OPTIC ATROPHY

primary optic atrophy [disease of ganglion cells of optic nerve; no previous disc swelling]:

congenital variants

trauma to or pressure on optic nerve [intraorbital or intracranial space-occupying lesions]

tertiary syphilis

secondary optic atrophy [disease of optic nerve fibres; preceded by disc swelling]:

papilloedema

anterior ischaemic optic neuropathy

papillitis [various causes]

consecutive optic atrophy [generalised retinal disease, with optic atrophy not being the 'main feature']:

retinitis pigmentosa and other retinal degenerations

generalised chorioretinitis

central artery or vein occlusion

extensive senile macular degeneration

click here for causes of optic atrophy classified as congenital or acquired

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