Acute Anterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy Research Articles

Risk factors and treatment window in arteritic anterior ischaemic optic neuropathy: a case study

A 76-year-old NZ European man presented with sudden onset visual loss in his left eye after experiencing intermittent temporal aches and blurry vision for over a month. He had a history of stroke and hyper- tension but no past ophthalmological history. A pale optic disc, raised inflammatory markers, and temporal artery biopsy confirmed a diag- nosis of acute arteritic anterior ischaemic optic neuropathy secondary to giant cell arteritis. High-dose intravenous methylprednisolone was administered within 24 hours of presentation, but the likelihood of vision loss reversal was unlikely.

Short-Term Deterioration of Visual Acuity and Visual Fields in Nonarteritic Anterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy

PurposeTo determine the frequency and severity of further visual loss experienced by patients within ten weeks from diagnosis of acute non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy. (NAION). DesignRetrospective case series. MethodsElectronic medical records (EMR) at an academic neuro-ophthalmology practice were searched for diagnosis of “NAION” and all identified charts were reviewed to determine eligibility. Patients diagnosed with acute NAION between February 2014 and December 2023 who presented within four weeks of symptom onset and were seen in follow-up within ten weeks were included. Clinically significant decline in best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and peripheral VF were defined as decline of BCVA ≥2 Snellen lines and decrease of ≥2 decibels (dB) in mean deviation (MD) on perimetric testing. ResultsForty-nine eyes met inclusion and exclusion criteria. Sixty-seven percent of patients were male and average age at presentation was 66 years. Twenty-two percent of eyes demonstrated worsening of BCVA by ≥2 lines. Of these, 55% worsened by ≥4 lines and 27% by ≥8 lines. In 27% of eyes MD on perimetry worsened by ≥2 dB and in 18% by ≥4 dB. In total, 41% of eyes demonstrated clinically significant worsening of BCVA or VF. ConclusionsSubacute deterioration of BCVA and/or VF following acute NAION is not uncommon while optic disc edema is present, with sizeable proportion of patients experiencing dramatic visual decline. Deterioration in visual function within the first 10 weeks of presentation does not exclude the diagnosis of NAION and further investigations should only be performed if additional clinical features are discordant with this diagnosis.

Peripapillary Retinal Nerve Fiber Layer Thickness as a Predictor of Visual Outcomes in Patients with Acute Nonarteritic Anterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy.

To evaluate the utility of peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer thickness (pRNFLT) for the prediction of visual outcomes, including visual acuity (VA) and visual field (VF), in subjects with acute nonarteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION). We performed a retrospective study of data relating to 60 eyes of 60 subjects with acute NAION. Of these, reliable VF values were obtained at both the initial and at 6-month follow-up visits for 30 eyes, which were included in the VF analysis. The pRNFLT was measured globally and separately in all four quadrants (superior, inferior, nasal, and temporal) using optical coherence tomography at the initial visit. Multivariate analysis and the area under the curve (AUC) were used to evaluate the utility of pRNFLT for the prediction of visual outcomes, including favorable VA (VA better than or equal to 20/25) and favorable VF (visual field index (VFI) ≥90%), at the 6-month follow-up visit. The median VA and mean VFI at the initial visit were 0.40 (interquartile range (IQR): 0.40, 0.54; logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution (logMAR)) and 73.07% ± 6.73%, respectively. The median VA and mean VFI at the 6-month follow-up visit were 0.30 (IQR: 0.00, 0.70) logMAR and 69.27% ± 28.94%, respectively. Thinner temporal-quadrant pRNFLT was associated with favorable VA (odds ratio 0.98; p = 0.042) with a cut-off value of 128 µm (AUC 0.839, 95% CI: 0.732-0.947, sensitivity 77.27%, specificity 84.21%). Thinner nasal-quadrant pRNFLT was associated with favorable VF (odds ratio 0.97; p = 0.047) with a cut-off value of 105 µm (AUC 0.780, 95% CI: 0.612-0.948, sensitivity 90.00%, specificity 70.00%). The pRNFLT is clinically useful for the prediction of visual outcomes in patients with acute NAION. A temporal-quadrant pRNFLT ≤128 µm and a nasal-quadrant pRNFLT ≤105 µm predict favorable VA and VF at the 6-month follow-up visit, respectively.

