaging element 5.

[0119] The imaging system 3 may include, for example, a first imaging system and a second imaging system. Typically, the first imaging system and the second imaging system have the same structure. The case where the imaging system 3 includes the first imaging system and the second imaging system will be described in other embodiments.

[0120] The imaging system 3 may also include a focusing mechanism for changing its focal position. For example, the focusing mechanism moves the objective lens along the imaging optical axis 3a. Movement of the objective lens can be automatic and / or manual. Alternatively, a focusing lens may be positioned between the objective lens and the imaging lens on the imaging optical axis 3a, and the focal position may be changed by moving the focusing lens along the imaging optical axis 3a.

[0121] The illumination system 2 and imaging system 3 function as Scheimpflug cameras. Specifically, the illumination system 2 and imaging system 3 are configured so that the object plane along the illumination optical axis 2a, the optical system 4, and the imaging plane of the imaging element 5 satisfy the so-called Scheimpflug condition. More specifically, the YZ plane (including the object plane) passing through the illumination optical axis 2a, the principal surface of the optical system 4, and the imaging plane of the imaging element 5 intersect on the same straight line. This allows imaging by focusing at all positions in the object plane (all positions along the illumination optical axis 2a).

[0122] In this embodiment, for example, the lighting system 2 and the imaging system 3 are configured so that the imaging system 3 can focus at least within the range defined by the front face of the cornea C and the back face of the lens CL. Figure 1 The entire state of the range from the front vertex (Z=Z1) of the cornea C to the back vertex (Z=Z2) of the lens CL shown in FIG is captured. In addition, Z=Z0 represents the Z coordinate of the intersection of the illumination optical axis 2a and the imaging optical axis 3a.

[0123] Typically, such conditions are achieved by the structure and arrangement of the components included in the lighting system 2, the structure and arrangement of the components included in the imaging system 3, and the relative positions of the lighting system 2 and the imaging system 3. Parameters representing the relative positions of the lighting system 2 and the imaging system 3 include, for example, the angle θ formed by the illumination optical axis 2a and the imaging optical axis 3a. Angle θ is set to, for example, 17.5 degrees, 30 degrees, or 45 degrees. Furthermore, angle θ can also be varied.

[0124] <Moving mechanism 6>

[0125] The moving mechanism 6 moves the lighting system 2 and the imaging system 3. For example, the moving mechanism 6 includes a movable stage to which the lighting system 2 and the imaging system 3 are mounted, an actuator that operates according to a control signal input from the control unit 7, and a mechanism that moves the movable stage based on the driving force generated by the actuator. In another example, the moving mechanism 6 includes a movable stage to which the lighting system 2 and the imaging system 3 are mounted, and a mechanism that moves the movable stage based on a force applied to an operating device (not shown). The operating device is, for example, a joystick. The movable stage may be movable in at least the X direction and further in the Y and / or Z directions.

[0126] In this embodiment, the moving mechanism 6 moves the illumination system 2 and imaging system 3 in an integrated manner in the X-direction, for example. Specifically, the moving mechanism 6 moves the illumination system 2 and imaging system 3 in the X-direction while maintaining the aforementioned Xiangfuru condition. In parallel with this movement, the imaging system 3 performs dynamic imaging at, for example, a predetermined time interval (imaging rate). As a result, the three-dimensional region of the anterior ocular segment of the subject's eye E is scanned with slit light, and multiple images (a set of cross-sectional images) corresponding to multiple cross sections within this three-dimensional region are collected.

[0127] <Control Unit 7>

[0128] The control unit 7 controls various components of the slit lamp microscope 1. For example, the control unit 7 controls the components of the illumination system 2 (illumination light source, slit forming unit, focusing mechanism, etc.), the components of the imaging system 3 (focusing mechanism, imaging element, etc.), the moving mechanism 6, the data processing unit 8, the output unit 9, and the like. Furthermore, the control unit 7 may be capable of performing control for changing the relative positions of the illumination system 2 and the imaging system 3. In some embodiments, the control unit 7 includes a display control unit 71, described later. The display control unit 71 causes information to be displayed on the display unit 9A, described later, and details will be described later.

[0129] The control unit 7 includes a processor, a main storage device, an auxiliary storage device, and the like. The auxiliary storage device stores control programs and other information. These programs and other information can also be stored in a computer or storage device accessible by the slit lamp microscope 1. The functions of the control unit 7 are achieved through the collaborative work of software such as the control program and hardware such as the processor.

[0130] In order to scan the three-dimensional region of the anterior segment of the subject's eye E with slit light, the control unit 7 can apply the following control to the illumination system 2 , the imaging system 3 , and the moving mechanism 6 .

[0131] First, the control unit 7 controls the moving mechanism 6 so that the illumination system 2 and the imaging system 3 are positioned at a predetermined scan start position (alignment control). The scan start position is, for example, a position corresponding to the end (first end) of the cornea C in the X direction, or a position farther from the axis of the eye E than the end (first end). Figure 2A The reference symbol X0 in FIG. 1 represents an example of a scanning start position corresponding to the first end portion of the cornea C in the X direction. Figure 2B Reference symbol X0 ′ denotes an example of a scan start position that is farther from the axis EA of the eye E than a position corresponding to the first end portion of the cornea C in the X direction.

[0132] The control unit 7 starts irradiating the anterior segment of the eye E to be inspected with slit light by controlling the illumination system 2 (slit light irradiation control). In addition, slit light irradiation control can also be performed before or during the execution of alignment control. Slit light is typically continuous light, but can also be intermittent light (pulsed light). The illumination control of the pulsed light is synchronized with the shooting rate of the shooting system 3. In addition, slit light is typically visible light, but can also be infrared light, or a mixture of visible light and infrared light.

[0133] The control unit 7 controls the imaging system 3 to start dynamic imaging (imaging control) of the anterior segment of the eye E. Furthermore, imaging control may be performed before or during alignment control. Typically, imaging control is performed simultaneously with or after slit light irradiation control.

[0134] After executing the alignment control, the slit light irradiation control, and the photographing control, the control unit 7 starts the movement of the lighting system 2 and the photographing system 3 (movement control) by controlling the moving mechanism 6. Through the movement control, the lighting system 2 and the photographing system 3 move as a whole. That is, the lighting system 2 and the photographing system 3 are moved while maintaining their relative positions (angle θ, etc.). Typically, the lighting system 2 and the photographing system 3 are moved while maintaining a state that satisfies the above-mentioned Xiangfuru conditions. The movement of the lighting system 2 and the photographing system 3 is performed from the aforementioned scan start position to a predetermined scan end position. Similar to the scan start position, the scan end position is, for example, a position corresponding to the end (second end) of the cornea C on the opposite side of the first end in the X direction or a position farther away from the axis of the eye E to be inspected. In such a case, the range from the scan start position to the scan end position becomes the scan range.

[0135] Typically, slit light having the X direction as the width direction and the Y direction as the length direction is irradiated to the front eye, and dynamic imaging by the imaging system 3 is performed while the illumination system 2 and the imaging system 3 are moved in the X direction.

[0136] Here, the length of the slit light (i.e., the size of the slit light in the Y direction) is set, for example, to be greater than the diameter of the cornea C on the surface of the eye E to be examined. In other words, the length of the slit light is set to be greater than the cornea diameter in the Y direction. Furthermore, as previously described, the movement distance (i.e., the scanning range) of the illumination system 2 and imaging system 3 performed by the movement mechanism 6 is set to be greater than the cornea diameter in the X direction. This allows at least the entire cornea C to be scanned with the slit light.

[0137] This scanning method allows for the acquisition of multiple anterior ocular images with different slit light irradiation positions. In other words, a dynamic image can be obtained that depicts the movement of the slit light irradiation position in the X-direction. In this embodiment, since the Xiangfuru condition is satisfied, multiple cross-sectional images can be obtained that accurately depict the slit light irradiation area (cross section) at the time of capture (snapshot). Figure 3 An example of such a plurality of anterior segment images (ie, a frame group constituting a dynamic image) is shown in FIG.

[0138] Figure 3 A plurality of anterior segment images (frame groups, cross-sectional image groups) F1, F2, F3, ..., FN are shown. The subscript n of these anterior segment images Fn (n = 1, 2, ..., N) indicates the time sequence. That is, the nth acquired anterior segment image is indicated by the reference symbol Fn. The anterior segment image Fn includes the slit light irradiation area An. Figure 3 As shown, the slit light irradiation areas A1, A2, A3, ..., AN move to the right in time sequence. Figure 3 In the example shown in FIG, the scan start position and the scan end position correspond to the ends of the cornea C in the X direction. The scan start position and / or the scan end position are not limited to this example, and may be, for example, a position farther from the axis of the eye E than the ends of the cornea. The direction and number of scans may also be arbitrarily set.

[0139] <Data Processing Unit 8>

[0140] The data processing unit 8 performs various data processing operations. The data processed can be either data acquired by the slit lamp microscope 1 or data input from the outside. For example, the data processing unit 8 can process images acquired by the imaging system 3. The structure and functions of the data processing unit 8 will be described in other embodiments in addition to those described in this embodiment.

[0141] The data processing unit 8 includes a processor, a main storage device, an auxiliary storage device, and the like. The auxiliary storage device stores data processing programs and other information. Data processing programs and other information can also be stored in a computer or storage device accessible by the slit lamp microscope 1. The functions of the data processing unit 8 are achieved through the collaborative work of software such as the data processing program and hardware such as the processor.

[0142] The data processing unit 8 generates information (turbidity distribution information) indicating the distribution of the turbidity of the lens of the eye E based on a plurality of cross-sectional images collected by scanning the anterior ocular segment using slit light. Some examples of such a data processing unit 8 will be described. Figures 4 to 14 These are some structural examples of the data processing unit 8. Two or more of these structural examples can be combined. The structure of the data processing unit 8 is not limited to these. For example, any elements for obtaining the same or similar results can be set in the data processing unit 8.

[0143] Figure 4 The data processing unit 8A shown in FIG. 1 includes a lens image constructing unit 81 and a turbidity distribution information generating unit 82. The lens image constructing unit 81 constructs a three-dimensional lens image from a plurality of cross-sectional images (a plurality of anterior ocular images) collected by scanning the anterior ocular segment using slit light. The turbidity distribution information generating unit 82 generates turbidity distribution information by analyzing the constructed three-dimensional lens image.

[0144] Figure 5A FIG. 1 shows a first configuration example of the lens image constructing unit 81 . The lens image constructing unit 81A of this example includes a reconstruction unit 811 and a segmentation unit 812 .

[0145] The reconstruction unit 811 applies 3D reconstruction to the plurality of anterior segment images collected by scanning the anterior segment using slit light. Thus, a 3D reconstructed image based on the plurality of anterior segment images is constructed. A typical 3D reconstructed image is stack data or volume data.

[0146] Stack data is constructed by expressing multiple anterior segment images, each defined by a separate two-dimensional coordinate system (two-dimensional image space), in a single three-dimensional coordinate system (three-dimensional image space). In other words, stack data is constructed by embedding multiple anterior segment images into the same three-dimensional image space. For example, the embedding position of each anterior segment image is specified based on the relative positional relationship of the multiple anterior segment images.

[0147] The relative positional relationship between the multiple anterior segment images is determined, for example, based on the contents of the aforementioned scanning control (slit light irradiation control, imaging control, movement control, etc.). For example, the relative positional relationship (such as the arrangement interval) between the multiple anterior segment images can be determined based on the contents of the movement control (scanning range) and the contents of the imaging control (imaging rate).

[0148] In another example, a frontal image of the anterior segment is collected in parallel with a scan for collecting multiple cross-sectional images of the anterior segment (a plurality of anterior segment images). Typically, the frontal imaging of the anterior segment is synchronized with the scan, and the relative positional relationship of the multiple cross-sectional images is determined from the slit beam irradiation area in each of the multiple frontal images.

[0149] Volume data is also called voxel data, and is typically constructed by applying a known voxelization process to stack data. In addition, the three-dimensional image of this embodiment is not limited to stack data and volume data.

[0150] The 3D reconstruction method applicable to this embodiment is arbitrary. Typically, the reconstruction unit 811 applies a known 3D reconstruction method to a plurality of anterior ocular images to construct stack data. Furthermore, the reconstruction unit 811 applies a known voxelization process to the stack data to construct volume data.

[0151] The reconstruction unit 811 can perform known processing that can be performed in 3D reconstruction, as well as known processing that can be performed in conjunction with 3D reconstruction. For example, the reconstruction unit 811 can apply any correction processing, such as noise removal, brightness correction, distortion correction, contrast correction, color correction, and gamma correction, to the multiple anterior segment images and / or the 3D reconstructed images. Furthermore, the reconstruction unit 811 can apply any filter, such as a moving average filter, a Gaussian filter, a median filter, a Sobel filter, a smoothing filter, a sharpening filter, or a thinning filter, to the multiple anterior segment images and / or the 3D reconstructed images.

[0152] The segmentation unit 812 applies segmentation to the 3D reconstructed image (stack data, volume data, etc.) constructed by the reconstruction unit 811. Segmentation is a technique for dividing an image into multiple regions, and is used in this embodiment to identify a partial region of the 3D reconstructed image.

[0153] The segmentation method applicable to this embodiment is arbitrary. For example, the segmentation unit 812 includes a processor that operates according to a program for executing a known segmentation algorithm. Alternatively, the segmentation unit 812 may include an artificial intelligence engine. The artificial intelligence engine typically includes a convolutional neural network (CNN) that is pre-trained using training data including a large number of images acquired using a slit lamp microscope and their segmentation results.

[0154] The segmentation unit 812 can be configured to identify an image region corresponding to a predetermined tissue (predetermined portion) in the three-dimensional reconstructed image constructed by the reconstruction unit 811. The specific target tissue can generally be any tissue that can be imaged by the slit lamp microscope 1. For example, the specific target tissue can be any of the following: the cornea, corneal subtissues (the anterior corneal surface, the posterior corneal surface, the corneal epithelium, Bowman's membrane, the stroma, the Dua layer, the Descemet's membrane, the corneal endothelium, etc.), the iris, the anterior iris, the pupil, the anterior chamber, the lens, lens subtissues (the anterior lens surface, the posterior lens surface, the lens epithelium, the lens capsule, etc.), the vitreous body, a lesion, a blood vessel, or other ocular tissue.

[0155] Furthermore, the segmentation unit 812 may be configured to identify an image region corresponding to an arbitrary portion of the ocular tissue in the three-dimensional reconstructed image constructed by the reconstruction unit 811. For example, the portion of the specific object may be any of the front portion, the center portion, the back portion, the edge portion, the end portion, or other portions.

[0156] As described above, the drawbacks of the transillumination method are that the brightness of the image cannot be managed and three-dimensional information cannot be provided. One of the purposes of the slit lamp microscope 1 is to provide a novel lens observation method that eliminates such drawbacks.

[0157] To this end, the segmentation unit 812 may be configured to identify an image region corresponding to the lens in the 3D reconstructed image constructed by the reconstruction unit 811. The image region extracted from the 3D reconstructed image by the segmentation unit 812 is referred to as a 3D lens image or simply a lens image.

[0158] Figure 5B FIG. 8 shows a second configuration example of the lens image constructing unit 81. The lens image constructing unit 81B of this example includes a segmenting unit 813 and a reconstruction unit 814.

[0159] Furthermore, while the first example reconstructs a three-dimensional image from a plurality of cross-sectional images and extracts a three-dimensional lens image from the three-dimensional reconstructed image, the present example extracts a two-dimensional lens image from each of a plurality of cross-sectional images and reconstructs a three-dimensional lens image from the extracted plurality of two-dimensional lens images.

