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Optic neuritis in children: recurrence and subsequent development of multiple sclerosis
P Visudhiphan1, S Chiemchanya, S Santadusit
1Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand.
Pediatric Neurology
|November 1, 1995
Summary
Recurrent optic neuritis in Thai children can lead to multiple sclerosis. This study monitored 22 pediatric patients, finding a similar risk of developing multiple sclerosis as in Western countries.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Pediatrics
- Ophthalmology
Background:
- The incidence and progression of optic neuritis and subsequent multiple sclerosis in children, especially in Asian populations, remain under-investigated.
- Understanding these patterns is crucial for early diagnosis and management in pediatric neurology.
Observation:
- This study followed 22 Thai children under 15 years old diagnosed with optic neuritis.
- Patients were monitored for 6-20 years, with no prior neurological conditions.
- Vision recovery timelines were documented: 8 patients improved within 1 week, 10 within 2 weeks, and 2 within 3 weeks.
Findings:
- Two patients experienced recurrent optic neuritis.
- Two patients developed clinical definite multiple sclerosis (MS).
- MS manifestations included hemiparesis, myelopathy, and brainstem dysfunction, appearing 6 months to 6 years post-optic neuritis onset.
Implications:
- The frequency of pediatric multiple sclerosis following optic neuritis in Thailand appears comparable to that in the United States and Europe.
- These findings highlight the importance of long-term neurological monitoring for children experiencing optic neuritis, particularly in Asian regions.
- Further research is warranted to explore genetic and environmental factors influencing MS development in these populations.