Visual outcome of various dose of glucocorticoids treatment in nonarteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy– a retrospective analysis

Background and purposeThe objective of this investigation was to assess the therapeutic efficacy of distinct glucocorticoid therapy dosages in the management of acute nonarteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION).Materials and methodsThis retrospective, unmasked, and non-randomized study included a total of 85 patients. The patients were categorized into four groups: Group 1 (control) consisted of 15 patients who did not receive glucocorticoids, Group 2 included 16 patients administered with oral prednisone at a dosage of 1 mg/kg/d for 14 days, Group 3 comprised 30 patients who received 250 units of methylprednisolone once daily for 3 days, followed by oral prednisone at a dosage of 1 mg/kg/d for 11 days, and Group 4 encompassed 24 patients who received 500 units of methylprednisolone once daily for 3 days, followed by oral prednisone at a dosage of 1 mg/kg/d for 11 days. The best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was assessed at baseline and the final follow-up (> 7 days post-treatment). The changes in visual acuity between baseline and the 7–14 day follow-up, as well as between baseline and the concluding appraisal, were employed as metrics for assessing the extent of visual enhancement.ResultsNo significant differences were noted in the final visual outcomes or in the changes between final visual acuity and baseline across the four groups. In Group 1 (control), the best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) remained unchanged during final follow-ups compared to baseline. Conversely, the intervention groups exhibited statistically significant enhancements in BCVA during final follow-up (p = 0.012, p = 0.03, and p = 0.009 for Group 2, Group 3, and Group 4, respectively) when compared to baseline. During the 7–14 day follow-up, there was a significant difference in the changes between baseline BCVA and follow-up BCVA across the groups (p = 0.035). Go a step further by Bonferroni correction for multiple comparisons, group 4 showed a greater change in vision compared with group1 (p = 0.045).ConclusionOur study on acute nonarteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION) showed no significant final visual outcome differences. Nevertheless, Groups 2, 3, and 4 demonstrated improved best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) during the final follow-up. Notably, a 500-unit dose of methylprednisolone resulted in short-term BCVA enhancement. This suggests potential consideration of 500 units of methylprednisolone for short-term NAION vision improvement, despite its limited long-term impact.

Prevalence and Distribution of Macular Fluid with Central Retinal Artery Occlusion and Anterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy.

To examine the prevalence and distribution of fluid within a cohort of eyes with acute central retinal artery occlusion (CRAO) and non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (AION) using optical coherence tomography (OCT). A retrospective analysis of patient records and OCT imaging. Patients presenting with acute CRAO or AION who had available macular OCT imaging and no co-morbidities known to cause macular fluid were included in the analysis. Baseline characteristics, visual acuity (VA), and fluid presence and distribution among the retinal layers were recorded. In the 16 eyes with acute CRAO, fluid was noted in 5 eyes (31%), which was mainly subretinal (3 eyes) or intraretinal located within the outer retinal layers (3 eyes). Only one eye had inner retinal cysts. Of the 11 eyes with acute AION, fluid was present in 8 eyes (73%). Subretinal fluid was noted in 4 eyes and extended to the foveal area in 3 of them, and outer retinal versus inner retinal cysts were noted in 6 versus 3 eyes, respectively. None of the eyes showed hard exudate deposition. In the small subset of eyes with CRAO and macular fluid that were followed-up, VA improved, while in eyes with AION, VA remained stable. Macular fluid on OCT is not an uncommon feature of acute CRAO and AION and is mainly distributed within the outer retinal layers or subretinal space. Fluid is an understudied feature of retinal and optic nerve head infarction and may have a role in predicting neuronal damage extent and visual outcome.

Ophthalmic and Systemic Factors of Acute Nonarteritic Anterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy in the Quark207 Treatment Trial

