Exploring Alzheimer Disease from a Retinal and Ocular Perspective

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Neurology
• Biomarker Research

Background:

• Alzheimer disease (AD) is the primary cause of dementia globally, characterized by progressive cognitive decline.
• The retina shares CNS features, making it a potential site for AD-related biomarkers.
• Early AD detection and monitoring are crucial for patient management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review anomalous changes in the retina and other eye structures in AD patients.
• To highlight the potential of ocular biomarkers for AD diagnosis and prognosis.
• To discuss non-invasive techniques for detecting these changes.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing studies on retinal and ocular alterations in Alzheimer disease.
• Analysis of non-invasive diagnostic techniques like optical coherence tomography, scanning laser ophthalmoscopy, and electroretinography.
• Identification of molecular, morphological, and functional changes in ocular elements.

Main Results:

• Numerous studies have identified significant retinal and ocular alterations associated with AD.
• These changes occur even in early stages of brain AD manifestation.
• Ocular biomarkers show potential for early AD diagnosis and monitoring disease progression.

Conclusions:

• The retina and other eye structures harbor promising biomarkers for Alzheimer disease.
• Non-invasive eye examinations can aid in early AD diagnosis and prognosis.
• Further research into ocular biomarkers could revolutionize AD detection and management.