Neuro-Ophthalmology

The Neuro-Ophthalmology specialists at Columbia Ophthalmology are experts in diagnosing and managing neurologic and systemic disorders that affect how the brain perceives vision and the complicated and intricate connections between the eyes and the brain.   

Together with neurologists, rheumatologists, neurosurgeons, and otolaryngologists within the Columbia University Irving Medical Center, Columbia neuro-ophthalmologists use the latest diagnostic and monitoring technologies and have the resources to refer to the appropriate specialists when needed to ensure that our patients receive the best possible care.

Conditions We Treat

Our specialists treat many different neuro-ophthalmologic conditions, such as optic neuritis, headaches, and double vision. Some of the disorders we commonly treat include:

• Optic disc edema and Papilledema
• Non-Arteritic Anterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy (NAION)
•  Giant cell arteritis
• Cranial nerve palsy of the 3rd, 4th and 6th nerves
• Double vision
• Ocular myasthenia gravis
• Thyroid eye disease (Graves' Disease)
• Optic atrophy
• Optic neuritis
• Optic neuropathy
• Unexplained vision loss
• Visual perception disorders
• Nutritional and toxic disorders
• Traumatic brain injuries
• Tumors affecting the optic nerve
• Pituitary tumors

Causes

Injury to the brain or the optic nerves and specific diseases and conditions such as tumors, strokes, infections, and inflammations can cause problems in the nervous system, which can lead to visual problems.

Diagnosis

Diagnosing neurological problems is key to addressing the cause of the visual issue. Some of our diagnostic testing capabilities include:

• Eye moment and alignment evaluations
• Visual acuity
• Visual field testing
• Electroretinography
• Optical coherence tomography
• Computed tomography (CT) scan
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan
• Fluorescein angiography
• Color testing

Symptoms

Symptoms of each neuro-ophthalmic condition can vary, but some common symptoms can include:

• Sudden vision loss or temporary vision loss in one or both eyes
• Strong headaches
• Double vision
• Twitching muscle spasm of the eyelids or face
• Eye pain
• Unequal pupil dilation
• Nystagmus or jiggling of the eyes
• Drooping eyelids
• Blurry vision

Treatments We Offer

Depending on the condition, treatment will vary. Surgery may be needed to relieve pressure in the brain if it is compressing the optic nerve. Some other treatments may include:

• Corrective lenses
• Medications

Why Choose Columbia?

Our highly specialized neuro-ophthalmologists are experts in diagnosing and managing both neurologic and systemic disorders that affect how the brain perceives vision. In collaboration with Columbia neurologists, neurosurgeons, and other subspecialists, Columbia’s experts specialize in visual problems caused by the optic nerve, abnormal eye movements, and the pupil’s reflexes that can result in vision loss. Using advanced techniques, including neuroimaging, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and computed tomography (CT), Columbia’s team approach ensure that you and your family receive the most comprehensive and innovative treatment.