Posterior ischemic optic neuropathy following a major burn injury and review of the literature

Abstract

Posterior ischaemic optic neuropathy following burns is a rare but devastating condition that can result in total bilateral visual loss. Numerous treatment modalities have been trialled yet there is no effective therapy to delay or reverse the disease. Hence, it is imperative for burns surgeons to be aware of the potential risk factors and have a high index of suspicion right from the outset in order to prevent this outcome. Here, we discuss the case of a patient that developed posterior ischaemic optic neuropathy subsequent to a major burn injury. We also present a literature review on optic neuropathies following burns to describe the aetiology, clinical signs, and potential management.