The optic chiasm

Clin Anat. 2014 Nov;27(8):1149-58. doi: 10.1002/ca.22385. Epub 2014 May 14.

Abstract

The optic chiasm is formed when the optic nerves come together in order to allow for the crossing of fibers from the nasal retina to the optic tract on the other side. This enables vision from one side of both the eyes to be appreciated by the occipital cortex of the opposite side. This review makes note of the embryology, anatomy and vascular supply of the optic chiasm, then discusses the clinical syndromes associated with chiasmal disease, and the diseases which commonly influence its function.

Keywords: neuroanatomy; optic chiasm; visual disorders.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adenoma
  • Anti-Neutrophil Cytoplasmic Antibody-Associated Vasculitis
  • Arachnoid Cysts
  • Central Nervous System Cysts
  • Craniopharyngioma
  • Glioma
  • Humans
  • Optic Chiasm / anatomy & histology*
  • Optic Chiasm / blood supply
  • Optic Chiasm / embryology
  • Optic Nerve Diseases*
  • Optic Nerve Neoplasms
  • Pituitary Neoplasms
  • Sarcoidosis
  • Tuberculosis
  • Visual Fields*
  • Visual Pathways / anatomy & histology*
  • Visual Pathways / blood supply
  • Visual Pathways / embryology