AION
Pronunciation: AY-on
Also written as: AION — Arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy
Arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy; vision-threatening condition associated with giant cell arteritis.
Full Definition
Arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (AION) is a ophthalmologic emergency caused by inflammation of the arteries supplying the optic nerve head, most commonly associated with giant cell arteritis (GCA). Unlike its non-arteritic counterpart, AION can cause complete and irreversible vision loss and may affect the fellow eye without prompt treatment with high-dose corticosteroids. The condition requires immediate recognition and treatment to prevent bilateral blindness.
Usage
Usage note: This is an ophthalmologic emergency requiring immediate treatment, unlike NAION.
In Context
- "Given the patient's age and systemic symptoms, AION was suspected and urgent ESR and CRP were ordered." — Emergency ophthalmology consultation
- "The diagnosis of AION requires immediate high-dose corticosteroid treatment to prevent fellow eye involvement." — Treatment protocol