European Journal of Cardiovascular Medicine

Introduction: Anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (AION) is a sight-threatening condition characterized by the infarction of the optic nerve head. It is a major cause of acute visual loss, particularly in individuals over the age of 50. The exact incidence and prevalence of AION vary across populations due to differences in study methodologies and diagnostic criteria. However, AION is generally considered a relatively rare condition. The incidence has been estimated to range from 2 to 10 cases per 100,000 population per year, with the prevalence estimated at approximately 3 to 10 cases per 100,000 population (1,2). This study aims to provide an overview of the epidemiology of AION, including its incidence, risk factors, and associated comorbidities, to better understand the burden and implications of this condition. Materials and Methods: This prospective observational study was carried out in the Department of Ophthalmology, S.S. Medical College and associated GM Hospital, Rewa, over a period of 18 months among 31 consented patients presenting to the department with features suggestive of AION. Detailed history was recorded and thorough clinical and ophthalmic examination was carried out. Data was collected, compiled and analysed using SPSS 22.0 (trial version). Results were expressed as the means and standard deviation or as numbers and percentages, wherever required. Result:Mean age of patients was 53.34±9.10 years. Male preponderance (54.84%) was observed. Right eye (61.29%) was affected more than left eye. All patients presented with diminution of vision. Only 9.68% experienced jaw claudication, scalp tenderness and headache. History of similar complaints in the fellow eye was given by 29.03%. 78.12% presented within 10 days of onset of symptoms. The most common systemic disease associated with AION was diabetes mellitus (64.52%)followed by hypertension (48.39%). NAION patients had higher incidence of OSA.No patient had history of IHD, TIA or stroke. Mean VA in affected eye was 1.36±0.74 log MAR units.Colour vision of AION patient was defective in almost all patients where it was documentable. Mean number of Ishihara plates read was 5.41±1.55. Mean contrast sensitivity was 0.67±0.43 log units. 67.74% presented with grade 3 RAPD followed by grade 4(16.13%). The most common type of disc oedema was diffuse, and these had poor VA at presentation. Disc at risk was found in 38.71% patients. Fellow eye had a pale disc in 29.03%. Inferonasal field defect was the most common (25.81%) followed by superior altitudinal defect (19.35%). Peripapillary RNFL thickness, average as well as in all quadrants was found to be increased. Conclusion: The data for AION comes mainly from western literature as there have been only few studies in Indian population. Through this study, we aimed to provide an overview of AION, its clinical profile and to study various systemic risk factors associated with it.