What is opticospinal MS?

Here is My Question:
I was told today by a nurse that my diagnosis has changed from MS to Opticospinal MS but she had no additional information. I have tested negative for NMO twice, I have a moderate lesion volume load on my brain, my thoracic MRI was clean, and no lumbar MRI was done.

I am so confused about this diagnosis. Is this part of MS or NMO? What is the difference in prognosis? They plan to start me on Ocrevus. 

Answer:
It is hard to comment on your diagnosis without reviewing your medical history and MRI scans in more detail.

Opticospinal MS is a term that was used in the past to describe a pattern of MS patients who now would probably be classified instead as having Neuromyelitis Optic Spectrum Disorder (NMOSD).  Patients can still meet the diagnostic criteria for NMOSD while having negative blood tests for the NMO antibody test. 
 
I recommend you ask your questions directly to your neurologist to get better clarification about your diagnosis.
 
Benjamin Osborne, MD
Associate Professor of Neurology and Ophthalmology
Director, Neuromyelitis Optica (NMO) and Neuro-Ophthalmology Clinics
Associate Director of the NIH/Georgetown Neurology Residency Program
Medstar Georgetown University Hospital