[Optic neuropathy in acute poisoning with methanol]

Area of Science:

• Toxicology
• Ophthalmology
• Neurology

Background:

• Methanol poisoning is a serious condition with potentially devastating visual consequences.
• Optic neuropathy is a known complication, but its progression and management require further elucidation.

Observation:

• Four cases of methanol poisoning were analyzed.
• Two patients presented with acute bilateral optic neuropathy, progressing to optic atrophy.

Findings:

• Methanol poisoning can lead to severe optic nerve damage, including optic atrophy.
• Clinical features, pathophysiology, and treatment strategies for methanol poisoning were reviewed.

Implications:

• Highlights the critical need for prompt diagnosis of methanol poisoning.
• Emphasizes the importance of timely and specific interventions to prevent irreversible vision loss.