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Optic neuropathy following an altitude exposure
Allan Steigleman1, Frank Butler, Austin Chhoeu
1Navy Experimental Diving Unit, Panama City, FL 32407, USA.
Aviation, Space, and Environmental Medicine
|September 25, 2003
Summary
A young man experienced vision loss after hypobaric chamber exposure. Decompression sickness was diagnosed and treated with hyperbaric oxygen therapy, leading to symptom resolution.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Neurology
- Diving Medicine
Background:
- Altitude exposure in hypobaric chambers can pose risks to visual function.
- Optic neuropathy presents with symptoms such as blurred vision and color vision deficits.
Observation:
- A 20-year-old male presented with retro-orbital pain and blurred vision post-hypobaric exposure.
- Visual field and color vision deficits indicated left optic neuropathy.
Findings:
- The patient was diagnosed with decompression sickness and sinusitis.
- Initial hyperbaric oxygen treatment provided temporary relief; recurrence necessitated further treatment.
- Complete resolution was achieved after four hyperbaric oxygen treatments and antibiotics.
Implications:
- This case highlights decompression sickness as a potential cause of optic neuropathy following altitude exposure.
- Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is a crucial treatment for vision disturbances related to decompression sickness.
- Concurrent sinusitis may complicate or contribute to visual symptoms in affected individuals.