Optic Atrophy

Overview

4.3 out of 5 (3 Reviews)

Credits

1.00

Post Assessment Questions

5

Start Date

1 Jan 2021

Last Review Date

1 Mar 2024

Expiration Date

31 Dec 2023

Estimated Time To Finish

60 Minutes


 
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Activity Description

Optic atrophy is the hallmark of damage to the visual pathway. It appears as a pale disc on fundus examination. This clinical appearance is not a disease, per se—it only indicates damage to the anterior visual pathway, which can occur in several conditions. This activity delves into the pathophysiology of optic atrophy, clarifying the complexities surrounding its development and showcasing it as the end result of retinogeniculate pathway degeneration. The course discussion also addresses the misnomer associated with the term "optic atrophy" in favor of "optic neuropathy," and elucidates the mechanisms contributing to disc pallor, including neuro-vascular degeneration and the loss of axonal fibers. By explaining the optic nerve's behavior, this activity offers insights into the unique challenges associated with regeneration in the central nervous system, essential for effective clinical management strategies.

Timely diagnosis of optic atrophy is critical. This activity underscores the multidisciplinary approach required for managing optic atrophy, stressing the importance of early identification of underlying causative factors. It explores various systemic and ocular conditions associated with optic atrophy, emphasizing the need for proper history-taking and comprehensive examinations for optimal patient care. Additionally, potential interventions tailored to the specific etiologies—ranging from low vision aids to specialized nursing care—are covered, underscoring the importance of an interprofessional team in addressing this condition. By offering fundamental insights into the pathophysiology, diagnosis, and management of optic atrophy, this session aims to enhance clinicians' recognition and understanding, ultimately improving patient outcomes and potentially saving lives through early intervention.


Target Audience

This activity has been designed to meet the educational needs of physicians.

Learning Objectives

At the conclusion of this activity, the learner will be better able to:

  • Identify the varied etiologies linked to optic atrophy, encompassing conditions such as glaucoma, ischemic optic neuropathy, demyelinating disorders, hereditary optic neuropathies, compressive lesions, and toxic or nutritional deficiencies.

  • Differentiate between optic atrophy and other optic nerve–related conditions, distinguishing it from conditions like optic neuritis, papilledema, retinal diseases, and nonorganic visual loss through careful clinical assessment and ancillary testing.

  • Implement comprehensive treatment strategies addressing the specific causative factors, utilizing pharmacological therapies, neuroprotective agents, antiinflammatory medications, or surgical interventions when indicated.

  • Implement prompt and appropriate referrals to specialized ophthalmologists, neurologists, or multidisciplinary teams based on the suspected underlying etiology of optic atrophy or associated systemic conditions.

Disclosures

The Campbell University Jerry M. Wallace School of Osteopathic Medicine (CUSOM) requires instructors, planners, managers, and other individuals who are in a position to control the content of this activity to disclose any real or apparent conflict of interest they or their immediate family may have as related to the content of this activity. All identified conflicts of interest are thoroughly vetted by CUSOM for resolution, to ensure fair balance, scientific objectivity of studies mentioned in the materials or used as the basis for content, and appropriateness of patient care recommendations.

CUSOM will identify, review, and resolve all conflicts of interest that faculty, authors, activity directors, planners, managers, peer reviewers, or relevant staff disclose prior to an educational activity being delivered to learners. Disclosure of a relationship is not intended to suggest or condone bias in any presentation but is made to provide participants with information that might be of potential importance to their evaluation of a presentation. Disclosure information for authors, editors, planners, peer reviewers, and/or relevant staff is provided with this activity.

Continuing Education Accreditation Information

 

 

The Campbell University Jerry M. Wallace School of Osteopathic Medicine (CUSOM) is accredited by the American Osteopathic Association to provide osteopathic continuing medical education for physicians. CUSOM designates this enduring material for a maximum of 1.00 AOA Category 1 B Credits and will report CME credits commensurate with the extent of the physician's participation in the activity.

Cancellation Policy: Cancellations must be received in writing and a money back guarantee is provided if not completely satisfied.

  • StatPearls and CUSOM reserve the right to cancel any course due to unforeseen circumstances. StatPearls and CUSOM will not be responsible for other expenses incurred by the participant in the unlikely event that the program is canceled.

Equal Opportunity

  • StatPearls and CUSOM are Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action / Equal Access Institutions. 

Medium or Media Used:

  • Computer Requirements:  Internet Access
  • E-mail Address

Instructions for Credit

  1. Register for the activity and create a StatPearls login.     
  2. Review the required accreditation information:  Target audience, learning objectives and disclosure information.
  3. Complete the entire self-study activity.
  4. Complete the post-test assessments.
  5. Successfully pass the post-test with a minimum score of 100%.
  6. Complete the evaluation form.
  7. Obtain a certificate.

StatPearls and CUSOM adheres to AOA Standards regarding commercial support of continuing medical education. It is the policy of StatPearls and Campbell that the faculty and planning committee disclose real or apparent conflicts of interest relating to the topics of this educational activity, that relevant conflict(s) of interest are resolved and also that authors and editors will disclose any unlabeled/unapproved use of drug(s) or device(s) during their presentation. Detailed disclosure will be made prior to starting the activity.

The information provided at this CME/CE activity is for continuing education purposes only and is not meant to substitute for the independent medical/clinical judgment of a healthcare provider relative to diagnostic and treatment options of a specific patient’s medical condition.

This course is intended for osteopathic physicians who wish to earn AOA CME credit. Take this version of the course to ensure you receive appropriate credit.

 

 
 

Reviews

MARINA K. on 12/24/2022

Lloyd R. on 4/23/2023

Mosaed A. on 6/30/2023

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