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Published on: October 23, 2020
Diabetic papillopathy and its relation to optic nerve ischemia
William Scott Slagle1, Angela N Musick, Daniel R Eckermann
1FAAO Optometry Section of the Surgical Care Service Line, Salem Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Salem, Virginia, USA. scott.slagle@va.gov
Summary
Diabetic papillopathy, a cause of optic disc swelling in diabetes patients, is reviewed with a case report. This condition typically presents with minimal optic nerve dysfunction after other causes are excluded.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Endocrinology
- Neurology
Background:
- Diabetic papillopathy is a rare optic neuropathy associated with diabetes mellitus.
- It is characterized by hyperemic optic disc swelling, often unilateral.
- Diagnosis requires exclusion of other causes of optic nerve dysfunction.
Observation:
- A case report of a 65-year-old veteran with unilateral hyperemic optic disc swelling is presented.
- The patient exhibited minimal optic nerve dysfunction.
- Extensive evaluation ruled out other potential causes.
Findings:
- Literature review delineates typical clinical characteristics and disease course of diabetic papillopathy.
- Analysis of anterior ischemic optic neuropathy characteristics is included.
- A hypothesis is proposed to address the relationship between diabetic papillopathy and anterior ischemic optic neuropathy.
Implications:
- This review aids in understanding and diagnosing diabetic papillopathy.
- Differentiating diabetic papillopathy from other optic neuropathies is crucial for appropriate management.
- Further research may clarify the pathophysiology and management strategies.
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