PRIMARY IDIOPATHIC OPTIC NEURITIS IN US AIR-FORCE AVIATORS

The records of 31 male aviators seen al the Ophthalmology Branch of th e USAF Aeromedical Consultation Service (formerly the USAF School ai A erospace Medicine) for a diagnosis of primary idiopathic optic neuriti s (PION) were reviewed. Each subject received comprehensive ophthalmol ogic and neurologic examinations. The long-term follow-up data were co llected through repeat examinations and by survey. Despite 39% of avia tors being grounded due to complications of their PION or multiple scl erosis (MS), many aviators diagnosed with PION may be safely returned to flying duties. However; any aviator diagnosed with PION has a risk of recurrence or a potential to develop systemic MS and must be carefu lly reevaluated and followed to ensure they remain a viable asset and do not compromise flight safety or mission completion.