PurposeWe describe the baseline ophthalmic and cardiovascular (CV) risk factors, reported as associated with NAION, across countries, race and sex for the Quark207 treatment trial for acute NAION. DesignProspective randomized control clinical trial ParticipantsAdults age 50-80 years old with acute NAION recruited from 80 sites across 8 countries, 191 of whom were controls.Main measuresOphthalmic features of NAION and CV risk factors MethodsWe evaluated demographics, clinical and ophthalmological data including best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and average visual field total deviation (TD) in affected eyes and cup:disc ratio in fellow eyes at enrollment. We report the prevalence (median and interquartile Q1, Q3) of ophthalmic features and CV risk factors, stratified by country, race, and sex. We corrected for multiple comparisons using Dunn’s test with Bonferroni correction for continuous variables and Chi-square testing with Holm-Bonferroni correction for categorical variables. ResultsThe study enrolled 500 males and 229 females, median age 60 and 61 (p=0.027) years, respectively. Participants were predominantly White (570) and Asian (149). The study eye BCVA was 71 (53, 84) characters (approximately logMAR score 0.4), and the TD for stimulus III was -16.5 dB (-22.2, -12.6) and -15.7 dB (-20.8, -10.9) for stimulus V. The vertical and horizontal cup:disc ratio was 0.1 (0.1, 0.3) for unaffected fellow eyes. The prevalence of CV risk factors varied among countries. The most notable differences were in the baseline comorbidities and ophthalmological features, which differed between the Asian and White races. Males and females differed with respect to a few clinically meaningful features. ConclusionsThe CV risk factors in our NAION cohort varied among the seven countries, race and sex but were not typically more prevalent than previously reported in the general population. Ophthalmic features, typical of NAION, were generally consistent across countries, race and sex, except for worse BCVA and TD in China. Men have a frequency of NAION twice women. Having a small cup:disc ratio in the fellow eye was the most prevalent and consistent risk factor across all demographics. This study suggests that other factors, not yet identified, may contribute to the development of NAION.

Application of Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography in True and Pseudo-Optic Disc Swelling.

We evaluated the optic disc microvasculature in healthy subjects and patients with optic nerve head drusen (ONHD), active papilledema, and acute nonarteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION) using optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA). This prospective, comparative case series included sixteen eyes with ONHD, thirty-one eyes with active papilledema, sixteen eyes with acute NAION, and thirty-two healthy eyes. The Optovue AngioVue OCT and OCTA Imaging System recorded peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness and vessel density maps from the radial peripapillary capillary (RPC) slab. Average RNFL thicknesses were greater in eyes with ONHD, papilledema, and NAION compared to control eyes (all Ps < 0.001), but this parameter did not differ among patient groups. The mean peripapillary vessel density did not differ between the ONHD and control groups (P=1.000), nor between the NAION and papilledema groups (P=0.216). However, this value in the ONHD and control groups was significantly higher than in the NAION and papilledema groups (all Ps < 0.05). RPC density is influenced during the progression of conditions such as ONHD, papilledema, and NAION. Although a decrease in vessel density values has been observed in cases of true disc edema, further research is necessary to assess the potential of OCTA in differentiating between true and pseudo-optic disc edema.

Intravitreal allogeneic mesenchymal stem cells: a non-randomized phase II clinical trial for acute non-arteritic optic neuropathy

BackgroundAn effective treatment for acute non-arteritic ischemic optic neuropathy (NA-AION) has not been known or proven yet. Previous studies have suggested a neuroprotective effect of allogeneic bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells. This study aims to report the results of a clinical trial on patients with acute non-arteritic optic neuropathy (NA-AION) treated with an intravitreal injection of allogeneic bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSCs) (MSV®).MethodsWe conducted a prospective, non-randomized, clinical phase-II study (Eudra CT number 2016-003029-40; ClinicalTrials.gov Registry NCT03173638) that included 5 patients with acute unilateral NA-AION diagnosed within 2 weeks after symptom onset and who received an intravitreal injection of allogeneic BM-MSCs (0.05 ml; cell concentration: 1.5 × 106cells/mL). The patients underwent regular ophthalmological examinations and were followed for one year.ResultsIn this trial, allogeneic BM-MSCs appeared to be safe as no patients developed signs of acute nor chronic intraocular inflammation or a significant change in intraocular pressure, although an epiretinal membrane was developed in one patient. A retrolental aggregate formed shortly after the injection spontaneously disappeared within a few weeks in another phakic patient, leaving a subcapsular cataract. Visual improvement was noted in 4 patients, and amplitudes of P100 on the visually evoked potentials recordings increased in three patients. The retinal nerve fiber layer and macular ganglion cell layer thicknesses significantly decreased during the follow-up.ConclusionsBesides the development of an epiretinal membrane in one patient, the intravitreal application of allogeneic BM-MSCs appeared to be intraocularly well tolerated. Consequently, not only NA-AION but also BM-MSCs deserve more clinical investigational resources and a larger randomized multicenter trial that would provide stronger evidence both about safety and the potential therapeutic efficacy of intravitreally injected allogeneic BM-MSCs in acute NA-AION.Trial registration: Safety Assessment of Intravitreal Mesenchymal Stem Cells for Acute Non-Arteritic Anterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy (NEUROSTEM). NCT03173638. Registered June 02, 2017 https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03173638.

