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Leber's Hereditary Optic Neuropathy

What are the causes?

The genetic defect causing LHON is in the mitochondria, small bodies inside cells that generate energy.

Several studies have suggested increased risk of vision loss in smokers, in heavy alcohol drinkers and in those with diets deficient in natural antioxidants (substances that inhibit oxidation or reactions promoted by oxygen).

View What are the symptoms? What are the symptoms?  |  How is it treated? View How is it treated?

Medical text written October 2004 by Miss Isabelle Russell-Eggitt. Last updated December 2008 by Miss Isabelle Russell-Eggitt FRCS FRCOphth, Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeon, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children, London, UK with the kind help of Professor David A Mackey MD FRANZCO, Ophthalmologist, Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital, Melbourne, Australia.

 

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