Optic Nerve Disorders

The optic nerve and the brain comprise the main anatomic components of neuro-ophthalmology. Although there are numerous handbooks and major texts describing all the common disorders of neuro-ophthalmology, Optic Nerve Disorders is the only practical reference book focusing only on common optic nerve disorders. The author discusses diagnosis, pathophysiology, management, and prognosis of complex optic nerve disorders. Optic Nerve Disorders is organized by optic nerve diagnoses commonly encountered in a neuro-ophthalmologic practice. It is written in a clear, concise style for quick, easy reference in the clinic.

Each chapter is formatted in a similar manner and thoroughly discusses epidemiology, diagnosis (by clinical signs and symptoms and by electrophysiologic, ocular and neuroimaging techniques), pathophysiology, management (by both conventional treatments and experimental/newer medications under consideration) and prognosis.

Updated information on diagnostics techniques, such as OCT, mfVEP, mfERG, VEP, ERG, the Heidleberg Tomograph and Gdx Nerve Fiber Analyzer, for imaging of the optic nerve will be incorporated into each of the chapters. Updated genetic testing for hereditary optic neuropathies will also be covered. Diagnosis of neuro-ophthalmologic disorders with newer neuroimaging techniques, such as PET, SPECT, and diffusion-weighted imaging, will be explained. New data from clinical studies, such as beta-interferons for optic neuritis, will be presented for the management of each disorder.

Optic Nerve Disorders also provides an update on the latest clinical techniques in diagnosing specific optic nerve disorders and gives the most recent theories on pathophysiology. Current management recommendations for each disorder are also outlined. Neurologists and ophthalmologists will find this book useful when they need a practical reference for incorporating optic nerve evaluation in their clinical practice.

From the reviews:

“‘This book is intended for any physician, including ophthalmologists, neurologists and neurosurgeons. Fellows, residents, and medical students can acquire an up-to-date knowledge base’, and the clear colour plates increase its usefulness for those … who are less familiar with the clinical scenarios. … The other benefit of this book is the extensive list of references for all chapters, which form a good basis for further study. … It would be a useful addition to ‘staff room libraries’ in neurology and ophthalmology outpatient clinics … .” (Graham Kyle, Eye News, December/January, 2011)