Neuromyelitis Optica

Neuromyelitis Optica (NMO) is a rare autoimmune disorder of the central nervous system where antibodies can damage the spinal cord and/or optic nerves during attacks. The cause of this disease is unknown.

In many ways it is similar to multiple sclerosis but it is less common and attacks can be more severe.

What are the symptoms of Neuromyelitis Optica?

Typical attack symptoms can be:

• Sudden loss of vision in one or both eyes (optic neuritis) and/or
• Numbness and/or weakness in the legs and arms (transverse myelitis)

These symptoms usually develop over days which can help separate them from the signs of stroke which occur instantly.

How is Neuromyelitis Optica diagnosedTesting by a neurologist with specialization in multiple sclerosis and Neuromyelitis Optica is often required.

The tests conducted often include:

• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain and spinal cord
• Vision tests
• Blood tests for antibodies

How is Neuromyelitis Optica treated?

Neuromyelitis Optica is a treatable disease and prevention of attacks using common medications such as imuran (azathioprine) is recommended after careful assessment by a specialist.

Standard treatment for acute attacks include inravenous steroids as soon as possible after the onset of a severe attack. Milder attacks may require steroids taken by mouth.

These treatments should be started as soon as possible of onset of a severe attack. Milder attacks may require steroids taken by mouth.Who gets Neuromyelitis Optica? Similar to MS, Neuromyelitis Optica is more common in women between the ages of 20 and 40.

However, we've seen this develop in children as young as two and adults in their 60's.

How does the rate of occurrence compare with multiple sclerosis? Neuromyelitis Optica is rare compared to multiple sclerosis. For example in BC over 9000 people have multiple sclerosis compared to 150 with Neuromyelitis Optica.

In general, multiple sclerosis is much less common in people of east and south east Asian ethnicity. However, at least one third of those diagnosed with MS actually have NMO.

Who is eligible for this service?Men and women 19 years and older. Children and youth may be seen by special arrangement.

Is there a cost?No, there is no cost for this service.How do I access this service?You must be referred by your family doctor or a specialist. Referral forms can be accessed through the link to the Neuromyelitis Optica program below.

Where is this service offered? The link below will take you to the Find Services directory listing, which includes descriptions, contact details referral forms and related documents for this service.