A swollen optic disc is an important pathologic finding seen on funduscopy. It is characterized by blurring of the optic disc margins and engorgement of retinal vessels at the optic nerve head. In severe swelling of the optic disc, there may be obliteration of normal optic disc anatomy, often with hemorrhages around the disc. Swelling or edema of the optic nerve head can occur in a variety of disease states. When swelling of the optic nerve is due to increased intracranial pressure, it is called papilledema. When swelling of the optic nerve is due to inflammation, it is called papillitis.
Localization
The optic nerve is an extension of the central nervous system and is ensheathed by meninges, thus, increased intracranial pressure is directly transmitted along the optic nerve to the disc.