1
|
Toscano S, Chisari CG, Biondi A, Patti F. Early reduction of retinal thickness predicts physical and cognitive disability in newly diagnosed multiple sclerosis patients: results from a cross-sectional study. Neurol Sci 2024:10.1007/s10072-024-07664-9. [PMID: 38951431 DOI: 10.1007/s10072-024-07664-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2023] [Accepted: 06/18/2024] [Indexed: 07/03/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness is a promising biomarker of axonal loss and a potential outcome predictor in Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Cognitive impairment (CoI) exhibits a high prevalence in patients with MS (pwMS), even in the early phases of the disease. Our aim was to explore the role of RNFL thickness as a predictor of physical and cognitive disability in pwMS. METHODS All newly diagnosed pwMS referred to the MS centre of the University-Hospital "Policlinico-San Marco" between 2015-2019 were evaluated at baseline and at 3 years. RNFL and ganglion cell layer (GCL) thickness for right (r.e.) and left eyes (l.e.) were measured with Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT). Disability level and cognitive profile were assessed, using the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) and the Brief International Cognitive Assessment for Multiple Sclerosis (BICAMS) battery, respectively. RESULTS We consecutively enrolled 487 pwMS, including 68 (14.0%) with primary progressive MS (PPMS). At baseline, RNFL and GCL were bilaterally thinner in PPMS (r.e. 90.4 ± 12.7; l.e. 90.2 ± 13.5, and r.e. 80.1 ± 11.2; l.e. 80.3 ± 12.6, respectively) compared to relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS) (r.e. 94.6 ± 13.1; l.e. 94.3 ± 14.8, and r.e. 85.1 ± 9.5; l.e. 84.9 ± 9.3, respectively) (p < 0.01). Both groups exhibited reduced RNFL and GCL thickness, worse cognitive performance and higher EDSS scores at 3-years follow-up compared with baseline. RNFL thickness ≤ 88.0 μm was an independent predictor of CoI (OR = 5.32; 95% CI = 1.84-9.12; p = 0.02) and disability worsening (OR = 3.18; 95% CI = 1.21-10.33; p = 0.05). DISCUSSION RNFL thickness, as a biomarker of neurodegeneration, could be considered a predictive biomarker of cognitive degeneration and physical disability in MS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Simona Toscano
- Department "GF Ingrassia", Section of Neurosciences, Neurology Clinic, University of Catania, 9126, Catania, Italy
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences (BIOMETEC), University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Clara Grazia Chisari
- Department "GF Ingrassia", Section of Neurosciences, Neurology Clinic, University of Catania, 9126, Catania, Italy
| | - Alice Biondi
- Department "GF Ingrassia", Section of Neurosciences, Neurology Clinic, University of Catania, 9126, Catania, Italy
| | - Francesco Patti
- Department "GF Ingrassia", Section of Neurosciences, Neurology Clinic, University of Catania, 9126, Catania, Italy.
- Department "GF Ingrassia", Section of Neurosciences, Multiple Sclerosis Center, Neurology Clinic, University of Catania, Via Santa Sofia 78, 95123, Catania, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
van der Feen FE, de Haan GA, van der Lijn I, Heersema DJ, Meilof JF, Heutink J. Neurovisual rehabilitation in multiple sclerosis: Why a close integration of low-vision rehabilitation and neuropsychological rehabilitation may be effective for visual complaints. Clin Rehabil 2024; 38:393-402. [PMID: 37921016 PMCID: PMC10829419 DOI: 10.1177/02692155231210968] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The quality of life of people with multiple sclerosis (MS) is often affected by visual complaints. A previous study suggested that visual complaints are not likely to be related to specific visual functions, but by a global decline of cognitive and visual functioning. In this study, we further explore this hypothesis, by investigating the relation between visual functions and global cognitive functioning, aiming to provide recommendations for rehabilitation for visual complaints. DESIGN Cross-sectional study. SETTING A rehabilitation centre for partially sighted and blind people and a MS centre at a university hospital. PARTICIPANTS 102 people with MS. MAIN MEASURE Correlations between assessments of visual functions (acuity, contrast sensitivity, visual field, smooth pursuit and saccades) and composite scores of a neuropsychological assessment (tests with a visual component and without a visual component). RESULTS All composite scores correlated with visual acuity, contrast sensitivity and the sensitivity of the monocular field, but not with smooth pursuit and saccades. Similar patterns were found in various subgroups. Results showed that visual functions that related to visual complaints correlated with a diffuse decline of global cognitive functioning and that visual and cognitive functioning may decline concurrently in people with MS. CONCLUSIONS Visual complaints may occur as a result of a diffuse decline of the integrity of a cerebral network involved in vision and cognition. People with MS with visual complaints may benefit from neurovisual rehabilitation, in which low-vision rehabilitation and neuropsychological rehabilitation are closely intertwined.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- FE van der Feen
- Clinical and Developmental Neuropsychology, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
- Royal Dutch Visio, Centre of Expertise for Blind and Partially Sighted People, Huizen, The Netherlands
| | - GA de Haan
- Clinical and Developmental Neuropsychology, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
- Royal Dutch Visio, Centre of Expertise for Blind and Partially Sighted People, Huizen, The Netherlands
| | - I van der Lijn
- Clinical and Developmental Neuropsychology, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
- Royal Dutch Visio, Centre of Expertise for Blind and Partially Sighted People, Huizen, The Netherlands
| | - DJ Heersema
- Department of Neurology, University of Groningen, University Medical Centre Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
- MS Centrum Noord Nederland, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - JF Meilof
- MS Centrum Noord Nederland, Groningen, The Netherlands
- Department of Neurology, Martini Hospital Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - J Heutink
- Clinical and Developmental Neuropsychology, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
- Royal Dutch Visio, Centre of Expertise for Blind and Partially Sighted People, Huizen, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
van der Feen FE, de Haan GA, van der Lijn I, Stellingwerf C, Vrijling ACL, Heersema DJ, Meilof JF, Heutink J. The complex relation between visual complaints and decline in visual, visuoperceptual and cognitive functions in people with multiple sclerosis. Neuropsychol Rehabil 2024; 34:220-243. [PMID: 36871257 DOI: 10.1080/09602011.2023.2179075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2022] [Accepted: 02/05/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023]
Abstract
People with multiple sclerosis (pwMS) report many different visual complaints, but not all of them are well understood. Decline in visual, visuoperceptual and cognitive functions do occur in pwMS, but it is unclear to what extend those help us understand visual complaints. The purpose of this cross-sectional study was to explore the relation between visual complaints and decline in visual, visuoperceptual and cognitive functions, to optimize care for pwMS. Visual, visuoperceptual and cognitive functions of 68 pwMS with visual complaints and 37 pwMS with no or minimal visual complaints were assessed. The frequency of functional decline was compared between the two groups and correlations were calculated between visual complaints and the assessed functions. Decline in several functions occurred more frequently in pwMS with visual complaints. Visual complaints may be an indication of declined visual or cognitive functioning. However, as most correlations were not significant or weak, we cannot infer that visual complaints are directly related to functions. The relationship may be indirect and more complex. Future research could focus on the overarching cognitive capacity that may contribute to visual complaints. Further research into these and other explanations for visual complaints could help us to provide appropriate care for pwMS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- F E van der Feen
- Clinical and Developmental Neuropsychology, University of Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
- Centre of Expertise for blind and partially sighted people, Royal Dutch Visio, Huizen, Netherlands
| | - G A de Haan
- Clinical and Developmental Neuropsychology, University of Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
- Centre of Expertise for blind and partially sighted people, Royal Dutch Visio, Huizen, Netherlands
| | - I van der Lijn
- Clinical and Developmental Neuropsychology, University of Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
- Centre of Expertise for blind and partially sighted people, Royal Dutch Visio, Huizen, Netherlands
| | - C Stellingwerf
- Centre of Expertise for blind and partially sighted people, Royal Dutch Visio, Huizen, Netherlands
| | - A C L Vrijling
- Centre of Expertise for blind and partially sighted people, Royal Dutch Visio, Huizen, Netherlands
| | - D J Heersema
- Department of Neurology, University of Groningen, University Medical Centre Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
- MS Centrum Noord Nederland, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - J F Meilof
- Department of Neurology, Martini Hospital Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
- MS Centrum Noord Nederland, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - J Heutink
- Clinical and Developmental Neuropsychology, University of Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
- Centre of Expertise for blind and partially sighted people, Royal Dutch Visio, Huizen, Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Yu D, Watson E. Binocular summation in high and low contrast letter acuities. Front Neurosci 2023; 17:1174900. [PMID: 37397468 PMCID: PMC10309007 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2023.1174900] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 07/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Binocular summation, a well-known phenomenon in letter acuity measurement, refers to the improvement in visual performance when viewing with both eyes compared to one eye alone. The present study aims to assess the relationship in binocular summation between high and low contrast letter acuities, and examine whether baseline measure (binocular summation at either high or low contrast) is predictive of the change in binocular summation between contrast conditions. Corrected high and low contrast letter acuities were assessed monocularly and binocularly in 358 normal vision observers aged 18-37 years using Bailey-Lovie charts. All observers had high contrast acuities (both monocular and binocular) of 0.1 LogMAR or better and no known eye disease. Binocular summation was calculated as the difference in LogMAR between the better eye acuity and binocular acuity. We found that binocular summation was present at both contrast levels (0.044 ± 0.002 LogMAR for high and 0.069 ± 0.002 LogMAR for low contrast) with higher magnitude of summation at low contrast, and declined with increasing interocular difference. There was a correlation in binocular summation between high and low contrast. The difference in binocular summation between the two contrast levels was found to be correlated with the baseline measurement. Using common commercially available letter acuity charts, we replicated the findings on binocular acuity summation in normally sighted young adults for both high and low contrast letters. Our study revealed a positive relationship in binocular acuity summation between high and low contrast, and an association between a baseline measure and the change in binocular summation between contrast levels. These findings may serve as a reference in clinical practice and research when high and low contrast binocular summations are measured in assessing binocular functional vision.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Deyue Yu
- College of Optometry, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | | |
Collapse
|
5
|
