Optic Nerve Swelling

[Jenny1105]

Last year my 2 year old was diagnosed with swelling in his optic nerve.  We had an MRI which came back normal, we had an LP which also came back normal (16) and was reduced to (12).  We saw a neuro opthamologist who had no further suggestions as to the cause of this problem.  His eye sight has been normal.  We visited at neurologist who suggested that it could have been caused by his chronic ear infections and sinus infections; however the opthamologist said they had never heard of that as a cause.  My son was also born prematurely at 24 weeks gestation and had lazer eye surgery to correct ROP.  We have had no lasting health problems as a result of his prematurity.  I don't know where to turn next as the two main tests for this condition have returned normal.


This discussion is related to pappiledema (swelling of the optic nerve).

[Jenny1105]

Thanks for your response.

In answer to your questions, no he has had no neurological symptoms.

What about pseudo papilledema?  I had seen it mentioned but I havent' been able to find any more info about it.  

What other kinds of tests could be run to find the root of the problem?

[DrNoopurMD]

Hi,

Thanks for writing in.
Papilledema produces symptoms of raised intracranial pressure like headaches, nausea, vomiting and other neurological symptoms.
Does your child have any such symptoms?
Papilledema usually occurs due to tumors, abscess, hemorrhage, infections and hydrocephalus.
It is difficult to tell what is the exact cause of papilledema in your child’s case especially since there have been no positive findings on MRI. I would suggest you to seek a second opinion with an experienced neurologist.
Take care!