Efficacy of Bevacizumab (Avastin) in Treatment of Acute NMO Exacerbations

Study Objective: The overall objective is to evaluate the tolerability/safety and efficacy of adding bevacizumab (Avastin®) to standard of care therapy in improving clinical and radiologic outcomes of acute optic neuritis and/or transverse myelitis in neuromyelitis optica and neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders. Primary Objective: To compare the clinical and radiographic outcome following acute optic neuritis and/or transverse myelitis in NMO/NMOSD in patients who receive 1-2 doses of 10 mg/kg dose of bevacizumab (Avastin®) in addition to standard medical therapy. Secondary Objectives: * To determine the effect of Avastin on NMO clinical scores (Expanded Disability Status Scale, Timed 25-foot Walk and Low Contrast Visual Acuity \[LCVA\]). * To evaluate the safety and tolerability of a 10 mg/kg dose of intravenous Avastin. * To determine the frequency of adverse events with Avastin in this patient population. * To determine the effect of Avastin on MRI lesion size and extent. The duration of the investigation is 1-2 years.