Multiple Sclerosis (Ms)

A chronic disorder of the central nervous system characterized by degeneration of the white matter of the brain. The disease periodically flares up with episodes of increased symptoms. One-third of patients have mild, non-progressive disease, one third worsen slowly, and one third worsen rapidly. It is slightly more common in women between the ages of 20 to 40.

Symptoms

Incoordination, decreased attention span, decreased coordination, decreased judgment, decreased memory, depression, difficulty speaking or understanding speech, dizziness, double vision, eye discomfort, facial pain, fatigue, loss of balance, slowly progressive movement problems, muscle atrophy, muscle spasms (especially in the legs), muscle spasticity, numbness or abnormal sensation, slurred speech, vertigo, vision loss.

Tests

A history and physical exam will be performed. Diagnosis is made by ruling out other conditions. Tests that indicate or confirm multiple sclerosis include: Head MRI scan, spine MRI, lumbar puncture (spinal tap), cerebrospinal fluid tests including CSF (cerebrospinal fluid) oligoclonal banding.

Treatment

Since there is no cure the treatment goal is to control symptoms. Medications may include: immune modulators including interferon (Avonex, Betaseron, or Rebif), monoclonal antibodies (Tysabri), and glatiramer acetate (Copaxone); steroids to decrease the severity of attacks; medicines to reduce muscle spasms such as Lioresal (Baclofen), tizanidine (Zanaflex), or a benzodiazepine; cholinergic medications to reduce urinary problems; antidepressants to improve mood; and amantadine for fatigue. For more information contact: Multiple Sclerosis Association of America: (800)532-7667 Multiple Sclerosis Foundation (888)673-6287