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Devic's Syndrome Synonym(s): Reviewed 03-26-2003 Get Web page suited for printing Email this to a friend or colleague Studies with patients Table of Contents (click to jump to sections) What is Devic's Syndrome?Is there any treatment? What is the prognosis? What research is being done? Organizations What is Devic's Syndrome? Devic's syndrome is a rare autoimmune central nervous system disorder characterized by transverse myelitis (in which the fatty, protective covering of the spinal cord breaks down) and optic neuritis (in which inflammation of the optic nerve causes loss of vision and eye pain).]. It is considered a special form of multiple sclerosis (MS) with a severe and rapid course. The disorder affects the optic nerve and the nerves in the spinal cord. In Devic's syndrome, the fatty sheath that protects these nerves is lost. Individuals may experience vision impairment and various degrees of paralysis, as well as incontinence. The disorder is closely linked with MS and lupus, but usually appears before any symptoms of MS are noted. If an isolated disease episode affecting the spinal cord and optic nerve occurs after an infection or common cold, it is considered a post-infectious acute demyelinated encephalomyelitis (ADE) rather than Devic’s syndrome. Is there any treatment? What is the prognosis? What research is being done? Select this link to view a list of studies currently seeking patients. Multiple Sclerosis Foundation
National Eye Institute (NEI)
National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD)
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