Optic Neuritis Presentation and Outcomes: A Single-Center Experience From Northern Saudi Arabia

Objectives This study aimed to analyze the demographic characteristics, clinical presentation, and treatment outcomes of patients with optic neuritis (ON) at King Khalid Hospital, Hail, Saudi Arabia. Methods A retrospective cohort study was conducted reviewing medical records of 40 patients diagnosed with ON between January 2021 and December 2024. Data collected included demographics, clinical presentations, neurological findings, imaging results, and treatment outcomes. Results The study population was predominantly female (n = 32, 80%), Saudi nationals (n = 33, 82.5%), and young adults aged 16-26 years (n = 24, 60%). Most cases were either idiopathic (n = 21, 52.5%) or associated with multiple sclerosis (MS) (n = 18, 45%), with a predominantly unilateral presentation (n = 37, 92.5%). Common symptoms included blurred vision (n = 38, 95.0%) and color vision changes (n = 31, 77.5%). Initial visual acuity was less than 20/200 in (n = 20, 50%) of cases. IV steroids were the primary treatment (n = 31, 77.5%), and (n = 32, 80%) of patients achieved vision better than 20/200 post-treatment. Significant associations were found between vision outcomes and both initial visual acuity (p = 0.011) and symptom duration (p = 0.041). Conclusions This study demonstrates generally favorable outcomes for patients with ON in the Hail region, with early presentation and treatment associated with better visual outcomes. The demographic and clinical patterns observed align with international literature while providing specific insights into the regional manifestation of the condition.