Intravitreal Aflibercept for Patients with Acute Nonarteritic Anterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy: A Retrospective Trial.

This study aimed to investigate whether intravitreal aflibercept was safe and effective in patients with acute nonarteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION). This was a chart study of 25 individuals with acute NAION (25 eyes). An intravitreal injection of 2 mg/0.05 mL of aflibercept was administered to fifteen participants. The remaining ten patients in the control group were given standard care. The researchers measured the initial visual acuity, retinal nerve fiber layer thickness (RNFLT), and automated perimetry. During the follow-up period, the researchers measured the final visual acuity, RNFLT, automated perimetry, and side effects. Visual acuity and visual field assessment were significantly improved in the study group, and optical coherence tomography testing demonstrated significant disc edema resolution. The therapy results differed significantly between the two groups regarding visual outcomes (F = 0.027, p = 0.039) and RNFLT decrease (F = 5.507, p = 0.003). However, the difference in visual field alterations was not significant (F = 0.724, p = 0.387). Intravitreal injection of aflibercept can significantly improve visual acuity and resolve disc edema in patients with acute NAION. Intravitreal aflibercept may be an alternative treatment for acute NAION. However, a large series investigation is needed to assess the long-term therapeutic benefit and safety of intravitreal aflibercept in patients with acute NAION.

Optical coherence tomography analysis of the optic nerve head and macula of the fellow eye in acute unilateral nonarteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy

The objective of the study was to compare the thickness of the retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) and ganglion cell complex (GCC) of the fellow eyes of patients with acute nonarteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAAION) to those of control subjects. This study included 46 patients with NAAION matched for age, sex and refraction data (spherical equivalent and/or axial length) to 46 control subjects. The anatomical parameters assessed using the Cirrus SD-OCT were the mean RNFL thickness, in the 4 quadrants (inferior, nasal, temporal, superior) and according to the 12 hourly meridians, GCC mean and in 6 quadrants centered on the fovea (infero-nasal, supero-nasal, infero-temporal, supero-temporal, superior and inferior) and parameters of the optic disc (Cup ratio - Vertical and Average Disc, Rim Area, Disc Area, Cup Volume). Compared to the control group, the eyes contralateral to those affected by NAAION showed a greater value of the area of the neuro-retinal rim (rim area), and a smaller vertical cup/disc (C/D) ratio, mean C/D, and cup volume than the control group. There was no significant difference between the two groups for peripapillary RNFL thickness and GCC parameters. The absence of damage to the RNFL or GCC of the unaffected fellow eyes of patients with NAAION does not explain the perimetric damage. The eyes contralateral to those affected by NAAION are characterized by an overall size of the optic disc identical to those of the control subjects, but a smaller cup, a recognized risk factor for NAAION.

Characteristics of macrophage-like cells in acute nonarteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy and the normal fellow eyes on en face optical coherence tomography.

To quantitatively analyze macrophage-like cells (MLCs) at the vitreoretinal interface (VRI) in acute nonarteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION) using en face swept-source optical coherence tomography (OCT). Twenty-five acute NAION eyes and 25 normal fellow eyes from 25 patients were included in the study. MLCs were visualized in a 3 μm 6 mm×6 mm en face OCT slab above the VRI centered on the optic nerve head (ONH). After semiautomatic binarization and quantification, we evaluated the MLC density between the two groups. We also investigated the relationship between MLC density and other OCT parameters, including the increase in peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness and loss of vessel density (VD) in radical peripapillary capillary (RPC). The MLC density in the affected eye of the ONH was highly correlated with that in the fellow eye (r=0.612, p=0.001). The MLC density significantly increased in acute NAION eyes (NAION vs. normal, 11.97 ± 6.66 vs. 9.31 ± 6.10 cell/mm2, p=0.028). In sectorial analysis, the increase in MLCs was mainly in the superior regions (4.13 ± 7.49 vs. 0.94 ± 5.21 cell/mm2, p=0.001). The VD of RPC decreased significantly in the affected eyes (NAION vs. normal, 37.54 ± 5.25 vs. 40.56 ± 4.25, p=0.016), and the loss of RPC was predominantly in the superior sectors and the temporal sectors when compared to the inferior sectors and the nasal sectors, respectively (superior vs. inferior, -3.54 ± 6.71 vs. -0.37 ± 8.07, p=0.004; temporal vs. nasal, -2.69 ± 8.72 vs. -1.22 ± 6.06, p=0.005). The loss of RPC and the increase in MLC density were greater in affected sector corresponding to the visual field (VF) defect. MLCs located above the VRI increased significantly in acute NAION eyes, especially in subregions corresponding to VF defect, which provides clinical evidence supporting that the inflammatory response participates in the pathological process of NAION. The magnitude of the increase in MLCs corresponds to the RPC loss in the quadrant analysis.

