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The Rodent Model of Nonarteritic Anterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy (rNAION)
Published on: November 20, 2016
[Optic neuritis after a bee sting]
Rosanna de Carmen Zambrano-Infantino1, Jean Félix Piñieríia-Gonsálvez, César Montaño
1Servicio de Medicina Interna, Hospital Dr. Héctor Nouel Joubert, IVSS. rosannamedicina@hotmail.com
Investigacion Clinica
|August 17, 2013
Summary
A bee sting triggered optic neuritis, an optic nerve inflammation, in a 62-year-old woman. Prompt treatment with methylprednisolone led to rapid visual recovery, highlighting a rare but treatable complication of hymenoptera stings.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Neurology
- Toxicology
Background:
- Optic neuritis is optic nerve inflammation, often idiopathic but can be associated with infections or immune disorders.
- Hymenoptera stings (bees, wasps, ants) can cause diverse systemic effects, including neurological complications like optic neuritis.
Observation:
- A 62-year-old woman developed bilateral decreased visual acuity, central scotoma, headache, and eye pain three days post-bee sting.
- Ophthalmological exam revealed blurred optic discs; ocular MRI showed left optic nerve hyperintensity and thickening.
- The patient's symptoms and history strongly suggested bilateral optic neuritis secondary to the bee sting.
Findings:
- The patient was diagnosed with bilateral optic neuritis following a bee sting.
- Treatment with intravenous methylprednisolone (1g/day for three days) resulted in significant clinical improvement within 24 hours.
Implications:
- This case underscores the potential for hymenoptera stings to induce optic neuritis, a condition historically documented since 1960.
- Early diagnosis and corticosteroid treatment appear effective in managing bee sting-associated optic neuritis, leading to favorable visual outcomes.
