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May 23, 2013
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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.

ByHealthwise Staff
Primary Medical ReviewerKathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical ReviewerChristopher J. Rudnisky - Ophthalmology
Last RevisedMay 5, 2010

eMedicineHealth Medical Reference from Healthwise

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