Optimal inter-eye differences in the thickness of retinal layers in multiple sclerosis

Takeaway

  • Inter-eye differences of 5 μm in peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer (pRNFL) thickness and of 4 μm in ganglion cell plus inner plexiform layer (GCIPL) thickness are robust thresholds for identifying multiple sclerosis (MS) patients with a history of unilateral acute optic neuritis (ON).

Why this matters

  • Acute ON is present in 50% and subclinical optic neuropathy is present in almost all patients with MS, but optic nerve lesions are not included in current diagnostic criteria for MS; the results of this report may help to revise and strengthen the current diagnostic criteria.