ABSTRACT
Purpose: To determine whether the size and configuration of the optic chiasm in human albinos is different from normal controls. Methods: 17 patients and 15 controls underwent magnetic resonance imaging of the entire head. Images were reformatted to the chiasm region and analysed using observer independent morphometry as well as measurements by a blinded observer.Results: Albinos showed significantly smaller chiasm widths as well as smaller optic nerves and tracts and wider angles between nerves and tracts. Statistical morphometry showed a different configuration of the optic chiasm. Conclusion: Size and configuration of the optic chiasm in human albinos is distinctly different from normal controls and reflects the atypical crossing of optic fibers.
