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Optic Atrophy

Permanent damage to the optic nerve resulting in irreversible loss of vision.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Göz Hastalıkları department. Book Appointment →

What is Optic Atrophy?

Optic atrophy describes the loss of axons of the optic nerve and is a sign rather than a diagnosis. The optic disc appears pale on funduscopy, with thinning of the retinal nerve fiber layer on optical coherence tomography (OCT).

It can be caused by glaucoma, demyelinating disease (after optic neuritis), ischemic optic neuropathy, compressive lesions (pituitary tumor, meningioma), toxic and nutritional deficiencies (B12, methanol, ethambutol), and hereditary diseases such as Leber hereditary optic neuropathy and dominant optic atrophy.

Visual function loss is permanent, but identifying the underlying cause is crucial to halt further damage and protect the fellow eye. MRI of the brain and orbits, blood tests, and genetic studies are essential parts of the workup.

Symptoms

Decreased visual acuity
Loss of color vision (red desaturation)
Visual field defects
Pale optic disc on examination
Relative afferent pupillary defect
Reduced contrast sensitivity
Difficulty with low-light vision

Risk Factors

Glaucoma
Multiple sclerosis or prior optic neuritis
Cerebrovascular and ischemic disease
Compressive intracranial lesions
Vitamin B12 deficiency or malnutrition
Toxic exposures (methanol, ethambutol, amiodarone)
Family history (LHON, dominant optic atrophy)

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Progressive painless vision loss
  • Persistent color vision deficit
  • Visual field defects with disc pallor
  • Family history of hereditary visual loss
  • Vision changes alongside neurological symptoms
  • Bilateral progressive visual decline

Treatment Methods

01
Treat the underlying cause (decompression for compressive lesion, glaucoma management)
02
Vitamin B12 and folate replacement when deficient
03
Discontinuation of toxic medications
04
Idebenone for Leber hereditary optic neuropathy
05
Low-vision rehabilitation and visual aids
06
Genetic counseling for hereditary forms
07
Monitoring with OCT and perimetry

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Göz Hastalıkları department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Göz Hastalıkları Department

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.