What tests are done for optic neuritis?

Written by Zhang Hui
Neurology
Updated on September 17, 2024
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Optic neuritis is generally caused by demyelinating diseases, including common conditions such as neuromyelitis optica, multiple sclerosis, and retrobulbar neuritis. These diseases can severely impact the patient's vision and create significant burdens. Typically, examinations of the optic nerve are required, covering several aspects. First, an examination of the fundus is necessary, generally using an ophthalmoscope or other devices to observe the optic disc and surrounding blood vessels, which is very important. Second, a visual evoked potential test can be conducted. This test helps assess whether there is damage to the optic nerve and the severity of the damage. Third, it is necessary to complete an MRI of the optic nerve. Evaluations might include a lumbar puncture to analyze cerebrospinal fluid, and complete tests related to water channels, protein antibodies, oligoclonal bands, etc., to help confirm the diagnosis.

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Written by Zhang Hui
Neurology
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How is optic neuritis treated?

Optic neuritis is generally caused by demyelinating diseases of the central nervous system, such as multiple sclerosis, neuromyelitis optica, and retrobulbar neuritis, all of which can lead to the onset. The main symptoms include a decline in vision, which can affect one eye or both eyes. The treatment of optic neuritis primarily includes: First, the use of corticosteroids, which can alleviate the inflammatory response in the body and help in the recovery of optic nerve functions, is widely applied. Corticosteroids can be used systemically, and if necessary, administered retrobulbarly. Second, the intake of other immunosuppressants and immunoregulatory treatments, mainly during the remission phase, is to prevent relapse. Third, treatment can also involve the use of intravenous immunoglobulin, although it is relatively expensive. Additionally, it is necessary to take some B vitamins for related treatment.

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Neurology
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Can optic neuritis be treated without hospitalization?

Patients with optic neuritis generally experience severe symptoms, as failing to receive appropriate treatment can lead to a significant and potentially irreversible decline in vision, resulting in disability. It is recommended that patients with optic neuritis be hospitalized for treatment. Hospitalization is necessary to carry out various supportive tests, including lumbar puncture lab tests and comprehensive MRI scans. Treatment of optic neuritis also involves administering high doses of corticosteroids based on the patient's condition. It is difficult for patients to manage such high doses of corticosteroids at home. Moreover, doctors need to closely monitor for any adverse reactions caused by these steroids. Therefore, hospitalization is advised for the treatment of optic neuritis, as the risks and prognosis are considerably worse without it.

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Written by Zhang Hui
Neurology
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Early symptoms of optic neuritis

Optic neuritis primarily leads to a decline in vision in both eyes, though sometimes only one eye is affected. Diseases causing optic neuritis mainly include conditions like neuromyelitis optica and multiple sclerosis, which are central nervous system demyelinating diseases. These are autoimmune response diseases caused by immune function disorder of the body itself. The initial symptoms of optic neuritis might include a decrease in immunity, making patients more susceptible to colds, and symptoms such as general fatigue, headaches, a runny nose, and a sore throat might appear. Some patients might also experience gastrointestinal symptoms like diarrhea and abdominal pain. Additionally, some patients with optic neuritis might initially experience the sensation of foreign bodies moving in front of their eyes, along with other irritating visual symptoms. Treatment for optic neuritis must be prompt, as delayed treatment can lead to severe deterioration of vision, significantly impairing the patient's eyesight.

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Written by Zhang Hui
Neurology
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Will optic neuritis definitely cause blindness?

Optic neuritis is relatively common in neurology. It is a central nervous system demyelinating disease where the optic nerve is affected, leading to a significant decline in vision. However, patients with optic neuritis do not necessarily go blind. With prompt examination and treatment, mainly using corticosteroids, many patients can significantly recover their vision. However, neuromyelitis optica, another disease, tends to recur frequently. If there are many recurrences, it may lead to blindness. It may also cause corresponding lesions in the spinal cord, leading to paralysis and sensory disorders of the limbs. Therefore, it is crucial for patients to receive proper treatment in neurology, including immunosuppressants, and to regularly exercise to enhance physical fitness.

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Optic neuritis treated with steroids

Optic neuritis is a demyelinating disease of the central nervous system, primarily including optic neuritis caused by multiple sclerosis, as well as neuromyelitis optica and retrobulbar neuritis, among others. These diseases are caused by abnormal immune responses of the body and are closely related to immune dysfunction. Therefore, optic neuritis is mainly treated with corticosteroids. Corticosteroids can inhibit the body's immune response to achieve the purpose of alleviating the disease. However, the use of steroids should also pay attention to some related risks. For instance, there might be occurrences of osteoporosis and even osteonecrosis of the femoral head, potential disturbances in electrolyte, fat, and sugar metabolism in the body, the possibility of developing centripetal obesity, and the potential for gastric ulcers. Close monitoring is essential, and other immunosuppressants may be added if necessary. (Use of medications should be under the guidance of a doctor.)