Optic Atrophy

Key Findings

• Causes

  • Hydrocephalus

  • Glioma of the optic nerve

  • Craniosynostosis

  • Certain neurologic diseases

  • Toxins, such as methyl alcohol

  • Certain inborn errors of metabolism

  • Long-standing papilledema or papillitis

Clinical Findings

• Optic atrophy is found in children most frequently after neurologic compromise during the perinatal period; an example would be a premature infant who develops an intraventricular hemorrhage

Diagnosis

• Direct examination of the optic nerve by ophthalmoscopy reveals an optic nerve head with a cream or white color and possibly cupping

• Neuroimaging is necessary to delineate CNS abnormalities

Treatment

• Treatment of the underlying condition is indicated