SUMMARY
The research interests of Eric R. Eggenberger, D.O., a neuro-ophthalmologist, are focused on neurology as seen through the visual system. Visual complaints are especially common in neurological diseases and include optic nerve-related visual loss, double vision and unusual eye movements. Common neurological conditions within this setting include neuroimmunological and demyelinating diseases such as multiple sclerosis, neuromyelitis optica (NMO) and myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG)-associated disease. Dr. Eggenberger also researches idiopathic intracranial hypertension, also known as pseudotumor cerebri; myasthenia gravis; compressive neoplastic lesions such as pituitary adenomas; meningiomas; and other tumors. He studies vascular diseases such as aneurysm, stroke, nonarteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION) and other neurological conditions.
Focus areas
- The eye as a model for brain or systemic disease. Dr. Eggenberger explores the relationship between neurological diseases and the brain.
- Optic nerve structure and function. This is assessed with imaging such as MRI, CT and optical coherence tomography and through examination of the individual.
- Optic neuropathy or visual field loss. Dr. Eggenberger studies inflammatory diseases such as multiple sclerosis, MOG, NMO and NAION, which can cause optic neuropathy and visual field symptoms.
- Eye movements as a measure of brain or systemic function. Dr. Eggenberger researches eye movements in brain diseases, including neurodegenerative conditions and systemic muscle or neuromuscular junction diseases such as myasthenia gravis.
- Pseudotumor cerebri. In this condition, pressure inside the skull increases for no obvious reason.
Significance to patient care
Dr. Eggenberger's research focuses on studying the eye and helping people keep visual function. He studies many causes of visual problems including inflammation, stroke, tumor, high intracranial pressure, neurodegenerative disease and other conditions.
Professional highlights
- Fellow, Academy of Educational Excellence, Mayo Clinic, 2020.
- Outstanding Faculty Award, Mayo Clinic School of Continuous Professional Development, Mayo Clinic, 2018.
- Educator of the Year, Department of Neurology and Ophthalmology, Michigan State University, 2014.
- Senior Achievement Award, American Academy of Ophthalmology, 2008.
- Fellow, American Academy of Neurology, 2006.
- Fellow, North American Neuro-Ophthalmology Society, 1999.