Oftalʹmologiâ (Jul 2014)
Nonlinear fractals: applications in physiology and ophthalmology
Abstract
Fractal geometry and nonlinear dynamics have applications in the field of biology and medicine. Many complex structures of living systems reveal fractal-like geometry. Among them, nonlinearity of human anatomic structures and physiologic functions are of special interest. Here, we review several multidisciplinary studies that demonstrate multi-scale nonlinear complexity of physiological functions and fractal geometry of anatomical structures of a healthy human including retina. With ageing and diseases, these entities become simpler or more complex. Pathologic conditions contribute to highly periodic dynamics of processes that dominates on a time scale. Nonlinear dynamics application in ophthalmology and physiology of visual system can be promoted by the studies of fractal flickeringbackground and its impact on retina and visual cortex electrical activity. The next step will be the development of novel electrophysiological diagnostics and visual system impairment treatment
