Optic nerve sheath meningiomas are rare, slow-growing benign tumors on the cells surrounding the optic nerve. The tumors squeeze the optic nerve, interfering with its ability to send vision messages to the brain. Because of their location, the tumors cause vision symptoms and can be difficult to treat.
The Cizik Eye Clinic opened in 2007 and is housed in Memorial Hermann Plaza at 6400 Fannin Street. It includes dozens of exam areas, multiple operating rooms, and laser suites equipped with the most sophisticated equipment available for patient care.
People travel from across the country and the world for treatment at the Cizik Eye Clinic, in part because our affiliation with McGovern Medical School at UTHealth provides unmatched resources and expertise. Our friendly staff works diligently to make your visit pleasant and efficient, as we maximize patient flow through everything from routine eye exams to the most advanced eye surgeries.
Our physicians are faculty members at McGovern Medical School at UTHealth and are board certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology or are board eligible. At the Cizik Eye Clinic, we understand that the eye is a small part of a whole patient who deserves top-notch, comprehensive care in a cutting-edge facility.
Most cases of optic nerve sheath meningioma are idiopathic, meaning their cause is unknown. The condition has been associated with exposure to ionizing radiation and neurofibromatosis type 2. The mean age at diagnosis is 40.
Patients may often be asymptomatic and may be informed of the diagnosis during a routine exam. In other cases, they may notice dim, blurred vision in one eye. Occasionally, a slight bulge is detected in one eye.
Your doctor will conduct a full vision exam and take your medical history. A diagnosis will typically be confirmed with a CT scan or MRI. A biopsy may also be ordered.
Watchful waiting may be an option for patients who maintain acceptable vision, but eyesight could continue to decline. If the tumor compresses the optic nerve from one side, it may be possible to surgically remove it, but there may be a negative impact on the patient’s vision. Targeted radiation, such as Gamma Knife therapy, may be recommended in some cases, and outcomes are superior for patients who undergo radiotherapy treatments, according to recent research. If left untreated, the tumors could lead to vision decline and eventually blindness in one eye.
At Robert Cizik Eye Clinic, we offer patients access to highly specialized eye and vision care. To ask us a question, schedule an appointment, or learn more about us, please call (713) 486-9400, or click below to send us a message. In the event of an emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest Emergency Room.