How is NMO different from Transverse Myelitis (TM) and ADEM?
a. NMO can affect both the optic nerves and spinal cord. TM affects only the spinal cord. b. ADEM affects multiple parts of the brain and spinal cord (not restricted to optic nerves and cord) at the same time and usually does not recur. 6. What are the main differences between Multiple Sclerosis and NMO? a. NMO usually affects only the optic nerves and spinal cord. MS can affect any part of the brain and spinal cord b. Relapsing Remitting MS (RRMS) tends to change to a gradually progressive stage but this is very rare in NMO c. Attacks of NMO are usually more severe with lasting disability, while initial attacks of RRMS recover almost fully. 7. Are there any more differences between NMO and MS? Yes. See sections 25, 26, 29 42 below. 8. Why do individuals develop NMO? We dont know. It is an autoimmune disorder in which the bodys own defence mechanisms damage the optic nerve and spinal cord. Why this is predominantly restricted to these two locations is a mystery. Possibly a unique prote
