Atrophy (tissue death) of the nerve that carries the information of vision from the eye to the brain.

Alternative Names

Second cranial nerve atrophy

Causes, incidence, and risk factors

There are many unrelated causes of optic atrophy. The most common is from failure of circulation, usually in the elderly patient, called ischemic optic neuropathy. The optic nerve may be damaged by shock, various toxic substances, radiation, and trauma. Various eye diseases, glaucoma in particular, may cause optic nerve atrophy. Optic nerve atrophy may be caused by disease of the brain, such as multiple sclerosis , brain tumor , and stroke . There are several rare forms of hereditary optic nerve atrophy that affect children and young adults.

Signs and tests

Optic nerve atrophy can be readily detected on complete examination of the eyes. Seeking the cause may require a complete physical and special tests.

Treatment

Atrophic optic nerve cannot be restored. The underlying disease must be found and treated if possible to prevent further loss.

Expectations (prognosis)

Vision lost from optic nerve atrophy cannot be recovered. If the cause can be identified and controlled, further loss of vision may be prevented.

Complications

Related to the causative disease.

Calling your health care provider

Patients with optic nerve atrophy will be closely monitored by an ophthalmologist with experience in neuro-ophthalmology. Any change in vision should be reported urgently.

Prevention

Most causes of optic nerve atrophy cannot be prevented. Facial injuries can be prevented by standard safety precautions. Most such injuries are related to motor vehicle accidents and can be prevented by seat belt use. Methanol is the most common toxin causing optic nerve atrophy. It is found in home brewed alcohol. Home brewed alcohol should never be consumed.