Acute Vascular Insufficiency of the Optic Nerve

Abstract

Sudden, temporary loss of vision in one or both eyes is often the first sign of a diffuse vascular disorder that may affect other organ systems in a short time. Persistent visual loss in a patient who has had episodes of temporary loss of vision is almost diagnostic of ischemic optic nerve disease and calls for urgent measures (within the first two hours). While arteriosclerosis is the most common underlying process, giant- cell arteritis may be responsible. The diagnosis is confirmed by biopsy of a temporal artery. Steroid therapy is given in an effort to halt progression.