Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board (PLAB) Practice Exam

In the context of optic neuritis, which is a common cause?

1. Multiple sclerosis

2. Stroke

3. Migraine

4. Transient ischemic attack

The correct answer is: Multiple sclerosis

Optic neuritis is primarily associated with multiple sclerosis, making it a common cause of this condition. This inflammatory demyelinating disease affects the central nervous system, and optic neuritis often represents one of the first neurological manifestations of multiple sclerosis. The inflammation damages the optic nerve, leading to symptoms such as vision loss, pain, and visual field defects. While other conditions listed can impact vision or the nervous system, they are not typically linked to optic neuritis in the same way. For example, stroke usually presents with sudden loss of vision or other neurological deficits but is not characterized by the specific nerve inflammation seen in optic neuritis. Similarly, migraines can cause visual disturbances, yet they do not lead to the underlying pathology of optic nerve inflammation. A transient ischemic attack can also cause temporary visual disturbances but does not result in the same inflammatory process found in optic neuritis. In summary, the connection between optic neuritis and multiple sclerosis highlights the role of autoimmune processes in damaging the optic nerve, making multiple sclerosis a predominant cause of this condition.