Neuroprotection in ophthalmology. Targets in the most frequent diseases. A clinician's point of view

AbstractObjectives: To briefly review the most frequent ocular diseases in which a neuroprotective treatment would be needed and to present the results of a translational research based on the neuroprotective capacities of allogeneic bone marrow‐derived mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in an ocular disease that currently lacks treatment, the non‐arteritic acute anterior ischemic optic neuropathy. (NA‐AION) considered as an infarct of the optic nerve head.Methods: After extensive preclinical evaluation of safety in rabbits, a prospective, non‐randomized, phase II clinical trial (Eudra CT number 2016–003029‐40 and ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03173638) was approved. Five patients with acute unilateral NA‐AION diagnosed within the first 2 weeks after symptom onset were included. After informed consent, patients received an intravitreal injection of 0.05 ml containing 150 μl of isotonic medium composed of Ringer's lactate, 0.5% human albumin, and 5 mM glucose, with a cell concentration of 1.5 × 106 cells/ml. The injection was administered using a 25‐gauge needle via the pars plana after topical anaesthesia. Patients were followed on days 1, 7, 30, 90, 180 and 1 year after injection. Safety was defined as the absence of an inflammatory reaction. The best‐corrected visual acuity, visual evoked potentials (VEP) and retinal nerve fibre layer (RNFL) and ganglion cell layer (GCL) thicknesses were measured.Results: No patients had signs of intraocular inflammation at any time. An epiretinal membrane (ERM) developed in one patient. One phakic patient had a retrolental aggregate that did not progress to cataract. Four patients had visual improvement and three had increased amplitudes on the VEP recordings after treatment. The RNFL and GCL thicknesses decreased significantly in parallel with the visible papillary atrophy that developed during the follow‐up period.Conclusions: Despite development of an ERM in one patient and a possible cellular deposit in the retrolental space, the functional results are encouraging. A larger multicentre study of treated patients that includes a control group is currently running. The paracrine capacities of allergenic MSCs should be more extensively investigated in the clinic, taking advantage of their non‐immunogenicity, their ease of obtaining and their apparent safety.Financial support: Funded by Strategic Action in Health of the Institute of Health Carlos III (PIC18/00018), the Department of Regional Health of the Castilla y Léon Government (GRS 1928/A/19), and the Department of Education of the Castilla y León Regional Government (Grant VA077P17).

Accuracy of peripapillary OCTA in patients with acute nonarteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy

ObjectifÉvaluer l'exactitude de la segmentation péripapillaire par angiographie-tomographie par cohérence optique (OCTA) dans des yeux présentant une neuropathie optique ischémique antérieure non artéritique (NOIANA) aiguë et dans des yeux sains. MéthodeDans le cadre de cette étude rétrospective, on a obtenu des images OCTA en face du disque optique d'yeux sains et d'yeux présentant une NOIANA aiguë unilatérale. Les délimitations de la bordure du disque optique et la segmentation du capillaire péripapillaire radial (RPC) ont été générées automatiquement par le logiciel de l'appareil et corrigées par 2 examinateurs spécialisés qui ont évalué la fréquence des erreurs de segmentation et leurs répercussions sur la mesure de la densité vasculaire et de l’épaisseur de la couche de fibres nerveuses (NFL). RésultatsAinsi, 38 yeux de 38 sujets (18 dans le groupe de témoins en bonne santé et 20 dans le groupe NOIANA aiguë) ont pris part à l’étude. Une mauvaise identification de la bordure du disque optique s'est produite dans 5 yeux sains (27,7 %) et dans 19 yeux présentant une NOIANA (95,0 %; p < 0,001). Une erreur de segmentation du RPC a été observée dans 6 yeux sains (33,33 %) et dans 19 yeux présentant une NOIANA (95,0 %; p < 0,001). Une fois les erreurs corrigées, l’épaisseur de la NFL et la densité du RPC n'ont pas varié de manière statistiquement significative dans ni l'un ni l'autre des groupes. ConclusionsL'identification erronée de la bordure du disque optique et les erreurs de segmentation de la couche de RPC sont fréquentes dans les images OCTA du disque optique. L'exactitude de l'imagerie OCTA en matière de délimitation de la bordure du disque optique et de segmentation du réseau de RPC est moindre lorsque le disque optique est œdématié en raison d'une NOIANA aiguë.

