Name
#130 Non-Arteritic Anterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy in a GLP-1 Receptor Agonist User with Optic Disc Drusen
Speakers
Content Presented On Behalf Of:
Uniformed Services University
Session Type
Poster
Date
Tuesday, March 3, 2026
Start Time
5:00 PM
End Time
7:00 PM
Location
Prince Georges Expo Hall E
Focus Areas/Topics
Clinical Care, Wellbeing
Learning Outcomes
Following review of this poster the participant will be able to:
1. Understand the basic epidemiology, pathophysiology, presenting signs and symptoms, and clinical course of NAION.
2. List two cardiovascular, two anatomical, and one pharmacological risk factor for NAION.
3. Appreciate the role for ophthalmology referral prior to initiation of GLP-1 receptor agonist medications for patients with known anatomic risk factors for NAION.
1. Understand the basic epidemiology, pathophysiology, presenting signs and symptoms, and clinical course of NAION.
2. List two cardiovascular, two anatomical, and one pharmacological risk factor for NAION.
3. Appreciate the role for ophthalmology referral prior to initiation of GLP-1 receptor agonist medications for patients with known anatomic risk factors for NAION.
Session Currently Live
Description
This presentation aims to educate participants on non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION), covering its pathophysiology and risk factors. It will do so by presenting a case study of a patient who developed NAION after starting semaglutide, highlighting their relevant clinical history, presenting complaint, and exam findings, particularly in light of a previously undiagnosed risk factor, optic disc drusen. This case raises significant concerns for the military health system, especially given the global increase in GLP-1 receptor agonist (RA) prescriptions and the lack of cost barriers to these medications within our healthcare system. We advocate for greater awareness of NAION to ensure appropriate ophthalmology referrals are made for individuals with a known personal or family history of NAION anatomical risk factors, such as optic disc drusen or a small cup-to-disc ratio, prior to starting GLP-1 RAs.