eye disorders
Ischemic Optic Neuropathy
Key Points
Ischemic optic neuropathy is usually caused by atherosclerosis, but giant cell arteritis should always be ruled out. Suspect ischemic optic neuropathy in patients 55 years and older who have sudden, painless loss of vision. If giant cell arteritis is suspected, treat it with corticosteroids to decrease the risk of contralateral involvement. Visual prognosis tends to be poor. 