Optic neuritis: A mechanistic view

Erik V Burton; Benjamin M Greenberg; Elliot M Frohman

doi:10.1016/j.pathophys.2010.04.009

Optic neuritis: A mechanistic view

Pathophysiology. 2011 Feb;18(1):81-92. doi: 10.1016/j.pathophys.2010.04.009. Epub 2010 May 15.

Authors

Erik V Burton¹, Benjamin M Greenberg, Elliot M Frohman

Affiliation

¹ Department of Neurology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas, United States.

PMID: 20472407
DOI: 10.1016/j.pathophys.2010.04.009

Abstract

Acute demyelinating optic neuritis is a condition of the optic nerves characterized by inflammation, demyelination, and neurodegeneration. Optic neuritis is a relatively common demyelinating event, strongly associated with multiple sclerosis. A number of clinical, radiographic, retinal imaging, and electrophysiologic techniques have provided significant insight into the pathologic and pathophysiologic mechanisms of optic neuritis and its related disorder multiple sclerosis. The development of validated biomarkers within the anterior visual system has paved the way for novel investigations aimed at characterizing the processes of axonal loss and neurodegeneration, neuroprotection, and perhaps even neurorestoration strategies.