Understanding the Etiopathogenesis of Non-Arteritic Anterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy with Laboratory Findings

The role of inflammation and hemostasis in non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION) was investigated by examining related blood tests. The predictive values of these laboratory indicators and their effects on prognosis were reviewed.

In this study, 48 patients diagnosed with NAION and 50 healthy volunteers were included. All subjects underwent full ophthalmological examination. All patients were treated with oral corticosteroids (methylprednisolone 1 mg/kg/day) for 15 days after that corticosteroid medication was reduced and stopped. Each patient was monitored at least for 12 months. The mean platelet volume (MPV), platelet distribution width (PDW), neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio (NLR), and red cell distribution width (RDW) values were recorded. These findings were compared with control group.

The mean MPV, RDW, and NLR values were significantly higher in NAION group (respectively, p<0.001, p=0.006, and p<0.001). There was no statistically significant difference between group 1 and group 2 in PDW values, but the mean PDW value was higher in the patient group compared to the control group (p=0.435). Based on the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve, the NLR had the strongest predictive value. This was followed by MPV, RDW, and PDW with lower diagnostic predictive values.

MPV, NLR, and RDW were found to be elevated and have diagnostic predictive values in NAION patients. Easily accessible and simple laboratory methods could help us show systemic inflammation and ischemic events in NAION patients. As a result, inflammatory reactions besides ischemic changes may play a role in the etiopathogenesis of NAION. These biomarkers can be evaluated to ensure that patients with risk factors for the development of NAION.