Optic disc drusen in children: a diagnostic challenge

Abstract

Abstract In children, optic disc drusen (ODD) are often mistaken for papilledema, this being the prin-cipal differential diagnosis. This report describes the case of an 11-year old patient with ODD, in which the condition was initially diagnosed as papilledema, and the patient referred for pulse therapy. Fundoscopic examination is important because it is the first examination conducted by the ophthalmologist that is capable of revealing some characteristics of ODD that will aid in the differentiation between this disease and papilledema. In cases of ODD, the optic disc presents blurred margins and elevation of the disc borders, with clearly defined vessels at the papilla border. The differential diagnosis of ODD in children is challenging and requires appropriate management and follow-up to avoid iatrogenesis.

Keywords

• Optic disc drusen
• Papilledema
• Ultrasonography
• Pseudopapilledema
• Child