Optic Nerves?

Question

I need to know if my sons optic nerves are connected from his brain to his eye. He has optic nerve hypopalsia and has light perception in his left eye and some vision in his right. Is this a sign they are connected?

Answer 1

First off, I'm sorry to hear that you and your son are having to deal with the vision problems related to optic nerve hypoplasia.  It occurs when the optic nerve doesn't completely form, so the sensation of light entering the eye isn't completely transmitted to the part of the brain that processes that information.  Yes, his optic nerves are connected to his brain, but those nerves don't let him see normally.

If he hasn't been already, I'd make sure that he is thoroughly examined by his pediatrician and a pediatric ophthalmologist.  Depending on a few factors, those doctors may recommend an MRI of the brain and bloodwork to screen for hormonal problems that can occassionally be associated with optic nerve hypoplasia.  

If you go to www.aao.org and use the "Find an eye M.D." link on the side, that tool can help you find a pediatric ophthalmologist near you.

Hope this helps, and best wishes.