Multiple Sclerosis

Question 1

What is MS?

Answer 1

MS is a chronic demyelinating disease of the CNS characterised by an inflammatory process and causing widespread degeneration of the CNS, gradually resulting in severe neurological deficit

Question 2

What is the pathology of MS?

Answer 2

1. Disruption of blood-brain barrier
2. Leakage of inflammatory cells
3. Destruction of oligodendrocytes and myelin sheath
4. Disruption of nerve signals, rate of conduction of nerves is slowed down

Question 3

What are the types of MS?

Answer 3

1. Silent/benign – only one episode and then very few symptoms.
2. Relapsing-remitting MS characterised by periods of remission and then relapses, very slow increase in disability over time.
3. Often progresses into secondary progressive MS where there are relapses but there rate of disability is increased.
4. Primary progressive is a type of MS where there are no relapses and there is a more rapid increase in disability.

Question 4

What are the signs and symptoms of MS?

Answer 4

Fatigue, weakness, poor coordination, visual problems

Question 5

What are the initial symptoms of MS?

Answer 5

Limb weakness, Optic neuritis, Parasthesia, Diplopia, Vertigo, Micturition problems