New Technology For The Diagnosis Of Multiple Sclerosis

Multiple Sclerosis is the gradual damage to the nervous system, leading to demyelination, and system failures. Previously, diagnosis was made when there were “several episodes separated by time and space”. As the symptoms piled up, and there were clear signs of the disorder a diagnosis was made. The problem, of course, was that by that time there was substantial damage to the body and the nervous system. Therefore, early accurate diagnosis is required to help deter the long term damage and preserve nerve function.

MRIs and spinal taps have been used for this purpose, but have not been as accurate as was required to begin early treatment. According to a study reported in the October issue of Neurology researchers at The John’s Hopkins Multiple Sclerosis Center have found that the Optical Coherence Tomography ( OCT) can identify MS earlier on in the disease process then all other testing methods. The OCT scans the nerve fiber layer in the eye, and there is a very strong association betwee
FL loss and brain atrophy.

Optic Neuritis, inflammation of the optic nerve, is the initial sign in 20% of MS cases presenting in the eye doctor’s office. In addition these patients may also show signs of Retrobulbar Neuritis, which is swelling of the optic nerve behind the eye. Both of these conditions can, and often do lead to death of the nerve tissue; especially if left untreated. MS affects the optic nerve in about 60% of the patients over the course of the disorder. Therefore, by using the OCT as a window into the nervous system via the optic nerve, early treatment can begin preventing or at least pushing off damage to the body.

In summary, the OCT a frequently used optical tool in examinations of the eye can diagnosis MS earlier on then all other testing methods and treatment can begin helping the patient maintain the nervous system integrity.