Retinal ganglion cell topography predicts visual field function in spastic cerebral palsy

The aim of this study was to evaluate the use of optical coherence tomography (OCT) to identify and assess visual field defects caused by primary damage to the optic radiation in individuals with spastic cerebral palsy (CP). Ten individuals with spastic CP (six females, four males, with a median age of 21 years [range 17-38y]) had their brain lesions documented with conventional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and diffusion-weighted MRI fibre tractography. Their macular ganglion cell layer (GCL) and inner plexiform layer (IPL) were examined with OCT and their visual fields were plotted. All participants had good visual acuity and were able to cooperate with the MRI and OCT examinations, as well as undergoing reliable perimetry. We found focal thinning of the GCL+IPL and corresponding homonymous visual field defects in individuals with brain damage affecting the optic radiation. We used GCL+IPL sector asymmetry as a sensitive OCT parameter to identify focal visual field defects. We observed no such sector asymmetry in GCL+IPL, or focal visual field defects, in individuals with normal MRI optic radiation imaging. Lesions affecting the optic radiation cause retrograde trans-synaptic degeneration of retinal ganglion cells. OCT examination of the GCL in the macula identified corresponding focal damage to the optic radiation in individuals with spastic CP and can be used to predict focal visual field defects. WHAT THIS PAPER ADDS: Spastic cerebral palsy (CP) may be associated with damage to the optic radiation. Damage to the optic radiation causes retrograde trans-synaptic degeneration (RTSD). RTSD can be mapped using optical coherence tomography. Ganglion cell topography can predict visual field defects in individuals with spastic CP.