Optic nerve compression by extramedullary hematopoietic tissue in a patient suffering from beta-thalassemia intermedia.

We carried out an encephalic magnetic resonance (MR) study in a patient with thalassemia intermedia who complained about change of the visual acuity and of the visual field. Narrowing of the optical canal was present and it was related to the compression of hemopoietic tissue masses. We found a clear relationship between the elderly age, the irregular transfusions, and the optic neuropathy. RMN screening of patients w ith thalassemia intermedia should be mandatory if changes in visual function occur.