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Updated: May 23, 2026

Rat Model of Photochemically-Induced Posterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy
Published on: November 29, 2015
Nonarteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy treated with intravenous prostaglandin E1 and steroids
Robert D Steigerwalt1, M Rosaria Cesarone, Gianni Belcaro
1Via A Brofferio, Rome, Italy. r.steigerwalt@libero.it
Background:
Acute nonarteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION) is considered to be acute ischemia of the posterior ciliary arteries. Prostaglandin E1 (PGE1), a powerful microcirculation vasodilator, has been shown to improve ocular blood flow.
Design:
A nonrandomized, comparative trial.
Methods:
Eight consecutive cases of NAION were treated with intravenous steroids and PGE1. Seven control cases of NAION were treated with acetylsalicylic acid and oral steroids. Fisher's exact test was used for statistical analysis.
Results:
The visual acuity improved in seven cases of NAION treated with PGE1 and was unchanged in one. Of the seven control cases, four had no change in vision and three lost further visual acuity on follow-up visits.
Conclusions:
Intravenous PGE1 and steroids should be considered in cases of NAION to immediately restore blood flow to the optic nerve and improve visual acuity.
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