Clinical update in optic nerve disorders

Optic nerve disorders lead to visual loss and can result: from multiple etiologies, including optic neuritis, anterior ischemic optic neuropathy, glaucoma, Leber's hereditary optic neuropathy and dominant optic atrophy. The recent advances in imaging technologies often supplement the history and clinical examination for identification of optic neuropathies. Correlation between the structural and functional changes in eye is important to validate these diagnostic techniques. Advancement in the understanding of disease process has led to the development of new potential therapeutic targets that may enable apt management of these conditions. Animal models play a crucial role in understanding the pathophysiology of these disorders, identifying therapeutic targets and testing prospective drugs, which are vital for providing better patient care. In this review, the authors aim to provide a clinical update to the readers about these optic neuropathies in addition to the essential role played by animal research in progressing their current state of knowledge.