Optic nerve lymphoma: report of two cases and review of the literature

Abstract

Lymphoma may involve the optic nerve as isolated optic nerve lymphoma or in association with central nervous system (CNS) or systemic lymphoma. We present two biopsy-proven non-Hodgkin lymphomas of the optic nerve and compare our findings with previously reported cases. We discuss the mechanism of metastasis, classification of optic nerve involvement, clinical features, radiologic findings, optic nerve biopsy indications and techniques, histologic features, and treatments. We propose a classification system of optic nerve lymphoma: isolated optic nerve involvement, optic nerve involvement with CNS disease, optic nerve involvement with systemic disease, and optic nerve involvement with primary intraocular lymphoma. Although it is an uncommon cause of infiltrative optic neuropathy, optic nerve metastasis should be considered in patients with a history of lymphoma. The recommended approach to a patient with presumed optic nerve lymphoma includes neuroimaging and cerebrospinal fluid evaluation as part of the initial workup, then judicious use of optic nerve biopsy, depending on the clinical situation.

Keywords: lymphoma; metastasis; optic nerve; optic nerve lymphoma.