In and around the optic chiasm: a pictorial review of neuroimaging

Abstract

The optic chiasm is a key anatomical structure along the visual pathway, situated at the crossroads between optic nerves and tracts. A wide range of diseases can affect the optic chiasm and its surrounding strategic region at the base of the brain. Management strategies for optic chiasm abnormalities vary substantially, depending on the abnormalities revealed on neuroimaging. Scant attention has been paid to date to comprehensive classification of neuroimaging manifestations of optic chiasm abnormalities. We comprehensively review and present the imaging findings in a wide spectrum of pathologies originating from or involving the optic chiasm. This review will aid in differentiating the many neuroimaging appearances of lesions in this region.