Optic Neuritis

Optic neuritis is inflammatory demyelination of the optic nerve, classically in young adults, associated with multiple sclerosis. Clinical: acute monocular vision loss over days, pain with eye movement, afferent pupillary defect, and optic-disc swelling (papillitis) or normal disc (retrobulbar). Treatment: MRI to assess MS risk; intravenous methylprednisolone may speed recovery (does not change long-term outcome); MS-modifying therapy if high MS risk; visual recovery usually over weeks.

Common Symptoms

Acute monocular vision loss; pain with eye movement; afferent pupillary defect; young adult; MS association

Causes and Pathogenesis

Demyelination (often MS) of the optic nerve causes acute visual loss and conduction delay.

Treatment

MRI/MS workup; IV methylprednisolone speeds recovery; MS-modifying therapy if high risk; recovery over weeks

Preventive Measures

MS risk stratification; treat relapse.

Department to Visit

It is recommended to visit the Neurology/Ophthalmology department; an appointment can be booked on this platform before the visit.

Warm reminder: The above information is for health science reference only and cannot replace professional medical diagnosis. If you have related symptoms, please seek medical attention at a regular hospital promptly.