Multiple Sclerosis
- 1 February 2002
- journal article
- review article
- Published by Annual Reviews in Annual Review of Medicine
- Vol. 53 (1), 285-302
- https://doi.org/10.1146/annurev.med.53.082901.103909
Abstract
▪ Abstract Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a common inflammatory disease of the central nervous system (CNS). Diagnosis rests upon identifying typical clinical symptoms and interpreting supportive laboratory and radiological investigations. The etiology is unknown; however, strong evidence suggests that MS is an autoimmune disease directed against CNS myelin or oligodendrocytes. Genetic factors are important in the development of MS. Contributing environmental determinants (possibly including infectious agents) appear important but remain unidentified. Both cell-mediated and humorally mediated immune mechanisms contribute to pathological injury. Axonal damage occurs in addition to demyelination and may be the cause of later permanent disability. Distinct pathological subtypes may differentiate among patients with MS. Treatment is directed at acute attacks (with corticosteroids) and reduction of attack frequency (primarily with type-1 β interferons and glatiramer acetate). Research into the causes and treatments of MS has expanded our knowledge of this disease and promises improved care for MS patients in the future.Keywords
This publication has 86 references indexed in Scilit:
- Molecular Mimicry and AutoimmunityThe New England Journal of Medicine, 1999
- Infrequent detection of human herpesvirus 6 DNA in peripheral blood mononuclear cells from multiple sclerosis patientsAnnals of Neurology, 1998
- Axonal Transection in the Lesions of Multiple SclerosisThe New England Journal of Medicine, 1998
- Multiple Sclerosis: Symptomatic TherapiesSeminars in Neurology, 1998
- Defining the clinical course of multiple sclerosisNeurology, 1996
- Two models of multiple sclerosis: Experimental allergic encephalomyelitis (EAE) and theiler's murine encephalomyelitis virus (TMEV) infection. A pathological and immunological comparisonMicroscopy Research and Technique, 1995
- A genetic basis for familial aggregation in multiple sclerosisNature, 1995
- Copolymer 1 reduces relapse rate and improves disability in relapsing‐remitting multiple sclerosisNeurology, 1995
- Risk factors for multiple sclerosis: race or place?Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery & Psychiatry, 1990
- New diagnostic criteria for multiple sclerosis: Guidelines for research protocolsAnnals of Neurology, 1983