Evaluation of Optic Disc Perfusion with Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography in Acute Non-arteritic Anterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy

Objectives:This study aimed to evaluate superficial peripapillary vascularization qualitatively and quantitatively in patients with acute non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION) using optical coherence tomography angiography (OCT-A).Materials and Methods:Eleven patients with acute NAION and 14 controls were evaluated retrospectively. Complete ophthalmologic examination with best corrected visual acuity, peripheral visual field test, and disc angiography with OCT-A were performed. Quantitative optic disc perfusion indexes were evaluated by the device with automatically segmentation and qualitative comparison of choroidal, retinal, and en-face peripapillary perfusion angiogram images.Results:In the NAION and control groups, mean age was 57.55±12.34 years and 50.79±4.67 years (p=0.110), the proportion of women was 7/11 (63.6%) and 9/14 (60%), and best corrected visual acuity was 0.95±0.63 and 0.00±0.0 LogMAR (p=0.001), respectively. Visual field defect was present in 10/11 (91%) eyes in the NAION group. In 6 patients, visual field defects were correlated with areas of peripapillary and optic nerve head hypoperfusion. In the patient group, optic nerve head capillary density was significantly decreased (p=0.008) and radial peripapillary capillary density was significantly decreased in all sectors except the inferonasal sector.Conclusion:In our study, we observed that visual field evaluations were partially correlated with optic nerve head and peripapillary capillary perfusion assessed by OCT-A. Being practical and non-invasive, OCT-A is a useful and up-to-date method for evaluating perfusion in NAION.

Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography Characteristics and Predictors of Visual Outcomes in Patients With Acute and Chronic Nonarteritic Anterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy

To investigate the correlation between optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) characteristics and visual outcomes in patients with acute and chronic nonarteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION). We retrospectively reviewed clinical data and OCTA images of 26 eyes of 26 patients who had been diagnosed with unilateral NAION. OCTA images were acquired from 17 eyes at the acute stage and from 21 eyes at the chronic stage of NAION. We analyzed the peripapillary vessel density (VD) and macular VD in various layers of the retina and choroid for all images. Possible correlations between the OCTA parameters and visual outcomes were investigated. Among the OCTA parameters for the acute stage of NAION, the temporal peripapillary VD was found to be positively correlated with final visual acuity and visual field with statistical significance (P = 0.039 and 0.009, respectively). In the chronic stage of NAION, both peripapillary and superficial macular VDs were positively correlated with visual outcomes. The nasal perifoveal VD in the superficial capillary plexus (SCP) also had a significant correlation with final visual acuity for both acute and chronic stages (the Spearman correlation coefficient = 0.565 and 0.685, respectively). In patients with NAION, significant correlations were found between OCTA parameters and visual outcomes. The temporal peripapillary VD measured during the acute stage was a significant predictor of final visual outcomes. The decreased nasal perifoveal VD in the SCP was strongly associated with poor visual prognosis.

Comparison of Peripapillary Vessel Density of Acute Nonarteritic Anterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy and Other Optic Neuropathies With Disc Swelling Using Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography: A Pilot Study.