Bukacova K, Mana J, Zakharov S, Diblík P, Pelclova D, Urban P, Klepiš P, Klempíř J, Libon DJ, Růžička E, Bezdicek O. Höffding step and beyond: The impact of visual sensory impairment on cognitive performance in neuropsychological testing of survivors of acute methanol poisoning. NeuroRehabilitation 2023:NRE220289. [PMID: 37248919 DOI: 10.3233/nre-220289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sensory deficits can result in limitations regarding how well neuropsychological test findings can be interpreted. Only a few studies have investigated the influence of vision alteration on neuropsychological tests. In 2012 the Czech Republic experienced mass methanol poisoning. Methanol metabolites cause histotoxic hypoxia to the optic nerve. OBJECTIVE In the current study, the effect of the toxic damage on the parts of the visual pathway on visual and non-visual neuropsychological measures was investigated using electrophysiological methods (visual evoked potential (VEP) and optical coherence tomography (OCT) with retinal nerve fibre layer (RNFL) thickness measurement. METHODS 53 individuals who experienced methanol poisoning participated in this research (76% men; ages 24 to 74 years, mean = 43.8±14.6 years; education 11.9±1.4 years). Each participant underwent comprehensive neurological, ophthalmological, and neuropsychological examinations. RESULTS The results of mixed-effect models revealed significant small to a medium association between the Stroop test weak interference and Grooved Pegboard with the left eye global, nasal and temporal RNFL thickness. Also, medium associations between the Finger Tapping test and the Stroop test weak interference and OS temporal RNFL, right eye temporal RNFL, and the latency P1 of VEP in the left eye were significant. CONCLUSION The results of this study found a small to medium association (r = .15- .33; p = .010- .046) between RNFL thickness and cognitive visual test performance. Careful interpretation is suggested regarding results obtained from visual tests of the executive or motor functioning with participants with RNFL decrease or other types of early visual processing damage.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katerina Bukacova
- Centre of Clinical Neuroscience, Department of Neurology, First Faculty of Medicine, General University Hospital, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Josef Mana
- Centre of Clinical Neuroscience, Department of Neurology, First Faculty of Medicine, General University Hospital, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Sergey Zakharov
- Department of Occupational Medicine, First Faculty of Medicine, General University Hospital, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Pavel Diblík
- Department of Ophthalmology, First Faculty of Medicine, General University Hospital, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Daniela Pelclova
- Department of Occupational Medicine, First Faculty of Medicine, General University Hospital, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Pavel Urban
- National Institute of Public Health, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Petr Klepiš
- Department of Occupational Medicine, First Faculty of Medicine, General University Hospital, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Jiří Klempíř
- Centre of Clinical Neuroscience, Department of Neurology, First Faculty of Medicine, General University Hospital, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - David J Libon
- Department of Geriatrics and Gerontology, Institute for Successful Aging, Department of Psychology, School of Osteopathic Medicine, Rowan University, Glassboro, NJ, USA
| | - Evžen Růžička
- Centre of Clinical Neuroscience, Department of Neurology, First Faculty of Medicine, General University Hospital, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Ondrej Bezdicek
- Centre of Clinical Neuroscience, Department of Neurology, First Faculty of Medicine, General University Hospital, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Arts, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Mirmosayyeb O, Zivadinov R, Weinstock-Guttman B, Benedict RHB, Jakimovski D. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) measurements and cognitive performance in multiple sclerosis: a systematic review and meta-analysis. J Neurol 2023; 270:1266-1285. [PMID: 36396812 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-022-11449-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2022] [Revised: 10/21/2022] [Accepted: 10/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Several studies report mixed associations between the retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness with cognitive and physical disability in persons with multiple sclerosis (PwMS). Systematic synthesis of these findings is crucial in deriving credible conclusions. METHODS Five databases were searched from their inception to March 2022. The inclusion criteria for studies were MS-specific and required RNFL and cognitive performance data in order to be analyzed. The selection processes followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. RESULTS The systematic review yielded 31 studies that investigated the association between RNFL thickness and cognitive performance. Twenty-two studies reported positive associations, and nine did not. The meta-analysis included 11 studies with a total of 782 PwMS with mean age of 40.5 years, mean Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) of 2.7, and disease duration of 11.3 years. RNFL thickness was significantly associated Symbol Digit Modalities Test (pooled r = 0.306, p < 0.001), Paced Auditory Serial Addition Test (pooled r = 0.374, p < 0.001) and Word List Generation (WLG, pooled r = 0.177, p < 0.001). RNFL was also significantly correlated with visuospatial learning and memory tests (pooled r = 0.148, p = 0.042) and verbal learning and memory tests (pooled r = 0.245, p = 0.005). Within three eligible studies, no significant association between ganglion cell inner-plexiform layer and SDMT 0.083 (95% CI - 0.186, 0.352) was noted. The heterogeneity was high in all correlation studies (I2 > 63% and p < 0.008) except for the WLG and visuospatial memory findings. CONCLUSION RNFL thickness is associated with cognitive processing speed, verbal learning and memory, visual learning and memory, as well as verbal fluency in PwMS. The number of studies included in the meta-analyses were limited due to non-standardized reporting.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Omid Mirmosayyeb
- Department of Neurology, Jacobs Comprehensive MS Treatment and Research Center, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Robert Zivadinov
- Buffalo Neuroimaging Analysis Center, Department of Neurology, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, State University of New York, 100 High Street, Buffalo, NY, 14203, USA
- Center for Biomedical Imaging at the Clinical Translational Science Institute, University at Buffalo, State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Bianca Weinstock-Guttman
- Department of Neurology, Jacobs Comprehensive MS Treatment and Research Center, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Ralph H B Benedict
- Department of Neurology, Jacobs Comprehensive MS Treatment and Research Center, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Dejan Jakimovski
- Department of Neurology, Jacobs Comprehensive MS Treatment and Research Center, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, USA.
- Buffalo Neuroimaging Analysis Center, Department of Neurology, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, State University of New York, 100 High Street, Buffalo, NY, 14203, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Collorone S, Kanber B, Hashem L, Cawley N, Prados F, Davagnanam I, Barkhof F, Ciccarelli O, Toosy A. Visual Function and Brief Cognitive Assessment for Multiple Sclerosis in Optic Neuritis Clinically Isolated Syndrome Patients. J Neuroophthalmol 2022; 42:e22-e31. [PMID: 34561401 PMCID: PMC8834161 DOI: 10.1097/wno.0000000000001280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In this study, we hypothesized that clinically isolated syndrome-optic neuritis patients may have disturbances in neuropsychological functions related to visual processes. METHODS Forty-two patients with optic neuritis within 3 months from onset and 13 healthy controls were assessed at baseline and 6 months with MRI (brain volumes, lesion load, and optic radiation lesion volume) and optical coherence tomography (OCT) (peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer [RNFL], ganglion cell and inner plexiform layers [GCIPLs], and inner nuclear layer). Patients underwent the brief cognitive assessment for multiple sclerosis, high-contrast and low-contrast letter acuity, and color vision. RESULTS At baseline, patients had impaired visual function, had GCIPL thinning in both eyes, and performed below the normative average in the visual-related tests: Symbol Digit Modalities Test and Brief Visuospatial Memory Test-Revised (BVMT-R). Over time, improvement in visual function in the affected eye was predicted by baseline GCIPL (P = 0.015), RNFL decreased, and the BVMT-R improved (P = 0.001). Improvement in BVMT-R was associated with improvement in the high-contrast letter acuity of the affected eye (P = 0.03), independently of OCT and MRI metrics. CONCLUSION Cognitive testing, assessed binocularly, of visuospatial processing is affected after unilateral optic neuritis and improves over time with visual recovery. This is not related to structural markers of the visual or central nervous system.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sara Collorone
- NMR Research Unit (SC, BK, LH, NC, FP, OC, and AT), Queen Square MS Centre, Department of Neuroinflammation, Queen Square Institute of Neurology, Faculty of Brain Sciences, UCL, London, United Kingdom; Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering (BK, FP, and FB), Centre for Medical Image Computing (CMIC), University College London, London, United Kingdom; Universitat Oberta de Catalunya (FP), Barcelona, Spain; Department of Brain Repair and Rehabilitation (ID and FB), University College London Institute of Neurology, Faculty of Brain Sciences, UCL, London, United Kingdom; National Institute for Health Research (FB and OC), University College London Hospitals, Biomedical Research Centre, London, United Kingdom; and Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine (FB), Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Vrije Universiteit, the Netherlands
| | - Baris Kanber
- NMR Research Unit (SC, BK, LH, NC, FP, OC, and AT), Queen Square MS Centre, Department of Neuroinflammation, Queen Square Institute of Neurology, Faculty of Brain Sciences, UCL, London, United Kingdom; Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering (BK, FP, and FB), Centre for Medical Image Computing (CMIC), University College London, London, United Kingdom; Universitat Oberta de Catalunya (FP), Barcelona, Spain; Department of Brain Repair and Rehabilitation (ID and FB), University College London Institute of Neurology, Faculty of Brain Sciences, UCL, London, United Kingdom; National Institute for Health Research (FB and OC), University College London Hospitals, Biomedical Research Centre, London, United Kingdom; and Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine (FB), Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Vrije Universiteit, the Netherlands
| | - Leen Hashem
- NMR Research Unit (SC, BK, LH, NC, FP, OC, and AT), Queen Square MS Centre, Department of Neuroinflammation, Queen Square Institute of Neurology, Faculty of Brain Sciences, UCL, London, United Kingdom; Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering (BK, FP, and FB), Centre for Medical Image Computing (CMIC), University College London, London, United Kingdom; Universitat Oberta de Catalunya (FP), Barcelona, Spain; Department of Brain Repair and Rehabilitation (ID and FB), University College London Institute of Neurology, Faculty of Brain Sciences, UCL, London, United Kingdom; National Institute for Health Research (FB and OC), University College London Hospitals, Biomedical Research Centre, London, United Kingdom; and Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine (FB), Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Vrije Universiteit, the Netherlands
| | - Niamh Cawley
- NMR Research Unit (SC, BK, LH, NC, FP, OC, and AT), Queen Square MS Centre, Department of Neuroinflammation, Queen Square Institute of Neurology, Faculty of Brain Sciences, UCL, London, United Kingdom; Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering (BK, FP, and FB), Centre for Medical Image Computing (CMIC), University College London, London, United Kingdom; Universitat Oberta de Catalunya (FP), Barcelona, Spain; Department of Brain Repair and Rehabilitation (ID and FB), University College London Institute of Neurology, Faculty of Brain Sciences, UCL, London, United Kingdom; National Institute for Health Research (FB and OC), University College London Hospitals, Biomedical Research Centre, London, United Kingdom; and Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine (FB), Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Vrije Universiteit, the Netherlands
| | - Ferran Prados
- NMR Research Unit (SC, BK, LH, NC, FP, OC, and AT), Queen Square MS Centre, Department of Neuroinflammation, Queen Square Institute of Neurology, Faculty of Brain Sciences, UCL, London, United Kingdom; Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering (BK, FP, and FB), Centre for Medical Image Computing (CMIC), University College London, London, United Kingdom; Universitat Oberta de Catalunya (FP), Barcelona, Spain; Department of Brain Repair and Rehabilitation (ID and FB), University College London Institute of Neurology, Faculty of Brain Sciences, UCL, London, United Kingdom; National Institute for Health Research (FB and OC), University College London Hospitals, Biomedical Research Centre, London, United Kingdom; and Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine (FB), Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Vrije Universiteit, the Netherlands
| | - Indran Davagnanam
