Neuromyélite optique de Devic

Abstract

Neuromyelitis optica (NMO) is an inflammatory disease of the central nervous system that primarily target the optic nerves and the spinal cord. Previously thought to be a subtype of multiple sclerosis (MS). The advent of anti-aquaporin 4 antibody has been instrumental in differentiating the disease process from multiple sclerosis. This disorder is now recognized as a separate entity based on clinical features ant pathogenesis but it has, also, been observed in association with another autoimmune disease. The evolution of NMO can be monophasic or recurrent. The prognosis is dependent of serological status and early treatment. The rate of disability and visual loss is greater in adult compared with pediatric cases.