[Devic syndrome--case report, current principles of diagnosis and therapy]

Neuromyelitis optica (NMO, Devic-syndrome) is a rare, relapsing autoimmune disease of the central nervous system, which is distinguished from other demyelinating disorders by a recently identified, specific autoantibody. By demonstrating the anti-aquaporin-4 IgG in the serum, a heterogenous group of syndromes can be defined, called NMO-spectrum. In the future, optical coherence tomography may support this diagnosis besides the clinical features, imaging examinations and presence of serum antibody. Early recognition and treatment can improve clinical outcome even in serious condition. Long-term immunosuppressive therapy is advised to prevent further relapses and to stabilize or improve clinical status. Hereby, we report a case of a 51-year-old woman, under treatment for one and a half years. We summarize the current knowledge about the pathomechanism, diagnostic strategy and therapy of neuromyelitis optica. We review recent findings and the diagnostic value of a new, non-invasive ophtalmological examination, the optical coherence tomography. According to the first results, this method may be helpful in the early differential diagnosis of optic neuritis.