- NMR Research Unit (SC, BK, LH, NC, FP, OC, and AT), Queen Square MS Centre, Department of Neuroinflammation, Queen Square Institute of Neurology, Faculty of Brain Sciences, UCL, London, United Kingdom; Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering (BK, FP, and FB), Centre for Medical Image Computing (CMIC), University College London, London, United Kingdom; Universitat Oberta de Catalunya (FP), Barcelona, Spain; Department of Brain Repair and Rehabilitation (ID and FB), University College London Institute of Neurology, Faculty of Brain Sciences, UCL, London, United Kingdom; National Institute for Health Research (FB and OC), University College London Hospitals, Biomedical Research Centre, London, United Kingdom; and Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine (FB), Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Vrije Universiteit, the Netherlands
| | - Frederik Barkhof
- NMR Research Unit (SC, BK, LH, NC, FP, OC, and AT), Queen Square MS Centre, Department of Neuroinflammation, Queen Square Institute of Neurology, Faculty of Brain Sciences, UCL, London, United Kingdom; Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering (BK, FP, and FB), Centre for Medical Image Computing (CMIC), University College London, London, United Kingdom; Universitat Oberta de Catalunya (FP), Barcelona, Spain; Department of Brain Repair and Rehabilitation (ID and FB), University College London Institute of Neurology, Faculty of Brain Sciences, UCL, London, United Kingdom; National Institute for Health Research (FB and OC), University College London Hospitals, Biomedical Research Centre, London, United Kingdom; and Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine (FB), Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Vrije Universiteit, the Netherlands
| | - Olga Ciccarelli
- NMR Research Unit (SC, BK, LH, NC, FP, OC, and AT), Queen Square MS Centre, Department of Neuroinflammation, Queen Square Institute of Neurology, Faculty of Brain Sciences, UCL, London, United Kingdom; Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering (BK, FP, and FB), Centre for Medical Image Computing (CMIC), University College London, London, United Kingdom; Universitat Oberta de Catalunya (FP), Barcelona, Spain; Department of Brain Repair and Rehabilitation (ID and FB), University College London Institute of Neurology, Faculty of Brain Sciences, UCL, London, United Kingdom; National Institute for Health Research (FB and OC), University College London Hospitals, Biomedical Research Centre, London, United Kingdom; and Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine (FB), Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Vrije Universiteit, the Netherlands
| | - Ahmed Toosy
- NMR Research Unit (SC, BK, LH, NC, FP, OC, and AT), Queen Square MS Centre, Department of Neuroinflammation, Queen Square Institute of Neurology, Faculty of Brain Sciences, UCL, London, United Kingdom; Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering (BK, FP, and FB), Centre for Medical Image Computing (CMIC), University College London, London, United Kingdom; Universitat Oberta de Catalunya (FP), Barcelona, Spain; Department of Brain Repair and Rehabilitation (ID and FB), University College London Institute of Neurology, Faculty of Brain Sciences, UCL, London, United Kingdom; National Institute for Health Research (FB and OC), University College London Hospitals, Biomedical Research Centre, London, United Kingdom; and Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine (FB), Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Vrije Universiteit, the Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Age norms for grating acuity and contrast sensitivity in children using eye tracking technology. Int Ophthalmol 2021; 42:747-756. [PMID: 34622374 DOI: 10.1007/s10792-021-02040-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2021] [Accepted: 09/22/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
KEY MESSAGES Visual acuity is the most used method to assess visual function in children. Contrast sensitivity complements the information provided for visual acuity, but it is not commonly used in clinical practice. Digital devices are increasingly used as a method to evaluate visual function, due to multiple advantages. Testing with these devices can improve the evaluation of visual development in children from a few months of age. Visual acuity and contrast sensitivity tests, using eye tracking technology, are able to measure visual function in children across a wide range of ages, objectively, quickly and without need of an experienced examiner. PURPOSE To report age-normative values for grating visual acuity and contrast sensitivity in healthy children using a digital device with eye tracking technology and to validate the grating acuity test. METHODS In the first project of the study, we examined healthy children aged between 6 months and 7 years with normal ophthalmological assessment. Grating visual acuity (VA) and contrast sensitivity (CS) were assessed using a preferential gaze paradigm with a DIVE (Device for an Integral Visual Examination) assisted with eye tracking technology to provide age norms. For the validation project, we compared LEA grating test (LGT) with DIVE VA in a group of children aged between 6 months and 4 years with normal and abnormal visual development. RESULTS Fifty-seven children (2.86 ± 1.55 years) were examined with DIVE VA test and 44 successfully completed DIVE CS test (3.06 ± 1.41 years). Both, VA and CS values increased with age, mainly along the first two years of life. Sixty-nine patients (1.34 ± 0.61 years) were included in the DIVE VA test validation. The mean difference between LGT and DIVE VA was - 1.05 ± 4.54 cpd with 95% limits of agreement (LoA) of - 9.95-7.84 cpd. Agreement between the two tests was higher in children younger than 1 year with a mean difference of - 0.19 ± 4.02 cpd. CONCLUSIONS DIVE is an automatic, objective and reliable tool to assess several visual function parameters in children, and it has good agreement with classical VA tests, especially for the first stage of life.
Collapse
|
9
|
Has Silemek AC, Ranjeva J, Audoin B, Heesen C, Gold SM, Kühn S, Weygandt M, Stellmann J. Delayed access to conscious processing in multiple sclerosis: Reduced cortical activation and impaired structural connectivity. Hum Brain Mapp 2021; 42:3379-3395. [PMID: 33826184 PMCID: PMC8249884 DOI: 10.1002/hbm.25440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2021] [Revised: 03/26/2021] [Accepted: 03/28/2021] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Although multiple sclerosis (MS) is frequently accompanied by visuo‐cognitive impairment, especially functional brain mechanisms underlying this impairment are still not well understood. Consequently, we used a functional MRI (fMRI) backward masking task to study visual information processing stratifying unconscious and conscious in MS. Specifically, 30 persons with MS (pwMS) and 34 healthy controls (HC) were shown target stimuli followed by a mask presented 8–150 ms later and had to compare the target to a reference stimulus. Retinal integrity (via optical coherence tomography), optic tract integrity (visual evoked potential; VEP) and whole brain structural connectivity (probabilistic tractography) were assessed as complementary structural brain integrity markers. On a psychophysical level, pwMS reached conscious access later than HC (50 vs. 16 ms, p < .001). The delay increased with disease duration (p < .001, β = .37) and disability (p < .001, β = .24), but did not correlate with conscious information processing speed (Symbol digit modality test, β = .07, p = .817). No association was found for VEP and retinal integrity markers. Moreover, pwMS were characterized by decreased brain activation during unconscious processing compared with HC. No group differences were found during conscious processing. Finally, a complementary structural brain integrity analysis showed that a reduced fractional anisotropy in corpus callosum and an impaired connection between right insula and primary visual areas was related to delayed conscious access in pwMS. Our study revealed slowed conscious access to visual stimulus material in MS and a complex pattern of functional and structural alterations coupled to unconscious processing of/delayed conscious access to visual stimulus material in MS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Arzu C. Has Silemek
- Institut für Neuroimmunologie und Multiple Sklerose (INIMS)Universitätsklinikum Hamburg‐Eppendorf (UKE)HamburgGermany
| | - Jean‐Philippe Ranjeva
- Aix‐Marseille UniversityCNRS, CRMBMMarseille CedexFrance
- APHMHopital de la Timone, CEMEREMMarseilleFrance
| | - Bertrand Audoin
- Aix‐Marseille UniversityCNRS, CRMBMMarseille CedexFrance
- APHMHopital de la Timone, CEMEREMMarseilleFrance
| | - Christoph Heesen
- Institut für Neuroimmunologie und Multiple Sklerose (INIMS)Universitätsklinikum Hamburg‐Eppendorf (UKE)HamburgGermany
- Klinik und Poliklinik für NeurologieUniversitätsklinikum Hamburg‐EppendorfHamburgGermany
| | - Stefan M. Gold
- Institut für Neuroimmunologie und Multiple Sklerose (INIMS)Universitätsklinikum Hamburg‐Eppendorf (UKE)HamburgGermany
- Charité ‐ Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Freie Universität BerlinHumboldt Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health (BIH), Klinik für Psychiatrie & Psychotherapie und Medizinische Klinik m.S. Psychosomatik, Campus Benjamin Franklin (CBF)BerlinGermany
| | - Simone Kühn
- Clinic for Psychiatry and PsychotherapyUniversity Medical Center Hamburg‐EppendorfHamburgGermany
- Lise Meitner Group for Environmental NeuroscienceMax Planck Institute for Human DevelopmentBerlinGermany
| | - Martin Weygandt
- Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine and Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität BerlinHumboldt‐Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Experimental and Clinical Research CenterBerlinGermany
- Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität BerlinHumboldt‐Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, NeuroCure Clinical Research CenterBerlinGermany
| | - Jan‐Patrick Stellmann
- Institut für Neuroimmunologie und Multiple Sklerose (INIMS)Universitätsklinikum Hamburg‐Eppendorf (UKE)HamburgGermany
- Aix‐Marseille UniversityCNRS, CRMBMMarseille CedexFrance
- APHMHopital de la Timone, CEMEREMMarseilleFrance
- Klinik und Poliklinik für NeurologieUniversitätsklinikum Hamburg‐EppendorfHamburgGermany
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Rebman AW, Yang T, Aucott JN, Mihm EA, West SK. Contrast Sensitivity Loss in Patients With Posttreatment Lyme Disease. Transl Vis Sci Technol 2021; 10:27. [PMID: 34003960 PMCID: PMC7995915 DOI: 10.1167/tvst.10.3.27] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Posttreatment Lyme disease (PTLD) is marked by neurologic symptoms, cognitive impairment, and significant symptom burden, including fatigue and ocular complaints. The purpose of this study was to determine whether contrast sensitivity (CS) is altered in patients with PTLD compared with healthy controls and, second, whether CS is associated with cognitive and/or neurologic deficits. Methods CS was measured using a Pelli-Robson chart with forced-choice procedures, and the total number of letters read was recorded for each eye. CS impairment was defined for age <60 years as logCS of 1.80 (36 letters or fewer) and for those age ≥60 years as logCS of 1.65 (33 letters or fewer). Participants self-administered a questionnaire to assess presence of ocular symptoms and underwent a neurologic exam and battery of neurocognitive tests. Results CS impairment was associated with an increased odds of being in the PTLD group that was 2.6 times as high as those without CS impairment (odds ratio, 2.6; 95% confidence interval, 1.3-5.2). Neither cases nor controls had significant distance acuity impairment. CS impairment was not associated with any of the ocular complaints in cases but was borderline associated with neurologic abnormalities and cognitive impairment. Conclusions CS impairment in patients with PTLD is linked to signs of cognitive and neurologic impairment and may be a marker of illness severity. Translational Relevance Further investigation into the value of testing CS impairment in PTLD cases is warranted, especially if it is an indicator of cognitive or neurologic manifestations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alison W Rebman
- Lyme Disease Research Center, Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Ting Yang
- Lyme Disease Research Center, Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - John N Aucott
- Lyme Disease Research Center, Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Erica A Mihm
- Lyme Disease Research Center, Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Sheila K West
- Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Rosenkranz SC, Kaulen B, Zimmermann HG, Bittner AK, Dorr M, Stellmann JP. Validation of Computer-Adaptive Contrast Sensitivity as a Tool to Assess Visual Impairment in Multiple Sclerosis Patients. Front Neurosci 2021; 15:591302. [PMID: 33708068 PMCID: PMC7940823 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2021.591302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2020] [Accepted: 02/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Impairment of visual function is one of the major symptoms of people with multiple sclerosis (pwMS). A multitude of disease effects including inflammation and neurodegeneration lead to structural impairment in the visual system. However, the gold standard of disability quantification, the expanded disability status scale (EDSS), relies on visual assessment charts. A more comprehensive assessment of visual function is the full contrast sensitivity function (CSF), but most tools are time consuming and not feasible in clinical routine. The quantitative CSF (qCSF) test is a computerized test to assess the full CSF. We have already shown a better correlation with visual quality of life (QoL) than for classical high and low contrast charts in multiple sclerosis (MS). Objective To study the precision, test duration, and repeatability of the qCSF in pwMS. In order to evaluate the discrimination ability, we compared the data of pwMS to healthy controls. Methods We recruited two independent cohorts of MS patients. Within the precision cohort (n = 54), we analyzed the benefit of running 50 instead of 25 qCSF trials. The repeatability cohort (n = 44) was assessed by high contrast vision charts and qCSF assessments twice and we computed repeatability metrics. For the discrimination ability we used the data from all pwMS without any previous optic neuritis and compared the area under the log CSF (AULCSF) to an age-matched healthy control data set. Results We identified 25 trials of the qCSF algorithm as a sufficient amount for a precise estimate of the CSF. The median test duration for one eye was 185 s (range 129–373 s). The AULCSF had better test–retest repeatability (Mean Average Precision, MAP) than visual acuity measured by standard high contrast visual acuity charts or CSF acuity measured with the qCSF (0.18 vs. 0.11 and 0.17, respectively). Even better repeatability (MAP = 0.19) was demonstrated by a CSF-derived feature that was inspired by low-contrast acuity charts, i.e., the highest spatial frequency at 25% contrast. When compared to healthy controls, the MS patients showed reduced CSF (average AULCSF 1.21 vs. 1.42, p < 0.01). Conclusion High precision, usability, repeatability, and discrimination support the qCSF as a tool to assess contrast vision in pwMS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sina C Rosenkranz
- Institut für Neuroimmunologie und Multiple Sklerose, Zentrum für Molekulare Neurobiologie, Hamburg, Germany.,Klinik und Poliklinik für Neurologie, Universitätsklinikum Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Barbara Kaulen
- Institut für Neuroimmunologie und Multiple Sklerose, Zentrum für Molekulare Neurobiologie, Hamburg, Germany.,Klinik und Poliklinik für Neurologie, Universitätsklinikum Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Hanna G Zimmermann
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine and Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany.,NeuroCure Clinical Research Center, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - Ava K Bittner
- College of Optometry, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, FL, United States.,Department of Ophthalmology, Stein Eye Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | | | - Jan-Patrick Stellmann
- Institut für Neuroimmunologie und Multiple Sklerose, Zentrum für Molekulare Neurobiologie, Hamburg, Germany.,Klinik und Poliklinik für Neurologie, Universitätsklinikum Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany.,APHM, Hôpital de la Timone, CEMEREM, Marseille, France.,Aix Marseille Université, CRMBM, CNRS UMR 7339, Marseille, France
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Jakimovski D, Benedict RHB, Weinstock-Guttman B, Ozel O, Fuchs TA, Lincoff N, Bergsland N, Dwyer MG, Zivadinov R. Visual deficits and cognitive assessment of multiple sclerosis: confounder, correlate, or both? J Neurol 2021; 268:2578-2588. [PMID: 33590339 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-021-10437-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2020] [Revised: 01/29/2021] [Accepted: 01/30/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The relationship between visual impairment and cognitive performance in multiple sclerosis (MS) remains poorly understood. OBJECTIVE To determine associations between visual acuity and optical coherence tomography (OCT) measures with cognitive performance of MS patients and healthy controls (HCs). METHODS 141 MS patients (with and without MS optic neuritis; MSON) and 50 HCs underwent neuropsychological, visual, and OCT testing. California Verbal Learning Test (CVLT-II), Brief Visuospatial Memory Test (BVMT-R), and Symbol Digit Modalities Test (SDMT) were used. Patients with test performance below - 1.5 standard deviations of the mean HCs scores were labeled as cognitive impairment. Visual ability was assessed with 100%, 2.5%, and 1.25% low-contrast letter acuity (LCLA) charts. OCT-derived peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer (pRNFL) thickness, macular volume (MV), macular ganglion cell inner plexiform (mGCIP) thickness (as a sum of GC and IP layers), and macular inner nuclear layer (mINL) were computed. RESULTS 100% and 2.5% LCLA associated with SDMT in MS and HCs (p < 0.001; and p < 0.012, respectively). In MSON patients, visually demanding tests were explained by pRNFL and macular volume for SDMT (β = 0.172, p = 0.039 and β = 0.27, p = 0.001) and MV for BVMT-R (β = 0.21, p = 0.012). In non-MSON, only mINL was predictor of CVLT-II. pRNFL and MV predicted cognitive impairment with an accuracy of 72.2% (Negelkerke R2 = 0.234). These findings were driven by associations within the progressive MS subgroup. HC's SDMT performance was explained by mGCIP (β = 0.316, p = 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Both LCLA and OCT-based measures (pRNFL and macular volume) were associated with MS cognitive performance. OCT-based measures were also significant predictors of cognitive status in MS patients. mGCIP associated with cognitive performance in HCs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dejan Jakimovski
- Department of Neurology, Buffalo Neuroimaging Analysis Center (BNAC), Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, State University of New York, 100 High Street, Buffalo, NY, 14203, USA. .,Department of Neurology, Jacobs Comprehensive MS Treatment and Research Center, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA.
| | - Ralph H B Benedict
- Department of Neurology, Jacobs Comprehensive MS Treatment and Research Center, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Bianca Weinstock-Guttman
- Department of Neurology, Jacobs Comprehensive MS Treatment and Research Center, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Osman Ozel
- Department of Neurology, Jacobs Comprehensive MS Treatment and Research Center, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Tom A Fuchs
- Department of Neurology, Buffalo Neuroimaging Analysis Center (BNAC), Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, State University of New York, 100 High Street, Buffalo, NY, 14203, USA.,Department of Neurology, Jacobs Comprehensive MS Treatment and Research Center, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Norah Lincoff
- Department of Neurology, Jacobs Comprehensive MS Treatment and Research Center, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Niels Bergsland
- Department of Neurology, Buffalo Neuroimaging Analysis Center (BNAC), Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, State University of New York, 100 High Street, Buffalo, NY, 14203, USA.,Department of Neurology, Jacobs Comprehensive MS Treatment and Research Center, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA.,IRCCS, Fondazione Don Carlo Gnocchi ONLUS, Milan, Italy
| | - Michael G Dwyer
- Department of Neurology, Buffalo Neuroimaging Analysis Center (BNAC), Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, State University of New York, 100 High Street, Buffalo, NY, 14203, USA.,Department of Neurology, Jacobs Comprehensive MS Treatment and Research Center, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Robert Zivadinov
- Department of Neurology, Buffalo Neuroimaging Analysis Center (BNAC), Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, State University of New York, 100 High Street, Buffalo, NY, 14203, USA.,Department of Neurology, Jacobs Comprehensive MS Treatment and Research Center, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA.,Center for Biomedical Imaging at Clinical Translational Science Institute, University at Buffalo, State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, USA
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Chavarro VS, Bellmann-Strobl J, Zimmermann HG, Scheel M, Chien C, Oertel FC, Weygandt M, Ruprecht K, Paul F, Finke C, Brandt AU. Visual system damage and network maladaptation are associated with cognitive performance in neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders. Mult Scler Relat Disord 2020; 45:102406. [DOI: 10.1016/j.msard.2020.102406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2020] [Revised: 07/07/2020] [Accepted: 07/15/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
|
14
|
Ihl T, Kadas EM, Oberwahrenbrock T, Endres M, Klockgether T, Schroeter J, Brandt AU, Paul F, Minnerop M, Doss S, Schmitz-Hübsch T, Zimmermann HG. Investigation of Visual System Involvement in Spinocerebellar Ataxia Type 14. CEREBELLUM (LONDON, ENGLAND) 2020; 19:469-482. [PMID: 32338350 PMCID: PMC7351844 DOI: 10.1007/s12311-020-01130-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Spinocerebellar ataxia type 14 (SCA-PRKCG, formerly SCA14) is a rare, slowly progressive disorder caused by conventional mutations in protein kinase Cγ (PKCγ). The disease usually manifests with ataxia, but previous reports suggested PRKCG variants in retinal pathology. To systematically investigate for the first time visual function and retinal morphology in patients with SCA-PRKCG. Seventeen patients with PRKCG variants and 17 healthy controls were prospectively recruited, of which 12 genetically confirmed SCA-PRKCG patients and 14 matched controls were analyzed. We enquired a structured history for visual symptoms. Vision-related quality of life was obtained with the National Eye Institute Visual Function Questionnaire (NEI-VFQ) including the Neuro-Ophthalmic Supplement (NOS). Participants underwent testing of visual acuity, contrast sensitivity, visual fields, and retinal morphology with optical coherence tomography (OCT). Measurements of the SCA-PRKCG group were analyzed for their association with clinical parameters (ataxia rating and disease duration). SCA-PRKCG patients rate their vision-related quality of life in NEI-VFQ significantly worse than controls. Furthermore, binocular visual acuity and contrast sensitivity were worse in SCA-PRKCG patients compared with controls. Despite this, none of the OCT measurements differed between groups. NEI-VFQ and NOS composite scores were related to ataxia severity. Additionally, we describe one patient with a genetic variant of uncertain significance in the catalytic domain of PKCγ who, unlike all confirmed SCA-PRKCG, presented with a clinically silent epitheliopathy. SCA-PRKCG patients had reduced binocular vision and vision-related quality of life. Since no structural retinal damage was found, the pathomechanism of these findings remains unclear.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Ihl
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine and Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
- NeuroCure Clinical Research Center, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
- Department of Neurology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - Ella M Kadas
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine and Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
- NeuroCure Clinical Research Center, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - Timm Oberwahrenbrock
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine and Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
- NeuroCure Clinical Research Center, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - Matthias Endres
- NeuroCure Clinical Research Center, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
- Department of Neurology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), partner site, Berlin, Germany
| | - Thomas Klockgether
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Bonn, Germany
| | - Jan Schroeter
- University Tissue Bank, Cornea Bank Berlin, Institute of Transfusion Medicine, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - Alexander U Brandt
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine and Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
- NeuroCure Clinical Research Center, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
- Department of Neurology, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Friedemann Paul
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine and Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
- NeuroCure Clinical Research Center, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
- Department of Neurology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - Martina Minnerop
- Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine (INM-1), Research Centre Juelich, Juelich, Germany
- Department of Neurology, Center for Movement Disorders and Neuromodulation, Medical Faculty, Heinrich-Heine University, Düsseldorf, Germany
- Department of Neurology and Institute of Clinical Neuroscience and Medical Psychology, Medical Faculty, Heinrich-Heine University, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Sarah Doss
- Department of Neurology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
- Department of Neurological Sciences, Movement Disorders Section, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Tanja Schmitz-Hübsch
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine and Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
- NeuroCure Clinical Research Center, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - Hanna G Zimmermann
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine and Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany.
