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Vascular Fundus Changes in Patients With High Probability of Chronic Cerebrospinal Venous Insufficiency (CCSVI)
Status
Currently Recruiting Patients
Summary
This study is open to patients with multiple sclerosis, or suspected multiple sclerosis (CIS), or patients with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, or suspected Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome. Anecdotally, we have noticed that many of these patients have sluggish venous outflow, CCSVI and/or compromised CSF fluid dynamics, and these changes are often evident through microscopic views of the patients’ vessels in the back of the eyes. Other changes in these vessels have also been noted. The knowledge gained from this study may help guide us as to the legitimacy of CCSVI and treatment via angioplasty, and may underscore the similarities and overlap of patient profiles with these conditions. All patients will undergo an initial evaluation for Ehlers-Danlos via a measure of their flexibility through the use of the Beighton scale. There is no cost for patients and results of the study will be provided for all participants.
Study Description
Chronic Cerebrospinal Venous Insufficiency (CCSVI) has been proposed as the cause of numerous neurodegenerative diseases of the brain. CCSVI is the result of poor drainage of blood (and cerebral spinal fluid to some degree) from weakened or stenotic veins usually located in the cervical area (most notably the internal jugular veins). Although current focus and treatment of CCSVI is on multiple sclerosis, CCSVI has also been implicated as a potential cause of Alzheimer's Disease and Parkinson's Disease. Additionally, patients with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) -- a disorder of connective tissue -- are more prone to developing multiple sclerosis than the general population. Many EDS patients are known to have weakened and abnormal blood vessels and 40 - 70% of EDS patients develop autonomic dysfunction in addition to numerous other symptoms found in patients with CCSVI. In the small subset of EDS and multiple sclerosis patients seen at Total Eye Care, the investigators have noticed a vascular irregularity (using the optomap® and examining the results under high magnification) which offers credence to the theory of CCSVI. Such objective data has been elusive, excepting for fMRI (functional MRI), ultrasound (to a limited degree) and the results of venous angioplasty. Current treatment of CCSVI involves the ballooning and sometimes stenting, of abnormally stenosed veins. The treatment of CCSVI offers hope to many patients suffering from multiple sclerosis.
Although CCSVI research is in its infancy, many doctors believe that CCSVI is a significant portion of the solution to patients with neurodegenerative diseases of the brain. Because CCSVI is a vascular disorder, the investigators hypothesize that the investigators are able to screen candidates for CCSVI via the optomap® Retinal Exam.
Patient Enrollment
If you are interested
in participating in the study please call us at 817.416.0333
for enrollment
ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT01356134
About Total Eye Care
The comprehensive services available from the staff and doctors at Total Eye Care allow us to take care of patients of all ages. We also have an onsite ophthalmic lab to make your glasses quickly and accurately. Our optical keeps almost 1000 frames in stock to fit any face large or small with frames starting at $69. Especially helpful when buying glasses for children is our "bring us the pieces" eyeglass warranty. We are also on all of the major insurance plans.
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Or By Phone
Colleyville
817.416.0333
Keller
817.431.4900