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Resolution of optociliary shunt vessels
Journal of Clinical Neuro-Ophthalmology
|December 1, 1986
Summary
Optociliary shunt vessels, a sign of increased intracranial pressure, resolved rapidly after meningioma removal. This case highlights the direct link between intracranial pressure and optic disc vascular changes.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Neurology
- Neurosurgery
Background:
- Chronic atrophic papilledema can lead to profound vision loss.
- Optociliary shunt vessels are collateral pathways that can develop on the optic disc.
- These vessels may indicate elevated intracranial pressure.
Observation:
- A 40-year-old woman presented with severe bilateral vision loss due to chronic atrophic papilledema.
- Striking optociliary shunt vessels were observed on the right optic disc.
- A massive intracranial meningioma was identified as the cause.
Findings:
- Surgical removal of the intracranial meningioma led to a significant reduction in intracranial pressure.
- Marked regression of the optociliary shunt vessels was observed within one month post-surgery.
- Fluorescein angiography confirmed the resolution of these abnormal vascular structures.
Implications:
- The rapid regression of optociliary shunt vessels suggests they are a dynamic indicator of intracranial pressure.
- This case underscores the importance of addressing intracranial mass lesions to prevent irreversible optic nerve damage.
- Effective management of intracranial pressure can lead to visual recovery and resolution of optic disc anomalies.