Nonarteritic ischemic optic neuropathy

To describe the systemic and visual characteristics and prognosis in patients with nonarteritic ischemicoptic neuropathy (NAION) undergoing different treatments.

Retrospective chart review was performed in Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital patients from 1995-2005 with a clinical diagnosis of NAION, including nonarteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy and posterior ischemic optic neuropathy (PION). There were 14 PION patients out of a total of 103 cases. The average age at disease attack was 61 years old, and the ratio of males to females was 1.24:1. Comorbid systemic diseases and visual function were recorded at both initial presentation and the later follow-up period. The final results were recorded and compared by the different treatments they received in 4 groups.

In all, NAION usually affected people > 50 years old, without any difference between sexes. Presenting visual acuity, age, and different treatment modes had no direct influence on the final visual outcome. The most significant associated factor was hypertension.

NAION is a serious illness; the visual deficit persists even with aggressive treatment.