Syringomyelia presenting with unilateral optic neuropathy: a case report

Area of Science:

• Neuro-ophthalmology
• Neurology

Background:

• Syringomyelia is a rare condition characterized by a fluid-filled cyst within the spinal cord.
• Optic neuropathy, damage to the optic nerve, can occur as a complication of various neurological disorders.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report two cases of syringomyelia presenting with optic neuropathy.
• To highlight the importance of prompt diagnosis and management of this rare neuro-ophthalmic manifestation.

Main Methods:

• Case report detailing clinical presentation, diagnostic imaging (MRI), and treatment outcomes.
• Ophthalmic examinations including visual acuity, pupillary response, visual field testing, and fundoscopy were performed.

Main Results:

• Two female patients with syringomyelia developed optic neuropathy with distinct visual symptoms and field defects.
• MRI confirmed syringomyelia in both cases, while optic nerves appeared normal on imaging.
• Both patients showed improvement in visual function following treatment with intravenous and oral corticosteroids.

Conclusions:

• Optic neuropathy is an uncommon but significant neuro-ophthalmic complication of syringomyelia.
• Timely intervention with corticosteroids can be beneficial in managing early-stage optic neuropathy associated with syringomyelia.
• Prompt diagnosis and management are critical to prevent irreversible vision loss.