The aim of this study was to analyse the outcome of optic pathway gliomas in 30 children with neurofibromatosis type 1, the indications of treatment, and the follow-up and screening protocol.All patients with a minimal two years follow-up (median six years, range two to 19 years), in two multidisciplinary consultations of Saint-Vincent-de-Paul (Paris) and Purpan (Toulouse) hospitals, were included in the study. In our series, we practiced systematic screening MRI in children under six years' of age or with neuropsychological deficiency that may imply an unreliable ophthalmological examination.Thirty-seven percent (11 patients) had progressive ophthalmological signs and were treated, and 63% (19 patients) were not progressive. Our study confirmed that most of optic pathway gliomas were stable during evolution, but rare cases may have bad prognosis.Our study supported the importance of close ophthalmological follow-up during childhood for which screening methods are discussed. There is a consensus to limit treatment for patients with progressive ophthalmological symptoms.
