Optic Nerve Hypoplasia

Optic nerve hypoplasia is a developmental condition in which the optic nerve is smaller than usual, causing reduced vision from birth.

Common symptoms

Reduced visual acuity, nystagmus, limited visual fields, and sometimes difficulty with contrast or light sensitivity.

Description

Optic nerve hypoplasia occurs when the optic nerve, which carries visual information from the eye to the brain, does not develop fully before birth. It can affect one or both eyes and the degree of visual impairment ranges from mild to severe.

The condition may be isolated or part of a wider syndrome that also involves the brain or hormone-producing glands, such as septo-optic dysplasia. Children with optic nerve hypoplasia are therefore usually assessed for associated developmental and hormonal issues.

There is no treatment that can regrow the optic nerve, so support focuses on making the most of remaining vision. Glasses, low vision aids, habilitation, and close working between eye, endocrine, and educational teams are all important parts of long-term care.