DEVICS DISEASE

Whether neuromyelitis optica, the cooccurrence of myelitis and optic neuritis, is a variant of multiple sclerosis or a unique disease is controversial. Distinct neuropathological features and fulminant clinical course argue in favour of NMO as a distinct disease. We present a case of 40 years old female with bilateral optic neuritis and spinal cord involvement. Clinical, MRI and CSF data have fulfilled the diagnostic criteria of NMO. CSF examination showed mild pleocytosis and absence of oligoclonal band. MRI spine revealed demyelination of cervical and thoracic spine. Visual evoked potential showed prolongation of latency and decreased amplitude of both eyes. Serum aquaporin-4 antibodies were found to be positive. After treatment with prednisolone, her visual acuity began to improve on 7th day and motor function improved on 12th day. Six months later, she has normal visual acuity, normal motor function and shows no evidence of disease recurrence