[0160] Specifically, the segmentation unit 813 applies segmentation to each of the plurality of anterior ocular images collected by scanning the anterior ocular segment using slit light, thereby identifying a two-dimensional lens image. Furthermore, the reconstruction unit 814 applies three-dimensional reconstruction to the plurality of two-dimensional lens images identified by the segmentation unit 813 from the plurality of anterior ocular images, thereby constructing a three-dimensional lens image.

[0161] The segmentation method applicable to this example is arbitrary, and the 3D reconstruction method is also arbitrary. In addition, the method of obtaining the relative position relationship of multiple 2D lens images can be performed in the same manner as the method of obtaining the relative position relationship of multiple cross-sectional images in the first example.

[0162] Figure 6 The following figure shows an example of the structure of the turbidity distribution information generating unit 82. The turbidity distribution information generating unit 82A in this example includes a local distribution information generating unit 821. The local distribution information generating unit 821 generates information (local distribution information) indicating the distribution of turbidity in each of the multiple three-dimensional partial regions of the three-dimensional lens image constructed by the lens image constructing unit 81. Thus, a plurality of local distribution information corresponding to each of the multiple three-dimensional partial regions of the three-dimensional lens image is obtained.

[0163] The method for setting the multiple three-dimensional partial regions for the three-dimensional lens image is arbitrary. Typically, the multiple three-dimensional partial regions can be set by segmenting the three-dimensional lens image according to a predetermined pattern defined in the XY plane. Examples of segmentation patterns in the XY plane include sector segmentation, concentric circle segmentation, and grid segmentation.

[0164] Sector segmentation is a segmentation method that performs equal-angle segmentation on the lens image in the XY plane. Each partial image thus obtained has a roughly fan-shaped cylindrical shape. Here, the fan-shaped cylinder is a three-dimensional figure with the Z direction as the axis and the XY section perpendicular to the axis in the shape of a fan. The center of the equal-angle segmentation is typically set to the center of the lens image in the XY plane. The XY center of the lens image is, for example, set to the center or center of gravity of the XY projection image of the lens image, or a point on the axis of the lens image (for example, a straight line passing through the center of the anterior capsule and the center of the posterior capsule). An example of sector segmentation is shown in Figure 15 In this example, the crystalline lens image 100 is segmented at a 45-degree angle using equal angles. As a result, eight sub-regions 101 to 108 are obtained, each having a roughly sector-shaped cylindrical shape with a central angle of 45 degrees. This is also applicable to other segmentation modes, such as concentric circle segmentation and grid segmentation.

[0165] Furthermore, while segmentation based on patterns on the XY plane has been described herein, the segmentation method for the three-dimensional lens image is not limited thereto. For example, the three-dimensional lens image may be segmented in the Z direction, or segmentation based on patterns on the XY plane and segmentation in the Z direction may be combined. Furthermore, instead of or in combination with segmentation based on a predetermined pattern, a segmentation method based on the position, shape, or size of lens subtissues and / or a segmentation method based on the position, shape, or size of tissue surrounding the lens may also be employed.

[0166] The opacity distribution information generating unit 82 (local distribution information generating unit 821) is used to identify image regions corresponding to opacities (opacity regions) in a three-dimensional lens image. This processing typically includes image analysis based on pixel values (brightness, color). For example, any segmentation method can be used to identify the opacity region.

[0167] For example, the local distribution information generating unit 821 can be configured to obtain multiple local distribution information corresponding to multiple three-dimensional partial areas of the three-dimensional lens image by performing processing of a specific turbid area in the entire three-dimensional lens image, processing of setting multiple three-dimensional partial areas for the three-dimensional lens image, and processing of assigning multiple three-dimensional partial areas to the global turbidity distribution obtained by the specific turbid area in the entire three-dimensional lens image.

[0168] Alternatively, the local distribution information generating unit 821 may be configured to obtain a plurality of local distribution information corresponding to the plurality of three-dimensional partial areas of the three-dimensional lens image by setting the processing of the plurality of three-dimensional partial areas and processing a specific turbid area in each three-dimensional partial area.

[0169] In this embodiment, slit light is typically visible light, and the area inside the iris is not depicted in the multiple anterior ocular images collected using slit light scanning. Therefore, the lens area in the 3D reconstructed image only corresponds to the portion of the lens of the subject's eye E located behind the pupil.

[0170] Furthermore, because the slit lamp microscope 1 is configured to capture a cross-section illuminated by the slit light (e.g., a YZ cross-section) from an oblique angle, the anterior ocular segment image obtained by capturing this cross-section depicts the state of that section, specifically the two-dimensional distribution of opacities in the lens (e.g., the distribution in the YZ cross-section). Then, by repeatedly capturing this cross-section while moving it (e.g., by capturing a video while moving the YZ cross-section in the X direction), a three-dimensional reconstructed image representing the three-dimensional distribution of opacities in the lens is obtained. The three-dimensional lens image of this three-dimensional reconstructed image column then includes information on the three-dimensional opacity distribution. As described above, according to this embodiment, the three-dimensional distribution of opacities in the lens can be ascertained.

[0171] The slit lamp microscope 1 may be configured to be able to create an image (turbidity distribution map) showing the distribution of turbidity in the lens of the eye E to be inspected. Figure 7 shows an example of the structure of the data processing unit 8 used for this purpose. The data processing unit 8B in this example includes a turbidity distribution map creation unit 83. In this example, the local distribution information generation unit 821 generates a plurality of local distribution information corresponding to a plurality of three-dimensional partial regions of the three-dimensional lens image. The turbidity distribution map creation unit 83 can be configured to create a turbidity distribution map based on the generated plurality of local distribution information.

[0172] A turbidity distribution map is information that intuitively represents any indicator (such as position, size, shape, number, density, and concentration) regarding the distribution of turbid areas. As described above, this embodiment enables the three-dimensional distribution of turbid areas to be determined, particularly the positions of turbid areas in the depth direction (Z direction), which cannot be determined using the transillumination method. Therefore, the turbidity distribution map can be information indicating at least the depth positions of turbid areas in each of multiple three-dimensional partial regions of a three-dimensional lens image. The depth position can be represented in any manner, for example, by displaying a position, a numerical value, a color, or a pattern.

[0173] The turbidity distribution map can be defined by a two-dimensional coordinate system that can represent the depth position of the turbid portion. For example, the first coordinate axis of the two-dimensional coordinate system represents the depth direction (Z direction) and the second coordinate axis represents the direction orthogonal to the depth direction (any direction in the XY plane).

[0174] Will refer to Figure 16A and Figure 16B An example of a turbidity distribution map using such a two-dimensional coordinate system will be described. Figure 16A express Figure 15 (The second coordinate axis α in the case of applying 45-degree equal-angle sector division to the lens image 100). The second coordinate axis α is defined in the XY coordinate system and represents an angle with the top (0 degrees) as the origin and the clockwise direction as the positive direction. In this example, the first coordinate axis is the Z coordinate axis in the XYZ coordinate system.

[0175] As described above, the sector division in this example yields eight sub-regions 101 to 108, each having a substantially sector-shaped cylindrical shape with a central angle of 45 degrees. The central angles of sub-regions 101 to 108 correspond to the second coordinate axis α = 0 to 45 degrees, 45 to 90 degrees, 90 to 135 degrees, 135 to 180 degrees, 180 to 225 degrees, 225 to 270 degrees, 270 to 315 degrees, and 315 to 360 degrees, respectively.

[0176] Figure 16B An example of a turbidity distribution diagram represented by a two-dimensional coordinate system with the Z coordinate axis as the first coordinate axis and the α coordinate axis as the second coordinate axis is shown. Figure 16B In the two-dimensional coordinate system shown in Figure 16A In other words, the two-dimensional coordinate system shown in FIG16B is a two-dimensional orthogonal coordinate system defined by the linear Z coordinate axis and the linear α coordinate axis.

[0177] Defined by the Zα coordinate system Figure 16B The upper edge of the opacity distribution diagram 200 shown in FIG. 2 represents the position of the cornea, and the lower edge represents the position of the posterior lens capsule. Furthermore, the dotted line between the upper and lower edges represents the position of the anterior lens capsule. The three-dimensional lens image corresponds to the range from the anterior lens capsule to the posterior lens capsule, and the opacity region identified by the three-dimensional lens image is distributed within this range. The opacity region is indicated by diagonal lines.

[0178] The turbidity distribution map 200 is divided into eight strip-shaped partial regions 201 to 208, each of which has the Z direction as the longitudinal direction and the α direction as the transverse direction. The eight partial regions 201 to 208 of the turbidity distribution map 200 correspond to Figure 16A FIG. 1 shows eight partial regions 101 to 108 of a lens image 100 .

[0179] The turbidity distribution map 200 can easily provide the distribution of turbidity in the lens of the eye E. In particular, it can easily provide the depth position (depth distribution) of turbidity that cannot be provided by the transillumination method.

[0180] In addition, the anterior segment OCT can provide a three-dimensional distribution of turbidity, but since the anterior segment OCT has the following problems, it is believed that at least the slit lamp microscope 1 of this embodiment is advantageous for obtaining and providing the turbidity distribution: (1) The anterior segment OCT device is not as popular as the slit lamp microscope; (2) The slit lamp microscope 1 uses visible light that facilitates visual recognition for imaging, whereas the anterior segment OCT uses infrared light for measurement; (3) The slit lamp microscope 1 images the illuminated area from an oblique angle, so the turbidity can be clearly depicted regardless of the depth position, however, in order to detect the regular reflection and backscattering of the illumination light, when there are two or more different turbidities in the depth direction, such as in the partial areas 203, 206 and 207, the anterior segment OCT cannot (clearly) depict the turbidity existing at a deeper position.

[0181] An image based on multiple anterior ocular images can be displayed along with the opacity distribution map 200. This image can be, for example, an image defined by the two-dimensional coordinate system that defines the opacity distribution map 200. For example, a two-dimensional image defined by the Zα coordinate system can be constructed by projecting a three-dimensional image including a three-dimensional lens image (a three-dimensional image representing the area from the cornea to the posterior lens capsule) onto a cylindrical surface with the lens axis as its axis. This image construction is performed, for example, by the rendering unit 86 described later.

[0182] The slit lamp microscope 1 can be configured to acquire information (transmittance distribution information, transmittance distribution map) indicating light transmittance distribution in the lens of the eye E to be inspected. Figures 8A to 8C Some examples of the structure of the data processing unit 8 used for this purpose will be described.

[0183] Figure 8A The data processing unit 8C shown in FIG. 8 includes a transmittance distribution information generating unit 84A and a transmittance distribution map creating unit 85A. In this example, the local distribution information generating unit 821 generates a plurality of local distribution information corresponding to a plurality of three-dimensional partial regions of the three-dimensional lens image.

[0184] The transmittance distribution information generating section 84A generates transmittance distribution information indicating the light transmittance distribution of the lens of the eye E to be inspected, based on the plurality of local distribution information generated by the local distribution information generating section 821. The transmittance distribution map creating section 85A creates a transmittance distribution map for intuitively representing the light transmittance distribution of the lens of the eye E to be inspected, based on the transmittance distribution information generated by the transmittance distribution information generating section 84A.

[0185] For example, the transmittance distribution information generating unit 84A calculates the light transmittance value in the three-dimensional partial area corresponding to each of the plurality of local distribution information generated by the local distribution information generating unit 821. The calculated value may be, for example, a single value (e.g., a statistical value such as a mean, maximum value, minimum value, median, or mode), a range (e.g., a range between a maximum value and a minimum value), or a distribution.

[0186] For example, the transmittance distribution map creation unit 85A assigns light transmittance values calculated based on a plurality of local distribution information to corresponding three-dimensional partial regions, thereby creating an image (transmittance distribution map) representing the distribution of light transmittance associated with the plurality of three-dimensional partial regions. The light transmittance values may be represented in any manner, for example, by a numerical value, color, pattern, or the like.

[0187] Figure 8B The data processing unit 8D shown in FIG. 1 includes a transmittance distribution map creating unit 85B. In this example, the local distribution information generating unit 821 generates a plurality of local distribution information corresponding to a plurality of three-dimensional partial regions of the three-dimensional lens image. Furthermore, the turbidity distribution map creating unit 83 creates a turbidity distribution map based on the plurality of local distribution information generated by the local distribution information generating unit 821.

[0188] The transmittance distribution map creating section 85B creates a transmittance distribution map that intuitively expresses the light transmittance distribution of the lens of the eye to be inspected E based on the turbidity distribution map generated by the turbidity distribution map creating section 83 .

[0189] For example, the transmittance distribution map creation unit 85B creates a transmittance distribution map by converting each of the plurality of local distribution information items represented in the turbidity distribution map into light transmittance. The method for expressing the light transmittance values is arbitrary. Furthermore, the method for converting the local distribution information into light transmittance is also arbitrary. A specific example of creating a transmittance distribution map from a turbidity distribution map in this manner will be described below.

[0190] Figure 8C The data processing unit 8E shown in FIG. 1 includes a transmittance distribution information generating unit 84B and a transmittance distribution map creating unit 85C. In this example, the local distribution information generating unit 821 generates a plurality of local distribution information corresponding to a plurality of three-dimensional partial regions of the three-dimensional lens image. Furthermore, the opacity distribution map creating unit 83 creates a opacity distribution map based on the plurality of local distribution information generated by the local distribution information generating unit 821.

[0191] The turbidity distribution map created by the turbidity distribution map creation unit 83 of this example is a turbidity distribution map represented by a two-dimensional coordinate system in which the first coordinate axis represents the depth direction and the second coordinate axis represents the direction orthogonal to the depth direction. Figure 16B The turbidity distribution map 200 is defined by the Zα coordinate system.

[0192] In order to create a transmittance distribution map based on the turbidity distribution map defined by such a two-dimensional coordinate system, the transmittance distribution information generating unit 84B generates transmittance distribution information representing the light transmittance distribution of the lens of the subject's eye E for each of multiple three-dimensional partial areas of the three-dimensional lens image by dividing the area of the turbidity portion in the three-dimensional partial area defined in the two-dimensional coordinate system by the area of the three-dimensional partial area.

[0193] When the turbidity distribution map creating unit 83 creates Figure 16B When the turbidity distribution diagram 200 is obtained, the transmittance distribution information generating unit 84B generates the following information: Figure 16A For each of the multiple three-dimensional partial areas 101 to 108 of the three-dimensional lens image 100, transmittance distribution information representing the light transmittance distribution of the lens of the eye E to be inspected is generated by dividing the area of the turbid portion in the three-dimensional partial area defined in the Zα coordinate system by the area of the three-dimensional partial area.

[0194] For example, the transmittance distribution information generating unit 84B calculates the light transmittance value corresponding to the three-dimensional partial region 101 of the three-dimensional lens image 100 by dividing the area of the turbid portion in the three-dimensional partial region 101 defined in the Zα coordinate system by the area of the three-dimensional partial region 101. That is, the transmittance distribution information generating unit 84B calculates the light transmittance value corresponding to the three-dimensional partial region 101 by dividing the area of the turbid portion in the three-dimensional partial region 101 defined in the Zα coordinate system by the area of the three-dimensional partial region 101. Figure 16B The area of the turbid portion (the area indicated by the oblique lines) in the stripe-shaped partial region 201 is divided by the area of the partial region 201 to calculate the value (estimated value) of the light transmittance corresponding to the three-dimensional partial region 101.

[0195] By performing the same calculation for each of the three-dimensional partial regions 102 to 108 , transmittance distribution information corresponding to the plurality of three-dimensional partial regions 101 to 108 of the three-dimensional lens image 100 is obtained.

