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Optic disc edema with decreased visual function after high-altitude exposure.
Yuyu Li1, Mingming Sun1, Biyue Chen1
1Senior Department of Ophthalmology, The Third Medical Center of Chinese People's Liberation Army General Hospital and Chinese People's Liberation Army Medical School, Beijing, 100853, China.
BMC Ophthalmology
|April 24, 2025
Summary
High-altitude exposure can cause optic disc edema and vision loss. This study details six cases of decreased visual function and visual field defects following exposure to high altitudes.
Area of Science:
- Neuro-ophthalmology
- Altitude Medicine
- Visual Neuroscience
Background:
- Optic disc edema is common at high altitudes but usually resolves without lasting visual impairment.
- However, some individuals experience persistent visual dysfunction after high-altitude exposure.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report on six patients who developed optic disc edema and significant visual decline after exposure to high altitudes.
- To characterize the clinical presentation and outcomes of this condition.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective collection of clinical data from six patients with optic disc edema and decreased visual function after high-altitude exposure.
- Data included intracranial pressure, blood pressure, and polysomnography.
Main Results:
- Six patients (11 eyes) presented with optic disc edema and visual impairment, with a delay between altitude exposure and symptom onset.
- All patients showed initial visual acuity decline and visual field defects, with partial recovery over 6 months.
- Intracranial pressure was normal in all cases; some patients had comorbidities like hypertension and sleep apnea.
Conclusions:
- Optic disc edema associated with decreased visual function and visual field defects can occur after high-altitude exposure.
- This condition may lead to persistent visual field deficits despite resolution of disc edema.
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