Ophthalmology and Optometry

Optic Nerve Disorders

Optic nerve disorders encompass a range of conditions affecting the optic nerve, which transmits visual information from the eye to the brain. These disorders may result from various causes, including trauma, inflammation, vascular issues, tumours, and degenerative diseases like glaucoma. Symptoms can include vision loss, visual field defects, changes in colour perception, and optic nerve head abnormalities. Diagnosis typically involves a comprehensive eye examination, visual field testing, imaging studies such as optical coherence tomography (OCT), and sometimes lumbar puncture for cerebrospinal fluid analysis. Treatment depends on the underlying cause and may include medications, surgery, or management of associated conditions to preserve visual function and prevent further damage to the optic nerve.