Neuromyelitis optica – A masquerade of multiple sclerosis

We describe a case of neuromyelitis optica - a Masquerade of multiple sclerosis. Neuromyelitis optica should be differentiated from multiple sclerosis, as treatment of multiple sclerosis can worsen symptoms of neuromyelitis optica. Both visual and neurological prognosis in neuromyelitis optica are poorer than in multiple sclerosis. Episodes of visual loss in neuromyelitis optica are recurrent leading to severe visual impairment. Immunosuppressive agents such as corticosteroids remain the mainstay of therapy for acute episodes.

Keywords: Aquaporin-4, Azathioprine, Multiple sclerosis, MRI, Neuromyelitis optica.