- NeuroCure Clinical Research Center, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Kaido M, Fukui M, Kawashima M, Negishi K, Tsubota K. Relationship between visual function and cognitive function in the elderly: A cross-sectional observational study. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0233381. [PMID: 32428010 PMCID: PMC7236991 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0233381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2020] [Accepted: 05/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
It has been suggested that functional visual acuity (VA) testing may be able to measure both the visual performance and cognitive ability needed for driving and help to reduce the number of road traffic accidents. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between visual ability and cognitive function in healthy elderly subjects. The study included 34 eyes with a decimal best-corrected visual acuity (VA) ≥1.0 in 34 subjects (16 men, 18 women; mean age 72.7 ± 6.1 [range, 61-83] years) with the same type of monofocal intraocular lens implant. Using the score on the Japanese version of the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) questionnaire, the subjects were divided into a mild cognitive impairment (MCI) group (score <28) and a normal cognition (NC) group (score ≥28). Visual ability was evaluated by functional VA testing. Functional VA was significantly lower in the MCI group (n = 10) than in the NC group (n = 24; P<0.02). There was no significant difference in best-corrected VA between the two groups. High correlations were found between the MMSE score and the logMAR functional VA (r = -0.36, P = 0.04), standard deviation of functional VA (r = -0.39, P = 0.02), and the visual maintenance ratio (r = 0.34, P = 0.048). In summary, despite a good best-corrected VA, deterioration in visual ability was detected in elderly individuals with MCI when measured by the functional VA test. Functional VA could be used to evaluate the integrated visual ability associated with age-related cognitive decline and have applications that help to reduce the disproportionately high rate of road traffic accidents in the elderly.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Minako Kaido
- Department of Ophthalmology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
- Wada Eye Clinic, Chiba, Japan
| | - Masaki Fukui
- Department of Ophthalmology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
- Tokyo Medical Center, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Motoko Kawashima
- Department of Ophthalmology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kazuno Negishi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kazuo Tsubota
- Department of Ophthalmology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
- Tsubota Laboratory, Inc., Tokyo, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Esmael A, Elsherif M, Abdelsalam M, Sabry D, Mamdouh M, Belal T. Retinal thickness as a potential biomarker of neurodegeneration and a predictor of early cognitive impairment in patients with multiple sclerosis. Neurol Res 2020; 42:564-574. [PMID: 32370626 DOI: 10.1080/01616412.2020.1761174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The purpose of this research is to predict the cognitive impairment and to determine its correlation with retinal thickness, mainly (RFNL and GCIPL) in cases of multiple sclerosis. METHODS 60 multiple sclerosis patients and 30 age and sex-matched healthy controls were included in this study. Cognitive functions were evaluated in all study participants by the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA). OCT imaging was done to determine the thickness. The correlation between the cognitive domains of MoCA and the thickness of the retinal nerve fiber layers was analyzed by Spearman correlation. ROC curve was constructed to determine the cut-off points for retinal thickness, and a binary logistic regression was performed to determine the independent predictive capacity of established cut-off points. RESULTS Impaired cognition was found in 26 MS patients (43.3%). Cognitively impaired patients were significantly older (P < 0.05), had significantly longer disease duration (P < 0.05), had higher average EDSS scores (4.3 ± 1.22 vs 3.1 ± 1.45, P < 0.001), and occurred more in progressive types of MS (P < 0.001). A significant positive correlation was found between cognitive function and RNFL thickness and GCIPL (P < 0.001). The retinal thickness (RNFL and GCIPL) cut-off points established for the prediction of cognitive impairment in MS patients were 79 μm and 76 μm, respectively. CONCLUSION The clear correlation between cognitive impairment and atrophy of inner retinal layers (RNFL and GCIPL) proposes that OCT is valuable in evaluating the neurodegeneration and prediction of early cognitive impairment in MS. ABBREVIATIONS EDSS: Expanded Disability Status Scale; HCs: Healthy controls; GCIPL: Ganglion cell-inner plexiform layer; ILM: Internal limiting membrane; INL: Inner nuclear layer; MoCA: Montreal Cognitive Assessment; MS: Multiple sclerosis; PPMS: Primary progressive multiple sclerosis; RNFL: Retinal nerve fiber layer; RRMS: Relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis; SD: Standard deviations; SPMS: Secondary progressive multiple sclerosis; SPSS: Statistical Package for the Social Sciences.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed Esmael
- Neurology Department, Mansoura University Hospital
| | | | | | - Dalia Sabry
- Ophthalmic Center, Mansoura University , Mansoura, Egypt
| | | | - Tamer Belal
- Neurology Department, Mansoura University Hospital
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
The immediate effect of stroboscopic visual training on information-processing time in people with multiple sclerosis: an exploratory study. J Neural Transm (Vienna) 2020; 127:1125-1131. [PMID: 32279123 DOI: 10.1007/s00702-020-02190-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2020] [Accepted: 04/06/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Stroboscopic visual training (SVT) is a form of training aimed at improving visual and perceptual performance by having individuals perform activities under conditions of intermittent vision. The efficacy of SVT has never been examined in people with multiple sclerosis (PwMS), therefore, our aim was to examine the immediate effect of SVT on cognitive function, gait and static balance performance in PwMS. This assessor-blinded, randomized crossover study included 26 PwMS, 16 females, mean age 47.9 and median EDSS score 4.5. Participants attended two sessions: SVT and control training. Exercises for both the SVT and control sessions were based on ball-catching tasks. Training sessions were identical in length (40-50 min) and type of exercise drills. The difference between the two practice regimes was that the SVT session was performed wearing stroboscopic glasses and the control training was performed with similar glasses without lenses. Cognition was evaluated by a computerized software (Mindstreams®, NeuroTrax Corp., NY). Gait and balance were evaluated via wearable accelerometers (APDM, Oregon, USA). Outcome measures were collected twice during a single session, prior to training and immediately afterward. Information processing speed (p = 0.003) increased at the post-evaluation compared with baseline, solely in the SVT session. No differences between pre-post evaluations were observed for other cognitive scores following the SVT session. No differences between pre-post measurements were noted for gait and balance following the SVT session. The present study's results justify performing future RCT studies to examine the effects of a longer SVT program on cognition in PwMS.
Collapse
|
18
|
Fischer M, Köhler W, Faiss JH, Hoffmann F, Kunkel A, Sailer M, Schwab M, Zettl UK, Bublak P. A smart peek: Processing of rapid visual displays is disturbed in newly diagnosed, cognitively intact MS patients and refers to cognitive performance and disease progression in late stages. J Neurol Sci 2019; 401:118-124. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jns.2019.04.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2018] [Revised: 04/18/2019] [Accepted: 04/22/2019] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
|
19
|
Nguyen J, Rothman A, Fitzgerald K, Whetstone A, Syc-Mazurek S, Aquino J, Balcer LJ, Frohman EM, Frohman TC, Crainiceanu C, Beier M, Newsome SD, Calabresi PA, Saidha S. Visual Pathway Measures are Associated with Neuropsychological Function in Multiple Sclerosis. Curr Eye Res 2018; 43:941-948. [PMID: 29634379 DOI: 10.1080/02713683.2018.1459730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To determine the relationships between visual function and ganglion cell and inner plexiform layer thickness and neuropsychological measures in multiple sclerosis (MS). METHODS Ninety-five relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS) and 36 progressive MS patients underwent 100%-contrast visual acuity (VA), 2.5%- and 1.25%-contrast letter acuity (LA) testing, Cirrus-HD-optical coherence tomography, and neuropsychological assessments. Mixed-effects regression models were used to assess relationships. RESULTS Across the cohort, 1.25%-contrast LA was associated with Symbol Digit Modalities Test (SDMT; β = 2.17, p = 0.005) and Brief Visuospatial Memory Test-Revised (BVMT-R) total recall (TR) and delayed recall (DR) scores (β = 0.31, p < 0.001; β = 0.15, p = 0.039, respectively). 2.5%-contrast LA was associated with BVMT-R TR scores (β = 0.27, p = 0.006). In the RRMS cohort, 1.25%-contrast LA was generally more significantly associated with cognitive measures: SDMT (β = 2.97, p = 0.001) and BVMT-R TR (β = 0.32, p < 0.001) and DR (β = 0.22, p = 0.012). CONCLUSION This study suggests that visual pathway measures, particularly visual function measures, reflect aspects of cognitive function in MS, further supporting their roles as complementary outcomes in MS neuroprotection trials.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- James Nguyen
- a Department of Neurology , Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine , Baltimore , MD , USA
| | - Alissa Rothman
- a Department of Neurology , Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine , Baltimore , MD , USA
| | - Kathryn Fitzgerald
- a Department of Neurology , Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine , Baltimore , MD , USA
| | - Anna Whetstone
- a Department of Neurology , Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine , Baltimore , MD , USA
| | - Stephanie Syc-Mazurek
- a Department of Neurology , Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine , Baltimore , MD , USA
| | - Jannelle Aquino
- a Department of Neurology , Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine , Baltimore , MD , USA
| | - Laura J Balcer
- b Department of Neurology , New York University Langone Medical Center , New York , NY , USA
| | - Elliot M Frohman
- c Department of Neurology and Ophthalmology , University of Texas Southwestern , Dallas , TX , USA
| | - Teresa C Frohman
- c Department of Neurology and Ophthalmology , University of Texas Southwestern , Dallas , TX , USA
| | - Ciprian Crainiceanu
- d Department of Biostatistics , Johns Hopkins University , Baltimore , MD , USA
| | - Meghan Beier
- e Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation , Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine , Baltimore , MD , USA
| | - Scott D Newsome
- a Department of Neurology , Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine , Baltimore , MD , USA
| | - Peter A Calabresi
- a Department of Neurology , Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine , Baltimore , MD , USA
| | - Shiv Saidha
- a Department of Neurology , Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine , Baltimore , MD , USA
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
The value of tests evaluating visual functions in detecting overt or subclinical optic neuritis in multiple sclerosis. Mult Scler Relat Disord 2018; 21:63-68. [PMID: 29471193 DOI: 10.1016/j.msard.2018.01.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2017] [Revised: 01/13/2018] [Accepted: 01/30/2018] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
|
21
|
Boven LC, Jiang QL, Moss HE. Validation of Simplified Visual Acuity Testing Protocols in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. Neuroophthalmology 2018; 41:247-252. [PMID: 29339958 DOI: 10.1080/01658107.2017.1305422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2017] [Revised: 03/08/2017] [Accepted: 03/08/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
High- and low-contrast visual acuity (HCVA, LCVA) are potential quantitative markers of neurological dysfunction in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). The complex nature and duration of gold standard (GS) protocols precludes widespread use in neurology settings. This study compares simplified to GS visual acuity (VA) protocols. Monocular HCVA and LCVA were measured in ALS (n = 10) and control (n = 4) subjects using six protocols, varying by two chart and three refraction methods. Intraclass correlation coefficients between simplified and GS protocols ranged from 0.83 to 0.98 (HCVA, excellent agreement) and 0.56 to 0.75 (LCVA, moderate agreement). Differences between LCVA and GS protocols exceeded test-retest reliability. Simplified HCVA protocols using LCD (liquid crystal display) tablet charts and/or pinhole correction produced valid measurements. None of the modified LCVA testing protocols produced valid measurements.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lindsay C Boven
- University of Illinois College of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Qin Li Jiang
- Department of Neurology and Rehabilitation, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Heather E Moss
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
|
23
|
