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Drusen of the optic nerve head. An important model
Ophthalmology
|June 1, 1985
Summary
Optic nerve head (ONH) drusen may model optic disc diseases. Functional tests reveal optic nerve fiber dysfunction beyond the lamina cribrosa and potential retinal layer effects.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Neuroscience
- Retinal imaging
Background:
- Optic nerve head (ONH) drusen are clinically significant deposits.
- Studying ONH drusen offers insights into optic disc pathologies.
- Inner retinal and optic nerve function tests are crucial for diagnosis.
Observation:
- Fundus Photo Perimetry showed minimal correlation between visual field defects and visible ONH drusen.
- The Flashing Repeat Static Test (FRST) identified abnormalities in 50% of patients.
- Functional alterations included both transient-like and sustained-like visual functions.
Findings:
- ONH drusen may not directly correlate with visual field defects.
- FRST abnormalities suggest ascending dysfunction in optic nerve fibers past the lamina cribrosa.
- Observed functional changes indicate potential descending dysfunction affecting retinal plexiform layers.
Implications:
- ONH drusen serve as a valuable model for studying optic disc-related diseases.
- Advanced functional testing can detect subclinical optic nerve dysfunction.
- Understanding these dysfunctions aids in diagnosing and managing optic neuropathies.