[0196] The method for generating transmittance distribution information based on the turbidity distribution map 200 is not limited to this. For example, for each of the three-dimensional partial regions 101 to 108 of the three-dimensional lens image 100, the light transmittance value corresponding to each three-dimensional partial region may be calculated by dividing the volume of the turbid portion in that three-dimensional partial region by the area of that three-dimensional partial region. Furthermore, the calculation may be performed by taking into account a weight based on a predetermined indicator (e.g., concentration) of the turbid portion.

[0197] The transmittance distribution map creating section 85C creates a transmittance distribution map that intuitively expresses the light transmittance distribution of the lens of the eye E based on the transmittance distribution information generated by the transmittance distribution information generating section 84B. The light transmittance value may be expressed in any manner.

[0198] Figure 17 An example of a transmittance distribution map created by the transmittance distribution map creating unit 85C is shown in FIG. The light transmittance distribution map 300 shows eight three-dimensional partial regions 101 to 108 (see FIG. 108 ) corresponding to the three-dimensional lens image 100. Figure 15 ) corresponds to the light transmittance values of the eight regions. Here, the smaller the light transmittance value, the more turbid (the higher the turbidity concentration). This transmittance distribution graph 300 can provide an easily understood distribution of the light transmittance in the lens of the eye E.

[0199] The slit lamp microscope 1 of this embodiment can render a plurality of anterior ocular images (a plurality of cross-sectional images) collected by scanning the anterior ocular segment using slit light or images based thereon. Figure 9A and 9B Some examples of the structure of the data processing unit 8 used for this purpose will be described.

[0200] Figure 9A The data processing unit 8F shown in FIG. 8F includes a rendering unit 86 . The rendering unit 86 applies rendering to a three-dimensional image including the three-dimensional lens image constructed by the lens image construction unit 81 .

[0201] The three-dimensional image suitable for rendering may be a three-dimensional lens image, or a three-dimensional image with the three-dimensional lens image as a proper subset, or a part of the three-dimensional lens image, or a three-dimensional image with a part of the three-dimensional lens image as a proper subset.

[0202] More generally, the 3D image to be rendered can be an image whose pixel positions are defined using a 3D coordinate system, for example, any part or all of a 3D reconstructed image of a plurality of anterior ocular images collected by scanning the anterior ocular segment with slit light. The 3D reconstructed image can be, for example, stack data or volume data.

[0203] The rendering unit 86 applies rendering to such a three-dimensional image. Rendering methods include volume rendering, surface rendering, maximum image projection (MIP), minimum image projection (MinIP), and multi-planar reconstruction (MPR). However, this embodiment mainly uses projection.

[0204] Projection involves image processing that projects (accumulates, integrates) a group of pixels included in a three-dimensional image in a predetermined direction. In other words, projection involves image processing that projects a group of pixels included in a three-dimensional image onto a predetermined plane. Typically, the rendering unit 86 constructs a two-dimensional image (projected image) defined in an XY coordinate system by projecting a three-dimensional image defined in the XYZ coordinate system in the Z direction.

[0205] It goes without saying that a rendering method other than projection may be used. In addition, a rendering unit 86 capable of executing a plurality of rendering methods may be prepared and may selectively execute these.

[0206] In this embodiment, the three-dimensional lens image constructed by the lens image construction unit 86 or a three-dimensional image including at least a portion thereof is input to the rendering unit 86. For example, the rendering unit 86 constructs an XY projection image (XY projection image) by applying Z-direction projection to the three-dimensional lens image.

[0207] The display control unit 71 can superimpose one of the rendered image created by the rendering unit 86 and the information based on the turbidity distribution information on the display unit 9A, and display the superimposed image on the other. For example, the display control unit 71 can superimpose distribution information (e.g., turbidity distribution information, turbidity distribution map, transmittance distribution information, transmittance distribution map) indicating the distribution state of turbidity in the lens of the eye E on the XY projection image. A specific example of superimposing the XY projection image and the distribution information will be described below.

[0208] Figure 9B The data processing unit 8G shown in FIG. 8 is a combination of Figure 8C In the data processing unit 8G of this example, the transmittance distribution map creating unit 85C creates a data processing unit 8E and a rendering unit 86. Figure 17 The transmittance distribution map 300 is constructed by the rendering unit 86. Figure 15 An XY projection image of a three-dimensional lens image 100 .

[0209] The display control unit 71 displays the XY projection image on the display unit 9A and superimposes the transmittance distribution map 300 on the XY projection image.

[0210] Furthermore, since the XY projection image and the transmittance distribution map 300 (distribution information) are acquired from the same three-dimensional lens image 100 (the same multiple cross-sectional images), there is a natural positional correspondence between them, and therefore, there is no need to apply registration between them.

[0211] In this regard, it is also assumed that the XY projection image and distribution information are acquired from different three-dimensional lens images. For example, consider a scenario where an XY projection image is constructed from a three-dimensional lens image acquired on a first measurement day, and distribution information is acquired from a three-dimensional lens image acquired on a second measurement day different from the first measurement day. These images are then superimposed and displayed on top of one another. In this case, for example, the XY projection image and distribution information can be registered by registering the two three-dimensional lens images.

[0212] Alternatively, instead of registering the three-dimensional lens images, an equivalent registration may be performed. For example, instead of registering the three-dimensional lens images, registration may be performed between two XY registered images constructed from two three-dimensional lens images, or registration may be performed between two XY registered images constructed from two three-dimensional lens images. Figure 5A Registration between the two three-dimensional reconstructed images (images before the two three-dimensional lens images are extracted respectively) constructed by the reconstruction unit 811.

[0213] According to the display method described above, the user can understand the morphology and structure of the lens of the subject's eye E through the XY projection image, while also understanding the distribution of the opacities and light transmittance through the distribution information. Typically, according to such a display method, the morphology and structure of the lens (captured image) and the function of the lens (distribution information) can be presented in an easily understood manner, as well as the relationship between them.

[0214] Furthermore, as described above, the rendering unit 86 can construct a projection image defined by an XY coordinate system by applying Z-direction projection (projection onto the XY plane) to the three-dimensional lens image. Since the Z-direction projection includes the accumulation of pixel values of pixel groups arranged along the Z direction, the projection image thus constructed includes information about the position and state of opacity in the lens.

[0215] The projection image constructed in this way not only shows the two-dimensional turbidity distribution (distribution on the XY plane) like the through-illumination image, but also includes information showing the turbidity distribution in the depth direction (Z direction, depth direction) inherited from the three-dimensional reconstructed image.

[0216] The display control unit 71 can display the projected image as a two-dimensional image (flat image) similar to the illuminated image. In this case, depth information cannot be spatially presented. Therefore, the depth information of each turbid area can be expressed using display color, display density, or display pattern. For example, when depth is expressed using color, information indicating the correspondence between depth and color (color bar) can be displayed along with the projected image.

[0217] The depth information of the cloudy portion may include information indicating any position of the cloudy portion, such as the frontmost position (the position closest to the cornea), the rearmost position, or the central position of the cloudy portion. Furthermore, the depth information of the cloudy portion may include information indicating the depth dimension of the cloudy portion.

[0218] When two or more turbid portions overlap in the depth direction, the depth information of these turbid portions may be displayed together or selectively.

[0219] In addition, information indicating the degree of turbidity may also be displayed. The degree of turbidity may include information such as density, severity, size, etc. Such turbidity may be expressed, for example, by display color, display density, or display pattern.

[0220] When rendering is applied to the entire lens image, a portion of the rendered image corresponding to the entire lens image can be extracted and displayed. For example, the process of extracting a portion of the rendered image is performed in the same manner as the above-mentioned segmentation.

[0221] Alternatively, rendering may be applied to a portion (partial region) of the lens image. In this case, segmentation may be applied to the lens image to identify the partial region. Alternatively, segmentation may be applied to the three-dimensional reconstructed image to identify the partial region of the lens image.

[0222] For example, the data processing unit 8 can be configured to specify a partial area of the lens in the depth direction (Z direction) of the eye E in the lens image (or three-dimensional reconstructed image). Examples include the nucleus area, the area in front of the nucleus, the area behind the nucleus, the capsule area, an area shallower than a predetermined depth position, an area deeper than a predetermined depth position, an area between a first depth position and a second depth position, and other partial areas. The rendering unit 86 can apply rendering to the partial area thus specified. This makes it possible to provide a turbidity distribution in the corresponding partial area. For example, it is possible to provide a turbidity distribution in the depth range desired by the user.

[0223] The data processing unit 8 can be configured to identify a partial region of the lens in a direction (e.g., X direction, Y direction, or XY direction) perpendicular to the depth direction (Z direction) of the eye E in the lens image (or three-dimensional reconstructed image). For example, as described above, the lens region can be divided into a plurality of sectors at equal angles, and the turbidity state (distribution, amount, ratio, degree, etc.) of each sector can be determined.

[0224] When at least one of the nucleus region and the capsule region of the lens is specified by segmentation, a partial region of the lens can be specified based on the region. For example, when the nucleus region of the lens is specified, the outline of the nucleus region can be used as a reference to specify the partial region. Specifically, the partial region can be set by enlarging or reducing the nucleus region by a predetermined size. In addition, when the capsule region of the lens is specified, the partial region can be set in accordance with the shape (curved surface shape) of the capsule region. For example, a curved surface that is the same as or similar to the anterior capsule region can be set as the front partial region.

[0225] Some examples of rendering that can be performed in this embodiment are illustrated. Figure 18 An example of rendering for constructing a projection image defined on the XY plane is shown. Reference numeral K denotes Figure 3 3D reconstructed images (e.g., stack data) of the plurality of anterior ocular images F1 to FN shown in FIG. The rendering unit 86 applies Z-direction projection to the 3D reconstructed image K. Thus, a rendered image (projected image) G defined on an XY plane orthogonal to the Z direction is constructed.

[0226] Figure 19 Another example of rendering for constructing a projection image defined on the XY plane is shown. The lens image construction unit 81 extracts a three-dimensional lens image H1 from the three-dimensional reconstructed images of multiple anterior ocular images F1 to FN. The rendering unit 86 applies Z-direction projection to lens image H1. This creates a rendered image (projection image) H2 of lens image H1 defined on the XY plane, which is orthogonal to the Z direction.

[0227] The slit lamp microscope 1 of this embodiment can be configured to determine the temporal change of the turbidity state of the lens. Figure 10A and Figure 10B Some examples of the structure of the data processing unit 8 used for this purpose will be described.

[0228] Figure 10A The data processing unit 8H shown in the figure includes a time-varying information generating unit 87A. In addition, in this example, a medical information database 10 is used. The medical information database 10 stores at least data obtained in a lens opacity examination performed using a slit lamp microscope 1 or the like. The medical information database 10 is set in a hospital information system (HIS) such as an electronic medical record system. The medical information database 10 may also be a part of the slit lamp microscope 1 or an information system that can be accessed by the slit lamp microscope 1. In addition, instead of the medical information database 10, a recording medium recording data obtained in a lens opacity examination performed using a slit lamp microscope 1 or the like may be used.

[0229] Data 11 obtained from past lens opacity examinations performed on the subject's eye E (examination data, opacity distribution examination history) is input from this medical information database 10 into the time-varying information generating unit 87A. Furthermore, data acquired during the current examination is also input into the time-varying information generating unit 87A. Thus, a plurality of data items related to the opacity state of the lens of the subject's eye E are input into the time-varying information generating unit 87A. In addition to data related to the opacity state of the lens of the subject's eye E (numerical values, etc.), the examination data 11 also includes information such as the subject's identification information and the measurement date (photographing date).

[0230] The type of data processed by the time-varying information generating unit 87A may be any type. For example, the time-varying information generating unit 87A may be configured to process turbidity distribution information and / or information obtained based thereon. Information obtained based on the turbidity distribution information includes turbidity distribution maps, transmittance distribution information, transmittance distribution maps, and the like. More generally, the time-varying information generating unit 87A may be configured to process multiple cross-sectional images collected through anterior ocular scanning using slit light and / or information obtained therefrom.

[0231] The time-varying information generating unit 87A generates information (time-varying information) indicating the time-varying distribution of the opacities in the lens of the eye E based on the plurality of pieces of opacity distribution information (or information acquired therefrom) for the eye E. The method for representing the time-varying distribution is arbitrary, and typically, it may be a graph, table, list, video, slideshow, or the like. A specific example of generating such time-varying information will be described below.

[0232] Figure 10B The data processing unit 8J shown in FIG. Figure 8C In the modified example of data processing unit 8E shown in FIG, a time-varying information generating unit 87B is provided in place of transmittance distribution map creating unit 85C. As described above, a plurality of data (transmittance distribution information and information based thereon) acquired on a plurality of measurement days (a plurality of imaging days) are input into time-varying information generating unit 87B.

[0233] The time-varying information generating section 87B generates time-varying information indicating the time-varying light transmittance distribution of the lens of the eye E based on the transmittance distribution information generated by the transmittance distribution information generating section 84B (or information based thereon). The display control section 71 can display information on the display section 9A based on the generated time-varying information.

[0234] Figure 20 An example of information displayed based on the time-varying information generated by the time-varying information generating unit 87B is shown in FIG. Figure 17The transmittance distribution diagram 300 is the same as that of the transmittance distribution diagram 300, and a transmittance distribution diagram for each measurement day (photographing day) is drawn. Figure 15 The graph is created by obtaining transmittance values (average transmittance) for each of the eight three-dimensional partial regions 101 to 108 of the three-dimensional lens image 100 shown in FIG. The time change information 400 shows a trend graph of the time change of the average transmittance related to each of the three-dimensional partial regions 101 to 108.

[0235] According to such temporal change information 400 , in addition to the light transmittance distribution in the lens of the eye E, local temporal changes, global temporal changes, change trends, and the like of light transmittance can be provided in an easily graspable manner.

[0236] The slit lamp microscope 1 of this embodiment is configured to scan the anterior ocular segment while moving the slit light beam in the X direction, illuminating a YZ cross-section. Consequently, the angle of incidence of the slit light beam on the curved cornea varies with scanning, and in particular, the amount of reflection from the corneal surface varies with each scanning position. Consequently, the brightness and color of the multiple anterior ocular segment images collected through scanning are generally not uniform. Three-dimensional reconstructed images and three-dimensional lens images constructed from these multiple anterior ocular segment images suffer from variations in brightness and color between scanned sections.

[0237] To address this issue, the slit lamp microscope 1 of this embodiment can standardize predetermined parameters of multiple anterior ocular images (multiple cross-sectional images) collected by scanning. Normalization in this example is a process of adjusting these anterior ocular images so that the values of the predetermined image parameters in the multiple anterior ocular images are approximately equal.

[0238] In addition, the standardization in this example can be a process of calculating a correction value (adjustment value) for making the image parameter values in multiple anterior segment images approximately equal and assigning it to each anterior segment image, and can further include a process of actually changing the image parameter values of multiple anterior segment images using the correction value.

[0239] Will refer to Figure 11 Some examples of the structure of the data processing unit 8 for performing such normalization will be described.

[0240] Figure 11 The data processing unit 8K shown in FIG includes a normalizing unit 88. The normalizing unit 88 applies normalization to a plurality of cross-sectional images collected by scanning the anterior ocular segment using slit light. For example, the normalizing unit 88 may be configured to perform one or both of brightness normalization and color normalization.

[0241] Brightness normalization is performed to make the brightness of multiple anterior segment images substantially equal. Preferably, brightness normalization is performed using tissue with relatively low reflectivity as a reference. To achieve this, for example, the normalization unit 88 first applies segmentation to each of the multiple anterior segment images, thereby identifying the posterior corneal image (corresponding to the image area posterior to the cornea) within each anterior segment image.

