MS Flashcards
what is the etiology of MS
autoimmune dz induced by viral/infectious agent causes an cytotoxic effect on myelin
what is the role of myelin
insulator and saltatory conductor to conserve energy during signal transmission
what is the role of oligodendrocytes
myelin production in CNS
describe the pathogenesis of plaque formation
demyelinated areas fill with fibrous astrocytes and proliferation of neurological tissue (gliosis) occurs resulting in plaque formation
what are the four most predictable areas of plaque formation in MS
- optic nerve
- ventricular system
- SC - particularly the posterior column
- CB peduncles
what is typically a first symptom of MS?
visual changes
what are the criteria for dx MS
- evidence of damage in at least 2 areas of the CNS AND
- damage occured at at least 2 different times AND
- r/o other dx
what three diagnostic tests are most common in the MS population
- MRI to visualize plaques in 95% of patients
- CSF/lumbar puncture will show inc IgG
- abnormal evoked potential
of the three diagnostic tests for MS, which is most useful for diagnosis?
evoked potential
what are the three common forms of MS
RRMS (most common) secondary progressive (SPMS) primary progressive (PPMS)
Most RRMS evolves into what…
SPMS
Describe RRMS graphically
stepwise relapses with incomplete recovery
Describe SPMS graphically
RRMS developing into a constant attack on the myelin
Describe PPMS graphically
constant attack on the myelin
What two medications are most implicated in MS treatment
DMARDs early will save patients long term and high dose steroids to reduce the immune response