Optic neuritis in demyelinating diseases: study of 38 cases

Area of Science:

• Neuroimmunology
• Ophthalmology
• Neurology

Background:

• Optic neuritis involves optic nerve inflammation from genetic, environmental, or immune triggers.
• It can be an early indicator of serious neurological conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To characterize patients with optic neuritis as the first symptom of multiple sclerosis (MS), neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD), or MOG-IgG-associated disorders (MOGADs).
• To analyze clinical and epidemiological features and diagnostic timelines.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 38 patients presenting optic neuritis as their initial neurological symptom.
• Categorization of patients into MS, NMOSD, and MOGAD groups based on subsequent diagnosis.

Main Results:

• The study identified predominantly female (90%) and white (60%) patients, with most diagnosed with MS (63%), followed by NMOSD (32%) and MOGADs (5%).
• Age distribution showed a peak between 20-30 years (50%).
• Diagnostic delays were noted, particularly for MS and NMOSD, with significant differences between public and private healthcare sectors.

Conclusions:

• Optic neuritis as an initial symptom is more common in females aged 21-40, predominantly of white ethnicity, often leading to MS.
• Healthcare sector significantly influences the time to diagnosis for these neuro-inflammatory conditions.