Abstract
Uraemic optic neuropathy (UON) is an acute but reversible loss of vision in patients with end-stage renal failure. Hypoperfusion of the posterior ciliary arteries, the major blood supply to the optic nerve head, results in ischaemic injury to the nerve. Anaemia, hypertension and elevated nitrogen urea level have been identified as factors contributing to optic nerve neuropathy. Toxic uraemic metabolites affect nerve conduction and their removal with dialysis results in improved vision. Optic neuropathy is a rare complication of uraemia in children. This is the first case of optic neuropathy related to uraemia in a child with end-stage renal disease in Nigeria.
Highlights
Uraemic optic neuropathy (UON) is an acute but reversible loss of vision in patients with end-stage renal failure
A transfusion of packed red cells was given during the dialysis procedure and her blood pressure was controlled with oral amlodipine
Uraemic optic neuropathy is a rare complication that is reversible with prompt treatment
Summary
She complained of sudden loss of vision in the right eye. A review by an ophthalmologist revealed no perception of light in the right eye, an absent pupillary reflex, a clear cornea with normal anterior chamber depth, and a pink disc with blurred margins. She could count fingers, had a clear cornea with normal anterior chamber depth, and a pink disc with distinct margins. Within 24 hours of the right eye being affected, loss of vision developed in the left eye. Heart failure and anaemia had been addressed with diuretics and a blood transfusion before the onset of sudden visual loss. The index case had hypertension but at the time of the blindness the blood pressure had improved on treatment
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
