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Multiple sclerosis

Researchers at University of Witten Publish New Data on Optic Neuritis

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Researchers at University of Witten conducted a study on optic neuritis, a rare disease that may transform into multiple sclerosis (MS). The study included 228 patients diagnosed with optic neuritis between 1990 and 2013, who were followed up for at least 1.5 years. The researchers found that a positive measles, rubella, and/or varicella-zoster (MRZ) reaction was a strong predictor of MS conversion, and they recommended including this reaction in the workup of children with an initial demyelinating event.

Key Takeaways:

  • The study included 228 patients diagnosed with optic neuritis between 1990 and 2013, with a follow-up period of at least 1.5 years.
  • Binary logistic regression analysis revealed that an MS-like MRI was a significant predictor of conversion to MS.
  • A positive MRZ reaction had a high predictive value for future conversion to MS, with a positive predictive value of 92% and a negative predictive value of 94%.
  • The study recommended including a positive MRZ reaction in the workup of children with an initial demyelinating event to improve the prediction of MS conversion.
  • The publisher for Children, the journal in which the study was published, is MDPI AG.
  • A free version of the journal article is available at https://doi-org.sdpl.idm.oclc.org/10.3390/children12040497.
  • Additional authors for the research include Sophie Chen, Eva-Maria Wendel, Markus Reindl, Nicole Heußinger, and Kevin Rostasy.

Statistics:

  • 228 patients were included in the study, with 92 developing MS according to the McDonald criteria 2010 and 136 not developing MS.
  • Binary logistic regression analysis revealed a significant association between MS-like MRI and future conversion to MS (p < 0.0001).
  • Positive MRZ reaction had a positive predictive value of 92% and a negative predictive value of 94% for future conversion to MS.

Sources:

  • NewsRx. Researchers at University of Witten Publish New Data on Optic Neuritis (The Presence of MRZ Reactions Improves the Prediction of Multiple Sclerosis in Children with Optic Neuritis). Health & Medicine Week. May 16, 2025; p 5946.
  • The Presence of MRZ Reactions Improves the Prediction of Multiple Sclerosis in Children with Optic Neuritis. Children, 2025,12(4):497. (Children - http://www.mdpi.com/journal/children)

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