CMMC Neuroscience Center

Multiple Sclerosis

Basic Information

Multiple sclerosis is an inflammatory disease of the brain and spinal cord. It is a condition of recurring attacks (remitting-relapsing phase), resulting in loss of neurologic function. Typical attacks include sudden loss of strength, sensation, vision, or loss of balance. The disease may enter a latter stage where symptoms progress without resolving (secondary progressive). It most often affects younger patients, in the 25 to 35-year-old age group, however many patients in their 40s and 50s have also been newly diagnosed. Multiple sclerosis is caused by autoimmune (immune responses triggered against self) attacks on the brain and spinal cord. The target is the myelin that coats the brain fibers.

Symptoms

• Sudden loss of strength or sensation, often with recovery over days or weeks
  
• Sudden loss of vision in one eye
  
• Sudden double vision, vertigo, or difficulty speaking
  
• Poor balance or loss of walking coordination, loss of bladder control
  
• Slowly progressing loss of memory
  

Treatment Available

• Symptomatic treatment includes drugs to control bladder contractions, increase energy, and relieve depression
  
• Corticosteroids are used for acute attacks, and will produce rapid relief of acute symptoms
  
• Beta-interferons have emerged as an important treatment to prevent long-term progression of the disease
  
• Glatiramer acetate is a compound that fools the immune system and decreases inflammatory attacks
  
• Other immunosuppressive agents such as methotrexate, cyclophosphamide, and azathioprine are used
  
• Novantrone is a chemotherapeutic agent used for worsening MS despite other treatment
  

Research

• Studies to understand the cascade of events that lead to autoimmunity
  
• Clinical studies to find new treatments, especially biologic agents directed at the immune systems
  
• Genetic studies
  
• Environmental studies
  
• Studies to understand the ultimate trigger of multiple sclerosis, as well as other factors that worsen the disease
  

Web Site: National Multiple Sclerosis Society