title: Therapeutic options in neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders.
abstract: Neuromyelitis optica is a relapsing inflammatory disorder of the central nervous system that manifests predominantly with attacks of optic neuritis and longitudinally extensive transverse myelitis; attacks are often severe. In contrast to multiple sclerosis, a secondary progressive phase is rare, and disability in neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders is related to relapses. Thus, prompt and effective treatment of relapses, and early initiation of long-term immunosuppression to prevent subsequent attacks is required in order to prevent morbidity and mortality.
authors: a Department of Neurology, Wessex Neurological Centre , Southampton General Hospital , Southampton , UK.
authors: Joanna
authors: J
authors: Kitley
authors: b Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Level 3 West Wing , Oxford University Hospitals NHS Trust, University of Oxford , Oxford , UK.
authors: Jackie
authors: J
authors: Palace
mesh_terms: D006801:Humans; D007166:Immunosuppressive Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D009471:Neuromyelitis Optica / Q000628:therapy*
chemical_list: D007166:Immunosuppressive Agents
keywords: AQP4-Ab; NMO; NMOSD; Neuromyelitis optica; aquaporin-4; neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders; treatment