DISEASE SCANNER

Global Incurable Diseases Tracker

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Ophthalmologic Disease

Optic Neuritis

MODERATE

Inflammation of the optic nerve causing vision loss, usually in one eye. Often associated with multiple sclerosis but can occur in isolation or with other demyelinating diseases. Typically affects young adults.

Global Affected

500.0K

Countries

17

Symptoms

Vision loss (usually one eye)
Eye pain (worse with eye movement)
Loss of color vision
Peripheral vision loss
Flashing lights (phosphenes)
Uhthoff phenomenon (symptoms worsen with heat)

Treatment Options

IV corticosteroids (methylprednisolone)
Oral prednisone taper
Observation (mild cases)
Plasma exchange (severe/refractory)
Disease-modifying therapy (if MS diagnosed)

Risk Factors

1Age 20-40
2Female sex
3Multiple sclerosis
4Neuromyelitis optica (NMO)
5MOG antibody disease
6Infections (viral)

Diagnostic Methods

  • 1Dilated fundus exam (optic disc swelling or normal)
  • 2Visual evoked potentials (VEP)
  • 3MRI of brain and orbits
  • 4Visual field testing
  • 5Optical coherence tomography (OCT)
  • 6Blood tests (AQP4, MOG antibodies)

Prognosis

Good; 95% recover to 20/40 or better within 12 months even without treatment. Recurrence in 35% if no MS, higher with MS. 50% risk of developing MS at 15 years after first episode.

Prevention

  • No primary prevention
  • Early MS diagnosis and treatment may reduce recurrence
  • Avoid smoking (increases MS risk)

Research Status

IV corticosteroids speed recovery but don't affect final outcome. Close monitoring for MS development (50% risk at 15 years). Plasma exchange for severe corticosteroid-resistant cases.

Affected Countries

United StatesUnited KingdomCanadaAustraliaGermanyFranceItalySpainJapanBrazilIndiaChinaNigeriaSouth AfricaSwedenNorwayFinland

Sources

  • https://www.hematology.org/education/patients
  • https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books
  • https://rarediseases.org/rare-diseases

Medical Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult healthcare professionals for medical advice, diagnosis, and treatment.