Ocular ischemic syndrome and ischemic optic neuropathy in Takayasu arteritis

Ocular Ischemic Syndrome (OIS) is a disorder, which consists of constellation of signs and symptoms secondary to chronic ocular hypoperfusion. We report a case of 35 years old Pakistani female who presented to us with gradual fall of vision in both eyes. On examination, she had bilateral OIS and ischemic optic neuropathy. The patient had past history of transient ischemic attack and facial palsy almost 20 years back. We referred her to physician for the diagnosis of Takayasu arteritis associated with relapsing polychondritis. She was given 60 mg of dexamethasone per day as initial treatment. At her last follow-up after approximately 3 months, she was quite comfortable systemically and her general condition was improved. Unfortunately, her vision did not improve. These two autoimmune diseases are rarely reported together in the same patient in Pakistan. Whether this association is rare or is underdiagnosed still remains to be answered.