Olfactory Groove Meningioma Compressing the Optic Chiasm and Optic Nerve: Improvement of Visual Functions by Surgical Intervention

TL;DR

Surgical removal of a brain tumor near the optic nerve improved a patient's vision, showing early treatment can help even in severe cases.

Contribution

Demonstrates significant visual recovery after early surgical intervention for olfactory groove meningioma.

Findings

Post-operative visual acuity and visual field improved significantly.

RNFL thickness showed minimal variation after surgery.

Early decompression leads to better visual outcomes even in severe cases.

Abstract

Olfactory groove meningiomas (OGMs) are rare but serious tumours that can cause visual loss. Surgical treatment of such meningiomas is critical for the recovery of visual functions.

In this case report, a 62-year-old patient presented to our clinic with sudden visual loss in the right eye and underwent ophthalmological examination. Visual field (VF), retinal nerve fibre layer (RNFL) thickness test, and contrast-enhanced cranial and orbital magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) were performed. The patient was diagnosed with OGM compressing the optic chiasm and nerve, and was operated on by the neurosurgery department. Post-operative examinations were repeated, and the patient was followed up regularly.

Evaluations revealed a significant improvement in the patient’s visual functions, including visual acuity and visual field (VF). Postoperative RNFL-thickness tests showed minimum variation. Early surgical treatment of OGMs compressing the optic chiasm and the optic nerve resulted in significant improvements in visual acuity and visual field (VF).

This case demonstrates that early surgical intervention in olfactory groove meningiomas can result in substantial improvements in visual acuity and visual fields, regardless of the initial severity of visual impairment. Even in cases with profoundly reduced vision, significant functional recovery is possible following timely decompression. Preoperative preservation of retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness may serve as a favorable prognostic indicator for postoperative visual outcomes. The integration of MRI, VF, and OCT findings provides a comprehensive framework for diagnosis, treatment planning, and follow-up.

According to the literature, surgical intervention is efficacious in improving visual functions and emphasizes the importance of early surgical treatment for such cases.

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