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Optic nerve atrophy - Symptom

Alternative Names

Optic atrophy; Optic neuropathy

Symptoms:

Optic nerve atrophy causes vision to dim and reduces the field of vision. The ability to see fine detail will also be lost. Colors will seem faded. The pupil reaction to light will diminish and may eventually be lost.

Signs and tests:

Optic nerve atrophy can be seen during a complete examination of the eyes. The examination will include tests of:

  • Color loss
  • Pupil light reflex
  • Tonometry
  • Visual acuity

You may need a complete physical examination and specific tests.

  • Reviewed last on: 7/28/2010
  • Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Medical Director, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington, School of Medicine; and Franklin W. Lusby, MD, Ophthalmologist, Lusby Vision Institute, La Jolla, California. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

References

Balcer LJ, Brasad S. Abnormalities of the optic nerve and retina. In: Bradley WG, Daroff RB, Fenichel GM, Jankovic J, eds. Neurology in Clinical Practice. 5th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Butterworth-Heinemann;2008:chap 15.

Arnold AC. Ischemic optic neuropathies. In: Yanoff M, Duker JS, eds. Ophthalmology. 3rd ed. St. Louis, Mo: Mosby Elsevier;2008:chap 9.7.

Wax M, Clark A, Civan MM. Mechanisms of glaucoma. In: Yanoff M, Duker JS, eds. Ophthalmology. 3rd ed. St. Louis, Mo: Mosby Elsevier;2008:chap 10.3.

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