The purpose of this study is to quantitatively compare the peripapillary vessel density (PPVD), measured with optical coherence tomography angiography (OCT-A), between acute nonarteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION) and other causes of disc swelling ("others"). In this prospective comparative case series, patients with unilateral disc swelling due to acute NAION (n = 7) and "others" (n = 7) underwent OCT-A scanning of the optic nerve head with a swept-source OCT (Triton DRI-OCT), in addition to functional assessment. OCT-A images were analyzed using an automated customized MATLAB program. Comparison was made between total and 6 sectoral PPVD (radial peripapillary capillary [RPC] and choroid layers) of affected and fellow eyes; and between the 2 groups' affected eyes. Five NAION patients had repeated assessments at 1, 3, and 6 months. Acute NAION eyes had a significantly lower total and superonasal PPVD (both layers) compared to fellow eyes. No such difference was observed in "others" group for the RPC layer. NAION eyes also had significantly lower total RPC PPVD than affected eyes in the "others" group. Over 6 months, NAION eyes had persistently lower RPC PPVD compared to fellow eyes but the reduced choroidal PPVD resolved by 1 month. The study demonstrated reduced superonasal and total RPC PPVD in acute NAION, which persisted over 6 months. Because there is currently no single diagnostic test for NAION, use of OCT-A images to analyze RPC PPVD may potentially help distinguish acute NAION from other causes of disc swelling by quantitatively demonstrating capillary dropout in the RPC layer.

Evaluation of acute anterior ischaemic optic neuropathy using diffusion tensor imaging

BackgroundAdequate diagnosis of acute anterior ischaemic optic neuropathy (AION) is challenging to achieve with traditional medical imaging approaches. The aim of this study was to evaluate the detection capacity of diffusion tensor imaging for abnormalities of the optic nerve in acute AION patients.MethodsDiffusion tensor imaging data were collected from 31 patients with acute AION and 20 healthy subjects. The mean fractional anisotropy and apparent diffusion co‐efficient subsequently were evaluated across all subjects.ResultsIn affected nerves, the mean fractional anisotropy was reduced and the mean apparent diffusion co‐efficient was increased in acute AION patients compared with control nerves (p < 0.001), as well as clinically unaffected contralateral nerves (p < 0.001). The mean fractional anisotropy and apparent diffusion co‐efficient demonstrated no difference between normal control nerves and clinically unaffected contralateral nerves (p = 0.73 and 0.92, respectively).ConclusionDiffusion tensor imaging of the optic nerves demonstrated diagnostic potential for acute AION and could serve as a novel tool for the detection and evaluation of therapies.

Choroidal Thickness in Acute Non-arteritic Anterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy.

PurposeTo compare the choroidal thickness in eyes with acute non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION) with healthy contralateral eye and normal controls.MethodsThirty-eight eyes with NAION, thirty-eight unaffected fellow eyes, and seventy-four eyes from 37 healthy, age- and sex-matched subjects were included in this prospective comparative case-control study. Choroidal thickness was measured by enhanced depth imaging (EDI) of spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT). Peripapillary choroidal thickness (PCT) was measured at 1000 and 1500 m from Bruch's membrane opening (BMO). Subfoveal choroidal thickness (SFCT) was measured in central subfoveal area, and 500 microns apart in temporal and nasal sides. Choroidal thickness among NAION eyes, uninvolved fellow eyes, and control eyes were compared.Results The mean of PCT at 1000 m was significantly thicker in NAION and fellow eyes compared to control eyes (169.7 47, 154.4 42.1, and 127.7 49.9 m, respectively, P 0.001 and P = 0.42). The mean PCT at 1500 m was also significantly thicker in NAION and fellow eyes compared to control eyes (178.6 52.8, 162.6 46.1, and 135.1 59 m, respectively, P = 0.007 and P = 0.048). The mean PCT at 1000 and 1500 m was significantly greater in NAION compared to fellow eyes (P = 0.027 and P = 0.035, respectively). The mean of SFCT was significantly thicker in NAION compared to control eyes (P = 0.032); however, there was no significant difference between uninvolved fellow and control eyes (P = 0.248).ConclusionThicker choroidal thickness in acute NAION and uninvolved fellow eyes compared to normal eyes suggests a primary choroidal role in NAION pathophysiology.

Assessment of peripapillary vessel density in acute non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy.

