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Updated: Jun 20, 2025
Eye-Tracking Control to Assess Cognitive Functions in Patients with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
Published on: October 13, 2016
Self-Recording of Eye Movements in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Patients Using a Smartphone Eye-Tracking App
Pouya Barahim Bastani1,2, Ali S Saber Tehrani1, Shervin Badihian2,3
1Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
Introduction:
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) can affect various eye movements, making eye tracking a potential means for disease monitoring. In this study, we evaluated the feasibility of ALS patients self-recording their eye movements using the "EyePhone," a smartphone eye-tracking application.
Methods:
We prospectively enrolled ten participants and provided them with an iPhone equipped with the EyePhone app and a PowerPoint presentation with step-by-step recording instructions. The goal was for the participants to record their eye movements (saccades and smooth pursuit) without the help of the study team. Afterward, a trained physician administered the same tests using video-oculography (VOG) goggles and asked the participants to complete a questionnaire regarding their self-recording experience.
Results:
All participants successfully completed the self-recording process without assistance from the study team. Questionnaire data indicated that participants viewed self-recording with EyePhone favorably, considering it easy and comfortable. Moreover, 70% indicated that they prefer self-recording to being recorded by VOG goggles.
Conclusion:
With proper instruction, ALS patients can effectively use the EyePhone to record their eye movements, potentially even in a home environment. These results demonstrate the potential for smartphone eye-tracking technology as a viable and self-administered tool for monitoring disease progression in ALS, reducing the need for frequent clinic visits.
