title: Mistaken diagnosis of optic neuritis and the possible role of phosphodiasterase-5 inhibitors (Sildenafil/Viagra).
abstract: The diagnosis of optic neuritis and particularly retrobulbar optic neuritis when atypical and not responsive to corticosteroid treatment may need to be revised. This is now especially so in male patients who should be questioned regarding their taking a phosphodiasterase-5 inhibitor in particular Viagra. The case history of such a patient is presented who sustained posterior ischaemic optic neuropathy mistaken for retrobulbar neuritis resulting in bilateral severe visual loss.
authors: Neuro-Ophthalmology Service, Singapore National Eye Centre, 11 Third Hospital, Avenue, Singapore 168751. jbarrycullen@yahoo.com
authors: J F
authors: JF
authors: Cullen
authors: H W
authors: HW
authors: Chung
mesh_terms: D003951:Diagnostic Errors; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009902:Optic Neuritis / Q000139:chemically induced / Q000175:diagnosis*; D018917:Optic Neuropathy, Ischemic / Q000175:diagnosis*; D058986:Phosphodiesterase 5 Inhibitors / Q000009:adverse effects*; D010879:Piperazines / Q000009:adverse effects*; D011687:Purines / Q000009:adverse effects; D000068677:Sildenafil Citrate; D013450:Sulfones / Q000009:adverse effects*
chemical_list: D058986:Phosphodiesterase 5 Inhibitors; D010879:Piperazines; D011687:Purines; D013450:Sulfones; D000068677:Sildenafil Citrate