Neuromyelitis optica (NMO) and Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders (NMOSD) are inflammatory disorders characterized by immune-mediated demyelination and axonal damage predominantly involving optic nerves and spinal cord. Previously NMO was considered as a variant of multiple sclerosis (MS), but now it is considered a separate entity⁽¹⁾. Here we report a case of middle aged female presenting with quadriplegia, urinary retention, sensory abnormalities which suggested myelopathy but without any evidence of optic neuritis, suggesting a diagnosis of  neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder. The diagnosis was confirmed by positive aquaporin 4 antibody.

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Dr R. Guruboo Balaji

Post graduate, Department of General Medicine, Chettinad Hospital and Research Institute