About NMOSD
NMOSD is a rare
autoimmune disease
that impacts the
central
nervous system
NMOSD, neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder.
NMOSD is typically identified by antibodies associated with a protein called aquaporin-4 (AQP4)
While the root cause of NMOSD is unknown, most people with the disease test positive for anti-aquaporin-4 autoantibodies (anti-AQP4 antibody positive). Others with NMOSD may not have these autoantibodies (anti-AQP4 antibody negative) or may instead have myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG) antibodies.
The symptoms of all types of NMOSD can include:
-
Blurry vision or blindness in one or both eyes
-
Painful spasms
-
Weakness or paralysis in the legs or arms
-
Numbness or loss of sensation throughout the body
-
Sleeping problems
-
Persistent hiccups
-
Persistent nausea/
uncontrollable vomiting -
Bladder or bowel dysfunction
Not everyone experiences the same symptoms. NMOSD attacks can come on suddenly and may result in permanent disability. However, there is hope, as symptoms may be managed with long-term therapy.
While NMOSD is a chronic condition, it can be managed with appropriate treatment
NMOSD by the numbers
15,000
people in the US
are estimated to be living with NMOSD
39
years of age
median age of onset of NMOSD
Some people are at greater risk than others for developing NMOSD
Women are 5 times more likely to develop NMOSD than men
People of African and Asian descent have severe attacks at onset more frequently compared to those of Caucasian descent
Navigate your NMOSD
Whether you're newly diagnosed or have already been treated, it is important to talk to your doctor about long-term management that can help prevent future attacks.
