Optic neuropathy: Beyond blind

Abstract

Optic neuropathy is defined as an optic nerve dysfunction due to many causes such as inflammation, vascular insufficiency, compression, toxic substances, and associated malignancy disorders. Damage to the optic nerve which contains the axons of approximately 1.2 millions retinal ganglion cells of the retina, mainly results in loss of vision, afferent pupillary defect, visual field defect, color vision deficiency and diminished contrast sensitivity. Optic disc initially looks completely normal but may be subsequently swelling. Sectoral or total optic disc pallor is the most common characteristic feature of long-standing optic neuropathy. Various patients presenting with different clinical manifestations of diminished loss of vision and swollen or pale optic discs on ophthalmoscopy were discussed in order to demonstrate how to properly make a decisive diagnosis and propose current management.