Visual deterioration 1(1/2) years after wrapping an un-clippable anterior communicating artery aneurysm: report of a case and review of the literature regarding opto-chiasmatic arachnoiditis.

OBJECTIVE

Optochiasmatic arachnoiditis (OCA) is a serious complication that can occur after wrapping of aneurysms in the proximity of the optic pathways. This paper seeks to illustrate one such case with a view to drawing attention to the dangers of this practice.

METHODS

Single case report and review of the literature.

RESULTS

The clinical and radiological features of OCA are presented and discussed, which in this patient involved failing visual acuity as well as an inflammatory mass of the suprasellar area with oedema of the optic apparatus.

CONCLUSIONS

Optochiasmatic arachnoiditis and its attendant visual morbidity is a serious condition. In the setting described, it arose as a result of wrapping an unclippable aneurysm. The tide of aneurysm management has turned, and presently more and more of them are being obliterated by endovascular techniques. Among other benefits, this reduces the likelihood of such complications as OCA.