Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune disease of the central nervous system (CNS) characterized by inflammation, demyelination, gliosis, and neuronal loss. Neurological symptoms vary and can include vision impairment, numbness and tingling, focal weakness, bladder and bowel incontinence, and cognitive dysfunction. (Tafti et al, 2021)
The epidemiology of multiple sclerosis (MS) includes a consideration of genetic and environmental factors. Comparative studies of different populations have revealed prevalence and incidence rates that vary with geography and ethnicity. (Howard et al, 2016)
Magnetic resonance imaging studies in progressive multiple sclerosis show decreased blood-brain barrier permeability, probably reflecting compartmentalization of inflammation behind a relatively intact blood-brain barrier. (Correale et al, 2017)
Current multiple sclerosis phenotypic classifications include relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis, clinically isolated syndrome, radiologically isolated syndrome, primary-progressive multiple sclerosis, and secondary-progressive multiple sclerosis. (Katz, 2015)
The treatment of multiple sclerosis (MS) falls into 3 categories: treatment of exacerbations, slowing disease progression with disease-modifying therapies (DMTs), and symptomatic therapies. (Hart, 2016)
Effective management requires a multifaceted approach to control acute attacks, manage progressive worsening, and remediate bothersome or disabling symptoms associated with this illness. (Hauser, 2020)
Tafti D, Ehsan M, Xixis KL. Multiple Sclerosis. 2021 Aug 11. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2022 Jan–. PMID: 29763024.
Howard J, Trevick S, Younger DS. Epidemiology of Multiple Sclerosis. Neurol Clin. 2016 Nov;34(4):919-939. doi: 10.1016/j.ncl.2016.06.016. Epub 2016 Aug 18. PMID: 27720001.
Correale J, Gaitán MI, Ysrraelit MC, Fiol MP. Progressive multiple sclerosis: from pathogenic mechanisms to treatment. Brain. 2017 Mar 1;140(3):527-546. doi: 10.1093/brain/aww258. PMID: 27794524.
Katz Sand I. Classification, diagnosis, and differential diagnosis of multiple sclerosis. Curr Opin Neurol. 2015 Jun;28(3):193-205. doi: 10.1097/WCO.0000000000000206. PMID: 25887774.
Hart FM, Bainbridge J. Current and emerging treatment of multiple sclerosis. Am J Manag Care. 2016 Jun;22(6 Suppl):s159-70. PMID: 27356025.
Hauser SL, Cree BAC. Treatment of Multiple Sclerosis: A Review. Am J Med. 2020 Dec;133(12):1380-1390.e2. doi: 10.1016/j.amjmed.2020.05.049. Epub 2020 Jul 17. PMID: 32682869; PMCID: PMC7704606.
Di Stefano G, Maarbjerg S, Truini A. Trigeminal neuralgia secondary to multiple sclerosis: from the clinical picture to the treatment options. J Headache Pain. 2019 Feb 19;20(1):20. doi: 10.1186/s10194-019-0969-0. PMID: 30782116; PMCID: PMC6734488.