A Case of Anterior Ischemic Optic Neuropethy

ABSTRACT

Anterior ischemic optic neuropathy is due to acute ischemia of the anterior part of the optic nerve, whose main source of blood supply is from the posterior ciliary circulation, either by direct branches or through the peripapillary choroid, with minor and differing contributions from other sources. The clinical features are charaterized by sudden visual impairment, optic nerve related visual field defect and optic disc edema. For pathogenetic as well as therapeutic reasons, these patient can be subdivided into two major subgroups a nonarteritic group, an arteritic group. The authors experienced a case of AION, which occurred in a young male, probably arteritic. So, the literature of the AION was briefly reviewed and the purpose of this review is to increase awareness of this not uncommon condition.