Automated fuzzy optic disc detection algorithm using branching of vessels and color properties in fundus images

Optic disc (OD) detection is a basic procedure for the image processing algorithms which intend to diagnose and track retinal disorders. In this study, a new OD localization approach is proposed, based on color and shape properties of OD as well as the convergence point of the main vessels. This study is comprised of two successive fundamental steps. At the first step, an algorithm finding the approximate convergent point of the vessels is used in order to roughly localize OD. At the second step, three new features are suggested and a fuzzy logic controller (FLC) whose input membership functions are designed based on these features is proposed. The proposed method is applied to the DRIVE, STARE, DIARETDB0 and DIRETDB1 datasets and the obtained results validate the improvement in the performance by attaining success rate of 100%, 91,35%, 90% and 100% respectively and detecting OD centers and contours precisely in a reasonable execution time.