Multiple sclerosis

MM, Case 6, Medicine

🗃️ Recall

Multiple Sclerosis

🌟 Cues

  • Definition of Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
  • Epidemiology
  • Etiology
  • Pathophysiology
  • Types of MS
  • Clinical Picture
  • Diagnosis (MacDonald’s Criteria)
  • Management (During Attack & In Between Attack)

🗒 Notes

1. Definition of Multiple Sclerosis (MS)

MS is an inflammatory disorder that affects the Central Nervous System (CNS), including the brain and spinal cord. It is characterized by disseminated demyelination and scarring.

2. Epidemiology

MS primarily affects individuals between 15 to 50 years old. There is a 1-3% increased risk among first-degree relatives. Globally, there are 2.1 million cases, with 5,000 cases in Saudi Arabia.

3. Etiology

The cause of MS is unknown, but contributing factors include:

  • Infections (viral)
  • Autoimmune response
  • Genetic susceptibility

Possible precipitating factors include infections, physical injury, emotional stress, fatigue, pregnancy, poor health, and low vitamin levels.

4. Pathophysiology

Breakdown of the Blood-Brain Barrier (BBB) allows T-cells to enter the CNS, leading to inflammation and demyelination. Genetic factors increase the risk of MS (30% higher risk in identical twins).

5. Types of MS

  • Relapsing-Remitting (85%): Periods of relapse followed by remission.
  • Primary Progressive (10%): Continuous progression without remission.
  • Secondary Progressive (5%): Starts as relapsing-remitting but becomes steadily progressive.
  • Clinically Isolated Syndrome: Early sign of MS, where a single neurological event occurs.

📝 Summary

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune inflammatory disorder that affects the central nervous system, leading to demyelination and neurological deficits. It predominantly affects individuals between 15 and 50 years old, with genetics, infections, and immune responses playing significant roles in its development. MS manifests in several types, with relapsing-remitting being the most common. Diagnosis is based on clinical and paraclinical findings, such as MRI and CSF analysis. Treatment involves managing acute attacks with corticosteroids and immunotherapies, while long-term management focuses on disease-modifying treatments and addressing symptoms like spasticity and emotional disturbances.

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