Evaluation of Saccadic Abnormalities in Multiple Sclerosis Using a Novel Clinical Saccadometry Test

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Ophthalmology
• Neurology

Background:

• Saccadometry is an ocular motor test assessing brain regions involved in saccadic eye movements.
• This test is sensitive to concussions and neurodegenerative disorders.
• Relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) affects neurological functions, potentially impacting eye movements.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare saccadometry performance between healthy individuals and those with RRMS.
• To evaluate pro-saccade and anti-saccade performance in RRMS patients.
• To determine if saccadometry can differentiate MS patients from controls.

Main Methods:

• 32 RRMS patients (18-60 years) and 28 healthy controls participated.
• Participants underwent a videonystagmography (VNG) test battery including saccadometry.
• Tests included spontaneous nystagmus, gaze, random saccade, pursuit, and optokinetic assessments.

Main Results:

• Pro-saccade and anti-saccade latencies were significantly prolonged in the MS group.
• Directional error rates were significantly different between MS patients and controls.
• No significant differences were found in random saccade latencies, peak velocity, or accuracy between groups.

Conclusions:

• Saccadometry testing reveals significant differences in eye movement control in MS patients compared to healthy individuals.
• The clinical saccadometry test is a valuable, noninvasive tool for evaluating neurodegenerative diseases.
• Inclusion of saccadometry in vestibular test batteries for conditions like MS is recommended.