Optic neuritis is inflammation of the optic nerve. This condition is often linked to multiple sclerosis (MS) , and can also occur in people who have other infections or immune diseases like lupus. Symptoms of optic neuritis include:

• Eye pain or discomfort that increases with eye movement
• Loss of color perception
• Loss of visual field
• Vision loss in one or both eyes

Tests

Blood test - Your doctor may order blood tests (such as NMO IgG or anti-MOG IgG), which can identify conditions that are associated with inflammation of the optic nerves.

Comprehensive Exam - Your doctor will conduct a thorough physical examination of your eyes – as well as gather a complete health history – to determine if you have optic neuritis.

Ophthalmoscopy - In this test, your doctor shines a bright light into your eye and looks at the structures in the back of your eye. The doctor specifically examines your optic disk (where the optic nerve enters the retina), since about one-third of people with optic neuritis have a swollen optic disk.

Optical coherence tomography - The test measures the thickness of the cell layers and nerve fibers that make up the optic nerves to check for optic nerve damage.

Optic nerve photos - The test documents the amount of optic nerve swelling.

Visual field - A visual field test assesses both central and peripheral vision.

Treatments

Steroid Medications - Your specialist may prescribe a steroid medication to help reduce inflammation in your optic nerve. Steroids are usually given by vein (intravenously).

Why Choose Bascom Palmer Eye Institute?

Ranked #1 by U.S. News & World Report. Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, part of the University of Miami Health System, is the top-rated facility in the country for the treatment of diseases and disorders of the eye. When you choose us for your eye care, you will receive the best care in the nation in a compassionate setting.

Comprehensive care. When an underlying medical condition affects your eyes, you can have peace of mind knowing you have quick access to a team of physicians representing every specialty.