The prognosis for patients suspected of optic neuritis

Optic neuritis (ON) is often the first symptom of multiple sclerosis (MS). However, a broad range of conditions can give rise to or mimic ON. The objective of this study was to investigate the social and health related consequences of ON.

During the period 2003-2011, 436 patients were examined for ON. The primary endpoints were time to disability pension and immunomodulatory treatment against MS. Patients were followed-up through the Danish the Registry of Deaths and Migration until July 2012. Statistics Denmark provided information on disability pension. Furthermore, data was merged with the Danish MS Treatment Register.

After 9 years, 24.9% were disabled and 47.7% had initiated treatment against MS. The risk of disability was five times higher than in the background population. The risk of becoming a disability pensioner was highest among patients with paraclinical findings compatible with MS.

As expected, MS is the leading cause of disability after ON. This study revealed an association between the paraclinical findings at symptom onset and social outcome. These results may influence insurance underwriting.