ABSTRACT
The diagnosis and treatment of optic neuritis require a team approach. Although the child usually presents to the pediatrician or family doctor, consultation is rapidly sought with the neurologist or ophthalmologist for diagnostic help. Parental, patient, and primary care physician anxiety over the acute presentation of significant eye pain and the loss of vision often leads to urgent consultation in the emergency room or office setting. Ophthalmologists provide an analysis of visual function and fundoscopic detail. Neurologists usually direct the care by providing an overall context that guides treatment and prognosis. Prognosis is the key issue in optic neuritis, not as much for visual recovery as for the development of symptoms and signs that support the diagnosis of multiple sclerosis (MS). After vision recovers, anxiety may continue to build over the possibility of later development of MS.
