Purpose:
To analyze the clinical presentations, risk factors, and management outcomes in patients presenting with dysthyroid optic neuropathy (DON).
Methods:
This is a retrospective, single-center study carried out on consecutive patients presenting with DON over a period of 4 years (2013–2016). The VISA classification was used at the first visit and subsequent follow-ups. The diagnosis was based on optic nerve function tests and imaging features. Demographic profiles, clinical features, risk factors, and management outcomes were analyzed.
Results:
Thirty-seven eyes of 26 patients diagnosed with DON were included in the study. A significant male preponderance was noted (20, 76.92%). Twenty patients (76.9%,
P
= 0.011) had hyperthyroidism, and 15 (57.69%,
P
= 0.02) were smokers. Decreased visual acuity was noted in 28 eyes (75.6%). Abnormal color vision and relative afferent pupillary defects were seen in 24 (64.86%) eyes, and visual field defects were seen in 30 (81.01%) eyes. The visual evoked potential (VEP) showed a reduced amplitude in 30 (96.77%,
P
= 0.001) of 31 eyes and delayed latency in 20 (64.51%,
P
= 0.0289) eyes. Twenty-six (70.27%) patients were treated with intravenous methyl prednisolone (IVMP) alone, whereas 11 (29.72%) needed surgical decompression. The overall best-corrected visual acuity improved by 0.2 l logMARunits. There was no statistically significant difference in outcome between medically and surgically treated groups. Four patients developed recurrent DON, and all of them were diabetics.
Conclusion:
Male gender, hyperthyroid state, and smoking are risk factors for developing DON. VEP, apical crowding, and optic nerve compression are sensitive indicators for diagnosing DON. Diabetics may have a more defiant course and are prone to develop recurrent DON.
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