Bilateral Optic Neuritis Following Acute Glyphosate Inhalation: A Case Report

Bilateral optic neuritis is a rare condition generally associated with inflammatory, demyelinating, or toxic causes. Its association with glyphosate exposure has rarely been documented.

A 66-year-old man with hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, and hypothyroidism developed rapid bilateral vision loss within hours after acute inhalational exposure to glyphosate during agricultural work. MRI showed bilateral optic nerve hyperintensity consistent with optic neuritis. Cerebrospinal fluid and serum anti-NMO antibody tests were negative, while visual evoked potentials demonstrated increased latencies. High-dose corticosteroid therapy led to progressive clinical improvement. At follow-up, MRI revealed no new lesions and the patient experienced near-complete visual recovery.

This case suggests a possible link between acute glyphosate exposure and reversible bilateral optic neuritis. Early recognition and corticosteroid therapy may support full functional recovery even in severe presentations.