Medical expert of the article
New publications
Optic neuropathy
Last reviewed: 04.07.2025
All iLive content is medically reviewed or fact checked to ensure as much factual accuracy as possible.
We have strict sourcing guidelines and only link to reputable media sites, academic research institutions and, whenever possible, medically peer reviewed studies. Note that the numbers in parentheses ([1], [2], etc.) are clickable links to these studies.
If you feel that any of our content is inaccurate, out-of-date, or otherwise questionable, please select it and press Ctrl + Enter.
Optic neuropathy is a serious complication occurring in 5% of patients with endocrine ophthalmopathy. It develops due to compression of the optic nerve or the vessels that feed it at the apex of the orbit by swollen and enlarged rectus muscles. Such compression, even without a combination with pronounced exophthalmos, can lead to severe and irreversible visual impairment.
[ Symptoms of optic neuropathy
Optic neuropathy manifests itself in a disturbance of central vision. For early detection, patients are advised to use self-monitoring: alternately closing their eyes, reading small text and evaluating the intensity of colors, for example, on a TV screen.
- Visual acuity usually decreases, but is reversible and is combined with a weakened pupillary response to light and deterioration of color and light perception.
- Central or paracentral scotomas may appear in the visual field, combined with damage to the nerve fibers of the optic nerve. These symptoms, with increased intraocular pressure, can be mistaken for primary open-angle glaucoma.
- The optic disc is usually normal in appearance, sometimes edematous and rarely atrophic.
It is impossible to associate decreased vision with minor corneal complications without diagnosing optic neuropathy.
What do need to examine?
How to examine?
Treatment of optic neuropathy
Usually begins with intravenous administration of methylprednisolone. If ineffective, decompression surgery.