Acquired mitochondrial optic neuropathy: a reminder of the ocular effects of excessive alcohol...

28 February 2019
Winter 2019
Low vision Public health

Clinical Editor Kieran Loft MCOptom and Consultant Neuro-ophthalmologist James Benzimra FRCOphth discuss a case of toxic nutritional optic neuropathy.

HISTORY AND INITIAL PRESENTATION 

A 42-year-old male ex-publican presented to his optometrist for eye examination, complaining of reduced vision in both eyes, distance and near, for nine months. He divulged a history of recovering alcoholism. He was referred urgently for hospital eye service (HES) assessment due to reduced vision, at 6/45, N10, right and left. No obvious cause was identified. He was emmetropic bilaterally.

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