Toxic optic neuropathy.
Toxic optic neuropathy is a complex, multifactorial disease potentially affecting individuals of all ages, races, places, and economic strata. Etiology includes nutritional, environmental, toxicologic, and genetic factors. Most cases of nutritional amblyopia are encountered in disadvantaged countries. However, toxic amblyopia related to drug treatment or alcohol abuse is also encountered in the Western world. Typically, toxic and nutritional optic neuropathy is progressive, with bilateral symmetrical painless visual loss causing central or cecocentral scotoma. There is no specific treatment for this disorder. Nevertheless, early detection and prompt management may ameliorate and even prevent severe visual deficit.
Kesler
Anat
A
Neuro-Ophthalmology Unit, Department of Ophthalmology, Tel Aviv Medical Center, 6 Weizmann Street, Tel Aviv 64239, Israel. kesler@netvision.net.il
Pianka
Pazit
P
D000428:Alcohol Drinking / Q000009:adverse effects; D064420:Drug-Related Side Effects and Adverse Reactions; D006801:Humans; D044342:Malnutrition / Q000150:complications; D009901:Optic Nerve Diseases / Q000139:chemically induced / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology*; D009902:Optic Neuritis / Q000139:chemically induced / Q000175:diagnosis; D012907:Smoking / Q000009:adverse effects