Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is a non-invasive imaging test that uses light waves to take cross-section pictures of your retina and optic nerve, the light-sensitive tissue lining the back of the eye. These cross sectional views are important because the doctor can not see certain details looking directly at the back of the eye. OCT can be used to help diagnose several eye conditions including glaucoma, macular degeneration, diabetic eye disease and retinal detachments. Research indicates that OCT imaging can often reveal abnormalities much sooner than previous technology, making it critical for the future of eye care.