Evaluation and Management of Nonarteritic Anterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy: a National Survey

Purpose: The evaluation and management of Nonarteritic Anterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy (NAION) lacks standardized guidelines. This study aimed to investigate the real-world practices of neuro-ophthalmologists in the evaluation and management of typical NAION cases.

Methods: A national survey, conducted between 2019 and 2021, involved all practicing neuro-ophthalmologists. A structured questionnaire assessed their approach to risk factor evaluation and treatment of NAION, with 19 questions about risk factors and six questions concerning treatment and prevention of fellow-eye involvement.

Results: Thirty-six out of 37 neuro-ophthalmologists participated. Most physicians referred patients for evaluation of the following risk factors: obstructive sleep apnea (83.3%), diabetes mellitus (83.3%), hypertension (77.7%), dyslipidemia (72.2%), and optic disc drusen (38.8%). However, there was considerable variation in the choice of diagnostic tests recommended. Furthermore, nearly 47% recommended an embolism workup. Regarding treatment, the majority (91%) did not recommend routine treatment for NAION, although in 16.7%, high-dose corticosteroids were occasionally prescribed. Secondary prevention with aspirin (80.6%), smoking cessation advice (86.1%), and advising against erectile dysfunction medications for men (80.6%) were common recommendations.

Conclusion: While the risk factors associated with NAION are well-reported, there is a lack of uniformity on which tests should be ordered to evaluate these risk factors. Most neuro-ophthalmologists concur that routine treatment for NAION is not warranted, but not unanimously. Future studies to develop a consensus guideline for post-NAION work-up and management recommendations may assist in the detection and management of preventable risk factors.