Ultrasound Biomicroscopy as a Novel, Potential Modality to Evaluate Anterior Segment Ophthalmic Structures during Spaceflight: An Analysis of Current Technology
Year: 2024
Type: article
Abstract: Ocular health is currently a major concern for astronauts on current and future long-duration spaceflight missions. Spaceflight-associated neuro-ocular syndrome (SANS) is a collection of ophthalmic and neurologic findings that is one potential physiologic barrier to interplanetary spaceflight. Since its initial report in 2011, our understanding of SANS has advanced considerably, with a primary focus on posterior ocular imaging including fundus photography and optical coherence tomography. However, there may be changes to the anterior segment that have not been identified. Additional concerns to ocular health in space include corneal damage and radiation-induced cataract formation. Given these concerns, precision anterior segment imaging of the eye would be a valuable addition to future long-duration spaceflights. The purpose of this paper is to review ultrasound biomicroscopy (UBM) and its potential as a noninvasive, efficient imaging modality for spaceflight. The analysis of UBM for spaceflight is not well defined in the literature, and such technology may help to provide further insights into the overall anatomical changes in the eye in microgravity.
Source: Diagnostics
Institutions: Boston University, University of Michigan, Michigan Medicine, Texas A&M University, Houston Methodist, University of Cambridge, University of Nevada, Reno, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Weill Cornell Medicine
Language: English
Subfield: Physiology
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $2,955
Award: G3795089887
OpenAlex ID: W4392919282