Morning Glory Syndrome in Two (02) Malians: Case Report from IOTA-University Hospital

Background: First described by Handmann in 1929, the “Morning Glory Syndrome” is a rare congenital anomaly of the optic papilla whose notable ophthalmoscopic sign is papillary excavation associated with other ocular and/or non-ocular anomalies. Purpose: The main purpose of this study is to report 2 cases of this rare congenital papilla anomaly in 2 young Malian adults diagnosed in the IOTA-University Hospital respectively in January and May 2020. Materials and methods: In our study, we have included two cases of male gender. Results: In the 1st case the defect concerned both papillae. It is also associated with other ocular malformations (bilateral macular reshaping and unilateral cataract), without associated cerebral defects. In the 2nd case, only one papilla was affected by the malformation and there was an absence of associated malformations of other ocular and cerebral structures. Discussion: The Morning Glory Syndrome is part of the group of congenital defects of the optic nerve. It is often referred to as ectasia coloboma of the optical papilla or bindweed flower-like optical papilla because of its similarity to the tropical flower known as “bindweed”. Its exact pathogenesis remains unknown, but it is linked to the poor development of the posterior sclera and lamina cribrosa during gestation. Conclusion: Morning Glory Syndrome through papillary excavation and other associated ocular and/or cerebral malformations may be a threat to vision.