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Optic Neuritis, Multiple Sclerosis & Ischemic Optic Neuropathy Specialist

NeuroEyeOrbit Institute

Swaraj Bose, MD

Neuro-Ophthalmologist & Orbital Surgeon located in Cedars Sinai Medical Towers, Los Angeles, CA

Dr. Bose is a leading expert in the management of nerve diseases and conditions affecting the eyes and their structures, including optic neuritis, ischemic optic neuropathy and neuro-ophthalmologic manifestations of multiple sclerosis.

Optic Neuritis, Multiple Sclerosis & Ischemic Optic Neuropathy Q & A

 

What causes optic neuritis?

Optic neuritis is a condition that causes inflammation of the optic nerve, which is responsible for carrying image information to the brain. Although the exact cause of optic neuritis is unknown, studies indicate it develops as part of a faulty immune system response in which the immune system attacks the covering of the optic nerve (the myelin), causing inflammation and damage.

What is ischemic optic neuropathy?

Ischemic optic neuropathy is a condition that causes a sudden loss of vision as a result of a decreased flow of blood to the optic nerve. There are two types of ischemic optic neuropathy: anterior (AION), which occurs when blood flow to the optic nerve head is cut off, and posterior (PION), which develops when blood flow to the back part of the optic nerve is blocked. Both types can cause loss of vision; the total amount of vision loss depends on the extent of nerve damage that occurs.

What are the symptoms of multiple sclerosis optic neuropathy?

Optic neuropathy is a common development in multiple sclerosis, an autoimmune disease that causes damage to the protective sheath that surrounds nerves, called the myelin. MS is highly associated with optic neuritis and neuropathy, which means if you have MS, you're much more likely to develop the other conditions. Symptoms are similar to ischemic optic neuropathy and can include vision loss, the appearance of flashing lights and pain that becomes worse when you move your eye. Some people may also notice a reduction in their ability to perceive clear, sharp colors.

How are these conditions treated?

IV steroids sometimes combined with oral steroids are used to reduce inflammation and treat both ischemic and MS optic neuropathy. Dr. Bose can tell you more about these treatments during your evaluation.

Additional information here.

Major Insurance Providers Accepted

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For questions regarding your specific insurance plan, please contact the office.

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Aetna
Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield
Anthem Blue Cross of California
Assurant Health
Cedar Sinai Medical Group
Cigna
Health Net
Healthcare Partners
Medicare
Motion Picture Industry Health Plan
Railroad Medicare
Screen Actors Guild
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