Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 9, 2026
Dynamic Visual Tests to Identify and Quantify Visual Damage and Repair Following Demyelination in Optic Neuritis Patients
Published on: April 14, 2014
Optic neuritis and the evaluation of visual impairment in multiple sclerosis
Robert A Bermel1, Laura J Balcer
1Mellen Center for Multiple Sclerosis, Neurological Institute, Cleveland Clinic, 9500 Euclid Avenue Building U10, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA. bermelr@ccf.org
Purpose Of Review:
This review covers causes of visual impairment in multiple sclerosis (MS), differential diagnosis, and treatment. Emerging technologies are sometimes used in assessing the visual system and may require a neurologist's familiarity. The most common causes are emphasized and discussed in detail, including illustrative cases.
Recent Findings:
The use of optical coherence tomography as both a clinical and research tool has advanced our understanding of how the afferent visual system is affected by MS.
Summary:
Optic neuritis remains one of the most common initial manifestations of MS, although a number of other causes of visual impairment are possible even in the patient with known MS. Some causes of visual impairment are consequences or complications of MS treatment and are particularly important to recognize. Low-contrast letter acuity and optical coherence tomography are techniques or tests emerging from the research arena that may inform care of the patient with MS and are important for the neurologist to be aware of.
