Author reply

Abstract

We thank Berdahl et al for their comments regarding our recent publication “Optic disc edema, globe flattening, choroidal folds, and hyperopic shifts observed in astronauts after long-duration space flight.”1Mader T.H. Gibson C.R. Pass A.F. et al.Optic disc edema, globe flattening, choroidal folds, and hyperopic shifts observed in astronauts after long-duration space flight.Ophthalmology. 2011; 118: 2058-2069Abstract Full Text Full Text PDF PubMed Scopus (392) Google Scholar They raise interesting and valid points regarding the potential etiology for our findings. They hypothesize that the combination of elevated cerebrospinal fluid pressure and decreased intraocular pressure during prolonged space flight may be the underlying pathophysiologic cause of the ocular findings we described. Their previous work in this area was nicely done and could indeed pertain to the ocular changes documented during exposure to prolonged microgravity. The obvious problem with this or any of the prior or current proposed hypotheses is that we lack sufficient data to test these hypotheses. As outlined in our paper, NASA (National Aeronautics and Space Administration) has plans to obtain additional prospective data that will hopefully sort out the specific etiology of these ophthalmic findings. We thank Berdahl et al for their insights and input and we look forward to reporting on future prospective findings that may be important for the future of manned long duration space exploration. Disc Swelling and Space FlightOphthalmologyVol. 119Issue 6PreviewWe were impressed with the recent article by Mader et al1 entitled, “Optic disc edema, globe flattening, choroidal folds, and hyperopic shifts observed in astronauts after long-duration space flight.” The authors and NASA have done a tremendous job describing the possible pathological mechanisms underlying the ophthalmic changes seen in astronauts after extended space flight. We would like to offer a complementary explanation. Full-Text PDF