Context and challenges

Susac syndrome is a rare disorder characterized by microvascular occlusions affecting the brain, retina, and inner ear, leading to multiple micro-infarctions. Its cause remains unknown, although a primary immune-mediated microangiopathy targeting these three organs is suspected. There is currently no disease-specific diagnostic test, delaying the initiation of appropriate treatment, despite the importance of early intervention to prevent irreversible neurological, visual, and auditory damage.

Objective

Our aim is to evaluate a novel contrast agent technology (submicrometric, biodegradable, and biocompatible particles developed in our laboratory), in an experimental model of Susac syndrome. This approach seeks to enable non-invasive diagnosis through immuno-MRI and/or immuno-MPI, improving early and specific disease detection.