Multiple Sclerosis

Question 1

What is the basic pathophysiology of MS?

Answer 1

Demyelination of neurones (oligodendrytes) in the central nervous system caused by inflammatory response

Question 2

What are the ophthalmological symptoms of MS?

Answer 2

optic neuritis
pathological eye movement e.g. opthalmoplegia and conjugate lateral gaze disorder

focal weakness (e.g. bells palsy and horner’s syndrome)

Question 3

what are the generalised symptoms of MS?

Answer 3

trigeminal neuralgia
limb paralysis
numbness and paraesthesia
ataxia

Question 4

What type of disease pattern does MS generally have?

Answer 4

relapsing-remitting

Question 5

What methods are used for diagnosis?

Answer 5

MRI scans and lumbar puncture

Question 6

What are the 4 main features of optic neuritis?

Answer 6

Central scotoma
Pain on eye movement
Impaired colour vision
Relative pupillary afferent defect

Question 7

What is the mainstay management for MS?

Answer 7

methylprednisolone 500mg, then 1g IV if relapse is severe