[0242] Next, the normalization unit 88 sets any one of the multiple posterior corneal images specified from the multiple anterior images as a reference image. The index used to set the reference image is arbitrary, for example, any index among the time series, spatial position and brightness. For example, the posterior corneal image of the anterior image acquired first among the multiple anterior images can be selected as the reference image (time series index). In addition, the posterior corneal image of the anterior image passing through the corneal vertex (the anterior image closest to the corneal vertex) among the multiple anterior images can be selected as the reference image (spatial position index). In addition, the posterior corneal image having the largest (or smallest) brightness statistical value (maximum value, minimum value, average value, etc.) among the multiple posterior corneal images can be selected as the reference image (brightness index). In addition, the method of setting the reference image is not limited to these and can be arbitrary. In addition, the reference image can be set by the user. In addition, a reference value (target value) of brightness can be set instead of the reference image.

[0243] Next, the normalization unit 88 calculates a comparison value between the reference image and each of the other posterior corneal images so that the brightness of the multiple posterior corneal images is approximately equal. This comparison value can be calculated, for example, by comparing the representative brightness value (average, maximum, minimum, etc.) of the reference image with the representative brightness values of the other posterior corneal images. Typically, the comparison value is a ratio obtained by dividing the representative brightness value of the other posterior corneal images by the representative brightness value of the reference image, or a difference obtained by subtracting the representative brightness value of the reference image from the representative brightness value of the other posterior corneal images. The thus calculated comparison value can be assigned to the corresponding anterior ocular image.

[0244] The comparison value assigned to each anterior segment image serves as a correction value for adjusting the brightness of the anterior segment image to match the brightness of a reference anterior segment image (including the reference image). For example, when the correction value is the aforementioned ratio, the brightness of the anterior segment image can be adjusted to match the brightness of the reference anterior segment image by multiplying the ratio by the brightness of the anterior segment image. When the correction value is the aforementioned difference, the brightness of the anterior segment image can be adjusted to match the brightness of the reference anterior segment image by adding the difference to the brightness of the anterior segment image.

[0245] Since the slit light of the slit lamp microscope 1 of this embodiment includes visible light, the multiple anterior segment images obtained by scanning are color images. Color standardization is performed to adjust the colors (hue, saturation, brightness, etc.) of the multiple anterior segment images. For example, similar to brightness standardization, the standardization unit 88 sets any one of the multiple anterior segment images as a reference anterior segment image, and obtains a comparison value by comparing the color information of the reference anterior segment image with the color information of other anterior segment images, and assigns the comparison value to the corresponding anterior segment image. Here, for example, the comparison value can also be calculated by comparing adjacent anterior segment images. Through such a series of processing, color standardization in multiple anterior segment images is achieved.

[0246] In this example, opacity distribution information is generated using multiple anterior ocular segment images standardized in this manner. This allows for the calculation of opacity distribution information using multiple anterior ocular segment images corrected for differences in brightness and color caused by scanning, improving the accuracy, precision, and reproducibility of the examination.

[0247] As described above, the slit lamp microscope 1 of this embodiment can acquire an image of the anterior ocular segment and various information related to lens opacity. The slit lamp microscope 1 can also be configured to perform cataract evaluation by using the acquired information. Figure 12 Some examples of the configuration of the data processing unit 8 for performing cataract evaluation will be described.

[0248] Figure 12 The data processing unit 8L shown in FIG includes an evaluation unit 89. The evaluation unit 89 can perform various evaluations related to cataracts, and here, the evaluation of the hardness of the lens nucleus and the evaluation of the lens type will be described.

[0249] The hardness of the lens nucleus is used to diagnose the degree of progression of nuclear cataracts, etc. As described above, since the slit light of the slit lamp microscope 1 of this embodiment includes visible light, the plurality of anterior ocular segment images obtained by scanning are color images.

[0250] The Emery-Little classification is also known regarding the relationship between the hardness and color of the lens nucleus. The Emery-Little classification is described in, for example, the following document: Aging and Eye Diseases, Department of Ophthalmology, Dokkyo University, Eiichiro Matsui, Hiroyuki Matsushima, Yoshihiro Matsumoto, Masaru Imei, Dokkyo Journal of Medical Sciences, 35(3): 251-258, 2008. The Emery-Little classification categorizes the degree of cataract progression into five levels, 1 to 5, and correlates the nucleus hardness and color within each level.

[0251] The evaluation unit 89 acquires the color information of the lens of the subject's eye E based on, for example, a plurality of anterior ocular images, a 3D reconstructed image, or a 3D lens image, and identifies the level corresponding to the lens color information among the five levels of the Emery-Little classification. Specifically, this evaluation is performed as follows.

[0252] When the color of the lens is "transparent or slightly white", the nuclear hardness is judged as "soft" (level 1). When the color of the lens is "white or slightly yellowish", the nuclear hardness is judged as "semi-soft" (level 2). When the color of the lens is "yellow", the nuclear hardness is judged as "medium" (level 3). When the color of the lens is "brown yellow", the nuclear hardness is judged as "hard" (level 4). When the color of the lens is "brown or black", the nuclear hardness is judged as "super hard" (level 5).

[0253] The evaluation section 89 can estimate the type of cataract suffered by the eye E. For example, the evaluation section 89 can estimate the type of cataract based on any one of the turbidity distribution information, the turbidity distribution map, the transmittance distribution information, and the transmittance distribution map.

[0254] As a specific example, when the cloudy portion is predominantly present in the central area of the lens, it can be presumed to be a nuclear cataract. Furthermore, when the cloudy portion is widely present in the peripheral area of the lens, or when the cloudy portion is radially distributed, it can be presumed to be a cortical cataract. Furthermore, when the cloudy portion is predominantly present near the anterior capsule of the lens, it can be presumed to be an anterior subcapsular cataract. Furthermore, when the cloudy portion is predominantly present near the posterior capsule of the lens, it can be presumed to be a posterior subcapsular cataract. Furthermore, the degree of progression can also be evaluated based on common knowledge such as the Emery-Little classification.

[0255] This evaluation unit 89 can provide information useful for cataract diagnosis to doctors and later-stage diagnostic support computers. In particular, the slit lamp microscope 1 of this embodiment can provide higher-quality information than ever before, as it can evaluate the three-dimensional distribution of turbidity, which is not available in through-illumination images.

[0256] The slit lamp microscope 1 of this embodiment can be configured to simulate the visual recognition state of the subject's eye E by using various information related to lens opacity. Figure 13 Some examples of the structure of the data processing unit 8 for performing the visual recognition state simulation will be described.

[0257] Figure 13 The data processing section 8M shown in FIG includes a simulation section 90. For example, the simulation section 90 may perform a visual recognition state simulation based on any one of the turbidity distribution information, the turbidity distribution map, the transmittance distribution information, and the transmittance distribution map.

[0258] The visual recognition state simulation is a calculation that creates a model by actually evaluating how the subject's eye E visually recognizes an object based on the distribution (position, size, density, concentration, etc.) of the cloudy portion in the lens.

[0259] For example, the simulation unit 90 first creates a lens model based on the opacity distribution information. This lens model reflects the distribution of opacities in the lens of the subject's eye E. Furthermore, this lens model may also reflect measurement values previously acquired from the subject's eye E. For example, the lens model may be created using measurement values such as the anterior lens curvature, posterior lens curvature, and lens thickness. Alternatively, any of these measurement values may be acquired by the measurement unit 91, described later.

[0260] Next, the simulation unit 90 creates an eyeball model that includes the lens model. This eyeball model may also reflect previously acquired measurement values from the subject's eye E. For example, the eyeball model may be created using measurement values such as axial length, corneal curvature, anterior chamber depth, and fundus shape (retinal curvature). Alternatively, any of these measurement values may be acquired by the measurement unit 91, described later.

[0261] Next, the simulation unit 90 uses the eyeball model to perform ray tracing. During ray tracing, the turbidity reduces light intensity, selectively reduces light intensity based on wavelength, and diffuses light. The extent of these effects is set, for example, based on the concentration of the turbidity. This results in a simulation result (image) of the visual recognition state of the subject's eye E relative to a predetermined object (visual target, etc.).

[0262] This type of visual recognition state simulation is considered effective in terms of informed consent. For example, the simulation results can be presented to illustrate the current state of the eye E to be inspected, or to illustrate changes in the visual recognition state due to cataract surgery.

[0263] The slit lamp microscope 1 of this embodiment can also be configured to measure predetermined anterior ocular parameters based on a plurality of cross-sectional images collected by scanning the anterior ocular segment using slit light. The anterior ocular parameters that need to be measured include corneal thickness (distribution), anterior corneal curvature (distribution), posterior corneal curvature (distribution), anterior chamber depth (distribution), lens thickness (distribution), anterior lens curvature (distribution), posterior lens curvature (distribution), lens diameter (distribution), lens tilt angle, and any one or more of the offset between the corneal center and the lens center. Figure 14 Some examples of the structure of the data processing unit 8 for performing such anterior ocular segment parameter measurement will be described.

[0264] Figure 14The data processing section 8N shown in FIG includes a measuring section 91. The measuring section 91 performs measurement of predetermined anterior segment parameters based on, for example, a plurality of anterior segment images, a three-dimensional reconstructed image, or a three-dimensional lens image.

[0265] The measurement of anterior ocular parameters includes, as in the past, the identification of the site to be measured and the measurement based on the identification of the site. Some examples of anterior ocular parameter measurements will be described below. The measurement of corneal thickness includes the identification of the anterior corneal image and the posterior corneal image, and the measurement of the distance between them. The measurement of lens thickness is also performed in the same manner. The measurement of anterior corneal curvature includes the identification of the anterior corneal image and the curvature measurement of the specific posterior corneal image. The measurement of posterior corneal curvature, anterior lens curvature, or posterior lens curvature is also measured in the same manner. The measurement of anterior chamber depth includes the identification of the posterior corneal image and the anterior lens image, and the measurement of the distance between them. Measurement of lens diameter includes identifying the anterior and posterior capsule images in the lens image behind the pupil (as described above), estimating (extrapolating) the overall shape of the anterior capsule based on the anterior capsule image, estimating (extrapolating) the overall shape of the posterior capsule based on the posterior capsule image, identifying the lens edge (the intersection of the anterior and posterior capsules) based on the estimated shapes of the anterior and posterior capsules, and measuring the diameter of the lens edge. Measurement of lens tilt angle includes identifying the anterior and posterior capsule images in the lens image behind the pupil, identifying the anterior capsule center based on the anterior capsule image, identifying the posterior capsule center based on the posterior capsule image, identifying the straight line connecting the anterior and posterior capsule centers, and measuring the angle of the straight line relative to a reference direction. Measurement of the offset between the corneal center and the lens center includes identifying the corneal center (the center of the front face of the cornea or the center of the back face of the cornea), identifying the lens center (the center of the front face of the lens, the center of the back face of the lens, or the center of the lens), and measuring the offset between the corneal center and the lens center in the XY directions.

[0266] According to such anterior ocular segment parameter measurement, anterior ocular segment parameters can be determined based on a group of high-quality cross-sectional images collected by anterior ocular segment scanning using slit light.

[0267] <Output Section 9>

[0268] The output unit 9 outputs information from the slit lamp microscope 1. The output unit 9 typically includes either or both a communication device (communication unit) for communicating data between the slit lamp microscope 1 and other devices, and a display device (display unit 9A) for displaying information. Alternatively, the output unit 9 may include a recording device (data writer, drive device, etc.) for writing information to a recording medium, a printer for recording information to a print medium, or the like.

[0269] The communication unit included in the output unit 9 performs data communication between the slit lamp microscope 1 and other devices. That is, the communication unit sends data to another device and receives data sent from another device. The data communication method performed by the communication unit is arbitrary. For example, the communication unit includes one or more of various communication interfaces, such as a communication interface compatible with the Internet, a communication interface compatible with a dedicated line, a communication interface compatible with a LAN, a communication interface compatible with short-range communication, etc. Data communication can be wired communication or wireless communication. The data sent and received by the communication unit can be encrypted. In such a case, for example, the control unit 7 and / or the data processing unit 8 includes at least one of an encryption processing unit that encrypts data sent by the communication unit and a decryption processing unit that decrypts data received by the communication unit.

[0270] The display unit 9A included in the output unit 9 is controlled by the control unit 7 (display control unit 71) to display various information. The display unit 9A may include a flat panel display such as a liquid crystal display (LCD). The display unit 9A may be a peripheral device of the slit lamp microscope 1.

[0271] <Other requirements>

[0272] Apart from Figure 1 In addition to the requirements shown in , the slit lamp microscope 1 may be equipped with an operating device. Alternatively, the operating device may be a peripheral device of the slit lamp microscope 1. The operating device includes a device for operating the slit lamp microscope 1 and a device for inputting information. The operating device includes, for example, buttons, switches, joysticks, dials, handles, knobs, mice, keyboards, trackballs, operating panels, and the like. A device that integrates a display device and an operating device, such as a touch screen, may also be used. The subject and the assistant can operate the slit lamp microscope 1 by using the display device and the operating device.

[0273] <Align>

[0274] The alignment of the slit lamp microscope 1 with respect to the subject's eye E will be described. Generally, alignment is the process of placing the optical system of the device in an optimal position for photographing and measuring the subject's eye E. The alignment of this embodiment is to obtain Figure 3 The illumination system 2 and the imaging system 3 are arranged at optimal positions based on the dynamic images (a plurality of anterior ocular images) shown in FIG.

[0275] There are various methods for aligning an ophthalmologic apparatus. Several alignment methods are exemplified below, but the methods applicable in this embodiment are not limited to these.

[0276] As an alignment method that can be applied in this embodiment, there is stereo alignment. Stereo alignment can be applied to ophthalmic devices that can photograph the anterior eye from two or more different directions, and its specific method is disclosed in Japanese Patent Gazette No. 2013-248376 of the present applicant. Stereo alignment includes, for example, the following steps: a step in which two or more anterior eye cameras photograph the anterior eye from different directions to obtain two or more captured images; a step in which a processor analyzes these captured images to determine the three-dimensional position of the eye to be inspected; and a step in which the processor controls the movement of the optical system based on the determined three-dimensional position. Thus, the optical system (in this case, the lighting system 2 and the photographing system 3) is configured to a position that is optimal for the eye to be inspected. In a typical stereo alignment, the position of the pupil of the eye to be inspected (the center or center of gravity of the pupil) is used as a reference.

[0277] In addition to this stereoscopic alignment, any known alignment method can be used, such as a method utilizing a Purkinje image obtained by alignment light, a method utilizing an optical lever, or a method using an alignment index. In the method utilizing a Purkinje image, an optical lever, or an alignment index, the position of the corneal vertex of the eye to be examined is used as a reference.

[0278] In addition, the typical alignment methods in the past, including the above examples, are performed for the purpose of aligning the axis of the eye to be inspected and the optical axis of the optical system, but in this embodiment, alignment can be performed by configuring the lighting system 2 and the shooting system 3 at a position corresponding to the start position of the scan.

[0279] As a first example of alignment in this embodiment, one of the aforementioned alignment methods can be used to perform alignment using the pupil or corneal vertex of the subject's eye E as a reference, and then the illumination system 2 and imaging system 3 can be moved (in the X direction) by a distance corresponding to a preset standard value for the corneal radius. Alternatively, a measured value for the corneal radius of the subject's eye E can be used instead of the standard value.

