
Optic Neuritis | 50% will develop Multiple Sclerosis
Optic neuritis is an inflammation of the optic nerve. It is highly associated with multiple sclerosis (MS). 15-20% of MS patients are suffering from optic neuritis. There are also other causes for optic neuritis, such as infections or auto-immune diseases. However, these causes are uncommon.
50% of patients suffering from optic neuritis will develop Multiple Sclerosis (MS) in the next 15 years.
Optic neuritis effects usually one eye at a time. In rare cases both eyes can be affected at the same time.
Symptoms
• Blurred Vision / Vision loss
• Pain inside / behind the eye (more intense when moving the eye)
• Other symptoms such as loss of color of vision, seeing flashes or flickers etc.
Diagnosis & Treatment
Prognosis
• In 90% the vision will be almost normal after 1 year.
• In 35% optic neuritis is recurring in 10 years.
• 50% of patients suffering from optic neuritis will develop Multiple Sclerosis (MS) in the next 15 years.