Carkeet A, Bailey IL. Slope of psychometric functions and termination rule analysis for low contrast acuity charts. Ophthalmic Physiol Opt 2017; 37:118-127. [PMID: 28211180 DOI: 10.1111/opo.12357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2016] [Accepted: 01/09/2017] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To assess whether the slopes of psychometric functions for measuring low contrast letter acuity were different from those for measuring high contrast letter acuity. METHODS Ten participants, wearing their best spectacle correction, were assessed monocularly. Stimuli were logarithmic progression charts, generated on a computer monitor, with nine rows of five randomised Sloan letters generated in either high contrast format (Weber contrast 99.2%) or low contrast format (Weber contrast 18.7%). For each participant, psychometric functions were generated by probit analysis of the data on each of 16 attempts at a low contrast chart and 16 attempts at a high contrast chart. Each of these probit fits yielded an estimate of Probit Size which provided information about how steep or flat the psychometric function was, along with an estimate of Probit Acuity Threshold. RESULTS Probit Size was significantly larger (p < 0.001) for low contrast charts than for high contrast charts, indicating that psychometric functions were flatter for low contrast charts. Mean Probit Sizes in logMAR were 0.099 (SEM 0.022) for low contrast charts and 0.071 (SEM 0.009) for high contrast charts if a guess rate of 1/26 was assumed, or were 0.086 (SEM 0.019) for low contrast charts and 0.064 for high contrast charts if a guess rate of 1/10 was assumed. Monte Carlo analysis showed that these means were likely to be biased estimates, with true Probit Size probably being larger (i.e. slightly flatter fits) by 0.016-0.019 logMAR. As expected, Probit Acuity Thresholds were poorer for low contrast charts than for high contrast charts (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION Our Monte Carlo modelling showed that such differences in acuity psychometric functions would be expected to give greater intra-subject variability in low contrast letter-by-letter acuity thresholds than for high contrast letter-by-letter acuity thresholds, and that this difference would depend on the termination rule used when measuring acuity. Likewise the variation in letter-by- letter acuity thresholds with termination rule will be different for high and low contrast charts. For low contrast and high contrast Sloan letter charts in a standard logarithmic format, a termination rule of four mistakes on a row, will give close to optimum sensitivity-to-change.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Carkeet
- School of Optometry and Vision Science and Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Ian L Bailey
- School of Optometry, University of California, Berkeley, USA
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Coric D, Balk LJ, Verrijp M, Eijlers A, Schoonheim MM, Killestein J, Uitdehaag BM, Petzold A. Cognitive impairment in patients with multiple sclerosis is associated with atrophy of the inner retinal layers. Mult Scler 2017; 24:158-166. [PMID: 28273785 PMCID: PMC5987993 DOI: 10.1177/1352458517694090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Inner retinal layer (IRL) atrophy is a potential biomarker for neurodegeneration in multiple sclerosis (MS). OBJECTIVE To investigate the relationship between cognitive impairment and IRL atrophy in MS. METHODS Cross-sectional study design, including 217 patients and 59 healthy controls. Subjects were investigated clinically, underwent retinal optical coherence tomography (OCT) and comprehensive cognitive assessments. The association between these modalities was evaluated by regression analyses. RESULTS Of the patients, 44.2% were cognitively impaired. In the absence of multiple sclerosis-associated optic neuritis (MSON), cognitively impaired patients had a significantly lower mean peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer (pRNFL, Δ: 8.13 µm, p < 0.001) and mean macular ganglion cell-inner plexiform layer (mGCIPL, Δ: 11.50 µm, p < 0.001) thickness compared to cognitively preserved patients. There was a significant association between the presence of cognitive impairment and pRNFL (odds ratio (OR): 1.11, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.04-1.18, p = 0.001) and mGCIPL (OR = 1.11, 95% CI = 1.05-1.18, p < 0.001) atrophy. This association was masked by the severe IRL atrophy seen following MSON. CONCLUSION The strong relationship between cognitive impairment across multiple cognitive domains and atrophy of the pRNFL and mGCIPL in patients who never suffered from MSON suggests that OCT is useful in assessing central nervous system neurodegeneration in MS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Danko Coric
- Department of Neurology, VU University Medical Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Lisanne J Balk
- Department of Neurology, VU University Medical Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Merike Verrijp
- Department of Neurology, VU University Medical Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Anand Eijlers
- Department of Anatomy and Neuroscience, VU University Medical Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Menno M Schoonheim
- Department of Anatomy and Neuroscience, VU University Medical Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Joep Killestein
- Department of Neurology, VU University Medical Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Bernard Mj Uitdehaag
- Department of Neurology, VU University Medical Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Axel Petzold
- Department of Ophthalmology, VU University Medical Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Department of Neurology, VU University Medical Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Moorfields Eye Hospital, London, UK
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Stellmann JP, Cetin H, Young KL, Hodecker S, Pöttgen J, Bittersohl D, Hassenstein A, Oberwahrenbrock T, Heesen C, Siemonsen S. Pattern of gray matter volumes related to retinal thickness and its association with cognitive function in relapsing-remitting MS. Brain Behav 2017; 7:e00614. [PMID: 28239524 PMCID: PMC5318367 DOI: 10.1002/brb3.614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2016] [Accepted: 11/02/2016] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neurodegeneration in multiple sclerosis (MS) may be investigated in the visual system as optical coherence tomography (OCT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) allows examining structural integrity in detail. The association between thickness of retinal layers and focal cortical volumes beyond the primary visual system has not been thoroughly investigated. OBJECTIVE To investigate the association between focal cortical volume and thickness of retinal layers. METHODS Fifty-four patients (relapsing-remitting MS, mean age 40.5 years, mean disease duration 7.6 years, median EDSS 2) underwent OCT and MRI. The association between focal cortical volume and OCT measurements was investigated with voxel-based morphometry (VBM). Patterns of association were determined with Yeo's functional network atlas and the Harvard-Oxford cortical atlas. We used GEE models with cortical volumes from the FreeSurfer parcellation to confirm VBM results. Post hoc, we analyzed the association between OCT, focal cortical volumes, and an extended neuropsychological assessment in a subgroup of 14 patients. RESULTS Macular retinal nerve fiber layer (mRNFL) and ganglion cell /inner plexiform layer (GCIPL) showed a robust association with mainly the insular cortex and the cingulate cortex. VBM findings were confirmed with FreeSurfer volumes. The post hoc analysis detected significant correlations between both OCT outcomes and cognition. CONCLUSION Besides the primary visual system, OCT outcomes show a correlation pattern with cortical regions that are known to be important for cognitive performance, predominantly the insula in both hemispheres. Thus, OCT should be further investigated as a marker for neurodegeneration in MS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jan-Patrick Stellmann
- Institut für Neuroimmunologie und Multiple Sklerose Universitätsklinikum Hamburg-Eppendorf Germany; Klinik und Poliklinik für Neurologie Universitätsklinikum Hamburg-Eppendorf Germany
| | - Hanife Cetin
- Institut für Neuroimmunologie und Multiple Sklerose Universitätsklinikum Hamburg-Eppendorf Germany; Klinik und Poliklinik für Neurologie Universitätsklinikum Hamburg-Eppendorf Germany
| | - Kim Lea Young
- Institut für Neuroimmunologie und Multiple Sklerose Universitätsklinikum Hamburg-Eppendorf Germany; Klinik und Poliklinik für Neurologie Universitätsklinikum Hamburg-Eppendorf Germany
| | - Sibylle Hodecker
- Institut für Neuroimmunologie und Multiple Sklerose Universitätsklinikum Hamburg-Eppendorf Germany; Klinik und Poliklinik für Neurologie Universitätsklinikum Hamburg-Eppendorf Germany
| | - Jana Pöttgen
- Institut für Neuroimmunologie und Multiple Sklerose Universitätsklinikum Hamburg-Eppendorf Germany; Klinik und Poliklinik für Neurologie Universitätsklinikum Hamburg-Eppendorf Germany
| | - Diana Bittersohl
- Klinik für Augenheilkunde Universitätsklinikum Hamburg-Eppendorf Germany
| | - Andrea Hassenstein
- Klinik für Augenheilkunde Universitätsklinikum Hamburg-Eppendorf Germany
| | - Timm Oberwahrenbrock
- NeuroCure Clinical Research Center and Experimental and Clinical Research Center Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin and Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine Berlin Germany
| | - Christoph Heesen
- Institut für Neuroimmunologie und Multiple Sklerose Universitätsklinikum Hamburg-Eppendorf Germany; Klinik und Poliklinik für Neurologie Universitätsklinikum Hamburg-Eppendorf Germany
| | - Susanne Siemonsen
- Institut für Neuroimmunologie und Multiple Sklerose Universitätsklinikum Hamburg-Eppendorf Germany; Klinik und Poliklinik für Neuroradiologische Diagnostik und Intervention Universitätsklinikum Hamburg-Eppendorf Germany
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Perrochon A, Holtzer R, Laidet M, Armand S, Assal F, Lalive PH, Allali G. Postural control is associated with cognition and fear of falling in patients with multiple sclerosis. J Neural Transm (Vienna) 2016; 124:495-500. [DOI: 10.1007/s00702-016-1668-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2016] [Accepted: 12/14/2016] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
|
27
|
Jaywant A, Barredo J, Ahern DC, Resnik L. Neuropsychological assessment without upper limb involvement: a systematic review of oral versions of the Trail Making Test and Symbol-Digit Modalities Test. Neuropsychol Rehabil 2016; 28:1055-1077. [PMID: 27756192 DOI: 10.1080/09602011.2016.1240699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
The Trail Making Test (TMT) and written version of the Symbol Digit Modalities Test (SDMT) assess attention, processing speed, and executive functions but their utility is limited in populations with upper limb dysfunction. Oral versions of the TMT and SDMT exist, but a systematic review of their psychometric properties and clinical utility has not been conducted, which was the goal of this study. Searches were conducted in PubMed and PsycINFO, test manuals, and the reference lists of included articles. Four measures were identified: the SDMT-oral, oral TMT-A, oral TMT-B, and the Mental Alternation Test (MAT). Two investigators independently reviewed abstracts to identify peer-reviewed articles that reported on these measures in adult populations. From each article, one investigator extracted information on reliability, validity, responsiveness, minimum detectable change, normative data, and demographic influences. A second investigator verified the accuracy of the data in a random selection of 10% of papers. The quality of the evidence for each psychometric property was rated on a 4-point scale (unknown, poor, adequate, excellent). Results showed excellent evidence for the SDMT-oral, adequate evidence for the oral TMT-B and MAT, and adequate to poor evidence for the oral TMT-A. These findings inform the clinical assessment of attention, processing speed, and executive functions in individuals with upper limb disability.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Abhishek Jaywant
- a Center of Excellence for Neurorestoration and Neurotechnology , Providence VA Medical Center , Providence , RI , USA.,b Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior , Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University , Providence , RI , USA
| | - Jennifer Barredo
- a Center of Excellence for Neurorestoration and Neurotechnology , Providence VA Medical Center , Providence , RI , USA.,c Brown Institute for Brain Science , Brown University , Providence , RI , USA
| | - David C Ahern
- b Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior , Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University , Providence , RI , USA.,d The Miriam Hospital , Providence , RI , USA
| | - Linda Resnik
- a Center of Excellence for Neurorestoration and Neurotechnology , Providence VA Medical Center , Providence , RI , USA
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Costa SL, Genova HM, DeLuca J, Chiaravalloti ND. Information processing speed in multiple sclerosis: Past, present, and future. Mult Scler 2016; 23:772-789. [PMID: 27207446 DOI: 10.1177/1352458516645869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 120] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Information processing speed (IPS) is a prevalent cognitive impairment in multiple sclerosis (MS). OBJECTIVES This review aims to summarize the methods applied to assess IPS in MS and its theoretical conceptualization. A PubMed search was performed to select articles published between 1 January 2004 and 31 December 2013, resulting in 157 articles included. RESULTS The majority (54%) of studies assessed IPS with heterogeneous samples (several disease courses). Studies often report controlling for presence of other neurological disorders (60.5%), age (58.6%), education (51.6%), alcohol history (47.8%), or use of steroids (39.5%). Potential confounding variables, such as recent relapses (50.3%), history of developmental disorders (19.1%), and visual problems (29.9%), were often neglected. Assessments used to study IPS were heterogeneous (ranging from simple to complex tasks) among the studies under review, with 62 different tasks used. Only 9.6% of articles defined the construct of IPS and 22.3% discussed IPS in relation to a theoretical model. FUTURE DIRECTIONS The challenges for the upcoming decade include clarification of the definition of IPS as well as its theoretical conceptualization and a consensus on assessment. Based on the results obtained, we propose a new theoretical model, the tri-factor model of IPS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Silvana L Costa
