Multiple Sclerosis

Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorder

NMO is a family of inflammatory central nervous system diseases.

What Is NMO? Symptoms Diagnosis Treatment Contact Us

What is Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorder?

Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder is a family of inflammatory central nervous system (CNS) diseases that may be associated with the Aquaporin-4 antibody. Like multiple sclerosis (MS), NMO is a neuroinflammatory disorder, however, this condition is much more rare than MS. NMO affects far more women than men: for every man with NMO, nine women have it. It can occur at any age but often begins in the 30s or 40s.

NMO relapses are more severe than those associated with MS. Many people experience disability when relapses occur. Treatments for NMO spectrum disorder work to prevent further relapses and disability.

Symptoms

Symptoms of NMO include vision problems and eye pain. In addition, one of the criteria for a diagnosis of NMO spectrum disorder is transverse myelitis, a spinal condition that causes:

Weakness in one or more limbs
Numbness and tingling
Bladder and/or bowel dysfunction
Pain

Diagnosis of Neuromyelitis Optica (NMO) Spectrum Disorder

Diagnosing NMO spectrum disorder early and correctly is crucial. If left untreated or improperly treated, NMO can cause severe damage to the central nervous system.

NMO spectrum disorder is diagnosed using:

Neurologic exam
MRI
Blood tests
Lumbar puncture
Eye and vision tests

NMO Spectrum Disorder Treatment

Treatments for NMO have one primary goal: to preserve remaining function by preventing future relapses.

Immune therapies for NMO differ from those for MS – and some MS medications can actually worsen NMO spectrum disorder. Currently, there are three FDA-approved medications that effectively treat NMO spectrum disorder:

Soliris (Eculizumab), an intravenous infusion that is approved for NMO patients who test positive for the aquaporin-4 antibody.
Uplinza (Inebilzumab), an intravenous infusion that is approved for NMO patients with the aquaporin-4 antibody.
Enspryng (Satralizumab), a self-administered injection that is approved for those with the aquaporin-4 antibody.

These are all are monoclonal antibodies that target the biological pathways of NMO and were shown in clinical trials to dramatically reduce the likelihood of an NMO relapse. Our specialists have extensive knowledge of the available options and can guide patients through the process.