MOG Antibody-Associated Optic Neuritis Masquerading as Traumatic Optic Neuropathy Following Cranial Trauma: A Case...

Myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody-associated disease (MOGAD) is an autoimmune disorder characterized by demyelination of the central nervous system. It can impact the optic nerves, spinal cord, brain parenchyma, and brainstem, resulting in various clinical presentations such as acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM), optic neuritis (ON), transverse myelitis, and encephalitis. The optic nerve is the most commonly affected region in MOGAD; nevertheless, some individuals may exhibit no apparent clinical indications, presenting only with visual impairment, which complicates clinical identification. Although prior research has predominantly concentrated on MOGAD as a whole, investigations into isolated MOG-ON are scarce, especially within pediatric demographics. Additionally, the accurate diagnosis of MOG-ON is further complicated by the difficulty of identifying the definitive cause when other potential etiologies coexist. We present the case of an 8-year-old previously healthy Asian girl who was admitted due to head trauma and subsequently diagnosed with MOG-ON after positive serum MOG antibody testing. This case of isolated MOG-ON with a history of head trauma is presented to underscore the necessity of serological confirmation and to offer clinicians new perspectives on the diagnostic difficulties associated with this illness.