Research advance of ischemic optic neuropathy

Ischemic optic neuropathy(ION)is a common eye disease that could cause blindness. ION can be classified as anterior ischemic optic neuropathy(AION)or posterior ischemic optic neuropathy(PION)according to the presence or absence of optic disc edema. AION is more prevalent(90%). Moreover, ION can be divided into arteritic ION and non-arteritic ION based on the presence or absence of vasculitis. While various forms of ION may present comparable clinical symptoms, they differ considerably in terms of etiology, prognosis, and treatment approaches.Arteritic ION has the potential to cause blindness, disability, and even mortality in a short period of time. Therefore, early detection of arteritis and determination of the need for corticosteroid therapy are essential for the treatment of ION. The positive significance of identifying and managing potential modifiable risk factors for ION lies in its ability to prevent recurrence in both the affected and contralateral eyes. This article reviews the etiology, risk factors, diagnosis, and management of various varieties of ION with the goal of reducing misdiagnosis and improper treatment, thereby enhancing the overall prognosis of this condition.