DEVIC SYNDROME Meaning and
Definition
-
Devic syndrome, also known as neuromyelitis optica (NMO), is a rare autoimmune disorder characterized by inflammation of the optic nerve (optic neuritis) and the spinal cord (transverse myelitis). It is considered a distinct clinical entity separate from multiple sclerosis (MS), although both conditions involve the immune system attacking components of the nervous system.
In Devic syndrome, the immune system erroneously targets aquaporin-4, a protein found in the cells of the central nervous system that plays a vital role in maintaining water balance. This autoimmune response leads to inflammation of the optic nerves, resulting in vision loss or impairment, and inflammation of the spinal cord, causing weakness, numbness, and pain, potentially leading to paralysis.
The clinical presentation of Devic syndrome typically includes episodes of optic neuritis and transverse myelitis, which can occur simultaneously or separately. Other common symptoms may include bladder and bowel dysfunction, muscle spasms, and sensory disturbances.
Diagnosis of Devic syndrome involves a combination of clinical evaluation, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and laboratory tests to rule out other possible conditions such as MS. Treatment options for Devic syndrome include high-dose corticosteroids during acute attacks to reduce inflammation, immunosuppressant medications to prevent future relapses, and symptomatic management of associated symptoms.
While the exact cause of Devic syndrome remains unknown, research suggests a genetic predisposition and potential environmental triggers may contribute to its development. Early recognition and proper management are crucial to minimize damage and improve the quality of life for individuals with Devic syndrome.
Common Misspellings for DEVIC SYNDROME
- sevic syndrome
- xevic syndrome
- cevic syndrome
- fevic syndrome
- revic syndrome
- eevic syndrome
- dwvic syndrome
- dsvic syndrome
- ddvic syndrome
- drvic syndrome
- d4vic syndrome
- d3vic syndrome
- decic syndrome
- debic syndrome
- degic syndrome
- defic syndrome
- devuc syndrome
- devjc syndrome
- devkc syndrome
- devoc syndrome
Etymology of DEVIC SYNDROME
The term "Devic syndrome" is derived from the name of its discoverer, Louis Pierre Marie Fredricque Alphonse Devic, a French neurologist. In 1894, Devic described a condition characterized by the combination of optic neuritis (inflammation of the optic nerve) and acute myelitis (inflammation of the spinal cord). Later, the condition became known as "Devic's disease" or "Devic syndrome" in his honor. In the last decade, however, the terminology has changed, and the condition is now referred to as neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) to encompass a wider range of clinical presentations and include related conditions.
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
