Nonarteritic Anterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy Associated with Ipsilateral Hypoplastic Internal Carotid Artery

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Vascular insufficiency of the optic nerve head is the cause of nonarteritic ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION). Carotid artery abnormalities are now considered as a predisposing factor for developing NAION. In this report, we present a case of NAION associated with ipsilateral internal carotid artery hypoplasia. METHODS: A 69-year-old female with decreased vision in her right eye due to NAION was evaluated. the magnetic resonance imaging showed a considerably smaller left internal carotid artery than the right side. The magnetic resonance angiography confirmed the disparity and perfusion abnormalities of intracranial carotid arteries. RESULTS: The diagnosis of left internal carotid artery hypoplasia was made and verified by depicting a left side small carotid canal on the computed tomography scan. CONCLUSION: This report suggests that internal carotid artery hypoplasia could be associated with NAION.