A global review of publicly available image datasets for the anterior segment of the eye

Abstract

This study comprehensively reviewed publicly available image datasets for the anterior segment, with a focus on cataract, refractive, and corneal surgery. The goal was to assess characteristics of existing datasets and identify areas for improvement. PubMED and Google searches were performed using the search terms “refractive surgery”, "anterior segment”, “cornea”, “corneal”, “cataract” AND “database”, with the related word of “imaging”. Results of each of these searches were collated, identifying 26 publicly available anterior segment image datasets. Imaging modalities included optical coherence tomography, photography and confocal microscopy. Most data sets were small, 80% originated in the USA, China, or Europe. Over 50% of images were from normal eyes. Disease states represented included keratoconus, corneal ulcers, and Fuchs’ dystrophy. Most datasets were incompletely described. To promote accessibility going forwards to 2030, the ESCRS Digital Health Special Interest Group will annually update a list of available image datasets for anterior segment at www.escrs.org.