Optic atrophy in Iran

Optic atrophy in Ethiopia

Optic Atrophy is a leading cause of blindness, accounting for 10% of visually impaired patients in Iran. This happens because the optic nerve, which sends visual images from the eye to the brain, is damaged. Because the optic nerve is irrepairable, blinding is the consequence of damage to this structure.

The establishment of an eye stem centre in Iran could significantly contribute to early detection and experimental treatments for optic nerve conditions.

Causes and Risk Factors

In Iran, the leading causes of OA are:

Optic Neuritis Idiopathic: Also called optic nerve infectious optic nerve disease is for which no cause can be determined.

NAION, or non-arteritic ischemic optic neuropathy: sudden loss of blood flow to the optic nerve, usually in older people.

Neuropathy Caused by Toxic: Engagingly, methanol poisoning presents waxes and wanes with the COVID-19 pandemic, as we had over 100 cases of methanol-induced optic neuropathy in just 2 weeks.

Hereditary Conditions: OA is created by some diseases, such as Wolfram syndrome and Leber’s hereditary optic neuropathy.

Tumors and Trauma: Physical injury and pressure related injuries can harm the optic nerve.

Children make up a significant portion of the population; 33% of OA-related vision defects occur in children.

Diagnosis and Management

Early diagnosis is essential. Ophthalmologists use visual field testing, color vision tests, and fundoscopy to check optic nerve damage. Although there is no treatment to restore OA, managing the underlying cause can stop its progression. For example, the removal of a tumor or treating inflammation can prevent further damage.

An eye stem centre in Iran could aid in advancing diagnostic capabilities and providing specialized training for ophthalmologists to manage optic atrophy more effectively.

New Therapies

New therapies are being explored:

SAVIR Therapy: It employs microcurrent impulses to activate latent nerve cells, possibly restoring vision.

Stem Cell Therapy: Research suggests that stem cells may grow new optic nerve cells, and restore vision.

Gene Therapy: Treating specific genetic mutations, like in the OPA1 gene, holds promise against hereditary OA.

As these methods advance, an eye stem centre in Iran could serve as a hub for clinical trials, research collaborations, and patient access to cutting- edge treatments.

Public Health Implications

The increase in OA cases from preventable causes, such as methanol poisoning, highlights the necessity of public health interventions. Health education campaigns regarding the risks of drinking illicit alcohol and the need for early medical consultation in case of vision disturbances are crucial.

Conclusion

In summary, although optic atrophy is a serious challenge in Iran, improvements in medical research and aggressive public health initiatives provide a way forward in the control and possible alleviation of its effects. Strategic investments in healthcare infrastructure, such as an eye stem centre in Iran, can further amplify these efforts and offer new hopes.