Evaluation of Retinal Nerve Fiber Layer Thickness in Dementia Using Optical Coherence Tomography: A Neuro-Ophthalmological Perspective (Code-T0303)

Introduction: Dementia is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by progressive cognitive decline, impacting memory, reasoning, and daily functioning. Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) has emerged as a non-invasive imaging tool to assess retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness, which may reflect neurodegenerative changes associated with dementia. Since the retina shares embryological and physiological similarities with the brain, changes in RNFL thickness may serve as an early biomarker for dementia-related neurodegeneration.

Aims and Objectives: The aim of this study is to analyze the difference in the RNFL thickness in patients with Dementia using OCT and to correlate the RNFL thickness with the degree of MMSE score.

Methods: A hospital-based observational study will be conducted at the Department of Ophthalmology, IMS, BHU. A total of 60 dementia patients attending the Neurology OPD will be recruited. Detailed ocular examinations, including visual acuity, intraocular pressure measurement, slit-lamp biomicroscopy, and fundus photography, will be performed. OCT will be used to measure RNFL thickness, and cognitive function will be assessed using the MMSE. Data will be analyzed using SPSS, with p < 0.05 considered statistically significant.

Results: The study is expected to demonstrate a significant correlation between reduced RNFL thickness and lower MMSE scores, indicating an association between retinal changes and cognitive decline.

Conclusion: OCT-based evaluation of RNFL thickness could serve as a potential biomarker for neurodegeneration in dementia patients, aiding in early diagnosis and monitoring disease progression.

Keywords: Dementia, Retinal Nerve Fiber Layer, Optical Coherence Tomography, Neurodegeneration, Cognitive Impairment, Mini-Mental State Examination