Sequential Optic Neuritis: A Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorder

Mehtab Alam, Mian Haq, Asif Iqbal, Kaleem Ullah, Danish Nabi
2019 Journal of the College of Physicians and Surgeons  
Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) is an autoimmune relapsing demyelinating disorder which often leads to severe disability typically targeting spinal cord, optic nerves, and brainstem. Around 75% of NMOSD patients have serum immunoglobulin-G (IgG) autoantibodies to the aquaporin-4 channel (AQP4-IgG). AQP4-IgG antibodies have a central role in new diagnostic criteria of NMOSD. These antibodies have a critical role in long-term management after the first attack. The prevalence of
more » ... disorder is lower than multiple sclerosis in European countries. However, NMO makes a substantial proportion of the demyelinating diseases of the central nervous system in countries like Pakistan, where it can be mistaken for multiple sclerosis. Accurate diagnosis is essential as some of the drugs for multiple sclerosis can potentially worsen NMOSD. We present a case of sequential optic neuritis with positive aquaporin 4 antibodies. We have discussed the history, examination findings, diagnostic workups, and treatment of the patient. Figure 1: (A) Left fundus and (B) Right fundus at presentation showing bilateral (B/L) disc swelling, macular star, splinter hemorrhages, retinal exudates and features focal retinitis. Figure 2: Post-contrast T1 images showing bilateral gadolinium-enhancing optic discs (right-A & left -B) and right optic nerve.
doi:10.29271/jcpsp.2019.04.379 fatcat:prf3md637nhefiythz6u2kkhqe