Effect of migraine severity on the retinal nerve fiber layer thickness

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this study to evaluate the severity of migraine and effect of drugs on ocular perfusion pressure and RNFL thickness.Methods: The study was performed at the Ophthalmology clinic, Kafr-El Sheikh university hospital, as a cross sectional, prospective and observational study. Informed consent for the examinations was obtained from each patient or one of their parents. The study included 90 patients aged 15–60 years old, of both sexes.Results: There was statistically significant decrease in average RNFL thickness, Temporo-Inferior, Temporo-Superior and Temporal quadrants with the increase of severity of migraine. There was statistically significant decrease in NS quadrant in patients on acute treatment than patients not on treatment and also than patients on preventive treatment with or without topiramate also, there was statistically significant decrease in T quadrant in patients with preventive treatment with topiramate than those not on treatment and those with acute treatment. Conclusion: Migraine has strong effect on the posterior ocular structures. The duration and severity of migraine have strong effect on RNFL thicknesses, and this is thought to be related to a progressive loss of ganglion cells and axons.