neuromyelitis optica

a condition that is closely related to multiple sclerosis. Typically there is a transverse myelitis, producing paralysis and numbness of the legs and trunk below the inflamed spinal cord, and retrobulbar neuritis affecting both optic nerves. The attacks of myelitis and optic neuritis may coincide or they may be separated by days or weeks. Recovery from the initial attack is often incomplete, but relapses appear to be less common than in conventional multiple sclerosis.

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combined, but not usually clinically simultaneous, demyelination of the optic nerve and the spinal cord; it is marked by diminution of vision and possibly blindness, flaccid paralysis of the extremities, and sensory and genitourinary disturbances. Called also Devic disease, optic neuroencephalomyelopathy, neuro-optic myelitis, and ophthalmoneuromyelitis.