"The results of this study suggest that GCIP atrophy ... really does mirror what’s happening globally as part of the MS disease process," he said, noting that it is among the first studies to show that over time, OCT probably does have utility in terms of tracking patients and providing information about both subclinical and clinical aspects of the disease process.
"This really cements and poises OCT as a potentially useful outcome measure in trials of putative neuroprotectants," he said, concluding that the results have far-reaching implications for the field of neurodegeneration in general, and that they could have profound implications if they are replicated in pure neurodegenerative disorders such as dementias.
Dr. Saidha reported that he has received consulting fees from Medical Logix for the development of CME programs in neurology, consulting fees from Axon Advisors, Educational Grant Support from Novartis and Teva Neurosciences, and speaking honoraria from the National Association of Managed Care Physicians.