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Neuromyelitis Optica

by Alike Medical Team ∙ Updated on June 13, 2023

Additional names

This group contains additional names: - Devics disease

General

Neuromyelitis optica (NMO) is a disorder of the central nervous system that affects the eyes and spinal cord. It is an autoimmune condition in which the body’s immune system attacks the neurons. The cause for NMO is not known, but it sometimes may occur after an infection. Also, it is associated with other autoimmune conditions.

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Signs & symptoms

Symptoms of NMO include blindness, weakness or paralysis in the arms or the legs, painful spasms, loss of sensation, vomiting, hiccups, bladder or bowel dysfunction. Children who have NMO may also suffer from seizures or coma.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of NMO is based upon findings in medical history and physical examination, including neurological examination and ophthalmological examination. Other tests may include spinal MRI, lumbar puncture to test proteins and antibody levels in CSF, blood tests to look for NMO-IgG antibodies and MOG-IgG antibodies. A stimulus response test may be done as well as an evoked potential test.

Treatment

NMO cannot be cured but a long-term remission is sometimes an option. In early stages of NMO, there is an option to reverse recent symptoms by corticosteroids and plasma exchange. For preventing future attacks, fixed lower doses of corticosteroids may be recommended and other immunosuppressive medications such as azathioprine and mycophenolate.

Note

☝ We provide information on prescription and over-the-counter medicines, diagnosis, procedures and lab tests. This material is provided for educational purposes only and is not medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.

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