Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorder

Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder is a rare autoimmune condition in which the immune system attacks the optic nerves and spinal cord, often causing severe episodes of vision loss and weakness.

Common symptoms

Rapid loss of vision in one or both eyes, pain on eye movement, weakness or numbness in the limbs, problems with bladder or bowel control, and persistent hiccups or vomiting.

Description

Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder, often shortened to NMOSD, causes recurrent attacks on the optic nerves and spinal cord. Many people have antibodies against a protein called aquaporin-4, which helps tell NMOSD apart from other inflammatory conditions such as multiple sclerosis.

Attacks of optic neuritis in NMOSD tend to be more severe than in multiple sclerosis and can affect both eyes at once. Spinal cord attacks can cause weakness, sensory changes, and bladder problems, and recovery from each attack may be incomplete if not treated promptly.

Care is led by neurology and ophthalmology teams, with urgent treatment of attacks using steroids and sometimes plasma exchange. Long-term immune-suppressing or targeted biologic therapies are used to prevent further relapses, alongside rehabilitation and low vision support where needed.