Optic disc drusen, also known as optic nerve head drusen, refers to the presence of small, calcified deposits or concretions that accumulate within the optic nerve head. The optic disc is the area where the optic nerve enters the eye and is responsible for transmitting visual information from the eye to the brain. Drusen are typically yellow or white in color and are made up of calcium, lipids, and proteins.
Optic disc drusen are a relatively rare condition, affecting less than 0.1% of the population. They are typically found bilaterally, meaning they affect both eyes symmetrically. The exact cause of optic disc drusen is still not fully understood, but it is believed to be related to abnormalities in the way the optic nerve head metabolizes proteins.
While optic disc drusen are generally asymptomatic and do not cause vision loss, they can lead to certain visual complications. As the drusen build up, they can cause compression and distortion of the optic nerve fibers, which may result in visual field defects or small blind spots. In some cases, optic disc drusen can also contribute to the development of other eye conditions such as optic neuritis or papilledema.
Optic disc drusen can typically be diagnosed through a comprehensive eye examination, which may include a dilated fundus examination, optical coherence tomography (OCT), or visual field testing. Treatment for optic disc drusen is generally focused on managing any associated symptoms or complications, such as monitoring changes in vision or managing elevated intraocular pressure.
