Inflammation of the optic nerve, often causing sudden loss of part of the visual field. Attacks are sometimes accompanied by pain on moving the eyes. Vision usually improves within 6 weeks, but some optic nerve fibres will be damaged. Recurrent attacks usually lead to permanent loss of visual acuity. Most cases are thought to be due to demyelination of the optic nerve fibres in multiple sclerosis. The condition may also result from inflammation or infection of tissues around the optic nerve. Corticosteroid drugs may help to restore vision, but seem to have little effect on longterm outcome. (See also optic atrophy.)
Optic neuritis |
|
|