Overview
Optic atrophy is a term used to describe damage or degeneration of the retinal ganglion cell axons which results in a pale or grey-white optic nerve appearance or cupping indicating loss of neural tissue. The edges of the disc also lose the "soft" appearance seen in a healthy nerve and become much more distinct.
Optic atrophy can be caused by injury to the retinal ganglion cells and axons anywhere from the retina to the lateral geniculate body. There are numerous potential causes including glaucoma. However, other causes should be considered as differentials before coming to a diagnosis of glaucoma. This may save a patient from undergoing lifetime glaucoma treatment unnecessarily, or may save a potentially life-threatening diagnosis being missed.
In this Atlas, we will consider both hereditary and acquired causes of optic atrophy. More information may be accessed using the links below.