The following is a summary of “Optical coherence tomography advanced parameters in patients with multiple sclerosis: ophthalmological and neurological assessments,” published in the June 2024 issue of Ophthalmology by Savastano et al.

In multiple sclerosis (MS), various factors like ophthalmological, neurological, radiological, and laboratory data are crucial for understanding the disease.

Researchers conducted a retrospective study finding new ophthalmological-related factors in MS that could predict disease progression and disability earlier. 

They conducted eye tests like Best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and ophthalmological biomicroscopy of the anterior segment and fundus and used structural optical coherence tomography (OCT) to study retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) and ganglion cell complex (GCC). Also, OCT Angiography (OCTA) with vascular density (VD) was performed. The MS details, including type, duration, severity, and treatment, were also assessed. MRI findings of brain and spinal cord lesions were also assessed.

The results showed that 106 patients with 212 eyes were analyzed, including 66 (62.2%) with MS and 40 (37.8%) healthy controls (HCs). Patients with MS had lower RNFL, GCC, and VD in the radial peripapillary capillary plexus than controls (P<0.05). In logistic regression, average GCC thickness was the most predictive MS indicator (P=0.009). Higher T2 lesion load correlated with lower RNFL, GCC, and VD (P<0.01 and P<0.05, respectively). Patients with relapsing MS showed lower RNFL values (P<0.05).

Investigators concluded that OCT and OCTA measurements of optic nerve parameters could serve as valuable prognostic indicators for MS. They emphasized the need for more extensive studies to confirm and validate these findings in clinical settings.

Source: ajo.com/article/S0002-9394(24)00258-7/fulltext#%20