Orbital CT scan parameters in dysthyroid optic neuropathy: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

PURPOSE: Addressing Dysthyroid Optic Neuropathy (DON) is crucial due to its debilitating impact in thyroid eye disease (TED). Prompt treatment can preserve vision. Despite lacking definitive diagnostic criteria, computed tomography's (CT) parameters are commonly used for diagnosis. However, these parameters exist without consensus on their diagnostic performance.

DESIGN: Systematic review and meta-analysis.

METHODS: We conducted a meta-analysis of studies assessing orbital CT diagnostic performance for DON in adults with TED. We searched various databases including Medline, PubMed, Scopus, and EMBASE, and others electronic databases, until July 2023. Evaluated CT parameters includes Barrett index (BI), fat prolapse via superior-orbital-fissure (SOF), superior-ophthalmic-vein-dilatation (SOVD), and the Nugent score. Diagnostic Test Accuracy analysis (DTA) was performed using R.

RESULTS: A total of 9 articles with documented target parameters, collectively analysed 212 orbits with DON. Nugent score exhibited highest diagnostic ability with a log diagnostic odd ratio (logDOR) of 2.64 (95% CI, 2.02, 3.25). Another significant DON indicator was a BI ≥ 50%, with a logDOR of 1.97 (95% CI, 1.17; 2.77). Conversely, fat prolapse via SOF and SOVD proved less sensitive, with a logDOR of 1.42 and 1.09 respectively. Regarding the SROC curve, Nugent score and the BI have the greatest AUC. Variations in study locale, participant demographics, and measurement methods accounted for heterogeneity in meta-analysis.

CONCLUSIONS: Nugent score and a BI ≥ 50% prove to be significant diagnostic parameters for DON, distinguishing them from fat prolapse via SOF and SOVD. Prioritizing these parameters can lead to prompt treatment and thus enhanced visual outcomes.

PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER: CRD42023446376.