- Neuropsychology & Neuroscience Laboratory, Kessler Foundation, West Orange, NJ, USA/Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ, USA
| | - Helen M Genova
- Neuropsychology & Neuroscience Laboratory, Kessler Foundation, West Orange, NJ, USA/Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ, USA
| | - John DeLuca
- Neuropsychology & Neuroscience Laboratory, Kessler Foundation, West Orange, NJ, USA/Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ, USA/Department of Neurology, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ, USA
| | - Nancy D Chiaravalloti
- Neuropsychology & Neuroscience Laboratory, Kessler Foundation, West Orange, NJ, USA/Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ, USA
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Pul R, Saadat M, Morbiducci F, Skripuletz T, Pul Ü, Brockmann D, Sühs KW, Schwenkenbecher P, Kahl KG, Pars K, Stangel M, Trebst C. Longitudinal time-domain optic coherence study of retinal nerve fiber layer in IFNβ-treated and untreated multiple sclerosis patients. Exp Ther Med 2016; 12:190-200. [PMID: 27347038 PMCID: PMC4906774 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2016.3300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2015] [Accepted: 02/11/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Quantification of the retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) by optical coherence tomography (OCT) has been proposed to provide an indirect measure for retinal axonal loss. The aim of the present study was to determine whether interferon beta (IFNβ) treatment impedes retinal axonal loss in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients. A total of 48 patients with MS (24 IFNβ-1b-treated and 24 untreated subjects) and 12 healthy controls were enrolled in a prospective longitudinal OCT study. OCT measurements were performed for both eyes of each subject at baseline, and at 3-, 6-, and 12-month follow-up examinations using a time-domain OCT. At each visit, we additionally recorded full-field visual evoked potential (VEP) responses and performed the paced auditory serial addition test (PASAT), in addition to expanded disability status scale (EDSS) scoring. Generalized estimation equation (GEE) was used to account for repeated measurements and paired-data. The model-based approach predicted a monthly reduction in the RNFL thickness by 0.19 µm in the eyes of the MS subjects. The reduction was estimated to be 0.17 µm in case of IFNβ-treatment and 0.16 µm in case of no treatment. Treatment duration and group allocation were not significantly associated with the RNFL thickness. Inclusion of further longitudinal data (EDSS, two and three second PASAT) in each of our models did not result in any significant association. In summary, over a period of one year no significant association between IFNβ-1b treatment and RNFL thinning was identified in patients with MS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Refik Pul
- Department of Neurology, Hannover Medical School, 30625 Hannover, Germany
| | - Mehdi Saadat
- Department of Neurology, Hannover Medical School, 30625 Hannover, Germany
| | - Franco Morbiducci
- Department of Neurology, Hannover Medical School, 30625 Hannover, Germany
| | - Thomas Skripuletz
- Department of Neurology, Hannover Medical School, 30625 Hannover, Germany
| | - Ünsal Pul
- Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, University Hospital Essen, 45147 Essen, Germany
| | - Dorothee Brockmann
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hannover Medical School, 30625 Hannover, Germany
| | - Kurt-Wolfram Sühs
- Department of Neurology, Hannover Medical School, 30625 Hannover, Germany
| | | | - Kai Günter Kahl
- Department of Psychiatry, Hannover Medical School, 30625 Hannover, Germany
| | - Kaweh Pars
- Department of Neurology, Hannover Medical School, 30625 Hannover, Germany
| | - Martin Stangel
- Department of Neurology, Hannover Medical School, 30625 Hannover, Germany
| | - Corinna Trebst
- Department of Neurology, Hannover Medical School, 30625 Hannover, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Brandt AU, Oberwahrenbrock T, Mikolajczak J, Zimmermann H, Prüss H, Paul F, Finke C. Visual dysfunction, but not retinal thinning, following anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis. NEUROLOGY-NEUROIMMUNOLOGY & NEUROINFLAMMATION 2016; 3:e198. [PMID: 26894203 PMCID: PMC4747477 DOI: 10.1212/nxi.0000000000000198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2015] [Accepted: 11/29/2015] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Objective: To assess structural and functional changes in the afferent visual system following anti-NMDA receptor (NMDAR) encephalitis. Methods: In this cross-sectional study including 31 patients after acute NMDAR encephalitis and matched healthy controls, visual function was assessed as high-contrast visual acuity using Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study charts and low-contrast sensitivity using Functional Acuity Contrast Test. Retinal changes were measured using optical coherence tomography with assessment of peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer (pRNFL) and macular intraretinal layer thicknesses. Residual clinical impairment was described using the modified Rankin Scale. Results: High-contrast (logMAR 0.02 ± 0.14 vs −0.09 ± 0.14, p < 0.001) and low-contrast (area under the curve 1.89 ± 0.21 vs 2.00 ± 0.26, p = 0.039) visual acuity were reduced in patients in comparison to healthy controls. More severely affected patients performed worse in visual acuity testing than patients with good recovery (logMAR −0.02 ± 0.11 vs 0.08 ± 0.17, p = 0.030). In contrast, patients did not differ from matched healthy controls in pRNFL or in thickness of intraretinal layers, including the ganglion cell complex, the inner nuclear layer, the outer nuclear and plexiform layers, and the photoreceptor layer. Conclusions: After acute NMDAR encephalitis, patients have mild visual dysfunction in comparison to matched healthy controls, while retinal structure appears unaltered. These observations could point to an impairment of anterior or posterior visual pathway NMDAR function that is similar to dysfunction of NMDAR in cerebral cortex and subcortical structures. Alternatively, residual cognitive impairment might reduce visual function.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alexander U Brandt
- NeuroCure Clinical Research Center (A.U.B., T.O., J.M., H.Z., F.P.) and Department of Neurology (H.P., F.P., C.F.), Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin; German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) (H.P.), Berlin; and Berlin School of Mind and Brain (C.F.), Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Germany
| | - Timm Oberwahrenbrock
- NeuroCure Clinical Research Center (A.U.B., T.O., J.M., H.Z., F.P.) and Department of Neurology (H.P., F.P., C.F.), Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin; German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) (H.P.), Berlin; and Berlin School of Mind and Brain (C.F.), Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Germany
| | - Janine Mikolajczak
- NeuroCure Clinical Research Center (A.U.B., T.O., J.M., H.Z., F.P.) and Department of Neurology (H.P., F.P., C.F.), Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin; German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) (H.P.), Berlin; and Berlin School of Mind and Brain (C.F.), Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Germany
| | - Hanna Zimmermann
- NeuroCure Clinical Research Center (A.U.B., T.O., J.M., H.Z., F.P.) and Department of Neurology (H.P., F.P., C.F.), Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin; German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) (H.P.), Berlin; and Berlin School of Mind and Brain (C.F.), Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Germany
| | - Harald Prüss
- NeuroCure Clinical Research Center (A.U.B., T.O., J.M., H.Z., F.P.) and Department of Neurology (H.P., F.P., C.F.), Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin; German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) (H.P.), Berlin; and Berlin School of Mind and Brain (C.F.), Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Germany
| | - Friedemann Paul
- NeuroCure Clinical Research Center (A.U.B., T.O., J.M., H.Z., F.P.) and Department of Neurology (H.P., F.P., C.F.), Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin; German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) (H.P.), Berlin; and Berlin School of Mind and Brain (C.F.), Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Germany
| | - Carsten Finke
- NeuroCure Clinical Research Center (A.U.B., T.O., J.M., H.Z., F.P.) and Department of Neurology (H.P., F.P., C.F.), Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin; German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) (H.P.), Berlin; and Berlin School of Mind and Brain (C.F.), Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Ashtari F, Emami P, Akbari M. Association between retinal nerve fiber layer thickness and magnetic resonance imaging findings and intelligence in patients with multiple sclerosis. Adv Biomed Res 2015; 4:223. [PMID: 26682201 PMCID: PMC4680917 DOI: 10.4103/2277-9175.166646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2014] [Accepted: 08/19/2014] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a neurological disease in which demyelination and axonal loss leads to progressive disability. Cognition impairment is among the most common complication. Studying axonal loss in the retina is a new marker for MS. The main goal of our study is to search for correlations between magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings and the retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness at the macula and head of the optic nerve and Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale-Revised (WAIS-R) Scores that assess multiple domains of intelligence, and to explore the relationship between changes in the RNFL thickness with intellectual and cognitive dysfunction. Materials and Methods: A prospective cross-sectional study was conducted at the University Hospital of Kashani, Isfahan, Iran, from September to December 2013. All patients were assessed with a full-scale intelligence quotient (IQ) on the WAIS-R. An optical coherence tomography study and brain MRI were performed in the same week for all the patients. Statistical analysis was conducted by using a bivariate correlation, by utilizing SPSS 20.0. A P value ≤ 0.05 was the threshold of statistical significance. Results: Examination of a 100 patients showed a significant correlation between the average RNFL thickness of the macula and the verbal IQ (P value = 0.01) and full IQ (P value = 0.01). There was a significant correlation between brain atrophy and verbal IQ. Conclusion: The RNFL loss was correlated with verbal IQ and full IQ.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fereshteh Ashtari
- Isfahan Neurosciences Research Center, Alzahra Hospital, Isfahan, Iran ; Department of Neurology, Medical School, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Parisa Emami
- Isfahan Neurosciences Research Center, Alzahra Hospital, Isfahan, Iran ; Department of Neurology, Medical School, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Mojtaba Akbari
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Health and Nutrition, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Jones-Odeh E, Hammond CJ. How strong is the relationship between glaucoma, the retinal nerve fibre layer, and neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease and multiple sclerosis? Eye (Lond) 2015; 29:1270-84. [PMID: 26337943 DOI: 10.1038/eye.2015.158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2015] [Accepted: 07/27/2015] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Glaucoma is a neurodegenerative disorder with established relationships with ocular structures such as the retinal nerve fibre layer (RNFL) and the ganglion cell layer (GCL). Ocular imaging techniques such as optical coherence tomography (OCT) allow for quantitative measurement of these structures. OCT has been used in the monitoring of glaucoma, as well as investigating other neurodegenerative conditions such as Alzheimer's disease (AD) and multiple sclerosis (MS). In this review, we highlight the association between these disorders and ocular structures (RNFL and GCL), examining their usefulness as biomarkers of neurodegeneration. The average RNFL thickness loss in patients with AD is 11 μm, and 7 μm in MS patients. Most of the studies investigating these changes are cross-sectional. Further longitudinal studies are required to assess sensitivity and specificity of these potential ocular biomarkers to neurodegenerative disease progression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- E Jones-Odeh
- Department of Ophthalmology, King's College London, London, UK
| | - C J Hammond
- Department of Ophthalmology, King's College London, London, UK.,Department of Twin Research and Genetic Epidemiology, King's College London, London, UK
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Sinnecker T, Kuchling J, Dusek P, Dörr J, Niendorf T, Paul F, Wuerfel J. Ultrahigh field MRI in clinical neuroimmunology: a potential contribution to improved diagnostics and personalised disease management. EPMA J 2015; 6:16. [PMID: 26312125 PMCID: PMC4549950 DOI: 10.1186/s13167-015-0038-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2015] [Accepted: 07/20/2015] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Conventional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) at 1.5 Tesla (T) is limited by modest spatial resolution and signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), impeding the identification and classification of inflammatory central nervous system changes in current clinical practice. Gaining from enhanced susceptibility effects and improved SNR, ultrahigh field MRI at 7 T depicts inflammatory brain lesions in great detail. This review summarises recent reports on 7 T MRI in neuroinflammatory diseases and addresses the question as to whether ultrahigh field MRI may eventually improve clinical decision-making and personalised disease management.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tim Sinnecker
