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Updated: Jun 10, 2026
06:49
The Rodent Model of Nonarteritic Anterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy (rNAION)
Published on: November 20, 2016
Interferon alfa-associated anterior ischemic optic neuropathy.
F W Fraunfelder1, F T Fraunfelder
1Department of Ophthalmology, Casey Eye Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon 97239-4197, USA. eyedrug@ohsu.edu
Ophthalmology
|July 16, 2010
Summary
Interferon alfa therapy may be linked to anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (AION), a condition causing vision loss. Early detection and stopping interferon treatment may improve outcomes for patients experiencing this adverse drug reaction.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Neurology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Interferon alfa is used to treat various conditions, including viral infections and cancers.
- Anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (AION) is a serious eye condition that can lead to vision loss.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate a potential association between interferon alfa treatment and the development of AION.
- To analyze case reports of AION in patients receiving interferon alfa therapy.
Main Methods:
- A comprehensive review of existing literature and analysis of 36 case reports from spontaneous reporting systems.
- Data collected included interferon type, patient demographics, adverse drug reactions, dosage, therapy duration, and rechallenge information.
Main Results:
- Thirty-six cases of AION were identified in patients treated with interferon alfa.
- The average patient age was 54.5 years, with 67% experiencing bilateral AION.
- Fifty percent of patients suffered permanent vision loss, and three positive rechallenge cases were noted.
Conclusions:
- The association between interferon alfa and AION is classified as 'possible' per WHO criteria.
- Prompt discontinuation of interferon alfa upon suspicion of AION may improve visual prognosis.
- Unrecognized AION during interferon therapy can lead to irreversible visual impairment.
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