Non-Arteritic Anterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy and Factor V Leiden

Abstract

Non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION) is an entity that is caused by circulatory insufficiency which affects the proximal portion of the optic nerve. NAION is characterized by the following triad: abrupt and painless loss of vision, optic disc smelling and nerve fiber bundle defects in the visual field of the affected eye. Cardiovascular risk factors and hrombophilic disorders have been proposed in the pathogenesis of NAION, such as Factor V Leiden thrombophilia (FVL). Factor V Leiden is a inherited disorder of blood clotting that predisposes to venous thrombotic events. Here, we report the case of 44-year-old female patient with NAION and activated protein C resistente (or FVL) who visited our hospital, and the diagnosis is discussed. We also review the literature of these two conditions. We suggest that physicians consider prothrombotic disorders when evaluating patients with AION, especially in atypical cases or cases occurring in young patients without classic factors of cardiovascular risk.