Neuromyelitis Optica: Review and Utility of Testing Aquaporin‐4 Antibody in Typical Optic Neuritis. Issue 4 (July 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Seay, Meagan; Rucker, Janet C.
• Is Part Of: Asia-Pacific journal of ophthalmology. Volume 7:Issue 4(2018)
• Publication Date: 2018-07
• Subjects: NMO -- aquaporin‐4 immunoglobulin -- optic neuritis; Ophthalmology -- Periodicals; Eye -- Diseases -- Periodicals; Periodicals; 617.7005
• DOI: 10.22608/APO.2018170
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0129-1653

Abstract

Abstract : Abstract: : Neuromyelitis optica (NMO) is an autoimmune, inflammatory demyelinating disorder often leading to severe vision impairment and disability. The discovery of a diagnostic biomarker, the aquaporin‐4 antibody (AQP4‐IgG), transformed the clinical diagnosis and treatment of NMO and broadened the spectrum of disease [NMO spectrum disorders (NMOSD)]. Though the antibody is highly sensitive and specific to NMOSD, routine testing in patients with typical optic neuritis is considered controversial. This article will provide a brief review of NMOSD and highlight the pros and cons of routine testing in typical optic neuritis.