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Persistent Globe Flattening in Astronauts following Long-Duration Spaceflight
Thomas H Mader1, C Robert Gibson2,3, Michael R Barratt4
1COL(R) US Army, Moab, Utah, USA.
Long-duration space flight may cause persistent globe flattening in astronauts. This condition, potentially due to optic nerve sheath pressure changes, might indicate permanent scleral remodeling after space missions.
Area of Science:
- Space medicine
- Ophthalmology
- Astronaut health
Background:
- Posterior globe flattening (GF) is a known effect of long-duration space flight (LDSF).
- GF is observed early in space missions, potentially linked to optic nerve sheath (ONS) pressure.
- Mechanisms may involve increased intracranial or intraorbital ONS pressure.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report persistent posterior globe flattening in astronauts after LDSF.
- To investigate the potential for permanent scleral remodeling due to space flight.
Main Methods:
- Case report of three astronauts returning from LDSF.
- Clinical observation of persistent posterior globe flattening.
Main Results:
- Posterior globe flattening persisted in three astronauts for over 7 years post-LDSF.
- This suggests a potential for long-term structural changes in the eye.
Conclusions:
- Persistent globe flattening after LDSF may indicate permanent scleral remodeling.
- Further research is needed to understand the long-term ocular effects of space flight.
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