Dr. Advait Kulkarni (Neurologist in Bengaluru) Diagnosis Your doctor will perform a thorough evaluation to rule out other nervous system conditions that have signs and symptoms similar to neuromyelitis optica. To diagnose your condition, your doctor will review your medical history and symptoms and perform a physical examination. You might also undergo: • Neurological examination: A neurologist will examine your movement, muscle strength, coordination, sensation, memory and thinking (cognitive) functions, and vision and speech. An eye doctor (ophthalmologist) also might be involved in your exam. • MRI • Blood tests • Lumbar puncture (spinal tap) and • Stimuli response test