[0280] As a second example, after performing alignment using the pupil or corneal vertex of the subject's eye E as a reference using any of the aforementioned alignment methods, an image of the anterior segment of the subject's eye E is analyzed to measure the corneal radius, and the illumination system 2 and imaging system 3 are moved (in the X direction) by a distance corresponding to the measured value. In this example, the image of the anterior segment analyzed is, for example, an image of the anterior segment obtained by the imaging system 3 or another image. The other image may be any image, such as an image obtained by an anterior segment camera or an image obtained by anterior segment optical coherence tomography (OCT).

[0281] As a third example, the image of the anterior eye obtained by the anterior eye camera or the photographing system 3 for stereo alignment can be analyzed to obtain the first end of the cornea, and the lighting system 2 and the photographing system 3 can be moved to a position corresponding to the first end by applying stereo alignment.

[0282] Alternatively, alignment can be performed using any of the aforementioned alignment methods, with the pupil or corneal vertex of the eye E as a reference, and the anterior ocular segment scan using slit light can be initiated from the position determined thereby. In this case, the scanning sequence can also be set so as to scan the entire cornea C. For example, the scanning sequence can be set so as to scan leftward and then rightward from the position determined by the alignment.

[0283] <Other matters>

[0284] The slit lamp microscope 1 may be provided with a fixation system that outputs light (fixation light) for causing the subject's eye E to fixate. Typically, the fixation system includes at least one visible light source (fixation light source) or a display device that displays images such as landscapes and fixation targets. The fixation system is, for example, configured coaxially or non-coaxially with the lighting system 2 or the photographing system 3. The fixation system may include an internal fixation system that presents the fixation target to the subject through the optical path of the optical system of the device and / or an external fixation system that presents the fixation target to the subject from outside the optical path.

[0285] The types of images that can be acquired by the slit lamp microscope 1 are not limited to the aforementioned dynamic images of the anterior ocular segment (multiple anterior ocular segment images). For example, the slit lamp microscope 1 has a three-dimensional image based on the dynamic image, a rendered image based on the three-dimensional image, a through-illumination image, a dynamic image showing the movement of a contact lens worn on the subject's eye, an image showing the gap between a contact lens to which a fluorescent agent is applied and the corneal surface, and the like. In addition, it is also possible to perform fundus photography, corneal endothelial cell photography, meibomian gland photography, and the like. When a through-illumination image can be acquired, for example, the above-mentioned rendered image and through-illumination image can be displayed, the rendered image and through-illumination image can be synthesized, one of the rendered image and through-illumination image can be processed based on the other, and one of the rendered image and through-illumination image can be analyzed based on the other.

[0286] <Work>

[0287] The operation of the slit lamp microscope 1 will be described. Figure 21 An example of the work is shown in .

[0288] Although not shown in the figure, in any step, the user (subject, examiner, assistant, etc.) inputs subject information into the slit lamp microscope 1. The input subject information is stored in the control unit 7. Typically, the subject information includes subject identification information (subject ID).

[0289] Furthermore, background information can be input. Background information is any information related to the subject, and examples thereof include the subject's medical interview information, information filled out by the subject on a reservation card, and information recorded in the subject's electronic medical records. Typically, background information includes gender, age, height, weight, disease name, candidate disease name, test results (visual acuity, eye refractive power, intraocular pressure, etc.), wearing history or degree of refractive correction tools (glasses, contact lenses, etc.), examination history, treatment history, etc. These are examples, and background information is not limited to these.

[0290] In preparation for filming, the table on which the slit lamp microscope 1 is placed, the chair on which the patient sits, and the chin rest of the slit lamp microscope 1 are adjusted (not shown). For example, the height of the table, chair, and chin rest are adjusted. The chin rest can be equipped with a chin rest and a forehead pad to stabilize the patient's face.

[0291] After the preparation is completed, the subject sits on the chair, places his jaw on the jaw rest, and rests his forehead on the forehead pad. Before or after these tasks, the user performs an instruction operation to start shooting the eye to be tested. This operation is, for example, pressing a shooting start trigger button not shown in the figure, inputting an instruction sound, etc. Alternatively, the control unit 7 can detect the completion of the preparation phase and automatically transfer to the shooting phase. In addition, a fixation target not shown in the figure can also be presented to the subject (the eye to be tested E or its contralateral eye).

[0292] (S1: Alignment)

[0293] In response to the start of imaging, the slit lamp microscope 1 first aligns the illumination system 2 and imaging system 3 with respect to the eye E. Unlike conventional alignment, which aligns the optical axis of the optical system with the corneal vertex or pupil center of the eye E, the alignment in step S1 is performed to position the illumination system 2 and imaging system 3 at the start position for the anterior ocular segment scan performed in step S2.

[0294] The alignment method of step S1 may be any, for example, any one of stereo alignment, manual or automatic alignment using Purkinje images, manual or automatic alignment using an optical lever, and manual or automatic alignment using an alignment index.

[0295] In some embodiments, alignment is performed using the corneal vertex or pupil center as a target using this conventional method. Furthermore, the control unit 7 moves the illumination system 2 and imaging system 3, which have been moved by alignment using the corneal vertex or pupil center as a target, to a scanning start position (a position corresponding thereto).

[0296] In some other embodiments, alignment is performed from the outset with the scan start position as the target. This alignment includes, for example, analyzing an image of the anterior ocular segment (e.g., a frontal or oblique image) to identify the scan start position (e.g., the first end of the cornea or a position spaced a predetermined distance from the first end in a direction opposite to the axis of the eye E); and moving the illumination system 2 and the imaging system 3 to positions corresponding to the identified scan start position.

[0297] Predetermined operations may also be performed before, during, and / or after alignment. For example, adjustments may be made to the illumination light intensity (slit light intensity), the slits (slit width, slit length, and slit direction), the imaging element 5 (sensitivity, gain, etc.), and the focus.

[0298] (S2: Anterior ocular scan)

[0299] The slit lamp microscope 1 scans the anterior segment of the eye E to be inspected by combining slit light irradiation by the illumination system 2 , dynamic imaging by the imaging system 3 , and movement of the illumination system 2 and the imaging system 3 by the moving mechanism 6 in the aforementioned manner.

[0300] Figure 22 Shown are some images obtained by continuously capturing actual anterior ocular scans from the front. These images show the movement of the slit light irradiating the anterior ocular segment.

[0301] Through one scan (scanning from the scan start position to the scan end position), for example, Figure 3 The image group (a plurality of anterior segment images) F1 to FN are shown in FIG.

[0302] The data processing unit 8 may also perform predetermined processing on the image obtained by scanning. For example, any signal processing or image processing such as noise removal, contrast adjustment, brightness adjustment, and color correction may be applied.

[0303] (S3: Standardization of multiple cross-sectional images)

[0304] The normalization unit 88 applies normalization to the plurality of cross-sectional images (for example, the plurality of anterior ocular segment images F1 to FN) collected in step S2 , thereby adjusting the brightness and color of the plurality of cross-sectional images.

[0305] (S4: Constructing a 3D reconstructed image)

[0306] The reconstruction unit 811 applies three-dimensional reconstruction to the plurality of anterior ocular segment images normalized in step S3 , thereby constructing a three-dimensional reconstructed image.

[0307] (S5: Specific lens area)

[0308] The segmentation unit 812 applies segmentation to the three-dimensional reconstructed image constructed in step S4 to identify the lens region.

[0309] Furthermore, the segmentation unit 83 may further apply segmentation to the lens region to identify an image region corresponding to a predetermined partial region of the lens.

[0310] (S6: Generate turbidity distribution information)

[0311] The lens region identified in step S5 is a three-dimensional image defined in the XYZ coordinate system. The opacity distribution information generating unit 82 generates opacity distribution information indicating the distribution of opacities in the lens of the eye E to be inspected by analyzing the three-dimensional lens image.

[0312] (S7: Create Graph)

[0313] The data processing unit 8 creates a map related to lens opacity based on the opacity distribution information generated in step S6. For example, the data processing unit 8 may create a opacity distribution map by the opacity distribution map creating unit 83, and may create a transmittance distribution map by the transmittance distribution map creating unit 85A (85B, 85C).

[0314] In addition, the data processing unit 8 can construct a rendering image by the rendering unit 86, and can generate time-varying information by the time-varying information generating unit 87A (87B), and can perform evaluation on predetermined cataract indicators by the evaluation unit 89, and can perform visual recognition state simulation by the simulation unit 90, and can measure predetermined anterior ocular parameters by the measuring unit 91.

[0315] (S8: Display image)

[0316] The control unit 7 (display control unit 71 ) displays the graph constructed in step S7 and other information on the display unit 9A of the output unit 9 .

[0317] The control unit 7 can control the communication unit of the output unit 9 to transmit arbitrary information to other devices. Examples of devices to which information can be transmitted include information processing devices and storage devices. Examples of information processing devices include servers on wide area networks, servers on local area networks (LANs), and computer terminals. Storage devices include storage devices installed on wide area networks or on local area networks (LANs).

[0318] The information displayed and / or sent may include the above-mentioned background information. Alternatively, the background information may also be incidental information of the image. Generally, the data structure of the information displayed and / or sent is arbitrary.

[0319] Furthermore, the information displayed and / or transmitted typically includes images of the subject's right eye and left eye. The right-eye and left-eye images are obtained by applying the process of this example to the right eye and left eye, respectively. The aforementioned subject's eye information is appended to the right-eye and left-eye images, respectively, allowing for identification of the right-eye and left-eye images.

[0320] The subject's identification information is sent along with the images captured by the slit lamp microscope 1. This identification information can be the subject's ID input into the slit lamp microscope 1 or generated based on the subject's ID. For example, the subject's ID (internal identification information) used for personal identification within the facility where the slit lamp microscope 1 is installed can be converted into external identification information for use outside the facility. This improves the security of information related to personal information such as images and background information.

[0321] As described above, the description of the operation according to this example is completed.

[0322] <Effect>

[0323] Some effects achieved by the slit lamp microscope 1 according to this embodiment will be described.

[0324] The slit lamp microscope 1 of this embodiment includes a scanning unit (illumination system 2, imaging system 3, and movement mechanism 6) and a data processing unit 8. The scanning unit scans the anterior segment of the subject's eye E with slit light and collects multiple cross-sectional images F1 to FN. Based on these multiple cross-sectional images F1 to FN, the data processing unit 8 generates opacity distribution information indicating the distribution of opacities in the lens of the subject's eye E.

[0325] The slit lamp microscope 1 of this embodiment, as described above, enables a novel observation method that depicts opacities from a set of cross-sectional images obtained by scanning the anterior ocular segment with slit light, rather than through-illumination, which depicts opacities in the lens as shadows cast by return light from the retina. Consequently, the illumination light intensity (and imaging sensitivity) can be adjusted. This allows for control of image brightness and image quality.

[0326] Due to these advantages, images obtained by the slit lamp microscope 1 of this embodiment can be used for quantitative diagnosis. For example, in addition to subjective evaluation of cataract grade, they can also be used for objective evaluation. Furthermore, images obtained by the slit lamp microscope 1 of this embodiment can be subjected to automated image analysis using analysis programs or machine learning.

[0327] Furthermore, the slit lamp microscope 1 of this embodiment can provide a three-dimensional distribution, unlike the through-illumination method which can only provide a two-dimensional distribution of the opacified portion of the lens.

[0328] As described above, the slit lamp microscope 1 of the present embodiment can provide a novel ophthalmic observation method that eliminates the disadvantages of the transillumination method.

[0329] In this embodiment, the data processing unit 8 (8A) may include: a lens image construction unit 81, which constructs a three-dimensional lens image 100 based on multiple cross-sectional images F1 to FN collected by the scanning unit; and a turbidity distribution information generation unit 82, which generates turbidity distribution information by analyzing the three-dimensional lens image 100.

[0330] Here, the lens image construction unit 81 (81A) may include: a first reconstruction unit (reconstruction unit 811) that applies three-dimensional reconstruction to multiple cross-sectional images F1 to FN collected by the scanning unit; and a first segmentation unit (segmentation unit 812) that specifies the three-dimensional lens image 100 by applying segmentation to the three-dimensional reconstructed image constructed by the first reconstruction unit.

[0331] Alternatively, the lens image construction unit 81 (81B) may include: a second segmentation unit (segmentation unit 813) for specifying a two-dimensional lens image by applying segmentation to each of the multiple cross-sectional images F1 to FN collected by the scanning unit; and a second reconstruction unit (reconstruction unit 814) for constructing a three-dimensional lens image 100 by applying three-dimensional reconstruction to the multiple two-dimensional lens images specified by the second segmentation unit.

[0332] The opacity distribution information generating unit 82 (82A) may include a local distribution information generating unit 821. The local distribution information generating unit 821 generates local distribution information indicating the distribution of opacities in each of the plurality of three-dimensional partial regions 101 to 108 of the three-dimensional lens image 100 constructed by the lens image constructing unit 81.

[0333] These structures provide some exemplary embodiments for constructing a three-dimensional lens image 100 from a plurality of cross-sectional images F1 to FN collected by anterior ocular scanning using slit light.

[0334] In this embodiment, the data processing unit 8 ( 8B) may further include a turbidity distribution map creating unit 83 that creates a turbidity distribution map based on the plurality of local distribution information generated by the local distribution information generating unit 821 .

[0335] Here, the opacity distribution map can be a map showing the depth position of the opacified portion in each of the plurality of three-dimensional partial regions 101 to 108 of the three-dimensional lens image 100. Furthermore, the opacity distribution map can also be represented by a two-dimensional coordinate system in which the first coordinate axis represents the depth direction (Z direction) and the second coordinate axis represents the direction orthogonal to the depth direction. Alternatively, the plurality of three-dimensional partial regions 101 to 108 can be obtained by performing equal-angle segmentation on the three-dimensional lens image 100 in a plane (XY plane) orthogonal to the depth direction (Z direction), and the second coordinate axis (α coordinate axis) can represent the angular direction in this equal-angle segmentation.

[0336] According to such a structure, it is possible to provide Figure 16B The turbidity distribution map 200 is useful information for diagnosing cataracts.

[0337] In this embodiment, the data processing unit 8 (8C) may include: a first transmittance distribution information generating unit (transmittance distribution information generating unit 84A), which generates transmittance distribution information representing the distribution of light transmittance of the lens of the eye E to be inspected based on multiple local distribution information generated by the local distribution information generating unit 821.

[0338] Further, the data processing section 8 ( 8C) may include a first transmittance distribution map creating section (transmittance distribution map creating section 85A) that creates a transmittance distribution map based on the transmittance distribution information generated by the first transmittance distribution information generating section.

[0339] Alternatively, the data processing unit 8 (8D) may include: a second transmittance distribution map creation unit (transmittance distribution map creation unit 85B) that creates a transmittance distribution map representing the distribution of light transmittance of the lens of the eye E to be inspected based on the turbidity distribution map created by the turbidity distribution map creation unit 83.

[0340] For example, the data processing unit 8 (8E) may include: a second transmittance distribution information generating unit (transmittance distribution information generating unit 84B), which generates transmittance distribution information representing the light transmittance distribution of the lens of the eye to be inspected E by dividing the area of the turbid portion in the corresponding three-dimensional partial area defined in the above-mentioned two-dimensional coordinate system by the area of the corresponding three-dimensional partial area for each of the multiple three-dimensional partial areas 101 to 108 of the three-dimensional lens image 100.

[0341] Furthermore, the data processing section 8 ( 8E) may include a third transmittance distribution map creating section (transmittance distribution map creating section 85C) that creates a transmittance distribution map based on the transmittance distribution information generated by the second transmittance distribution information generating section.

