Optic neuropathy associated with sleep apnea syndrome

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Neurology
• Sleep Medicine

Background:

• Sleep apnea syndrome (SAS) involves repeated upper airway obstructions during sleep, leading to hypoxia and sleep disruption.
• SAS is associated with increased risks of cardiovascular and neurological complications.
• Ocular abnormalities may be present in patients with SAS.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate ocular abnormalities in patients diagnosed with sleep apnea syndrome (SAS).
• To correlate visual field indices with the severity of SAS, as measured by the respiratory disturbance index (RDI).

Main Methods:

• A case series design was employed, including nine patients suspected of having SAS.
• Comprehensive ophthalmologic examinations, including computerized perimetry, were conducted.
• The Spearman rank correlation coefficient (r(s)) was used to analyze correlations between RDI and visual field indices.

Main Results:

• Seven patients were included in statistical analysis after excluding two with pre-existing optic conditions.
• Patients with severe SAS exhibited nasal arcuate and paracentral visual field defects.
• The RDI showed a positive correlation with mean visual field defect (r(s) = 0.81) and visual field loss variance (r(s) = 0.78).
• Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy stabilized visual field defects in two patients and improved them in another.

Conclusions:

• Visual field defects in SAS patients suggest an underlying optic neuropathy.
• CPAP therapy demonstrates potential in stabilizing or reversing visual field abnormalities associated with SAS.