Consensus statement for the diagnosis and management of optic neuritis
Phuljhele S, Saxena R, Bhatia R, Khurana D, Dewan T, Meena SK, Gandepalli L, Sachdeva V, Sukhija J, Singh D, Sinha A, Dhiman R, Selvakumar A, Kumar M, Warjri GB, Mulay A, Gandhi R, Srivastava MVP, Jayakumar N.
Indian J Ophthalmol. 2026 Aug 1;74(8):1115-1121. doi: 10.4103/IJO.IJO_1634_26.
Summary
Optic neuritis diagnosis and management, Indian Neuro-Ophthalmology Society consensus statement.
Abstract
This consensus statement provides a practical, step-by-step framework designed by 19 national specialists to standardize the care of optic neuritis. Recognizing that clinicians handle these cases differently depending on local resources, the guidelines offer a clear roadmap for distinguishing true optic nerve inflammation from its common clinical mimics. The primary focus is on identifying early “red flags,” optimizing neuroimaging protocols, and using targeted cell-based antibody testing to pinpoint the exact cause of the disease. Beyond immediate diagnosis, the paper outlines clear strategies for managing acute episodes with high-dose therapies, handling patients who do not respond to initial steroids, and establishing structured, long-term monitoring plans to track visual recovery. Because delayed or incorrect treatment can lead to permanent, irreversible nerve damage, this document serves as a reliable tool to help ophthalmologists make quick, safe, and effective clinical decisions for patient care.