Could a Gout Attack Cause Non-Arteritic Anterior Ischaemic Optic Neuropathy?

Abstract

Non-arteritic anterior ischaemic optic neuropathy (NAION) is a common cause of optic neuropathy in individuals over the age of 50. While risk factors such as hypertension, diabetes, and hyperlipidaemia have been identified, recent literature suggests that new risk factors may be associated with NAION. This article reports a case of NAION that occurred concurrently with an acute gout attack in a 78-year-old male patient with no other systemic diseases. We suggest that gout may be a new potential risk factor for NAION as it has the potential to cause inflammation and vascular dysfunction, particularly during acute attacks. The case emphasises the importance of considering gout as a possible risk factor in the aetiology of NAION.