Optic nerve anomalies in basal encephalocele
Y. Goldhammer and J. L. Smith
Basal encephalocele should be suspected in child when hypertelorism, defect
of the bridge of the nose, and other midfacial anomalies are present. Optic
nerve anomalies may occur with basal encephalocele. Those previously
described are pale discs, coloboma of the optic nerve head, and pit of the
optic disc. Two additional disc anomalies that are associated with basal
encephalocele are megalopapilla and optic nerve dysplasia. A mass in the
nose or nasopharynx under these circumstances is most likely an
encephalocele and biopsy is contraindicated.
