Regression of Epiretinal Membrane after Optic Nerve Atrophy

Purpose To describe a case of epiretinal membrane (ERM) regression after optic nerve atrophy. Methods Retrospective case report. Results A 56-year-old man with progressive visual impairment was found to have an ERM with associated retinal thickening and distortion (documented with spectral-domain optical coherence tomography [OCT]). In addition, we noted a slight unilateral paleness of the optic nerve. The patient denied any further diagnostic investigation and presented himself again 2 years after the initial presentation. A new OCT examination at this point revealed a remarkable regression of the ERM and atrophy of the retinal nerve fiber layer. Conclusions Regression of ERM may occur after optic nerve atrophy. A potential causal linkage is suggested based on the atrophy of the retinal nerve fibers and regression of the glial cells.