Optic neuritis: a review of diagnostic imaging modalities and effective management approaches

Abstract

Optic neuritis (ON) is a medical condition characterized by an acute inflammation of the optic nerve, usually caused by multiple sclerosis (MS). However, there are other causes such as infectious diseases, granulomatous disease, paraneoplastic disorders, and demyelination disorders. Usually, the commonest presentation is unilateral painful loss of vision. This study aimed to review the diagnostic imaging modalities and effective management approaches of ON. ON can be diagnosed through different modalities such as magnetic resonance imaging, which is the modality of choice to assess ON, providing crucial insights into the structural and functional changes within the optic nerve. In ON, the retrobulbar intra-orbital segment of the optic nerve often exhibits noticeable characteristics, including swelling and a high T2 signal. In addition, optical coherence tomography is a new, noninvasive tool for direct visualization of the head of the optic nerve that can detect thinner retinal nerve fiber layers diagnosing ON. In treating ON and MS, the main aim is to reduce the recurrence and severity of the attacks to minimize the subsequent disability. The utilization of disease-modifying drugs contributes to delaying the onset of subsequent episodes, reducing the occurrence of MS relapses, and minimizing the formation of demyelinating lesions.