This is the condition that damages the optic nerve of the eye which transfers the electrical impulses from the eye to the brain. The optic nerve carries over a million nerves that connect the retina with the occipital lobe. This is not a disease on its own but rather an indication of a potentially serious problem which can affect the central vision, peripheral vision and color vision. In the severe case, it can also cause blindness. There are a number of causes which can result in the damage to the optic nerve.
Causes
The optic nerve consists of nerve fibers that are responsible for the transmission of impulses to the brain from the eye. When the optic nerve’s ability becomes interrupted, it can affect the transmission of these impulses. One of the common causes of optic nerve atrophy is the poor blood flow and is known as ischemic optic neuropathy which commonly affects older people. It can also result from the damage by shock, toxins, trauma, radiation, eye diseases and disorders of the brain and the central nervous system. Some of the causes of optic atrophy include glaucoma, optic neuritis, improper development of the optic nerve because of a congenital condition and from a hereditary condition which can also affect the vision (Leber’s hereditary optic neuropathy). A stroke of the optic nerve is known as anterior ischemic optic neuropathy and when a tumor growth presses on the optic nerve it can also cause problems.
Symptoms
The symptoms of optic atrophy can affect the vision particularly presenting a blurred vision, difficulties with peripheral (side) vision, a reduction in the sharpness of vision and problems with color vision. The individual’s ability to identify fine details of an image can also become lost. Progressively, the pupil appears to be less able to react to light and eventually the ability to react to light will be lost.
Diagnosis
The diagnosis is possible by an ophthalmologist who will examine the eyes with an instrument called the ophthalmoscope. During the examination, the optic disc which is the point at the back of the eye will be observed. Among the individuals with this condition, the optic disc appears to be pale resulting from the change in the flow of blood vessels. Additional tests include the assessment of color vision which can detect the difference between the eyes showing red color desaturation that can be an early indication of the problem. Based on the suspected causes, additional tests may be necessary such as detecting the presence of a tumor with imaging tests and identifying genetic abnormalities.
Treatment
The treatment is based on the cause of the condition. However, no treatment is available to reverse the damage although treatment can help prevent further nerve damage. Reducing the increased fluid pressure of the brain and the spinal cord can also help prevent the optic nerve damage. It is also important to have regular eye examinations to prevent complications.
References
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/optic-atrophy
https://www.aapos.org/terms/conditions/81
http://www.umkelloggeye.org/conditions-treatments/optic-atrophy