To assess the peripapillary perfusion in eyes with acute non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION) using optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA). Twenty-five patients with unilateral acute NAION were included in this observational cross-sectional study. They were divided into two groups: group I (25 eyes) included eyes with acute NAION, and group II (25 eyes) included fellow normal eyes. Diagnosis of NAION was based on clinical examination and fluorescein angiography. OCTA (AngioVue, Optovue) was used to evaluate the optic nerve head perfusion and measure the peripapillary vessel density in all eyes included in the study. Fourteen male and 11 female patients with a mean age of 60.2 ± 3.5years were included in this study. The mean duration of presentation was 4.3 ± 0.6days. Mean BCVA was 0.13 ± 0.06 and 0.69 ± 0.18 in eyes with NAION and normal eyes, respectively (p < 0.001). The peripapillary vessel was significantly decreased in all eyes with NAION compared with normal ones (p < 0.001). Two morphological changes were noted in eyes with NAION: vascular dropout related to area of disc edema in 25 eyes (100% of eyes) and vascular dilatation with tortuosity in 17 eyes (68%). Eyes with NAION have decreased peripapillary vessel density with peripapillary vascular dilatation and tortuosity as assessed by OCTA.

Neuropathie optique dans le syndrome des anticorps anti MOG positif

The diagnosis of optic neuritis (ON), or inflammation of the optic nerve, is based on clinical findings: first marked by rapidly progressive visual decline associated with eye pain accentuated by eye movements; abnormalities of color perception and/or contrast sensitivity may also be reported. In this case, inflammatory neuropathies are associated with anti-MOG antibodies. MOGs, oligodendrocytic glycoproteins involved in the production of myelin, were identified nearly three decades ago in association with demyelinating ON. The first series were reported in children following demyelinating neurological manifestations, particularly in ADEM (acute demyelinating encephalomyelitis) or multiple sclerosis (MS) [1]. Anti-MOGs are associated with neuropathies in the phenotypic setting of the neuromyelitis optica (NO) spectrum, and anti-Aquaporin 4antibodies (AQP4) are negative by definition. Thus, anti-MOG could explain up to 30% of cases of seronegative optic neuritis; their presence thus represents a significant diagnostic aid for the clinician, especially during a first neurological episode [1]. The first short published series in AQP4-/MOG+populations revealed primarily ophthalmological involvement with a good prognosis for recovery [1]. Knowledge of these antigens is important; it may permit not only an understanding of the physiopathology but also the stratification of patients in terms of prognosis and response to treatment [2]. Thus, the early diagnosis of anti-MOG positive ON must prompt aggressive initial treatment and a more or less maintenance therapy to prevent recurrence. The role of the ophthalmologist remains paramount, since most cases present with purely ocular involvement. We report herein the clinical, ophthalmological, laboratory and radiological data for 25patients (45eyes) managed between February 2011and January 2017. All of our patients had optic neuritis associated with anti-MOG antibodies. All patients underwent the following testing: -Visual acuity; -Humphrey and/or Goldmann visual field; -Non-mydriatic fundus photography; -Optic disc OCT; -3Tesla orbital-cerebral MRI with and without contrast; -Standard and immunological laboratory testing for anti-MOG and anti AQP4antibodies by Western Blot and ELISA. The male: female ratio of the population was 0.92 (13women and 12men). The average age at onset was 35.68years (15to 60years); 40% of the subjects were between 31and 40years old. The initial symptoms leading to consultation were mostly visual acuity (80%) and pain (88%). Involvement was bilateral in 80% of cases (5unilateral). Initial visual acuity was poor; 52% of eyes were less than or equal to count fingers. The course was favorable however, with visual acuity returning to 10-12/10after 6months of follow-up (84% of eyes). Orbital/cerebral MRI with attention to the visual pathways revealed involvement of the anterior visual pathways with gadolinium uptake in 92% of cases. Of the 35eyes initially considered affected, the main initial diagnoses were: -36% retro-bulbar optic neuritis (RBON); -40% anterior optic neuritis (AON); -24% other; of which 16% were initially diagnosed as acute anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (AAION). 96% of patients received corticosteroid treatment in the acute phase. 16% required plasma exchange sessions. Maintenance therapy was proposed for only 36% of the population. Optic neuritis is a pathology frequently encountered in ophthalmology; a good knowledge of symptoms and clinical signs is essential for early diagnosis and optimal management. The identification of autoantibodies, including anti-MOG antibodies, is important for patient management and is part of the required testing for all cases of optic neuritis, in order to adapt the treatment of the acute episode and to provide maintenance therapy to avoid recurrence.