FP45

Beyond Typical Optic Neuritis: A Case Series Highlighting Diagnostic Challenges, Clinical Mimics, and Atypical Presentations.

Aim: To highlight the diverse presentations of optic neuritis and the importance of recognizing atypical cases and clinical mimics for accurate diagnosis and timely management.
Methods: Retrospective case series of six patients with suspected optic neuritis at a tertiary center. Evaluation included VA, colour vision, RAPD, fundus examination, MRI brain/orbits, VEP, and targeted systemic/infectious investigationsResults: Cases included retrobulbar optic neuritis misdiagnosed as NAION, MRI-confirmed retrobulbar neuritis with a normal fundus, tuberculous neuroretinitis, NAION mimicking optic neuritis, and pediatric bilateral optic neuritis responsive to intravenous corticosteroids. Colour vision defects, RAPD, pain on eye movement, MRI, and fundus findings were key diagnostic features.Conclusion: Optic neuritis has diverse presentations. Careful clinical evaluation and appropriate neuroimaging are essential to distinguish it from ischemic and infectious mimics and guide treatment.