Summary:
Multiple Sclerosis is an autoimmune disease of the central nervous system. In this article, I explain the symptoms of the disease, the process of diagnosis, and current treatments.

Details or Sample:
Multiple sclerosis (MS), also called disseminated sclerosis, was first identified as a distinctive disease in 1868 by the French neurologist Charcot. MS is characterized as an autoimmune condition that affects the neurons of the central nervous system. Neurons are the main cells of the brain and spinal cord, carrying information and controlling bodily functions. The neurons are protected by a layer of fat called the myelin sheath. In some individuals, the immune system begins to react against and damage this myelin sheath, resulting in scarring or sclerosis.

A wide variety of symptoms results, including bodily weakness, problems with balance, and loss of sensation in the extremities and face. More advanced symptoms of MS include difficulty with speech, fatigue, tremors, chronic and acute pain, muscle spasms, and loss of vision. Generally, adults between the ages of 20 and 40 are diagnosed with the disease and more women than men are affected. Inheritance patterns of MS remain elusive, but it has been noted that there is an increased risk of contracting the disease in relatives of those affected with MS. Currently, there is no cure for MS.

The condition is diagnosed when at least two separate discoveries of myelin sheath damage are made. This is typically performed by taking an MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) of the brain and spine and a sample of the patient’s cerebrospinal fluid. The MRI will show bright areas where the myelin sheath has been damaged and the cerebrospinal fluid will reveal if any chronic inflammatory molecules are present. These discoveries must be made at least 30 days apart. However, if a person is actively experiencing two separate cases of MS symptoms and can be examined during those times, then these data are also sufficient for a full diagnosis.

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Written by: Halina
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