Walsh & Hoyt: Clinical Chartacteristics of Nutritional and Toxic Optic Neuropathies

Individuals of all ages, races, places, and economic strata are vulnerable to the toxic and nutritional deficiency optic neuropathies. Certain groups are at higher risk because they are under treatment with drugs, because of occupational exposure, or because of habits such as smoking and drinking. Nutritional deficiency optic neuropathy is more likely to occur in the economically disadvantaged and during times of war and famine. The value of taking a thorough history, including dietary intake, exposure to drugs, use of tobacco, and social and occupational background is obvious.