Hyperreflective Foci in the Inner Nuclear Layer: Proof‐of‐Concept for an Optical Coherence Tomography Derived Microglia‐Related Marker in Multiple Sclerosis

Key Points

• To assess hyperreflective foci detected by optical coherence tomography as a marker for microglial pathology in multiple sclerosis.
• Examined hyperreflective foci in the inner nuclear layer of the retina using optical coherence tomography.
• Analyzed differences in foci counts between individuals with relapsing and progressive MS.
• Correlated foci counts with imaging metrics of global white and gray matter, and deep gray matter uptake.
• Hyperreflective foci counts are significantly higher in individuals with relapsing and progressive MS.
• There is a correlation between hyperreflective foci counts and uptake of [¹⁸F]GE-180.
• Findings suggest a link between retinal changes and microglial activity in MS.

Abstract