Optic neuritis - more than a loss of vision
Abstract
Optic neuritis (ON) is the presence of an acute
inflammation of the optic nerve that results in painful loss of
vision. It is the most commonly encountered optic neuropathy
in general practice, and is often associated with multiple
sclerosis (MS). Studies show that in about 15–20% of MS
cases, ON was the presenting symptom and more than half of
people with MS experience at least one episode of ON during
their disease. The risk of developing MS can be stratified by
appropriate imaging investigations at the diagnosis of ON.
Therefore, early recognition is important to ensure timely
referral, investigation and treatment; prompt treatment can
hasten visual recovery.