Overview

Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorder

Although it resembles multiple sclerosis (MS) in some respects, neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) is a distinct condition from MS, with different underlying mechanisms, diagnostic criteria and treatment approaches, and it tends to cause more severe attacks.

NMOSD is a disease in which the immune system attacks a water channel present in particular cells in the optic nerve, brain or spinal cord. People with NMOSD may experience optic neuritis affecting one or both eyes, inflammation involving long segments of the spinal cord, intractable nausea or hiccups, among other neurologic symptoms.

In some cases, NMOSD may be associated with other diseases.