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Optic neuritis is inflammation of the optic nerve that typically causes sudden vision loss in one eye, often accompanied by pain on eye movement. It is commonly linked to autoimmune or demyelinating conditions such as multiple sclerosis, though it can also occur on its own. Most people recover a significant part of their vision within weeks to months, but repeated or severe episodes can leave lasting nerve damage — a state known as optic atrophy.
10+
years Experience
years Experience
5000+
Patients treated
Patients treated
100+
Countries served
Countries served
NABH
Guided facility
Guided facility
Causes
The most common cause is an autoimmune reaction in which the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the myelin sheath surrounding the optic nerve fibres, disrupting the transmission of visual signals. Optic neuritis is frequently the first sign of multiple sclerosis or neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder, though infections and other inflammatory conditions can also trigger it.
Symptoms
The classic presentation is a relatively sudden loss of vision in one eye over hours to days, along with pain that worsens with eye movement. Colours — particularly red — often appear washed out or less vivid than normal, and some patients notice a blind spot in their central vision.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is based on a detailed eye examination, visual field testing, and assessment of colour vision, along with an MRI of the brain and orbits to check for demyelinating lesions. Blood tests for specific antibodies (such as anti-MOG or anti-AQP4) may be ordered when neuromyelitis optica is suspected, and a Visual Evoked Potential (VEP) test can help confirm slowed nerve conduction.
Treatment — Stem Cell Therapy
The inflammatory episode itself is usually treated by a neurologist, often with corticosteroids to speed recovery and address any underlying autoimmune condition. Once the acute inflammation has settled and the eye is stable, stem cell therapy is studied for its potential to support optic nerve tissue that remains affected after the episode, helping preserve remaining visual function alongside ongoing neurological care.
Meet The Team
Our Eye Specialists
Dr. Pawan
Associate Professor, Vitreo-Retina Surgeon. 10+ Years Experience
Retinal disorders, diabetic retinopathy, and advanced retina procedures. Provides diagnostic evaluation and treatment planning for international patients.
Dr.Pallavee
Senior Consultant Ophthalmologist & Eye Surgeon· 26+ yrs experience
Areas of Focus: Cataract surgery, corneal disorders, refractive procedures, and glaucoma management. Provides comprehensive eye care and surgical expertise for global patients.
Dr. Robin
Consultant Ophthalmologist & Eye Surgeon, MD, DO .16+ Years Experience
Areas of Focus: Cataract surgery, corneal disorders, refractive procedures, and glaucoma management. Provides comprehensive eye care and surgical expertise for global patients.
How Stem Cell Therapy May Help
Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSCs), typically sourced from bone marrow or umbilical cord tissue, are studied for their potential to support optic nerve tissue health, reduce inflammation, and help preserve remaining visual function. The cells are administered via a minimally invasive procedure — most often through a retrobulbar or intravitreal injection — under the supervision of our ophthalmology and regenerative medicine team. This approach does not restore vision already lost in advanced, complete optic atrophy, but may help support remaining nerve function and quality of life in suitable candidates.
Reviews
What Our Patients Say
Deepak Kumar
From the first time we talked to the team and in all the discussions that followed, the team was really easy to talk to and explained everything clearly. They took the time to understand what was going on
Vishal
Highly trustworthy! From consultation to follow-up, the team was responsive and dedicated. Excellent facilities and patient-focused approach! The tean was really very good.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will my vision fully recover after optic neuritis?
“Many patients recover a large part of their vision within a few months, but the extent of recovery depends on the severity and cause of the episode, and some residual changes in colour vision or contrast are common.”
Does optic neuritis mean I have multiple sclerosis?
“Not necessarily — it can be an isolated event, but because it is often an early sign of MS, an MRI and neurology evaluation are recommended to check for other findings.”
When is stem cell therapy considered?
“Only after the acute inflammatory episode has been treated and stabilised by a neurologist, and only for residual optic nerve changes — not as a replacement for treating the underlying inflammatory condition.”
