NEWS IN NEUROMYELITIS OPTICA
Abstract:
Neuromyelitis optica (NMO) also known as Devic’s disease or Devic’s syndrome is an
autoimmune disorder, in which the immune system of the body mistakenly attacks and destroys myelin
cells in the optic nerves and the spinal cord. The damage of the optic nerve produces swelling and
inflammation that cause ocular pain and inflammation bringing about pain and loss of vision. The
damage of the spinal cord causes weakness or paralysis in the legs, loss of sensation, and problems with
bladder and bowel function. In the past, NMO was considered to be a severe variant of multiple
sclerosis. The recent discovery of an antibody in the blood of the individuals with NMO gives us a
reliable biomarker to distinguish between them. There is no cure for NMO, but there are therapies to
treat an attack, to reduce symptoms, and to prevent relapses
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