Eye movements in neurodegenerative diseases
Michael R MacAskill1, Tim J Anderson
1aNew Zealand Brain Research Institute bDepartment of Medicine, University of Otago cDepartment of Neurology, Christchurch Hospital, Christchurch, New Zealand.
Current Opinion in Neurology
|December 8, 2015
Summary
Eye movement abnormalities are key indicators in neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson's and Alzheimer's. Research using clinical and laboratory methods offers insights into disease progression and diagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Ophthalmology
- Neurology
Background:
- Oculomotor control abnormalities are linked to neurodegenerative disease pathology.
- Clinical eye movement examination aids differential diagnosis.
- Quantitative laboratory measures offer detailed insights into disease processes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent empirical findings and conceptual advances in the study of eye movements in neurodegenerative diseases.
- To summarize the current state of research on oculomotor function in various neurological conditions.
Main Methods:
- Review of recent empirical findings and conceptual advances.
- Analysis of laboratory-based investigations and clinical descriptions.
Main Results:
- Significant research activity in Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, and spinocerebellar ataxia.
- Notable findings also reported in Huntington's disease, motor neuron disease, and glaucoma.
- Progress is being made in both laboratory-based research and clinical descriptions of eye movement abnormalities.
Conclusions:
- Eye movements are a dynamic area of research for neurodegenerative conditions.
- Advancements in both clinical and laboratory techniques continue to enhance understanding.
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