Isolated unilateral infiltrative optic neuropathy in a patient with breast cancer

Abstract

Metastasis to the optic nerve is very rare. We report a case of metastatic breast cancer to the optic nerve head without the involvement of other ocular or orbital structures. The patient, a 39-year-old female who had been previously treated for breast cancer, reported a gradually progressive decrement in visual acuity of the right eye during the past two months. Fundus examination of the affected eye revealed swelling of the optic disc which was infiltrated by a yellowish mass. Further evaluation using optical coherence tomography and fluorescein angiography showed optic disc swelling. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed no pathologic findings. With a diagnosis of unilateral infiltrative optic neuropathy, we referred the patient to an oncologist for further evaluation.