Autoimmune optic neuropathy with anticardiolipin antibody mimicking multiple sclerosis in a child

Am J Ophthalmol. 2003 Aug;136(2):358-60. doi: 10.1016/s0002-9394(03)00156-9.

Abstract

Purpose: To demonstrate that autoimmune optic neuropathy (AON) may occur in the pediatric population.

Design: Interventional case report.

Methods: A 4-year-old developed four episodes of bilateral optic neuritis with mild concurrent weakness, ataxia, or dizziness; one episode of unilateral optic neuritis; and one episode of weakness over a period of 4 years.

Results: Autoimmune optic neuropathy was diagnosed because of the presence of anticardiolipin antibody and an abnormal skin biopsy with thrombin and immunoreactant deposition. She was treated with corticosteroids, aspirin, and gammaglobulin. This diminished the frequency and intensity of her attacks.

Conclusion: This case represents the diagnosis and treatment of AON in a child.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Antibodies, Anticardiolipin / analysis*
  • Aspirin / therapeutic use
  • Autoimmune Diseases of the Nervous System / diagnosis*
  • Autoimmune Diseases of the Nervous System / drug therapy
  • Biopsy
  • Child
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Drug Therapy, Combination
  • Glucocorticoids / therapeutic use
  • Humans
  • Immunoglobulins, Intravenous / therapeutic use
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging
  • Multiple Sclerosis / diagnosis*
  • Multiple Sclerosis / drug therapy
  • Optic Neuritis / diagnosis*
  • Optic Neuritis / drug therapy
  • Skin / pathology

Substances

  • Antibodies, Anticardiolipin
  • Glucocorticoids
  • Immunoglobulins, Intravenous
  • Aspirin