[0342] According to such a structure, it is possible to provide, for example, Figure 17The transmittance distribution diagram 300 is useful information for diagnosing cataracts.

[0343] In this embodiment, the data processing unit 8 (8F) may include a rendering unit 86 that applies rendering to a three-dimensional image, including the three-dimensional lens image 100 constructed by the lens image construction unit 81. More generally, the three-dimensional image to which rendering is applied may be, for example, all or a portion of a three-dimensionally reconstructed image of multiple cross-sectional images collected by the scanning unit. This allows observation of any rendered image, such as a three-dimensional lens image.

[0344] Furthermore, the rendering unit 86 may be configured to project the three-dimensional image onto a predetermined plane. Here, the predetermined plane may be set to be orthogonal (XY plane) to the depth direction (Z direction) of the eye E. This configuration can be used, for example, to construct a planar image (two-dimensional image) similar to a transillumination image.

[0345] In addition, the slit lamp microscope 1 of this embodiment may include: a first display control unit (display control unit 71), which superimposes a rendering image constructed by the rendering unit 86 and information based on the turbidity distribution information generated by the turbidity distribution information generating unit 82 on one of them and displays them on the first display device (display unit 9A).

[0346] In addition, the slit lamp microscope 1 of this embodiment may include: a second display control unit (display control unit 71), when the rendering unit 86 applies projection to a three-dimensional image, one of the two-dimensional image constructed by the projection and the distribution image based on the turbidity distribution information is superimposed on the other and displayed on the second display device (display unit 9A).

[0347] Here, the information displayed together with the rendered image (projected image) may be any information obtained from the turbidity distribution information, for example, the turbidity distribution map 200 , the transmittance distribution map 300 , numerical values related to turbidity distribution, and numerical values related to transmittance.

[0348] With these configurations, the user can understand the morphology and structure of the anterior ocular segment (lens) through the rendered image, as well as various information obtained from the turbidity distribution information, and can also understand the positional relationship between them.

[0349] In this embodiment, the data processing unit 8 (8H) may include: a first time-varying information generating unit (time-varying information generating unit 87A), which generates first time-varying information representing the time-varying distribution of the opacity part of the lens of the eye E based on multiple opacity distribution information of the anterior eye of the eye E (or information based thereon).

[0350] In addition, in this embodiment, the data processing unit 8 (8J) may include: a second time-varying information generating unit (time-varying information generating unit 87B), which generates second time-varying information representing the temporal change of the distribution of the light transmittance of the lens of the eye E to be inspected based on the transmittance distribution information of the lens of the eye to be inspected E.

[0351] Furthermore, the slit lamp microscope 1 of this embodiment may include: a third display control unit (display control unit 71), which displays a graph (time-varying information 400) representing the time-varying light transmittance in each of the multiple three-dimensional partial areas 101 to 108 of the three-dimensional lens image 100 on a third display device (display unit 9A) based on the second time-varying information.

[0352] According to the structure capable of generating information indicating temporal changes in the lens as described above, it is possible to provide Figure 20 Information useful for evaluating the progression of cataracts, such as the time-varying information 400.

[0353] In this embodiment, the data processing unit 8 (8K) may include a normalizing unit 88 that applies normalization to the plurality of cross-sectional images F1 to FN collected by the scanning unit. Furthermore, the data processing unit 8 (8K) may be configured to generate turbidity distribution information based on the plurality of normalized cross-sectional images F1 to FN.

[0354] According to this configuration, errors (deviations) generated in the plurality of cross-sectional images F1 to FN due to anterior ocular segment scanning using slit light can be eliminated, and high-quality turbidity distribution information can be generated.

[0355] Here, the normalization unit 88 may be configured to apply brightness normalization to the multiple cross-sectional images F1 to FN. In this case, the normalization unit 88 may be configured to perform brightness normalization on the multiple cross-sectional images F1 to FN based on the brightness of an image corresponding to the posterior corneal surface of the anterior portion of the subject's eye E. This configuration enables the generation of high-quality turbidity distribution information based on the multiple brightness-normalized cross-sectional images F1 to FN.

[0356] When the slit light includes visible light, the normalizing unit 88 may be configured to apply color normalization to the plurality of cross-sectional images F1 to FN. This configuration enables generation of high-quality turbidity distribution information based on the plurality of color-normalized cross-sectional images F1 to FN.

[0357] In this embodiment, the data processing unit 8 (8L) may include an evaluation unit 89 that evaluates a predetermined cataract index based on at least one of the plurality of cross-sectional images F1 to FN and the turbidity distribution information (or information based thereon).

[0358] For example, when the slit light includes white light, the evaluation unit 89 may be configured to evaluate the hardness of the lens nucleus based on color information of the plurality of cross-sectional images F1 to FN. This evaluation may be performed based on known knowledge such as the Emery-Little classification.

[0359] Furthermore, the evaluation unit 89 may be configured to estimate the type of cataract based on the turbidity distribution information (or information based thereon). This evaluation may also be performed based on known knowledge.

[0360] Such an evaluation function can provide an index for cataract diagnosis, thereby facilitating diagnosis.

[0361] In this embodiment, the data processing unit 8 ( 8M) may include a simulation unit 90 that performs a simulation of the visual recognition state of the subject's eye E based on the turbidity distribution information (or information based thereon).

[0362] This structure enables informed consent to be obtained appropriately. For example, symptoms of cataracts, such as photophobia (glare), haze, color changes, and diplopia, can be presented to the subject as images. Simulations of worsening lens opacity or surgical removal of the opacified portion can also be presented to the subject.

[0363] In this embodiment, the data processing unit 8 (8N) may include a measuring unit 91 for measuring predetermined anterior ocular parameters based on the plurality of cross-sectional images F1 to FN (or images based thereon). The anterior ocular parameters may include at least one of corneal thickness (its distribution), corneal curvature (its distribution), anterior chamber depth (its distribution), lens thickness (its distribution), lens curvature (its distribution), lens diameter, lens tilt, and the offset between the corneal center and the lens center.

[0364] This configuration enables the determination of anterior ocular parameter values from the multiple cross-sectional images F1 to FN (or images based thereon). The measured values are used, for example, in the aforementioned simulations, the design and selection of intraocular lenses (IOLs, intraocular lenses), and the consideration of treatment and surgical strategies.

[0365] The slit lamp microscope 1 of this embodiment achieves scanning of the anterior ocular segment using slit light through the following structure. That is, the scanning unit includes an illumination system 2, a camera system 3, and a moving mechanism 6. The illumination system 2 irradiates the anterior ocular segment of the subject's eye E with slit light. The camera system 3 images the anterior ocular segment from a direction different from that of the illumination system 2. The moving mechanism 6 moves the illumination system 2 and the camera system 3. The camera system 3 repeatedly captures images in parallel with the movement of the illumination system 2 and the camera system 3 through the moving mechanism 6. This repeated capture is, for example, dynamic image capture at a predetermined capture rate.

[0366] In this embodiment, the moving mechanism 6 moves the illumination system 2 and the imaging system 3 in the X direction when scanning the anterior ocular segment with slit light. The moving mechanism 6 can also move the illumination system 2 and the imaging system 3 three-dimensionally during alignment.

[0367] Furthermore, the slit lamp microscope 1 of this embodiment can function as a Shepherd camera, for example, to simultaneously capture images from the anterior cornea to the posterior lens. Therefore, the imaging system 3 can include an optical system 4 that guides light from the anterior ocular segment illuminated by the slit light, and an imaging element 5 that receives the light guided by the optical system 4 on an imaging surface. Furthermore, the slit lamp microscope 1 can be configured so that the object plane along the optical axis of the illumination system 2, the optical system 4, and the imaging element 5 (imaging surface) satisfy the Shepherd condition.

[0368] <Second embodiment>

[0369] In this embodiment, an ophthalmologic information processing device is described. Any matters described in the first embodiment can be incorporated into this embodiment.

[0370] An example of this embodiment is shown in Figure 23 The ophthalmologic information processing apparatus 500 includes a control unit 510 , a receiving unit 520 , and a data processing unit 530 . The control unit 510 controls each unit of the ophthalmologic information processing apparatus 500 .

[0371] The receiving unit 520 receives multiple cross-sectional images collected by scanning the anterior segment of the subject's eye with slit light. For example, these images are acquired using an ophthalmic imaging device having the same structure as the scanning unit of the first slit lamp microscope 1. The receiving unit 520 receives these images from an external source (e.g., an ophthalmic device, an image archiving system, or a recording medium). The receiving unit 520 may include, for example, a communication device or a drive device.

[0372] The data processing unit 530 generates opacity distribution information indicating the distribution of opacities in the lens based on the multiple cross-sectional images received by the receiving unit 520. The data processing unit 530 has, for example, the same functions and configuration as the data processing unit 8 of the first embodiment. The data processing unit 530 may be any one of the data processing units 8A to 8N of the first embodiment, or a combination of any two or more.

[0373] According to the ophthalmologic information processing apparatus 500 of this embodiment, for example, by combining with an ophthalmologic imaging apparatus having the same structure as the scanning unit of the slit lamp microscope 1 of the first embodiment, a novel ophthalmologic observation method that eliminates the disadvantages of the thorough illumination method can be provided.

[0374] When any of the matters described in the first embodiment is combined with the present embodiment, an effect corresponding to the combined matter is produced.

[0375] <Third embodiment>

[0376] In this embodiment, an ophthalmic system including an ophthalmic imaging device and an information processing device is described. The ophthalmic imaging device at least functions as a slit lamp microscope (the scanning unit of the first embodiment). The slit lamp microscope included in the ophthalmic imaging device may be the slit lamp microscope of the first embodiment. Furthermore, the ophthalmic imaging device may not include at least a portion of the data processing unit of the first embodiment. The following description will appropriately utilize the elements, structure, and reference numerals of any of the aforementioned embodiments.

[0377] Figure 24 The ophthalmologic system 1000 illustrated in FIG is constructed using a communication path (communication line) 1100 connecting each of T facilities (first to Tth facilities) performing ophthalmic imaging, a server 4000, and an image reading terminal 5000m. The server 4000 and the image reading terminal 5000m are each examples of an information processing device.

[0378] Here, ophthalmic imaging includes at least imaging of the anterior segment using a slit lamp microscope. This anterior segment imaging includes at least scanning of the anterior segment using slit light as described in the first embodiment.

[0379] An ophthalmologic imaging device 2000-i is installed in each facility (t-th facility: t=1 to T, T is an integer greater than or equal to 1). t (i t =1~K t , K t is an integer greater than or equal to 1). That is, at least one ophthalmologic imaging device 2000-i is installed in each facility (t-th facility). t Ophthalmological camera 2000-i t It constitutes a part of the ophthalmologic system 1000. In addition, the ophthalmologic system 1000 may also include an inspection device capable of performing inspections other than ophthalmologic inspections.

[0380] The ophthalmic imaging device 2000-i in this example t The device has both the function of a "camera" for photographing the eye being inspected and the function of a "computer" for performing various data processing and communicating with external devices. In other examples, the camera and computer may be provided separately. In this case, the camera and computer may be configured to communicate with each other. Furthermore, the number of cameras and computers is arbitrary; for example, a single computer and multiple cameras may be provided.

[0381] Ophthalmological Camera 2000-i t The "photographing device" in the embodiment includes at least a slit lamp microscope. The slit lamp microscope may be the slit lamp microscope of the first embodiment.

[0382] Furthermore, each facility (t-th facility) is provided with an information processing device (terminal 3000-t) that can be used by assistants and subjects. Terminal 3000-t is a computer used in the facility, and may be, for example, a tablet terminal, a mobile terminal such as a smart phone, a server installed in the facility, or the like. Furthermore, terminal 3000-t may also include wearable devices such as wireless headphones. In addition, terminal 3000-t only needs to be a computer whose functions can be used in the facility, and for example, it may also be a computer installed outside the facility (cloud server, etc.).

[0383] Ophthalmological Camera 2000-i t The terminal 3000 - t can be configured to communicate with the terminal 3000 - t using a network built within the t-th facility (such as a LAN within the facility), a wide area network (such as the Internet), or a short-range communication technology.

[0384] Ophthalmological Camera 2000-i t It can have the function of a communication device such as a server. In this case, the ophthalmic imaging device 2000-i t The terminal 3000-t can be configured to communicate directly. t Since communication is performed between the server 4000 and the terminal 3000 - t , there is no need to provide a function for performing communication between the terminal 3000 - t and the server 4000 .

[0385] Typically, the server 4000 is installed in a facility different from the first facility to the Tth facility, for example, in a management center. The server 4000 can communicate with the image reading terminal 5000m (m=1 to M, M is an integer greater than 1) via a network (LAN, wide area network, etc.). Furthermore, the server 4000 can communicate with the ophthalmic imaging device 2000-i installed in the first facility to the Tth facility via the wide area network. t communicate with at least a portion of the .

[0386] The server 4000 includes, for example, an ophthalmic imaging device 2000-i t The function of relaying the communication between the image reading terminal 5000m, recording the communication content, storing the image data acquired by the ophthalmic imaging device 2000-i t The server 4000 may also have a data processing function.

[0387] The image reading terminal 5000m includes an ophthalmic imaging device 2000-i t A computer that reads images of the subject's eye (eg, multiple anterior segment images obtained by anterior segment scanning or rendered images based on these three-dimensional images) and creates a report. The image reading terminal 5000m may also have a data processing function.

[0388] Server 4000 will be described. Figure 25 The server 4000 illustrated in FIG includes a control unit 4010 , a communication establishing unit 4100 , and a communication unit 4200 .

[0389] The control unit 4010 controls each unit of the server 4000. Alternatively, the control unit 4010 can also perform other computations. The control unit 4010 includes a processor. The control unit 4010 may also include RAM, ROM, a hard disk drive, a solid-state drive, and the like.

[0390] The control unit 4010 includes a communication control unit 4011 and a transmission control unit 4012 .

[0391] The communication control unit 4011 executes communication with a plurality of ophthalmic imaging devices 2000-i. t , multiple terminals 3000-t, and multiple image reading terminals 5000m. For example, the communication control unit 4011 sends a control signal for establishing communication to each of two or more devices selected by the selection unit 4120 described later from among the multiple devices included in the ophthalmologic system 1000.

[0392] The transmission control unit 4012 controls information transmission and reception between two or more devices communicating with each other via the communication establishment unit 4100 (and the communication control unit 4011). For example, the transmission control unit 4012 functions to transmit information sent from one of the at least two devices communicating with each other via the communication establishment unit 4100 (and the communication control unit 4011) to the other devices.

[0393] As a specific example, in the case where an ophthalmic imaging device 2000-i is established t In the case of communication between the ophthalmic imaging device 2000-i and the image reading terminal 5000m, the transmission control unit 4012 can transmit the image data from the ophthalmic imaging device 2000-i to the image reading terminal 5000m. t The information sent (e.g., a plurality of cross-sectional images) is transmitted to the image reading terminal 5000m. Conversely, the transmission control unit 4012 can transmit the information sent from the image reading terminal 5000m (e.g., the information sent to the ophthalmic imaging device 2000-i t instructions, image reading reports, etc.) are transmitted to the ophthalmic imaging device 2000-i t.

[0394] The transmission control unit 4012 may also have a function of processing information received from a transmission source device. In this case, the transmission control unit 4012 may transmit at least one of the received information and the processed information to a transmission destination device.

[0395] For example, the transmission control unit 4012 may extract the data from the ophthalmic imaging device 2000-i. t etc. and sends it as part of the information to be sent to the image reading terminal 5000m etc.

