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Optic nerve atrophy
Definition
Optic nerve atrophy is damage to the optic nerve. The optic nerve carries images of what we see from the eye to the brain.
Alternative Names
Optic atrophy; Optic neuropathy
Causes
There are many unrelated causes of optic atrophy. The most common cause is poor blood flow, called ischemic optic neuropathy, which most often affects elderly people. The optic nerve can also be damaged by shock, various toxic substances, radiation, and trauma.
Various eye diseases, most commonly glaucoma, can also cause a form of optic nerve atrophy. In addition, the condition can be caused by diseases of the brain and central nervous system, such as:
- Brain tumor
- Cranial arteritis (sometimes called temporal arteritis)
- Multiple sclerosis
- Stroke
There are also several rare forms of hereditary optic nerve atrophy that affect children and young adults.
Symptoms
Optic nerve atrophy causes vision to dim and reduces the field of vision. The ability to see fine detail will also be lost. Colors will seem faded. The pupil reaction to light will diminish and may eventually be lost.
Exams and Tests
Optic nerve atrophy can be seen during a complete examination of the eyes. The examination will include tests of:
- Color vision
- Pupil light reflex
- Tonometry
- Visual acuity
You may need a complete physical examination and specific tests.
Treatment
Damage from optic nerve atrophy cannot be reversed. The underlying disease must be found and treated, if possible, to prevent further loss.
Rarely, conditions that lead to optic atrophy may be treatable.
Outlook (Prognosis)
Vision lost to optic nerve atrophy cannot be recovered. If the cause can be found and controlled, further vision loss and blindness may be prevented. It is very important to protect the other eye.
Possible Complications
Complications are related to the disease that causes the atrophy.
When to Contact a Medical Professional
Patients with optic nerve atrophy will be closely monitored by an ophthalmologist who has experience in neuro-ophthalmology. Tell your doctor right away about any change in vision.
Prevention
Many causes of optic nerve atrophy cannot be prevented.
Ways to protect yourself include:
- Older adults should have their health care provider carefully manage their blood pressure.
- Prevent injuries to the face by using standard safety precautions. Most injuries to the face are related to motor vehicle accidents and can be prevented by using seat belts.
- Schedule a routine annual eye exam to check for glaucoma.
Methanol, which is found in home-brewed alcohol, can cause optic nerve atrophy in both eyes. Never drink home-brewed alcohol and forms of alcohol that are not intended for drinking.
References
Balcer LJ, Prasad S. Abnormalities of the optic nerve and retina. In: Daroff RB, Fenichel GM, Jankovic J, Mazziotta JC, eds. Bradley’s Neurology in Clinical Practice. 6th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier;2012:chap 15.
Yanoff M, Cameron D. Diseases of the visual system. In:Goldman L, Schafer AI, eds. Cecil Medicine. 24th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2011:chap 431.
Reviewed By: Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Medical Director and Director of Didactic Curriculum, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, Department of Family Medicine, UW Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Washington. Franklin W. Lusby, MD, Ophthalmologist, Lusby Vision Institute, La Jolla, California. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M. Health Solutions, Ebix, Inc.
