[Hyperopia as a risk factor in patients with non-arteritic anterior ischaemic optic neuropathy].

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to review the refractive errors of non-arteritic anterior ischaemic optic neuropathy (NAION) patients, especially with regard to hyperopia as an additional risk for NAION.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The medical records of detailed ophthalmic examinations of 45 patients with acute NAION who were admitted to our department between January 1, 2002 and January 1, 2007 were reviewed retrospectively. Refractive errors were measured with an autorefractometer. The spherical equivalent (sum of sphere and cylinder) was used as a measure of refractive error.

RESULTS

The majority of eyes (32 of 45) were hyperopic (71.1 %) The average degree of hyperopia was + 1.86 D. Six of 45 patients (13.3 %) were myopic. The average degree of myopia was -0.87 D.

CONCLUSION

Our results suggest that hyperopia could be a predisposing factor for NAION. Since there is no reliable and effective treatment for NAION, measures to avoid ischaemic optic neuropathy have priority. Patients with moderate hyperopia should receive a detailed eye examination with emphasis placed on recognition and management of other possible risk factors to minimise the risk for NAION. Prevention of possible risk factors is the only way to avoid this severe complication and to prevent the involvement of the fellow eye.