The Result of the Treatment of Optic Nerve Edema after COVID-19

Abstract

The neuro-ophthalmic symptoms and signs associated with COVID-19 infection are varied and span the course of the infection to the convalescent phase. In addition to the anterior segment of the eye, there is a possibility of damage to the posterior segment of the eyeball. The described cases are isolated and there are no results of treatment of patients who have undergone COVID-19.Purpose: To describe the outcome of treatment of bilateral optic nerve edema after COVID-19.Methods. A 59-year-old man with reduced visual functions in the post-surgical period was examined. A standard ophthalmological examination was performed. In addition, spectral optical coherence tomography (OCT) of the macular area of the retina and optic disc (OND) was performed using the RTVue XR Avanti apparatus (Optovue, USA). The patient underwent a laboratory study.Results. Bilateral papilledema was detected in a patient after COVID-19. According to OCT data, a thickening of the nerve fiber layer of the retina of both eyes was revealed, according to OCT angiography, a decrease in the density of the RPC. Conducted a course of conservative and physiotherapy treatment.Conclusion. The COVID-19 epidemic poses several challenges for the ophthalmological community: to determine algorithms for timely diagnosis and treatment, as well as to ensure the prevention of complications from the organ of vision in patients who have undergone COVID-19. It may make sense to screen for coronaviruses in patients with inflammatory diseases of the posterior segment of the eye of unknown etiology. The inclusion of spectral optical coherence tomography with the function of angiography in a comprehensive examination of patients is important for the early detection of microcirculatory and morphometric changes in the optic disc, macular and peripapillary retina. It is advisable to use physiotherapeutic methods of treatment in patients with visual impairment in the post-COVID period, which will reduce the long-term drug load and increase the effectiveness of treatment.