[0396] In addition, it is also possible to t The information sent by the ophthalmic imaging device 2000-i or the processed information is analyzed by the server 4000 or other devices, and the analysis results (as well as the original information) are sent to the image reading terminal 5000m. For example, an artificial intelligence engine is used to perform the analysis from the ophthalmic imaging device 2000-i t The image reading terminal 5000m reads the images of the multiple cross-sectional images (or three-dimensional images or rendered images based on them) sent by the image reading terminal 5000m, and sends the result together with the multiple cross-sectional images.

[0397] It can be configured as follows: from the ophthalmic imaging device 2000-i t When multiple cross-sectional images are sent, the server 4000 or other device constructs a three-dimensional image (for example, stack data, volume data, three-dimensional lens image, etc.) based on the multiple cross-sectional images, and the transmission control unit 4012 sends the constructed three-dimensional image to the image reading terminal 5000m.

[0398] It can be configured as follows: from the ophthalmic imaging device 2000-i t When the stack data is transmitted, the server 4000 or another device constructs volume data from the stack data, and the transmission control unit 4012 transmits the constructed volume data to the image reading terminal 5000 m.

[0399] The data processing that can be performed by the server 4000 or other devices is not limited to the above examples, and can include any data processing. For example, the server 4000 or other devices can have any function and / or any structure of the data processing unit 8 of the first embodiment (see Figures 4 to 14 ).

[0400] The communication establishing unit 4100 executes a process for establishing a communication between the plurality of ophthalmic imaging devices 2000-i t, a process of establishing communication between at least two devices selected from a plurality of devices including the plurality of terminals 3000-t and the plurality of image reading terminals 5000m. In this embodiment, "establishing communication" means, for example, at least one of the following: (1) establishing one-way communication from a state where communication is disconnected; (2) establishing two-way communication from a state where communication is disconnected; (3) switching from a state where only information can be received to a state where information can also be sent; and (4) switching from a state where only information can be sent to a state where information can also be received.

[0401] Furthermore, the communication establishing unit 4100 may execute a process of disconnecting the established communication. In this embodiment, "disconnecting communication" means, for example, at least one of the following: (1) disconnecting communication from a state in which one-way communication is established; (2) disconnecting communication from a state in which two-way communication is established; (3) switching from a state in which two-way communication is established to a state in which one-way communication is established; (4) switching from a state in which both information transmission and reception can be performed to a state in which only information reception can be performed; (5) switching from a state in which both information transmission and reception can be performed to a state in which only information transmission can be performed.

[0402] Ophthalmological Camera 2000-i t Each of the terminal 3000-t and the image reading terminal 5000m can send at least one of a communication request (call request) for calling another device (its user) and a communication request (interrupt request) for interrupting the communication between the other two devices to the server 4000. The call request and the interrupt request are issued manually or automatically. The server 4000 (communication unit 4200) receives the communication request from the ophthalmic imaging device 2000-i. t , a communication request sent by the terminal 3000-t or the image reading terminal 5000m.

[0403] In this embodiment, the communication establishing unit 4100 may include a selecting unit 4120. The selecting unit 4120 may be configured based on, for example, the ophthalmic imaging device 2000-i t , the communication request sent by the terminal 3000-t or the image reading terminal 5000m, from the ophthalmic imaging device 2000-i t , terminal 3000 - t and image reading terminal 5000 m, and select one or more devices other than the device that sent the communication request.

[0404] A specific example of the processing executed by the selection unit 4120 will be described. t or a communication request from the terminal 3000-t (e.g., from the ophthalmic imaging device 2000-i tIn the case of an image reading request for an acquired image), the selection unit 4120 selects, for example, any one of the plurality of image reading terminals 5000m. The communication establishment unit 4100 establishes a communication between the selected image reading terminal 5000m and the ophthalmic imaging device 2000-i t and communication between at least one of the terminals 3000-t.

[0405] The selection of a device in response to a communication request is performed, for example, based on pre-set attributes. Examples of such attributes include the type of examination (e.g., imaging modality type, image type, disease type, candidate disease type, etc.), required expertise and proficiency, language type, etc. In this example, for example, reference is made to the image reader's field of expertise and proficiency. To implement the processing according to this example, the communication establishment unit 4100 may include a storage unit 4110 storing pre-created attribute information. The attribute information records the attributes of the image reading terminal 5000m and / or its user (doctor, optometrist, etc.).

[0406] Users are identified using a pre-assigned user ID. Furthermore, the image reader terminal 5000m is identified, for example, using a pre-assigned device ID or website address. In a typical example, attribute information for each user includes professional field (e.g., medical department, specialized diseases, etc.), expertise and proficiency, and available languages.

[0407] When the selection unit 4120 refers to the attribute information, the ophthalmic imaging apparatus 2000-i t The communication request sent by the terminal 3000-t or the image reading terminal 5000m may include information related to the attribute. t The image reading request (diagnosis request) sent may include any of the following information: (1) information indicating the type of imaging modality; (2) information indicating the type of image; (3) information indicating the name of the disease and candidate disease names; (4) information indicating the difficulty of image reading; (5) information indicating the type of the ophthalmic imaging device 2000-i t and / or information on the language used by the user of terminal 3000 - t.

[0408] When such an image reading request is received, the selection unit 4120 can select any image reading terminal 5000m based on the image reading request and the attribute information stored in the storage unit 4110. In this case, the selection unit 4120 refers to the information related to the attributes included in the image reading request and the information recorded in the attribute information stored in the storage unit 4110. Thus, the selection unit 4120 selects, for example, an image reading terminal 5000m corresponding to a doctor (or optometrist) belonging to any of the following attributes: (1) a doctor who specializes in the corresponding imaging modality; (2) a doctor who specializes in the corresponding image type; (3) a doctor who specializes in the corresponding disease (corresponding candidate disease); (4) a doctor who can perform image reading of a corresponding degree of difficulty; (5) a doctor who can use a corresponding language.

[0409] The correspondence between the doctor or optometrist and the image reading terminal 5000 m is established, for example, using the user ID input when registering with the image reading terminal 5000 m (or the ophthalmologic system 1000 ).

[0410] The communication unit 4200 communicates with other devices (eg, the ophthalmic imaging device 2000-i t , terminal 3000-t and image reading terminal 5000m) to communicate data. t The communication unit in (the communication unit of the output unit 9 in the first embodiment) is the same.

[0411] The server 4000 includes a data processing unit 4300. The data processing unit 4300 performs various data processing. The data processing unit 4300 can process the data captured by the ophthalmic imaging device 2000-i t (especially, a slit lamp microscope) to obtain a plurality of cross-sectional images or three-dimensional images. For example, the data processing unit 4300 may have any function and / or any structure of the data processing unit 8 of the first embodiment (see Figures 4 to 14 The data processing unit 4300 includes a processor, a main storage device, an auxiliary storage device, etc. The auxiliary storage device stores a data processing program, etc. The functions of the data processing unit 4300 are achieved through the cooperation of software such as the data processing program and hardware such as the processor.

[0412] The server 4000 can provide the data obtained by the data processing unit 4300 to other devices. For example, the data processing unit 4300 can provide the data obtained by the ophthalmic imaging device 2000-i t When a three-dimensional image is constructed by using a plurality of acquired cross-sectional images, the server 4000 can transmit the three-dimensional image to the image reading terminal 5000m via the communication unit 4200.t Alternatively, when the data processing unit 4300 renders the three-dimensional image constructed, the server 4000 can transmit the constructed rendered image to the image reading terminal 5000m via the communication unit 4200. When the data processing unit 4300 applies measurement processing to one or more cross-sectional images or three-dimensional images, the server 4000 can transmit the obtained measurement data to the image reading terminal 5000m via the communication unit 4200. When the data processing unit 4300 applies distortion correction to one or more cross-sectional images or three-dimensional images, the server 4000 can transmit the corrected image to the image reading terminal 5000m via the communication unit 4200.

[0413] Next, the image reading terminal 5000m will be described. Figure 26 The image reading terminal 5000 m illustrated in FIG includes a control unit 5010 , a data processing unit 5100 , a communication unit 5200 , and an operation unit 5300 .

[0414] The data processing unit 5100 performs various data processing. The data processing unit 5100 may have any function and / or any structure similar to the data processing unit 8 of the first embodiment (see Figures 4 to 14 ). For example, the data processing unit 5100 generates opacity distribution information indicating the distribution of opacities in the lens of the subject's eye based on the multiple cross-sectional images provided by the server 4000. Furthermore, the data processing unit 5100 can be configured to obtain various information (such as images) from the generated opacity distribution information. The data processing unit 5100 includes a processor, a main storage device, an auxiliary storage device, and the like. A data processing program and the like are stored in the auxiliary storage device. The functions of the data processing unit 5100 are implemented through the collaboration of software such as the data processing program and hardware such as the processor.

[0415] The control unit 5010 controls each unit of the image reading terminal 5000m. Alternatively, the control unit 5010 can also perform other computations. The control unit 5010 includes a processor, RAM, ROM, a hard disk drive, a solid state drive, and the like.

[0416] The control unit 5010 includes a display control unit 5011. The display control unit 5011 controls the display device 6000m. The display device 6000m may be included in the image reading terminal 5000m, or may be a peripheral device connected to the image reading terminal 5000m. The display control unit 5011 displays the image of the anterior segment of the eye to be inspected E on the display device 6000m. For example, the display control unit 5011 may display a rendered image of a three-dimensional image based on multiple cross-sectional images of the anterior segment of the eye to be inspected on the display device 6000m. Furthermore, the display control unit 5011 may display a graph (e.g., a turbidity distribution graph, a transmittance distribution graph, information on changes over time) obtained from multiple cross-sectional images on the display device 6000m. In addition, the display control unit 5011 may display the cataract evaluation results performed based on at least one of the multiple cross-sectional images and the turbidity distribution information on the display device 6000m. Furthermore, the display control unit 5011 may display the anterior ocular segment parameter measurement results performed based on the plurality of cross-sectional images on the display device 6000 m .

[0417] The control unit 5010 includes a report creation control unit 5012. The report creation control unit 5012 performs various controls for creating a report related to the information displayed by the display control unit 5011. For example, the report creation control unit 5012 displays a screen or graphical user interface (GUI) for creating a report on the display device 6000m. Furthermore, the report creation control unit 5012 inputs user-entered information, anterior ocular images, measurement data, analysis data, and the like into a predetermined report template.

[0418] The communication unit 5200 can communicate with other devices (eg, ophthalmic imaging devices 2000-i t , the terminal 3000-t and the server 4000) to communicate data. t The communication department is the same.

[0419] The operating unit 5300 is used for operating the image reading terminal 5000m and inputting information into the image reading terminal 5000m. In this embodiment, the operating unit 5300 is used for creating reports. The operating unit 5300 includes operating devices and input devices. Examples of the operating unit 5300 include a mouse, keyboard, trackball, operation panel, switches, buttons, and dials. The operating unit 5300 may also include a touch screen.

[0420] The ophthalmologic system 1000 of this embodiment can perform the following operations.

[0421] First, the ophthalmic camera 2000-i t(Slit lamp microscope) collects multiple cross-sectional images by scanning the anterior segment of the subject's eye using slit light. Ophthalmologic imaging device 2000-i t The first transmission information including the collected plurality of cross-sectional images is transmitted to the server 4000 via the communication line 1100. t The work can be performed in the same manner as in the first embodiment. t Any processing in the first embodiment can be executed.

[0422] The server 4000 receives the data from the ophthalmic imaging device 2000-i via the communication unit 4200 (receiving unit). t The server 4000 transmits the first transmission information and stores the first transmission information in the storage unit 4110. Furthermore, the server 4000 transmits the second transmission information including at least the plurality of cross-sectional images included in the first transmission information to the image reading terminal 5000m via the communication line 1100 using the communication unit 4200 (transmitting unit).

[0423] The image reading terminal 5000m receives the second transmission information transmitted from the server 4000 via the communication unit 5200 (receiving unit). The user (image reader) of the image reading terminal 5000m uses the user interface (operating unit 5300, display device 6000m, report creation control unit 5012, etc.) to read images based on multiple cross-sectional images. For example, the data processing unit 5100 generates turbidity distribution information based on the multiple cross-sectional images and creates various information such as a turbidity distribution map, a transmittance distribution map, and time-varying information based on the turbidity distribution information. The various information thus generated is displayed on the display device 6000m via the display control unit 5011. In addition, the data processing unit 5100 applies rendering to a three-dimensional image based on the multiple cross-sectional images. The rendered image thus constructed is displayed on the display device 6000m via the display control unit 5011. This rendered image is, for example, a frontal image similar to a transillumination image. The user reads the frontal image or refers to various information related to the distribution of turbidity to evaluate, for example, the grade of the cataract and inputs the result into the image reading terminal 5000m. The image reading terminal 5000m transmits third transmission information including information input using the user interface (such as the image reading report) to the server 4000 via the communication unit 5200 (transmitting unit) via the communication line 1100.

[0424] The server 4000 receives the third transmission information transmitted from the image reading terminal 5000 m via the communication unit 4200 (receiving unit), associates the third transmission information with the first transmission information, and stores the information in the storage unit 4110 .

[0425] According to such an ophthalmologic system 1000, as can be seen from the effects of the first embodiment, it is possible to appropriately read images based on pre-acquired images of the anterior ocular segment. Acquisition of images of the anterior ocular segment can also be performed at a remote location. In the past, doctors performed examinations while operating at a remote location, but in this embodiment, doctors only need to read images based on pre-acquired images. That is, in this embodiment, doctors can be freed from the tediousness and time of taking photos and can focus on image reading. Therefore, this embodiment helps expand the scope of provision of high-quality slit lamp microscopy examinations.

[0426] <Fourth embodiment>

[0427] The information processing device in the third embodiment includes an image reading terminal for a doctor to read images. On the other hand, in this embodiment, an ophthalmological system including an image reading device with an image reading function as an information processing device is described. The difference from the third embodiment is that an image reading device is provided instead of the image reading terminal. The third embodiment and the fourth embodiment can also be combined to construct an ophthalmological system including both an image reading terminal and an image reading device. Hereinafter, the elements, structures, and figure numerals of any of the above-mentioned embodiments will be appropriately adopted and described.

[0428] As mentioned above, Figure 27 The ophthalmologic system 1000A illustrated in the embodiment replaces the image reading terminal 5000m of the ophthalmologic system 1000 of the third embodiment with an image reading device 7000m. The image reading device 7000m uses, for example, an image processor and / or an artificial intelligence engine to perform image reading via the ophthalmologic imaging device 2000-i t A computer that reads images of multiple cross-sectional images acquired using a slit lamp microscope.

[0429] The structure of the image reading device 7000m is shown in FIG. Figure 28 The image reading device 7000m of this embodiment includes an image reading processing unit 7100, a communication unit 7200, and a data processing unit 7300. The communication unit 7200 communicates with other devices (for example, an ophthalmologic imaging device 2000-i t , terminal 3000-t and any one of the servers 4000) to carry out data communication.

[0430] The data processing unit 7300 performs various data processing. The data processing unit 7300 may have any function and / or any structure similar to the data processing unit 8 of the first embodiment (see Figures 4 to 14For example, the data processing unit 7300 generates opacity distribution information indicating the distribution of opacities in the lens of the subject's eye based on the multiple cross-sectional images provided by the server 4000. Furthermore, the data processing unit 7300 can be configured to obtain various information from the generated opacity distribution information. The data processing unit 7300 includes a processor, a main storage device, an auxiliary storage device, and the like. The auxiliary storage device stores a data processing program and the like. The functions of the data processing unit 7300 are implemented through the collaboration of software such as the data processing program and hardware such as the processor.

