Optic Neuritis

Overview

There are two different types of optic neuritis: papillitis and retrobulbar optic neuritis. The distinction between the two is made based on their locations. Papillitis, which is more common in the younger population, is readily observable when an eye care professional looks inside the eye. Retrobulbar optic neuritis, as its name suggests, is an inflammation of the optic nerve behind the eyeball.

Optic neuritis is usually seen in 15-45 year old females and has a strong association with multiple sclerosis – 55% of patients with MS develop optic neuritis. In some 20% of cases, optic neuritis is the first indication that a person has multiple sclerosis. Generally, it is the older population in which optic neuritis is associated with MS – in children, optic neuritis is more commonly associated with viral infection.

Signs & Symptoms of Optic Neurits

Vision loss is a prominent symptom of optic neuritis. Loss of vision occurs relatively quickly and may progressively worsen for up to 7 days. Pain on eye movement and disturbed color vision may also occur along with a noticeable reduction in perceived brightness. The optic nerve at the back of the eye may appear swollen (papillitis).

Optic Neuritis Treatment

The standard treatment for optic neuritis involves a short course of IV steroids (around 2 weeks worth). If a patient is not already diagnosed with MS, an MRI may be scheduled to confirm this diagnosis. Generally, if there is no recurrence of optic neuritis after 5 years, the patient likely does not have multiple sclerosis.

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