Neuromyelitis Optica Revealed by Headache in a Child: A Case Report

Abstract

Devic’s neuromyelitis optica (NMO) is a rare inflammatory disease of the central nervous system that results in optic neuropathy and myelitis. Optic neuritis represents the mode of entry into the disease in more than two thirds of cases. It is a rare entity in children. There is no effective treatment at present, but some molecules can be used, such as corticosteroids, immunosuppressants and plasma exchange. The prognosis in children is generally favorable. Devic’s neuromyelitis is a condition of unknown etiopathogeny which is functionally critical and requires early and appropriate treatment. We report the case of a 12-year-old girl who presented to emergency with a headache and decreased visual acuity, whose investigations led to the diagnosis of Devic’s neuromyelitis optica.