[0431] The image reading processing unit 7100 includes, for example, an image reading processor that operates according to an image reading program, and derives an opinion by analyzing a plurality of cross-sectional images (based on their images). In some embodiments, in order to derive an opinion from a plurality of cross-sectional images (based on their images), the image reading processing unit 7100 may also include the artificial intelligence engine of the first embodiment. In this embodiment, the data processing unit 7300 constructs a rendering image of a three-dimensional image based on a plurality of cross-sectional images, and the image reading processing unit 7100 derives an opinion by performing image reading on the rendering image. Furthermore, the image reading processing unit 7100 creates a report based on the obtained opinion.

[0432] The ophthalmologic system 1000A of this embodiment can perform the following operations.

[0433] First, the ophthalmic camera 2000-i t (Slit lamp microscope) collects multiple cross-sectional images by scanning the anterior segment of the subject's eye with slit light. Ophthalmic imaging device 2000-i t The first transmission information including the collected plurality of cross-sectional images is transmitted to the server 4000 via the communication line 1100. Such an ophthalmic imaging apparatus 2000-i t The work can be performed in the same manner as in the first embodiment. t Any processing in the first embodiment can be executed.

[0434] The server 4000 receives the data from the ophthalmic imaging device 2000-i via the communication unit 4200 (receiving unit). t The server 4000 transmits the first transmission information and stores the first transmission information in the storage unit 4110. Furthermore, the server 4000 transmits the second transmission information including at least the plurality of cross-sectional images included in the first transmission information to the image reading device 7000m via the communication line 1100 using the communication unit 4200 (transmitting unit).

[0435] The image reading device 7000m receives the second transmission information transmitted from the server 4000 via the communication unit 7200 (receiving unit). The data processing unit 7300 generates turbidity distribution information based on the multiple cross-sectional images included in the second transmission information and creates various information such as a turbidity distribution map, a transmittance distribution map, and time-varying information based on the turbidity distribution information. Furthermore, the data processing unit 7300 applies rendering to the three-dimensional image based on the multiple cross-sectional images included in the second transmission information to construct a rendered image. This rendered image is, for example, a frontal image similar to a transillumination image. The image reading processing unit 7100 performs image reading processing on the rendered image or analyzes various information related to the turbidity distribution to perform, for example, a cataract grade assessment. The image reading device 7000m transmits, via the communication unit 7200 (transmitting unit), the fourth transmission information including the information obtained by the image reading processing unit 7100 to the server 4000 via the communication line 1100.

[0436] The server 4000 receives the fourth transmission information transmitted from the image reading device 7000 m via the communication unit 4200 (receiving unit), and stores the fourth transmission information in the storage unit 4110 in association with the first transmission information.

[0437] According to such an ophthalmologic system 1000A, it can be seen from the effects of the first embodiment that automatic image reading can be appropriately performed based on the image of the anterior eye segment acquired in advance. The acquisition of the image of the anterior eye segment can be performed at a remote location. In the past, doctors performed examinations while operating at a remote location, but in this embodiment, doctors only need to perform image reading while referring to the automatic image reading results based on the images acquired in advance. That is, in this embodiment, while freeing doctors from the tediousness and time of shooting, the results of automatic image reading can be provided to doctors, thereby greatly improving the efficiency of image reading work. In addition, it is also expected to improve the accuracy of image reading. Therefore, this embodiment helps to expand the scope of provision of high-quality slit lamp microscopy examinations.

[0438] <Other matters>

[0439] A method for controlling a slit lamp microscope according to any embodiment may be provided. The slit lamp microscope includes a processor and a scanning unit that collects multiple cross-sectional images by scanning the anterior segment of a subject's eye with slit light. In this control method, the processor is caused to perform a process of applying rendering to a three-dimensional image based on the multiple cross-sectional images collected by the scanning unit.

[0440] A program that causes a computer to execute the control method can be constructed. Furthermore, a computer-readable non-transitory recording medium containing such a program can be constructed. The non-transitory recording medium can be in any format, and examples thereof include a magnetic disk, an optical disk, a magneto-optical disk, and a semiconductor memory.

[0441] Similarly, any control method disclosed in any one of the first to fourth embodiments can be provided. In addition, any processing method (calculation method, image processing method, image analysis method, etc.) disclosed in any one of the first to fourth embodiments can be provided. Furthermore, a program that causes a computer to execute the processing method can be constructed. In addition, a non-temporary recording medium that is readable by a computer and has recorded thereon the program can be made.

[0442] The embodiments described above are merely examples of the present invention, and therefore, any modifications (omissions, substitutions, additions, etc.) may be appropriately made to the embodiments described above within the scope of the present invention.

[0443] (Explanation of Reference Numerals)

[0444] 1 Slit lamp microscope

[0445] 2 Lighting system

[0446] 3. Shooting system

[0447] 4 Optical system

[0448] 5. Camera

[0449] 6 Mobile mechanism

[0450] 7 Control Unit

[0451] 8 Data Processing Department

[0452] 9 Output section

Claims

1. A slit lamp microscope comprising: a scanning unit that collects a plurality of cross-sectional images by scanning the anterior segment of the eye to be inspected with slit light; as well as a data processing unit that generates opacity distribution information indicating distribution of opacities in the lens based on the plurality of cross-sectional images; The data processing unit includes: a lens image constructing unit, configured to construct a three-dimensional lens image from the plurality of cross-sectional images; and a turbidity distribution information generating unit, which generates the turbidity distribution information by analyzing the three-dimensional lens image; The turbidity distribution information generating unit includes: a local distribution information generating unit for generating, for each of the plurality of three-dimensional partial regions of the three-dimensional lens image, local distribution information indicating the distribution of the turbidity in the corresponding three-dimensional partial region; The data processing unit includes: The first transmittance distribution information generating unit generates transmittance distribution information indicating the light transmittance distribution of the crystalline lens based on the plurality of local distribution information generated by the local distribution information generating unit.

2. The slit lamp microscope according to claim 1, wherein The lens image construction unit includes: a first reconstruction unit that applies three-dimensional reconstruction to the plurality of cross-sectional images collected by the scanning unit; and The first segmentation unit determines the three-dimensional lens image by applying segmentation to the three-dimensional reconstructed image constructed by the first reconstruction unit.

3. The slit lamp microscope according to claim 1, wherein The lens image construction unit includes: a second segmentation unit that determines a two-dimensional lens image by applying segmentation to each of the plurality of cross-sectional images collected by the scanning unit; and The second reconstruction unit constructs the three-dimensional lens image by applying three-dimensional reconstruction to the plurality of two-dimensional lens images determined by the second segmentation unit.

4. The slit lamp microscope according to claim 1, wherein The data processing unit includes: The turbidity distribution map creating unit creates a turbidity distribution map based on the plurality of local distribution information generated by the local distribution information generating unit.

5. The slit lamp microscope according to claim 4, wherein The turbidity distribution map indicates the depth position of a turbid portion in each of the plurality of three-dimensional partial regions.

6. The slit lamp microscope according to claim 5, wherein The turbidity distribution map is represented by a two-dimensional coordinate system in which a first coordinate axis represents a depth direction and a second coordinate axis represents a direction orthogonal to the depth direction.

7. The slit lamp microscope according to claim 6, wherein: The plurality of three-dimensional partial regions are obtained by performing equal-angle segmentation on the three-dimensional lens image in a plane orthogonal to the depth direction. The second coordinate axis represents the angular direction in the equal-angle division.

8. The slit lamp microscope according to claim 1, wherein The data processing unit includes: The first transmittance distribution map creating unit creates a transmittance distribution map based on the transmittance distribution information generated by the first transmittance distribution information generating unit.

9. The slit lamp microscope according to any one of claims 4 to 7, wherein The data processing unit includes: A second transmittance profile creating section creates a transmittance profile indicating the light transmittance distribution of the crystalline lens based on the turbidity profile created by the turbidity profile creating section.

10. The slit lamp microscope according to claim 6 or 7, wherein: The data processing unit includes: The second transmittance distribution information generating unit generates transmittance distribution information representing the light transmittance distribution of the lens by dividing the area of the turbid portion in the corresponding three-dimensional partial area defined in the two-dimensional coordinate system by the area of the corresponding three-dimensional partial area for each of the multiple three-dimensional partial areas.

11. The slit lamp microscope according to claim 10, wherein: The data processing unit includes: The third transmittance distribution map creating unit creates a transmittance distribution map based on the transmittance distribution information generated by the second transmittance distribution information generating unit.

12. The slit lamp microscope according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein The data processing unit includes: The rendering unit applies rendering to the three-dimensional image including the three-dimensional lens image.

13. The slit lamp microscope according to claim 12, wherein: The rendering unit applies projection onto a predetermined plane to the three-dimensional image.

14. The slit lamp microscope according to claim 13, wherein The predetermined plane is orthogonal to the depth direction.

15. The slit lamp microscope according to claim 12, wherein: The slit lamp microscope comprises: The first display control unit superimposes one of the rendered image constructed by the rendering unit and the information based on the turbidity distribution information on the other and displays the superimposed information on the first display device.

16. The slit lamp microscope according to claim 13, wherein The slit lamp microscope comprises: The second display control unit superimposes one of the two-dimensional image constructed by the projection and the distribution image based on the turbidity distribution information on the other and displays the superimposed images on a second display device.

17. The slit lamp microscope according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein The data processing unit includes: The first time-varying information generating unit generates first time-varying information indicating a time-varying distribution of an opacity in the crystalline lens based on the plurality of opacity distribution information of the anterior ocular segment.

18. The slit lamp microscope according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein The data processing unit includes: The second temporal change information generating unit generates second temporal change information indicating temporal change in light transmittance distribution of the crystalline lens based on the transmittance distribution information.

19. The slit lamp microscope according to claim 18, wherein The slit lamp microscope comprises: The third display control unit causes a third display device to display a graph indicating a temporal change in light transmittance in each of the plurality of three-dimensional partial regions based on the second temporal change information.

20. The slit lamp microscope according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein The data processing unit includes: a normalizing unit that applies normalization to the plurality of cross-sectional images collected by the scanning unit, The data processing unit generates the turbidity distribution information based on the plurality of cross-sectional images to which the normalization is applied.

21. The slit lamp microscope according to claim 20, wherein The normalization unit applies brightness normalization to the plurality of cross-sectional images.

22. The slit lamp microscope according to claim 21, wherein The normalizing unit performs the brightness normalization on the plurality of cross-sectional images based on the brightness of an image corresponding to the posterior corneal surface of the anterior ocular segment.

23. The slit lamp microscope of claim 20, wherein: The slit light includes visible light, The normalization unit applies color normalization to the plurality of cross-sectional images.

24. The slit lamp microscope according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein The data processing unit includes: The evaluation unit performs evaluation on a predetermined cataract index based on at least one of the plurality of cross-sectional images and the turbidity distribution information.

25. The slit lamp microscope of claim 24, wherein: The slit light includes white light, The evaluation unit evaluates the hardness of the lens nucleus based on color information of the plurality of cross-sectional images.

26. The slit lamp microscope of claim 24, wherein: The evaluation unit estimates the type of cataract based on the turbidity distribution information.

27. The slit lamp microscope according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein The data processing unit includes: The simulation unit performs a simulation according to the visual recognition state of the eye to be inspected based on the turbidity distribution information.

28. The slit lamp microscope according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein The data processing unit includes: The measuring unit measures a predetermined anterior ocular segment parameter based on the plurality of cross-sectional images.

29. The slit lamp microscope of claim 28, wherein The anterior ocular parameters include at least one of corneal thickness, corneal curvature, anterior chamber depth, lens thickness, lens curvature, lens diameter, lens tilt angle, and offset between the corneal center and the lens center.

30. The slit lamp microscope according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein The scanning unit includes: an illumination system for irradiating the slit light toward the anterior eye; a photographing system for photographing the anterior ocular segment from a direction different from that of the illumination system; and The moving mechanism moves the lighting system and the imaging system.

31. The slit lamp microscope of claim 30, wherein: The shooting system includes: an optical system that guides light from the anterior ocular segment illuminated by the slit light; and an imaging element that receives the light guided by the optical system on an imaging surface, The object plane along the optical axis of the illumination system, the optical system, and the imaging plane satisfy the Xiang Furu condition.

32. The slit lamp microscope according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein The slit lamp microscope comprises: The fourth display control unit displays information on a fourth display device based on the output from the data processing unit.

33. An ophthalmic information processing device, comprising: a receiving unit that receives a plurality of cross-sectional images collected by scanning the anterior segment of the eye to be inspected with slit light; as well as a data processing unit that generates opacity distribution information indicating distribution of opacities in the lens based on the plurality of cross-sectional images; The data processing unit includes: a lens image constructing unit, configured to construct a three-dimensional lens image from the plurality of cross-sectional images; and a turbidity distribution information generating unit, which generates the turbidity distribution information by analyzing the three-dimensional lens image; The turbidity distribution information generating unit includes: a local distribution information generating unit for generating, for each of the plurality of three-dimensional partial regions of the three-dimensional lens image, local distribution information indicating the distribution of the turbidity in the corresponding three-dimensional partial region; The data processing unit includes: The first transmittance distribution information generating unit generates transmittance distribution information indicating the light transmittance distribution of the crystalline lens based on the plurality of local distribution information generated by the local distribution information generating unit.

34. An ophthalmological system comprising a slit lamp microscope and an information processing device, wherein: The slit lamp microscope comprises: a scanning unit that collects a plurality of cross-sectional images by scanning the anterior segment of the eye to be inspected with slit light; and a transmitting unit that transmits the plurality of cross-sectional images collected by the scanning unit to the information processing device via a communication line, The information processing device includes: a receiving unit that receives the plurality of cross-sectional images; and a data processing unit that generates opacity distribution information indicating distribution of opacities in the lens based on the plurality of cross-sectional images; The data processing unit includes: a lens image constructing unit, configured to construct a three-dimensional lens image from the plurality of cross-sectional images; and a turbidity distribution information generating unit, which generates the turbidity distribution information by analyzing the three-dimensional lens image; The turbidity distribution information generating unit includes: a local distribution information generating unit for generating, for each of the plurality of three-dimensional partial regions of the three-dimensional lens image, local distribution information indicating the distribution of the turbidity in the corresponding three-dimensional partial region; The data processing unit includes: The first transmittance distribution information generating unit generates transmittance distribution information indicating the light transmittance distribution of the crystalline lens based on the plurality of local distribution information generated by the local distribution information generating unit.

35. A method for controlling a slit lamp microscope comprising a processor and a scanning unit for collecting a plurality of cross-sectional images by scanning the anterior segment of an eye to be inspected with slit light, wherein: The control method of the slit lamp microscope causes the processor to execute a process of generating turbidity distribution information indicating distribution of turbidity in the lens based on the plurality of cross-sectional images collected by the scanning unit. The process of generating the turbidity distribution information includes: a lens image construction step of constructing a three-dimensional lens image from the plurality of cross-sectional images; and a step of generating turbidity distribution information by analyzing the three-dimensional lens image to generate the turbidity distribution information; The turbidity distribution information generating step comprises: a local distribution information generating step of generating, for each of the plurality of three-dimensional partial regions of the three-dimensional lens image, local distribution information indicating the distribution of the turbidity in the corresponding three-dimensional partial region; The process of generating the turbidity distribution information includes: The first transmittance distribution information generating step generates transmittance distribution information indicating the light transmittance distribution of the lens based on the plurality of local distribution information generated by the local distribution information generating step. 36 . A computer-readable non-transitory recording medium having recorded thereon a program for causing a computer to execute the method according to claim 35 .

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