Optic neuritis caused by autoimmune inflammatory processes in the central nervous system is the most common cause of sight loss in patients with multiple sclerosis. Atypical optic neuritis may be associated with neuromyelitis optica as an inflammatory disorder. Typical optic neuritis is characterised by rapid loss of sight that develops over a matter of days. In every case treatment should begin as early as possible, in order to prevent long-term loss of vision. Unfortunately, treatment does not always reverse the effects of optic neuritis completely, so some patients are left with sight loss that can significantly affect their everyday life.
Inflammation of the optic nerve may present as blurred vision, a central visual field defect, reduced visual acuity, impaired colour vision and more.