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Spontaneous visual improvement in chiasmal gliomas
1Harvard-Longwood Neurology Program, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Harvard Medical School, Boston.
American Journal of Ophthalmology
|August 15, 1992
Summary
Untreated optic chiasmal gliomas can spontaneously improve vision in some patients. Conservative management may lead to favorable outcomes in these rare cases.
Area of Science:
- Neuro-oncology
- Ophthalmology
Background:
- Optic chiasmal gliomas are tumors affecting the optic nerves and chiasm.
- Treatment typically involves surgery, radiation, or chemotherapy.
Observation:
- Three patients with presumed optic chiasmal gliomas experienced spontaneous visual improvement.
- Serial MRI showed unchanged lesions in two patients.
- Two patients had neurofibromatosis, a condition associated with gliomas.
Findings:
- Spontaneous visual improvement occurred despite stable lesion appearance on MRI.
- This suggests a potential for non-intervention to yield positive results.
Implications:
- Conservative management may be a viable option for select optic chiasmal gliomas.
- Further research is warranted to identify predictors for favorable outcomes with watchful waiting.