Abstract

Background: Optic neuritis (ON), mainly retrobulbar, occurs in about 80% of patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) but little is known regarding retinal perfusion changes in them. Aim: We aim to detect the retinal blood flow changes in patients with multiple sclerosis using OCT-A. Methods: Prospective case-control study on 60 eyes (30 patients) with MS assessed by a single trained ophthalmologist and divided into 2 groups (with or without ON). Age and sex matched healthy controls were also included. Baseline OCT-angiography (OCT-A) was performed and optic disc (ONH) vessel density (VD) measured. Results: Patients with MS (irrespective of ON) showed generalized decrease in vessel density with significant reduction in intrapapillary (p=0.02), superior peripapillary (p=0.03) and inferior peripapillary (p=0.04) hemifield VD. Conclusion: Apart from structural changes, MS produces decreased ONH perfusion. Combination of structural and perfusion assessment enhances detection of ONH damage.

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