LEBER'S HEREDITARY OPTIC NEUROPATHY IN AN OLD MAN: A CASE REPORT

Leber's hereditary optic neuropathy (LHON) is a rare mitochondrial disorder characterized by bilateral optic nerve atrophy leading to acute or subacute painless central vision loss. This case report describes a rare occurrence of LHON in a 71-year-old man, highlighting the clinical and genetic heterogeneity of the disease. The patient initially experienced visual loss in the left eye, which progressed rapidly, followed by deterioration of vision in the right eye six weeks later. Genetic testing revealed the pathologic mtDNA 14,484 point mutation, which is responsible for a signicant proportion of LHON cases. Environmental factors such as alcohol and smoking, along with genetic mutations, contribute to the optic nerve degeneration seen in LHON. The diagnosis of LHON can be challenging due to its variable presentation, but early recognition and appropriate management are crucial. Although no specic treatment for LHON currently exists, supportive care is provided, and alternative therapies like idebenone/vitamin B/vitamin C combination therapy show some promise. Increased awareness and understanding of LHON will lead to improved outcomes and potential developments in effective treatments for this devastating condition.