Dynamic retinal vessel analysis: flickering a light into the brain
Anna Peterfi1,2,3, Ana Clara da C Pinaffi-Langley1,4, Zsofia Szarvas1,2,3
1Oklahoma Center for Geroscience and Healthy Brain Aging, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences, Oklahoma City, OK, United States.
Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience
|January 21, 2025
Summary
Dynamic retinal vessel analysis (DVA) shows promise for assessing brain health by measuring retinal vasoreactivity. While studies link DVA to cerebrovascular function and cognition, more research is needed to standardize methods and confirm findings.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Neurology
- Public Health
Background:
- Aging populations are increasing, leading to a rise in dementia cases.
- Early detection of cognitive impairment and risk factor reduction are crucial for public health.
- Non-invasive techniques are needed to identify early brain changes and monitor disease progression.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review literature on dynamic retinal vessel analysis (DVA) and its application in assessing retinal vasoreactivity.
- To compare retinal vasoreactivity with brain function and structure in central nervous system diseases.
- To explore the potential of DVA as a non-invasive window to the brain.
Main Methods:
- A literature search was conducted on PubMed and Scopus.
- Studies included original papers in English focusing on DVA and central nervous system diseases.
- Retinal vasoreactivity was compared with brain function and structure.
Main Results:
- Eleven studies were identified, mostly cross-sectional (91%).
- Reduced retinal vasoreactivity was observed in cerebrovascular disease patients compared to controls.
- Results for cognitive impairment and dementia were mixed due to population heterogeneity.
- DVA showed associations with cerebral blood flow velocity, microvascular diffusivity, and cognitive scores.
Conclusions:
- Dynamic retinal vessel analysis (DVA) demonstrates a relationship between retinal vasoreactivity and cerebrovascular function/cognition.
- Heterogeneity in studies hinders direct comparisons and clinical applications.
- Standardized DVA methods, larger sample sizes, and clear population/method descriptions are necessary for future research.
