Research published in the Journal of Ophthalmic Research suggests for the first time that retinal imaging could be used to monitor Alzheimer’s Disease (AD).

A team from Belfast University found a number of changes in the eye which corresponded to various stages of degeneration in AD. This discovery backs the team’s earlier hypothesis that changes in the peripheral retina might reflect what is happening in the brain.

The discovery also has financial benefits. Team Leader Dr Imre Lengyel explains: "Eye imaging is quick, simple, well tolerated and costs a fraction to that of brain scans so there are tremendous benefits to both the professional and the patient."

The next step is to extend and improve on the observations made in this study. The team will be following patients with very early stage AD through the Deep and Frequent Phenotyping study, the world's most in depth study to detect early signs of Alzheimer's disease progression conducted in the UK.

Sources:

1.Medical Xpress:
Why the eye could be the window to brain degeneration such as Alzheimer's disease.

1. Optos:
   The Retina – A Window to Alzheimer’s Disease.