Characterization of Retinal Nerve Fiber Layer Thickness in a Cohort with Glutamic Acid Decarboxylase 65 and Glycine Receptor Autoimmunity

Objective To describe the retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) with demographic and clinical profile in patients glutamic acid decarboxylase 65 (GAD65) glycine receptor (GlyR) neurological autoimmunity. Background GAD65 GlyR autoimmunity can cause a wide range of phenomena, including stiff-person spectrum disorder (SPSD) epilepsy. Both GAD65, through γ-aminobutyric acid-ergic neurons, interact retina. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) has previously been used variety disorders to establish baseline characteristics monitor disease course. This presents noninvasive opportunity evaluate for biomarker that may assist treatment these rare but debilitating disorders. Design/Methods OCT measures RNFL by sectors were studied compared 148 healthy control eyes. Patients' also reviewed retrospectively from medical records. Results Of 14 included this study, 12 female, mean age was 52.6 ± 16.8 (22-79) years when performed. Ten had 4 Patients GAD or showed lower thickness multiple group. result most apparent anti-GAD65 antibody subgroup. Eleven SPSD, one patient epilepsy, two non-specific symptoms. Conclusions study provides insight into group autoimmunity, conditions produce varied While limited sample size, thinning seen groups, it evident characterization suggests future studies should be conducted determine utility as conditions.