Clinico-Demographic Profile of Optic Neuritis: A Single-Center Study at a Tertiary Care Hospital in Eastern India

A BSTRACT Background: Optic neuritis (ON) is a rare inflammatory disorder primarily affecting young adults, often associated with multiple sclerosis (MS). However, recent research has uncovered diverse etiological factors, including viral infections and autoimmune mechanisms. Geographical variations in ON incidence and presentation highlight its complex nature. Although some regions, such as Northern Europe, exhibit higher prevalence rates, limited attention has been given to understanding the clinical profiles of ON patients in Eastern India. Methods: This prospective study aimed to characterize the demographic and clinical features of ON patients at a tertiary care center in Eastern India. Over 40 months, 42 newly diagnosed ON patients, aged 6 to 68 years, were enrolled at a tertiary healthcare center. Comprehensive evaluations, including ophthalmic assessments, laboratory investigations, and imaging studies, were conducted. Institutional ethical clearance was obtained before the study’s commencement. Patients meeting inclusion criteria were included, while those with specific pre-existing conditions were excluded. Results: This study reveals a higher prevalence of ON among females aged 30–45 and 15–30 years. Most cases presented with unilateral sudden vision loss, often associated with pain during eye movements. Notably, diplopia and ptosis were rare but observed, suggesting lateral rectus and levator palpebrae superioris involvement. MRI findings indicated optic nerve swelling and demyelination. Improvement was noted post-steroid treatment, with demyelination being the most common etiology. Conclusion: This study sheds light on the clinical spectrum of ON at a tertiary care center in Eastern India, emphasizing its varied presentation and demographic profile. While unilateral sudden vision loss was predominant, atypical symptoms such as diplopia and ptosis, though infrequent, underscore the complexity of ON manifestations. Understanding these nuances is crucial for developing tailored diagnostic and therapeutic strategies to address the specific needs of the local population.