Year: 2026
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Background: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic immune-mediated inflammatory disease of the central nervous system characterized by demyelination and progressive neurological dysfunction. Neuro-ophthalmological manifestations, particularly optic nerve involvement, are common in relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) and may represent the earliest clinical presentation. Aim: To evaluate the neuro-ophthalmological manifestations in patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis. Patients and Methods: A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted at the Multiple Sclerosis Clinic between 1 August 2022 and 1 March 2023. Ten patients diagnosed with RRMS were enrolled. Demographic characteristics, neuro-ophthalmological findings, radiological findings, and Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) scores were evaluated. Associations between the timing of presentation and clinical or radiological findings were analyzed. Results: Ten RRMS patients were included. Females predominated, with a mean age of 35.8 years. Neuro-ophthalmological manifestations developed after 20 years of age in 80.0% of patients. Clinical findings were significantly associated with the time of presentation, whereas radiological findings showed no significant association. Central scotoma and relative afferent pupillary defect were the most common manifestations and predominantly affected the right eye. Most patients had an EDSS score of 4, indicating moderate disability. Conclusion: Neuro-ophthalmological manifestations in RRMS occur predominantly after 20 years of age. Central scotoma and relative afferent pupillary defect are the most frequent findings, with predominantly right-sided involvement. Early neuro-ophthalmological evaluation may improve diagnosis and clinical management of RRMS patients.
Authors: Ola Abdulrasool Muneer, Zaki Noah Hassan
Institution: University of Baghdad
Language: English
Subfield: Clinical Neurology
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: bronze
OpenAlex ID: W7201854064