Early Optic Nerve Head Swelling Rate Is Associated with Worsening of Visual Outcomes in Nonarteritic Anterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy.
OphthalmologyMay 18, 2026 (epub)
Clinical ResearchOphthalmology
Brian Woods, David Szanto, Jui-Kai Wang et al.
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In 30 seconds
This longitudinal cohort study analyzed data from 715 participants with acute nonarteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION) to evaluate the relationship between early optic nerve head (ONH) swelling rates and visual outcomes. Results indicated that each 0.15-mm³/day increase in ONH swelling was associated with higher odds of visual field (VF) worsening (OR, 1.84) and best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) worsening (OR, 1.52) by month 6.
Key findings
- Each 0.15-mm³/day increase in pONHV was linked to 1.84 odds of VF worsening.
- Each 0.15-mm³/day increase in pONHV was associated with 1.52 odds of BCVA worsening.
- Thinning of the mGCIPL was detectable within 14 days of symptom onset.
- Progressive atrophy was observed by month 6, with pRNFLT decreasing to 56.7 ±14.9 μm.
Why it matters
Understanding the relationship between early ONH swelling and visual outcomes in NAION can help clinicians identify patients at risk for worsening vision, potentially guiding monitoring and intervention strategies.