Definition
Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) is a problem with the immune system. The body attacks and harms healthy tissue. The spinal cord and nerves of the eyes are most often affected. There may also be bladder problems.
Causes
NMOSD causes bad antibodies to appear. This triggers the immune system to harm healthy nerves.
It is not known why this happens. Genes may play a role.
Symptoms
Problems may be:
- Decreased eyesight
- Eye pain
- Problems moving the legs or both the arms and the legs
- Loss of bowel or bladder control
- A shock feeling that runs down the spine
- Spasms and shaking
- Back pain
- Weak muscles in the face
- A feeling of spinning when you are standing still
Diagnosis
You will be asked about your symptoms and health history. An exam will be done.
NMOSD problems are like those for multiple sclerosis (MS). Tests will be done to rule out MS.
Tests may be:
- Blood tests—to check for antibodies and inflammation markers
- Lumbar puncture—to test the fluid around your brain and spine
- MRI scan—to take pictures of your brain, spine, and eyes
Treatment
NMOSD cannot be cured. The goal of treatment is to ease symptoms and stop flare-ups.
Choices are:
Medicines
These may be given:
- Corticosteroid drugs—to ease inflammation during a flare-up
- Medicine to slow or adjust the immune system
Plasma Exchange
This procedure takes antibodies out of the blood. It may slow or stop harm.
Rehabilitation
Therapy may help with changes. It can help a person adjust to sight and movement problems.
RESOURCES
National Multiple Sclerosis Society https://www.nationalmssociety.org
National Organization for Rare Disorders https://rarediseases.org
CANADIAN RESOURCES
Canadian Organization for Rare Disorders https://www.raredisorders.ca
Health Canada https://www.canada.ca
References
Kessler RA, Mealy M, et al. Treatment of neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder: acute, preventive, and symptomatic. Curr Treat Options Neurol. 2016 Jan;18(1):2. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4807395/. Accessed September 7, 2018.
Neuromyelitis optica. Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center website. Available at: https://rarediseases.info.nih.gov/diseases/6267/neuromyelitis-optica. Accessed September 7, 2018.
Neuromyelitis optica. National Organization for Rare Disorders website. Available at: https://rarediseases.org/rare-diseases/neuromyelitis-optica/. Published 2015. Accessed September 7, 2018.
Neuromyelitis optica information page. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke website. Available at: https://www.ninds.nih.gov/Disorders/All-Disorders/Neuromyelitis-Optica-Information-Page. Updated June 18, 2018. Accessed September 7, 2018.
Neuromyelitis optica (NMO). National Multiple Sclerosis Society website. Available at: https://www.nationalmssociety.org/What-is-MS/Related-Conditions/Neuromyelitis-Optica-(NMO)#section-1. Accessed September 7, 2018.
Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (MDOSD). Myelitis website. Available at: https://myelitis.org/neuromyelitis-optica-spectrum-disorder-nmosd/. Accessed September 7, 2018.
Popescu BF, Guo Y, et al. Diagnostic utility of aquaporin-4 in the analysis of active demyelinating lesions. Neurology. 2015;84(2):148-158.
Revision Information
- Reviewer: EBSCO Medical Review Board Rimas Lukas, MD
- Review Date: 05/2020
- Update Date: 05/12/2020