Management of Dysthyroid Optic Neuropathy

The diagnosis of dysthyoid ophthalmopathy is based on clinical observation of characteristic ophthalmic abnormalities. Proper diagnosis and initiation of treatment should not be delayed because a patient is found to be euthyroid. Although visual problems in dysthyroid ophthalmopathy are uncommon this disorder can result in permanent severe visual loss if optic neuropathy is not detected early and managed properly. Oral corticosteroid therapy and surgical decompression both seem to have a place in the treatment of dysthyroid ophthalmopathy with optic neuropathy.