Identification of Retinal Biomarkers in Alzheimer's Disease Using Optical Coherence Tomography: Recent Insights, Challenges, and Opportunities

J Clin Med. 2019 Jul 9;8(7):996. doi: 10.3390/jcm8070996.

Abstract

This review will highlight recent insights into measuring retinal structure in Alzheimer's disease (AD). A growing body of evidence indicates that disturbances in retinal blood flow and structure are related to cognitive function, which can severely impair vision. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is an optical imaging technology that may allow researchers and physicians to gain deeper insights into retinal morphology and clarify the impact of AD on retinal health and function. Direct and noninvasive measurement of retinal morphology using OCT has provided useful diagnostic and therapeutic indications in several central nervous system (CNS) diseases, including AD, multiple sclerosis, and Parkinson disease. Despite several limitations, morphology assessment in the retinal layers is a significant advancement in the understanding of ocular diseases. Nevertheless, additional studies are required to validate the use of OCT in AD and its complications in the eye.

Keywords: Alzheimer’s disease; central nervous system diseases; ganglion cell layer; optical coherence tomography; retinal nerve fiber layer.

Publication types

  • Review