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Drusen and the misleading optic disc
Esmaeil M Arbabi1, Thomas E Fearnley, Zia I Carrim
1Department of Ophthalmology, St James's University Hospital, Leeds, UK. esarbabi@gmail.com
Practical Neurology
|February 5, 2010
Summary
Optic disc drusen are calcified deposits in the optic nerve, often mistaken for papilledema. Ocular ultrasonography is key for diagnosing these largely asymptomatic but potentially vascular-complicating conditions.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Neuro-ophthalmology
Background:
- Optic disc drusen are acellular, calcified deposits within the optic nerve head.
- They affect up to 2% of the population and are bilateral in 75% of cases.
- Drusen size and visibility increase with age.
Observation:
- Optic disc drusen are frequently misdiagnosed as papilledema.
- While often asymptomatic, they can be linked to optic nerve vascular issues.
- Ocular ultrasonography offers the highest sensitivity for detecting optic disc drusen.
Findings:
- This article reviews common clinical presentations of optic disc drusen.
- It details practical diagnostic approaches for optic disc drusen.
- Management strategies for optic disc drusen are discussed.
Implications:
- Accurate diagnosis of optic disc drusen is crucial to prevent misdiagnosis of serious conditions like papilledema.
- Understanding the association with vascular problems aids in comprehensive patient care.
- Knowledge of diagnostic tools like ocular ultrasonography improves detection rates.
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