Optic nerve, chiasm and retrochiasmatic gliomas, new data on their origin and nature, structural characteristics, association with other pathologias and signs and symptoms are discussed. Emphasis on the value of new function and neuroimaging methods and their limitations in various locations of the tumours. Efficiency of therapy (surgery, radio and chemotherapy) as regards regression, functional sequalae, prevention and relapses. Possible risks of biopsy and surgery (visual deficits, ptosis, palsies, hyposthesia) and of irradiation on intracranial tissues. The second part deals with meningiomas, their histological types, association with other pathologies, symptomatology, functional and ophthalmoscopic, tomography, and magnetic resonance imaging. As regards surgery, selective excision ending in amaurosis, frequent relapses and intracranial invasion, exanteration is often required in anterior tumours. Tumours in the zone of the vertex call for approach by means of orbitotomy and craniotomy. Excision should include nerve and sheath. In extraorbital extensions the intracanalicular portion of the tumour is excised after decompression of the optic canal roof. Magnetic resonance data allow indication of radiotherapy with no need of biopsy, which is especially interesting in elderly patients. Recent precision radiotherapy methods, allowing minimal irradiation on surrounding areas and the contralateral optic nerve, are of great value. Two diagrams illustrate the therapeutic procedures in the different types of benign optic nerve gliomas and optic nerve sheath meningiomas.