Abstract :
Traumatic optic neuropathy (TON) is a rare entity resulting in vision loss after a head trauma, predominantly affecting men due to accidents, falls, violence, or sports injuries. The chances of recovery from an insult to the optic nerve depend on whether it is a direct or an indirect injury. Injuries to the optic nerve of direct nature often lead to immediate and severe vision loss that may not improve over time. On the other hand, injuries to the optic nerve which are indirect may cause delayed vision loss, sometimes even after the initial injury. Fractures in the optic canal are effectively detected using thin-section CT scans. MRI is recommended only when intracranial injuries cannot be fully assessed using CT scans. The management of TON includes observation, corticosteroids, and surgery. It is typically recommended to observe the condition, if there are no signs of blood clots or fractures in the optic canal. The treatment for TON involves giving very high doses of intravenous methylprednisolone, followed by slowly tapering with oral prednisolone. Surgical management should be done only when there are compression signs.
Keyword :
Traumatic optic neuropathy, Optic nerve, Orbital fracture, Corticosteroids, Ischemic optic neuropathy.