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Semin Neurol 2007; 27(3): 211-220
DOI: 10.1055/s-2007-979683
Copyright © 2007 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc., 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Optic Neuritis

Edward J. Atkins1 , Valérie Biousse2 , 3 , Nancy J. Newman2 , 3 , 4
  • 1Division of Neurology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
  • 2Department of Ophthalmology Surgery, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
  • 3Department of Neurology Surgery, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
  • 4Department of Neurological Surgery, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
Further Information

Publication History

Publication Date:
18 June 2007 (online)

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ABSTRACT

Optic neuritis is a common cause of visual loss in young patients. Visual function generally spontaneously improves over weeks, and 95% of patients return to visual acuity of at least 20/40 within 12 months. The initial magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) helps stratify the risk of multiple sclerosis in patients with acute isolated optic neuritis. High-dose steroids hasten the rate, but not the final extent, of visual recovery in optic neuritis, and the decision to use this therapy is individualized. Interferon therapy should be considered in selected high-risk patients.

KEYWORDS

Optic neuritis - multiple sclerosis clinically isolated syndrome - optic neuritis treatment trial

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Valérie BiousseM.D. 

Neuro-Ophthalmology Unit, Emory Eye Center

1365-B Clifton Road NE, Atlanta, GA 30322

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