A Comparison of Optic Neuritis in Asian and in Western Countries

Acute demyelinating optic neuritis is a common optic neuropathy in young adults. There is usually satisfactory visual recovery. However, some patients convert to multiple sclerosis (MS) with potential sequelae of neurological disability. The Optic Neuritis Treatment Trial in the United States was conducted prospectively for 15 years and provided valuable data about clinical course, efficacy of steroid treatment, and risk of conversion to MS. Compared to the many studies in Western countries, research concerning optic neuritis in Asia has so far not been extensive. However, cumulative evidence shows that various features of this disorder differ between patients of Caucasian and Oriental descent. In this article we review up-to-date studies on optic neuritis in Asia and compare the results with prior literature. Prospective and multi-centre studies are currently underway in these regions to increase our understanding of optic neuritis in Asia.