Anterior ischemic optic neuropathy in children: case reports and review of the literature

Pediatr Neurol. 2002 May;26(5):358-64. doi: 10.1016/s0887-8994(02)00398-3.

Abstract

Anterior ischemic optic neuropathy, infarction of the optic nerve head owing to inadequate perfusion through the posterior ciliary arteries, is a common cause of visual loss in adults but is rarely reported in children, in part because the diagnosis is overlooked. We report two cases of young children undergoing chronic peritoneal dialysis, who suffered bilateral visual loss from anterior ischemic optic neuropathy. Predisposing local anatomic and multiple systemic factors included a small optic nerve head with little cupping, possible intraocular hypertension, and systemic hypotension, hypovolemia, and anemia. The literature on anterior ischemic optic neuropathy is reviewed.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Child
  • Child, Preschool
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Hypotension / complications
  • Infant
  • Kidney Failure, Chronic / complications
  • Kidney Failure, Chronic / therapy
  • Male
  • Optic Neuropathy, Ischemic / diagnosis*
  • Optic Neuropathy, Ischemic / drug therapy
  • Optic Neuropathy, Ischemic / etiology
  • Renal Dialysis / adverse effects