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Visual pathway involvement in multiple sclerosis: Look straight in the eyes
Lorenzo Gaetani1, Barbara Iaccheri2, Alessio Cerquaglia2
1Clinica Neurologica, Dipartimento di Medicina, Università degli Studi di Perugia, Perugia, Italy.
Multiple Sclerosis and Related Disorders
|October 23, 2017
Summary
Multiple sclerosis (MS) visual symptoms can stem from retinal periphlebitis, not just optic neuritis (ON). A thorough eye exam is crucial for MS patients with visual disturbances to identify rare causes.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Neurology
- Immunology
Background:
- Visual symptoms are common in multiple sclerosis (MS).
- Acute optic neuritis (ON) is a frequent cause of MS-related visual impairment.
- The entire visual pathway can be affected during the course of MS.
Observation:
- A young MS patient presented with visual symptoms.
- The symptoms were ultimately attributed to retinal periphlebitis.
- Retinal periphlebitis, an inflammation of the anterior visual pathway, is common in MS but typically asymptomatic.
Findings:
- This case highlights retinal periphlebitis as a rare but symptomatic cause of visual disturbances in MS.
- It underscores the importance of considering less common etiologies beyond typical optic neuritis.
Implications:
- A comprehensive ophthalmological work-up is essential for all MS patients experiencing visual symptoms.
- This approach helps differentiate between optic neuritis and other inflammatory conditions like retinal periphlebitis.
- Accurate diagnosis ensures appropriate management and prevents misdiagnosis of MS visual complications.
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