Will MRI show a optic tumor?

I went for my routine eye exam last week. My Dr was concerned that the optic nerve in both eyes were swollen. He sent me to a specialist who did some of the same exams and some. The specialist sent me to my family Dr. and had him order blood work, a chest x-ray, and an MRI of the brain and face (with and w/o contrast.) Everything came back normal. Would the MRI have shown if I had a optic tumor or one near? Another thing, Nobody ever asked if I wore my contacts all day every day. I do and I take them off right before I got to bed. I have read that, that can cause the optic nerve to swell. True?

[John C Hagan III, MD, FACS, FAAO]

1. Yes most optic nerve tumors would show up on MRI
2. No your contacts might make your corneas swell but not the optic nerve.

JCH MD

[kayceeg]

The specialist my eye Dr sent me to wants me to go see a Dr who specializes in the optic nerve. Since everything came back normal, in your opinion, do you see any reason for me to go now (to the Dr who spcializes in the nerve?)
My family Dr said in some people the nerves can swell and then the sweling can just go away. Is that true? If so, I was thinking maybe i am one of those people. I have had no symptoms other than the eye Dr seeing the swelling. No headaches or change in vision, nothing!

[John C Hagan III, MD, FACS, FAAO]

I suspect you've been referred to a neuroophthalmologist and I would suggest you keep the appointment.

Yes swelling can come and go (example patient with hydrocephalus and a shut that periodically plugs up).

JCH MD

[kayceeg]

Thank you so much for all your help and for getting back with me so quickly each time. I really appreciate it. Yes, you are right, it is a neuroophthalmologist that he referred me to. I couldn't remember exactly what he called it. Thanks again!

[John C Hagan III, MD, FACS, FAAO]

You're welcome and good luck
JCH MD