[Computer tomography in drusen of the optic papilla].

Drusen (astrocytic hamartoma) of the optic nerve are a rare eye disease produced by ocular calcification (inclusions containing calcium) at the optic disc surface. These drusen can lead to eye complaints as they grow bigger; in particular, they can cause loss of vision and can also limit the visual field. Ophthalmologically, they are characterised by an indistinct optic disc and/or ectasia of the optic disc which is sometimes combined with a poorly defined optic disc margin. Differential diagnosis must take into consideration the presence of space-occupying intracranial processes. The final diagnosis can be made via computerised tomography on the basis of a characteristic calcification pattern. Hence, the radiologist must be familiar with the disease pattern and must be able to differentiate this against other types of intraocular calcifications.