OCT-Angiography and Adaptive Optics in Patients With Memory Impairment
This study is exploring a possible link between changes in the eyes and memory problems, including conditions like Alzheimer’s, Lewy Body Disease, and Parkinson's Disease with Dementia. We know that some eye changes might be connected to these brain conditions. Researchers are using two new, non-invasive eye scanning techniques, Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography (OCT-A) and Adaptive Optics (AO), to take very detailed pictures of the tiny blood vessels and structure at the back of the eye. The aim is to see if different types of memory problems show different patterns in the eye scans. This could help us find new ways to understand these conditions and potentially spot them earlier in the future. The study will compare people with memory problems to those without.
At a glance
What is this study about?
This study is looking into a fascinating idea: that the tiny blood vessels and delicate structures at the back of your eye (the retina) might hold clues about memory problems and conditions such as Alzheimer's disease, Lewy Body Disease, and Parkinson's disease with dementia.
Researchers have noticed that people with memory issues sometimes have unusual changes in their eyes. These changes might vary depending on the specific memory condition they have. What's exciting about this study is that it's using two very new and advanced eye scanning methods, called OCT-A and Adaptive Optics (AO). These scans are quick, completely painless, and don't involve any needles or discomfort. They allow doctors to see the small blood vessels and the layers of the retina in incredible detail.
The main goal is to figure out if these special eye scans can help us understand the differences between various memory conditions. By comparing the eye scan results of people with memory problems to those without, the study hopes to identify specific patterns in the eye that might be linked to particular conditions. This could eventually lead to better ways to understand and perhaps even diagnose these complex conditions in the future.
Key takeaways
- Exploring links between tiny eye changes and memory problems.
- Uses advanced, painless eye scans (OCT-A, Adaptive Optics).
- Aims to understand conditions like Alzheimer's better.
- Requires people with and without memory concerns.
- No new medicines, just eye exams and blood pressure.
- Contributes to future understanding of brain health.
Who may be eligible?
This study is looking for adults aged 18 and over. You could be considered if you are visiting a memory clinic because you're worried about your memory, or if you are accompanying someone else to a memory clinic because they have memory concerns.
However, there are some reasons why you might not be able to join. For example, if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have certain other medical conditions like a history of a brain tumour, a stroke, multiple sclerosis, or specific eye diseases. Also, if you’ve taken certain medications for a long time, or have very poor vision that requires strong glasses, you might not be suitable.
People with very severe memory problems (scoring less than 10 on a test called MMS or MoCA) would also not be able to participate, and for those coming with memory concerns, if your score is less than 26, you also wouldn't be able to join. If you can't have an MRI scan for medical reasons, you also won't be able to take part.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you 18 years old or older?
- Are you visiting a memory clinic for memory concerns, or accompanying someone who is?
- Are you NOT pregnant or breastfeeding?
- Do you NOT have a history of a brain tumour, stroke or multiple sclerosis?
- Do you NOT have a history of certain eye diseases?
- Can you have an MRI scan (if you are the person with memory concerns)?
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part in this study, you will have a special eye examination. This will involve using two new, non-invasive eye scan machines (OCT-A and Adaptive Optics) to take detailed pictures of the back of your eye. These scans are quick and painless. You will also have your blood pressure measured. There are no medications involved in this study and no long-term follow-up is mentioned beyond the initial assessment. The total duration of your participation is expected to be relatively short, likely limited to the single visit for these examinations.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- Hôpital Fondation A. de RothschildVerified postcodeParis, France· Recruiting
Common questions
What kind of memory problems is this study looking at?
It's looking at general memory worries, and specific conditions like Alzheimer's, Lewy Body Disease, and Parkinson's with dementia.
Are the eye tests painful?
No, the eye scans are quick, completely non-invasive, and painless. They just involve looking into a machine.
Do I have to take any new medicines?
No, this study doesn't involve any new medicines. It's focused on eye examinations.
Will I get results from my eye scans?
The study aims to collect information for research, but individual results for personal diagnosis or treatment usually aren't provided directly from research studies. Your regular doctor will discuss your health with you.
How long will my visit for the study take?
The study is described as involving a 'rapid' analysis, suggesting the examinations will not take a long time – likely one visit for the scans and blood pressure check.
How to find out more
Amélie YACHITZ, MD
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
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