Inflammatory optic neuropathies

Inflammatory optic neuropathies are common in clinical practice. Monosymptomatic optic neuritis has important implications for the development of multiple sclerosis. In the patient presenting with monosymptomatic optic neuritis, MR imaging provides critical prognostic information concerning the development of MS. The ONTT provided valuable information regarding the natural history and therapy of optic neuritis. Oral prednisone alone is contraindicated in the treatment of optic neuritis because of its association with increased recurrence rate of optic neuritis. Intravenous methylprednisolone remains a viable treatment option to slightly increase the rate of recovery and provide a degree of short-term protection against the subsequent development of MS. Other inflammatory optic neuropathies include sarcoidosis, neuroretinitis, and Devic's disease with each possessing distinct clinical characteristics and treatment approaches.