Promising new way to diagnose MS using eye images discovered

Doctors could soon have a new and advanced way to diagnose multiple sclerosis (MS) through specialised eye scans. This innovative breakthrough from Durham University’s renowned engineering department might make it quicker and simpler for individuals to determine if they have MS. Because the eyes are closely connected to the brain, they can display early indicators of brain conditions like MS.

The researchers have integrated two types of eye scans with intelligent computer programmes that can identify minute changes in the eye. These changes can signal the early stages of multiple sclerosis, even before other symptoms emerge. The eye scans used are optical coherence tomography (OCT) and infrared scanning laser ophthalmoscopy (IR-SLO). By training computers to evaluate these scans, doctors could potentially detect multiple sclerosis at an earlier stage than ever before.

If this new method becomes widely implemented, it could bring substantial improvements for people with MS, such as:

• Quicker diagnosis
• Less invasive tests (avoiding painful procedures)
• Earlier intervention, which might slow the progression of the disease
• A more comfortable experience (eye scans are quick and painless)

Although these results are promising, further research is necessary before this technique can be adopted in hospitals and clinics worldwide. Researchers plan to test it on larger populations to ensure its effectiveness for everyone.