Anterior ischemic optic neuropathy secondary to interferon alpha
Abstract
Background: Anterior ischemic optic neuropathy rarely occurs with interferon alpha therapy. The mechanism by which interferon induces anterior ischemic optic neuropathy is unknown.
Methods: A 62-year-old man presented with complaints of sudden severe loss of vision in the left eye. He has been receiving interferon alpha and ribavirin for chronic infection with hepatitis C virus. Vision loss occurred 6 months after the beginning of treatment. After we ruled out other possible etiologies, a diagnosis of anterior ischemic optic neuropathy due to interferon therapy was made and the drug was discontinued. A follow up 3 weeks later showed an improvement of visual acuity and resolution of scotoma, disc hemorrhage and edema.
Conclusions: The resolution of anterior ischemic optic neuropathy after discontinuation of interferon suggested a casual relation, though the pathophysiologic mechanism remains unknown. An ophthalmologic examination should be performed in patients with risk factors of visual loss before and regularly during interferon treatment.
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References
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