Multiple Sclerosis Flashcards
define multiple sclerosis?
inflammatory demyelinating disease of the CNS
what are the types of MS
o Relapsing-Remitting MS o Clinically Isolated Syndrome o Primary Progressive MS o Secondary Progressive MS o Marburg Variant
what is relapsing remitting MS?
- COMMONEST form 85%
* Clinical attacks (1-2 months) of demyelination with complete remission in between attacks
what is clinically isolated syndrome?
- Single clinical attack of demyelination
- The attack in itself does NOT count as MS
- 10-50% progress to develop MS
what is primary progressive MS?
- Progressive deterioration from the onset
* More common in elderly
what is secondary progressive MS?
• Original relapsing-remitting patients who have deteriorated and have developed neurological signs and symptoms between relapses.
what is the Marburg variant?
• Severe fulminant variant of MS leading to advanced disability or death within weeks
aetiology of MS?
• Autoimmune basis with potential environmental trigger in genetically susceptible individuals
risk factors for MS?
o EBV exposure
o Prenatal vitamin D levels
epidemiology of MS?
- More common in women
- Age of presentation: 20-40 yrs
- More common in higher altitudes
typical symptoms of MS?
• Optic Neuritis o Pins and needles o Numbness o Spastic weakness in the legs • Autonomic and cerebellar symptoms.
what is uhthoffs sign?
worsening of neurological symptoms as the body gets overheated from hot weather, exercise, saunas, hot tubs etc
what is Lhermitte’s Sign ?
an electrical sensation that runs down the back and into the limbs when the neck is flexed
major signs of MS on physical exam?
• Optic Neuritis • Visual Field Testing o Central scotoma • Relative Afferent Pupillary Defect (RAPD) • Internuclear Ophthalmoplegia o Paraesthesia o UMN signs
diagnostic test for MS?
• MRI Brain with contrast will show plaques
