Capturing Eye Movements: Foundation for Neuro-Ophthalmic Assessment in Concussion (abstract)

Concussion, a major societal concern, results from biomechanically-induced alteration of brain physiology. Underlying cerebral dysfunction is primarily manifested through clinical symptomatology and standard methods of assessment for structural pathology (clinical examination and neuroimaging) are often unrevealing. The ocular motor system is governed by a complex and delicate network of cortical and subcortical structures. Given its widespread distribution, including a high load of circuitry in the frontal lobes which is prone to injury, it is highly likely to be affected by concussion. Resulting ocular motor dysfunction, particularly of saccade subtypes may, indeed, prove to be a sensitive measure of detection, a marker of biological injury, a sensitive outcome measure for clinical trials, and possibly a predictor of recovery.