Computerized image analysis was used to determine the normal axonal count and axon diameter distribution in 12 normal human eyes. Mean axon count per nerve was 969,279 +/- 239,740 and mean axon diameter was 0.72 +/- 0.07 micron. Multiple linear regression disclosed 4909 axons lost yearly (P = 0.08). Statistical analysis did not show a relationship between axon diameter and age or time to fixation. The inferotemporal sector of the nerve had the highest fiber density (P = 0.02). The superonasal nerve had higher mean diameters (P = 0.02). This study may provide a baseline for future pathologic studies.