Progressive loss of vision in patients with high-grade non-Hodgkin's lymphoma

Three cases of double-sided neuritis of the optic nerve in patients with lymphomas are described. Two patients with lymphoblastic lymphoma had no other signs of central nervous system (CNS) relapse. All three cases responded to high doses of corticosteroids and/or radiotherapy, suggesting a lymphomatous cause of the papillitis. Optic nerve involvement is reported to be rare in lymphomas, but may become more prominent with aggressive systemic therapy controlling manifestations outside the CNS. Possible causes of optic neuritis in patients with lymphoma are discussed and therapeutic measures are suggested.