Disease Seminar : Multiple Sclerosis Flashcards
What is the basic disease process of Multiple Sclerosis?
Autoimmune disease of the central nervous system. The immune system attacks the myelin sheath that covers nerve fibers
What is Myelin?
Fatty whitish insulating sheath that covers the axons and enhances the transmission of the nerve impulses
What is the fatty whitish insulating sheath that covers the axons?
Myelin Sheath
What would happen if there was damage to the myelin sheath?
Delayed in transmission and disrupted nerve signals
What is the typical age of onset for multiple sclerosis?
20-49
What are 3 risk factors for development of multiple sclerosis?
Female
Caucasian race
Low levels of Vitamin D
What are 6 potential symptoms associated with multiple sclerosis?
Unsteady gait
Numbness or weakness
Loss of vision
What are 3 medical tests that may be conducted in order to diagnose multiple sclerosis?
Evoked potential
MRI
Lumbar puncture
Why would you used Evoked Potential?
To measure how quickly nerve pathways transmit signals
Why would you use MRI?
To identify lesions on the brain and spinal cord
Why would you use Lumbar puncture?
To identify abnormal antibodies associated with MS
What is another word for Lumbar Puncture?
Spinal Tap
What type of treatment may be prescribe to speed the recovery from an attack?
Corticosteroid ;
reduce nerve inflammation
What type o treatment may be prescribed to slow the progression of MS?
Immunomodulatory therapies
What is an example of an IV medication?
Ocrevus (Ocrelizumab)
