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Optic disc

The optic disc is the point inside the eye where the nerve that leads from the eye to the brain (optic nerve) leaves the eye. The inner part of the optic disc is a depression called the optic cup.

In people with glaucoma, nerve fibers die, causing a loss of the nerve tissue inside the optic disc. As a result, the size of the optic cup appears larger.

Author Jeannette Curtis
Editor Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor Tracy Landauer
Associate Editor Pat Truman, MATC
Primary Medical Reviewer Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Carol L. Karp, MD - Ophthalmology
Last Updated May 23, 2008

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: May 23, 2008
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