How can you tell the difference between MS and NMO?

In NMO, spinal cord lesions tend to be centrally located, rarely extending to the surface of the cord, whereas in MS such lesions are usually located peripherally. Chronic cord lesions in NMO often change over time, becoming patchier in appearance, making these distinguishing criteria less applicable to older lesions.

What is anti NMO antibody?

Abstract. Background: Damage to astrocytes by anti-aquaporin-4 antibody (AQP4-Ab), also known as NMO antibody, has been implicated as the cause of neuromyelitis optica. Myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG) is well known as the causative protein of multiple sclerosis (MS).

What is NMO negative?

NMO spectrum disorder (NMOSD) is a newly revised nomenclature in which new diagnostic criteria have been developed, including serological testing of serum aquaporin-4 immunoglobulin G (AQP4-IgG) antibodies. Results of a negative antibody will group the patient in a seronegative subgroup.

What are NMO symptoms?

What are the symptoms of neuromyelitis optica?

  • Pain in the eyes.
  • Loss of vision.
  • Weakness or numbness in the arms and legs.
  • Paralysis of the arms and legs.
  • Difficulty controlling the bladder or bowels.
  • Uncontrollable vomiting and hiccups.

What is NMO IgG?

Your doctor might test your blood for the autoantibody NMO -IgG, which helps doctors distinguish NMO from MS and other neurological conditions. This test helps doctors make an early diagnosis of NMO .

Can you have mild NMO?

Symptoms of NMO Neuromyelitis optica (NMO) is also known as Devic’s disease. Each person will experience different symptoms, which can range from mild to severe. In many people with NMO, the spinal cord becomes swollen and irritated (inflamed). This is called transverse myelitis.

Can NMO be mild?

Neuromyelitis optica (NMO) is also known as Devic’s disease. Each person will experience different symptoms, which can range from mild to severe. In many people with NMO, the spinal cord becomes swollen and irritated (inflamed). This is called transverse myelitis.

What triggers NMO?

The cause of neuromyelitis optica is usually unknown, although it sometimes appears after an infection, or it can be associated with another autoimmune condition. Neuromyelitis optica is often misdiagnosed as multiple sclerosis (MS) or perceived as a type of MS , but NMO is a distinct condition.

What is a NMO blood test?

A blood test known as the NMO-IgG blood test is positive in 70 percent of patients diagnosed with Devic’s disease. This test, in general, is negative in patients with multiple sclerosis. This has become an important marker for Devic’s disease and has helped improve our understanding of this disorder.