- NeuroCure Clinical Research Center (NCRC), Charité - Universitaetsmedizin Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, 10117 Berlin, Germany.,Department of Neurology, Asklepios Fachklinikum Teupitz, Buchholzer Str. 21, 15755 Teupitz, Germany
| | - Joseph Kuchling
- NeuroCure Clinical Research Center (NCRC), Charité - Universitaetsmedizin Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, 10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - Petr Dusek
- Institute of Neuroradiology, Universitaetsmedizin Goettingen, Robert-Koch-Straße 40, 37075 Goettingen, Germany.,Department of Neurology and Center of Clinical Neuroscience, Charles University in Prague, 1st Faculty of Medicine and General University Hospital in Prague, Kateřinská 30, 128 21 Praha 2, Czech Republic
| | - Jan Dörr
- NeuroCure Clinical Research Center (NCRC), Charité - Universitaetsmedizin Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, 10117 Berlin, Germany.,Clinical and Experimental Multiple Sclerosis Research Center, Department of Neurology, Charité Universitaetsmedizin Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, 10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - Thoralf Niendorf
- Berlin Ultrahigh Field Facility, Max Delbrueck Center for Molecular Medicine, Robert-Roessle-Strasse 10, 13125 Berlin, Germany.,Experimental and Clinical Research Center, Charité - Universitaetsmedizin Berlin and Max Delbrueck Center for Molecular Medicine, Robert-Roessle-Strasse 10, 13125 Berlin, Germany
| | - Friedemann Paul
- NeuroCure Clinical Research Center (NCRC), Charité - Universitaetsmedizin Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, 10117 Berlin, Germany.,Clinical and Experimental Multiple Sclerosis Research Center, Department of Neurology, Charité Universitaetsmedizin Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, 10117 Berlin, Germany.,Experimental and Clinical Research Center, Charité - Universitaetsmedizin Berlin and Max Delbrueck Center for Molecular Medicine, Robert-Roessle-Strasse 10, 13125 Berlin, Germany.,Department of Neurology, Charité - Universitaetsmedizin Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, 10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - Jens Wuerfel
- NeuroCure Clinical Research Center (NCRC), Charité - Universitaetsmedizin Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, 10117 Berlin, Germany.,Institute of Neuroradiology, Universitaetsmedizin Goettingen, Robert-Koch-Straße 40, 37075 Goettingen, Germany.,Berlin Ultrahigh Field Facility, Max Delbrueck Center for Molecular Medicine, Robert-Roessle-Strasse 10, 13125 Berlin, Germany.,Medical Image Analysis Center, Mittlere Strasse 83, CH-4031 Basel, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Stellmann JP, Young KL, Pöttgen J, Dorr M, Heesen C. Introducing a new method to assess vision: Computer-adaptive contrast-sensitivity testing predicts visual functioning better than charts in multiple sclerosis patients. Mult Scler J Exp Transl Clin 2015; 1:2055217315596184. [PMID: 28607699 PMCID: PMC5433336 DOI: 10.1177/2055217315596184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Impaired low-contrast visual acuity (LCVA) is common in multiple sclerosis (MS) and other neurological diseases. Its assessment is often limited to selected contrasts, for example, 2.5% or 1.25%. Computerized adaptive testing with the quick contrast-sensitivity function (qCSF) method allows assessment across expanded contrast and spatial frequency ranges. Objective The objective of this article is to compare qCSF with high- and low-contrast charts and patient-reported visual function. Methods We enrolled 131 consecutive MS patients (mean age 39.6 years) to assess high-contrast visual acuity (HCVA) at 30 cm and 5 m, low-contrast vision with Sloan charts at 2.5% and 1.25%, qCSF and the National Eye Institute Visual Functioning Questionnaire (NEIVFQ). Associations between the different measures were estimated with linear regression models corrected for age, gender and multiple testing. Results The association between qCSF and Sloan charts (R2 = 0.68) was higher than with HCVA (5 m: R2 = 0.5; 30 cm: R2 = 0.41). The highest association with NEIVFQ subscales was observed for qCSF (R2 0.20–0.57), while Sloan charts were not associated with any NEIVFQ subscale after correction for multiple testing. Conclusion The qCSF is a promising new outcome for low-contrast vision in MS and other neurological diseases. Here we show a closer link to patient-reported visual function than standard low- and high-contrast charts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J P Stellmann
- Institute of Neuroimmunology and MS (INIMS), University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Germany
| | - K L Young
- Institute of Neuroimmunology and MS (INIMS), University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Germany
| | - J Pöttgen
- Institute of Neuroimmunology and MS (INIMS), University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Germany
| | - M Dorr
- Adaptive Sensory Technology, Lübeck, Germany
| | - C Heesen
- Institute of Neuroimmunology and MS (INIMS), University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Anagnostouli M, Christidi F, Zalonis I, Nikolaou C, Lyrakos D, Triantafyllou N, Evdokimidis I, Kilidireas C. Clinical and cognitive implications of cerebrospinal fluid oligoclonal bands in multiple sclerosis patients. Neurol Sci 2015; 36:2053-60. [PMID: 26130146 DOI: 10.1007/s10072-015-2303-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2014] [Accepted: 06/20/2015] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
The presence of cerebrospinal fluid oligoclonal bands (CSF-OCB) in Caucasian patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) is supportive of diagnosis, though the relation with patients' clinical and specifically cognitive features has never been established or thoroughly examined. Thus, we investigated the clinical and for the first time the cognitive profile of MS patients in relation to CSF-OCB. We studied 108 patients with and without OCB and recorded demographic characteristics and detailed clinical data. A comprehensive neuropsychological battery covering different cognitive domains (attention/processing speed, memory, perception/constructions, reasoning, executive functions) was administered to MS patients and 142 demographically related healthy controls (HC). We did not find any significant differences between patients with and without OCB on demographic and clinical parameters (p > 0.05), including subtype and brain neuroimaging findings. Results revealed significantly higher cognitive scores in HC compared to both OCB subgroups, with more widespread cognitive changes in patients with OCB. Analysis between OCB subgroups showed significantly worse performance in patients with OCB on visual memory (Rey's complex figure test-recall; p = 0.006). Concluding, the presence of CSF-OCB in our MS patients tends to be related to more widespread cognitive changes, specifically worse visual memory. Future longitudinal studies in different populations are warranted to better clarify the clinical and cognitive characteristics related to CSF-OCB which could serve as early biomarker in disease monitoring.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maria Anagnostouli
- Immunogenetics Laboratory and Clinic of Demyelinating Diseases, First Department of Neurology, Medical School, Aeginition Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 72-74 Vas. Sofias Avenue, 115 28, Athens, Greece.
| | - Foteini Christidi
- Neuropsychological Laboratory, First Department of Neurology, Medical School, Aeginition Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Ioannis Zalonis
- Neuropsychological Laboratory, First Department of Neurology, Medical School, Aeginition Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Chryssoula Nikolaou
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Medical School, Aeginition Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Dimitrios Lyrakos
- First Department of Neurology, Medical School, Aeginition Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Nikolaos Triantafyllou
- First Department of Neurology, Medical School, Aeginition Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Ioannis Evdokimidis
- First Department of Neurology, Medical School, Aeginition Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Constantinos Kilidireas
- First Department of Neurology, Medical School, Aeginition Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Karabudak R, Dahdaleh M, Aljumah M, Alroughani R, Alsharoqi IA, AlTahan AM, Bohlega SA, Daif A, Deleu D, Amous A, Inshasi JS, Rieckmann P, Sahraian MA, Yamout BI. Functional clinical outcomes in multiple sclerosis: Current status and future prospects. Mult Scler Relat Disord 2015; 4:192-201. [PMID: 26008936 DOI: 10.1016/j.msard.2015.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2014] [Revised: 02/23/2015] [Accepted: 03/14/2015] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
For decades, the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) has been the principal measure of disability in clinical trials in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) and in clinical practice. However, this test is dominated by effects on ambulation. Composite endpoints may provide a more sensitive measure of MS-related disability through the measurement of additional neurological functions. The MS Functional Composite (MSFC) includes a walking test (25-ft walk) plus tests of upper extremity dexterity (9-hole peg test) and cognitive function (Paced Auditory serial Addition test [PASAT]). Replacing PASAT with the Symbol Digit Modality test, a more sensitive test preferred by patients, may improve the clinical utility of the MSFC. In addition, disease-specific measures of QoL may be used alongside the MSFC (which does not include measurement of QoL). Clinical data suggest that disease-modifying therapies may delay or prevent relapse, and better composite measures will be valuable in the assessment of disease activity-free status in people with MS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rana Karabudak
- Hacettepe University Hospitals, Dept. of Neurology, Neuroimmunology Unit, Ankara, Turkey.
| | - Maurice Dahdaleh
- Department of Internal Medicine, Neurology Section, Arab Medical Center and Khalidi Hospital, Amman, Jordan
| | - Mohammed Aljumah
- King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, King Saud Ben Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, NGHA, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia; Prince Mohammed bin Abdul-Aziz Hospital, Ministry of Health, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Raed Alroughani
- Division of Neurology, Amiri Hospital, Kuwait; Division of Neurology, Dasman Diabetes Institute, Kuwait
| | - I Ahmed Alsharoqi
- Clinical Neurosciences Department, Salmaniya Medical Complex, Manama, Bahrain
| | - Abdulrahman M AlTahan
- Neurology Section, King Khalid University Hospital, King Saud University and Dallah Hospital, Saudi Arabia
| | - Saeed A Bohlega
- Department of Neurosciences, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdulkader Daif
- Neurology Section, King Khalid University Hospital, King Saud University and Dallah Hospital, Saudi Arabia
| | - Dirk Deleu
- Department of Neurology (Medicine), Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Amer Amous
- Merck Serono Intercontinental Region, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - Jihad S Inshasi
- Neurology Department, Rashid Hospital and Dubai Medical College, Dubai Health Authority, United Arab Emirates
| | | | - Mohammed A Sahraian
- MS Research Center, Neuroscience Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Iran
| | - Bassem I Yamout
- Multiple Sclerosis Center, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Balcer LJ, Miller DH, Reingold SC, Cohen JA. Vision and vision-related outcome measures in multiple sclerosis. Brain 2015; 138:11-27. [PMID: 25433914 PMCID: PMC4285195 DOI: 10.1093/brain/awu335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 140] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2014] [Revised: 10/14/2014] [Accepted: 10/29/2014] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Visual impairment is a key manifestation of multiple sclerosis. Acute optic neuritis is a common, often presenting manifestation, but visual deficits and structural loss of retinal axonal and neuronal integrity can occur even without a history of optic neuritis. Interest in vision in multiple sclerosis is growing, partially in response to the development of sensitive visual function tests, structural markers such as optical coherence tomography and magnetic resonance imaging, and quality of life measures that give clinical meaning to the structure-function correlations that are unique to the afferent visual pathway. Abnormal eye movements also are common in multiple sclerosis, but quantitative assessment methods that can be applied in practice and clinical trials are not readily available. We summarize here a comprehensive literature search and the discussion at a recent international meeting of investigators involved in the development and study of visual outcomes in multiple sclerosis, which had, as its overriding goals, to review the state of the field and identify areas for future research. We review data and principles to help us understand the importance of vision as a model for outcomes assessment in clinical practice and therapeutic trials in multiple sclerosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura J Balcer
- 1 Departments of Neurology, Ophthalmology and Population Health, New York University School of Medicine, NY 10016, USA
| | - David H Miller
- 2 Queen Square MS Centre, UCL Institute of Neurology, London, WC1N 3BG, UK
| | | | | |
Collapse
|