Eye scan may spot progression in MS

Credibility

Interest

Key Takeaway

A noninvasive eye scan (OCTA) found smaller blood vessel networks in the retina of people with progressive MS, and this change links to longer disease and greater disability.

What They Found

Researchers used a special eye scan called optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) to look at tiny blood vessels in the back of the eye. They compared people with progressive MS to similar healthy people and found the retinal vessel density (how much of the scan is filled with tiny vessels) was lower in the progressive MS group. Older age was linked with lower vessel density in both groups, which is like how older trees have fewer small branches. In people under about 57.5 years old, having MS for longer was tied to lower vessel density; for example, those with more than 10 years of disease had lower vessel density than those with 5 years or less. People with more disability (measured by a disability score) tended to have lower vessel density, suggesting the eye finding may reflect overall disease impact.

Who Should Care and Why

People with progressive MS and their caregivers should care because this eye scan could become a simple way to spot and track changes linked to disease progression, like checking tire wear to know when service is needed. Neurologists and eye specialists may benefit because OCTA is noninvasive (it just takes pictures of the eye) and could add another piece of information alongside exams and MRI scans. Patients who have had MS for many years or who notice worsening symptoms might find OCTA especially relevant, since the study found bigger changes with longer disease and higher disability. Caregivers can use this information to support asking providers about retinal scans during routine visits, much like asking for regular blood pressure checks. Overall, it could help make monitoring more frequent and coordinated if further studies confirm these findings.

Important Considerations

This study looked at a single center at one point in time (cross-sectional), so it shows a snapshot but cannot prove that vessel changes cause disability or will predict future worsening. The group studied excluded eyes with optic neuritis (a common MS eye problem), so results may not apply to all people with MS, especially those with past optic attacks. Larger, longer studies from different centers are needed before OCTA becomes a standard tool for tracking progressive MS.

Categories:

MS Diagnostics Early Research MS Progression

Article Topics:

Optical coherence tomography angiographyProgressive multiple sclerosisRetinal vasculature

Whether you’ve recently been diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) or are seeking to broaden your understanding of this complex, neurodegenerative disease, navigating the latest research can feel overwhelming. Studies published in respected medical journals like Journal of neurology often range from early-stage, exploratory work to advanced clinical trials. These evidence-based findings help shape new disease-modifying therapies, guide symptom management techniques, and deepen our knowledge of MS progression.

However, not all research is created equal. Some clinical research studies may have smaller sample sizes, evolving methodologies, or limitations that warrant careful interpretation. For a more comprehensive, accurate understanding, we recommend reviewing the original source material—accessible via the More Details section above—and consulting with healthcare professionals who specialize in MS care.

By presenting a wide range of MS-focused studies—spanning cutting-edge treatments, emerging therapies, and established best practices—we aim to empower patients, caregivers, and clinicians to stay informed and make well-informed decisions when managing Multiple Sclerosis.

Back to News