equipment review
Space-Associated Neuro-Ocular Syndrome in Lunar Residents: Intracranial Pressure Dynamics in 1/6g: Expert Consensus
Dr. P. Kowalski
· Lunar Medical Research Cooperative
Lunar Neurology · Vol. 5, No. 4 · September 29, 2023
Abstract
Follow-up investigation building on prior work. SANS presents in lunar residents at rates lower than microgravity but higher than Earth controls. The partial gravity attenuates cephalad fluid shift but does not eliminate it. MRI, OCT, and intracranial pressure monitoring data from 42 residents over 18 months characterize the lunar SANS phenotype.
Extended analysis and updated findings. Space-Associated Neuro-Ocular Syndrome (SANS) — the constellation of optic disc edema, choroidal folds, globe flattening, and hyperopic shift — has been a defining concern of long-duration spaceflight. In lunar partial gravity, the cephalad fluid shift that drives SANS is attenuated compared to microgravity.
We monitored 42 residents with serial MRI, optical coherence tomography (OCT), and lumbar puncture opening pressure. At 18 months, 14 residents (33%) showed mild optic disc changes. Three (7%) showed globe flattening on MRI. No resident developed the severe SANS phenotype seen in long-duration ISS astronauts.
Intracranial pressure measurements showed mild elevation above Earth norms (mean 18.4 cmH₂O vs Earth normal <20), consistent with mild residual cephalad shift in 1/6g.
Conclusi...
We monitored 42 residents with serial MRI, optical coherence tomography (OCT), and lumbar puncture opening pressure. At 18 months, 14 residents (33%) showed mild optic disc changes. Three (7%) showed globe flattening on MRI. No resident developed the severe SANS phenotype seen in long-duration ISS astronauts.
Intracranial pressure measurements showed mild elevation above Earth norms (mean 18.4 cmH₂O vs Earth normal <20), consistent with mild residual cephalad shift in 1/6g.
Conclusi...
Keywords
SANS, intracranial pressure, optic disc, ICP, neuro-ocular, MRI, OCT