Optic Disc Structure in Ischemic Optic Neuropathy

The etiology of non-arteritic ischemic optic neuropathy is presumed to be secondary to atherosclerotic changes in the optic disc vasculature but, despite the frequent occurrence of this disorder, pathologic confirmation is lacking. Although hypertension may be associated, few patients have advanced systemic atherosclerotic disease and most are in excellent general health. Other unexplained features of ischemic optic neuropathy include the superior portion of the optic disc being involved more frequently than the inferior portion and second ischemic episodes in the same eye being rare.