1 learning resource available for this topic
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune demyelinating disease of the central nervous system that primarily affects young adults. The disease is characterized by inflammatory lesions in the brain and spinal cord that lead to progressive neurological dysfunction and disability over time.
MS involves autoimmune destruction of myelin sheaths surrounding axons in the CNS, mediated by activated T-cells, B-cells, and macrophages that cross the blood-brain barrier. This demyelination disrupts nerve signal transmission and leads to axonal damage, with lesions appearing as plaques scattered throughout white matter regions of the brain and spinal cord.
Diagnosis relies on clinical presentation of neurological symptoms separated in time and space, supported by MRI findings showing characteristic white matter lesions and CSF analysis revealing oligoclonal bands. Treatment focuses on disease-modifying therapies to reduce relapse frequency and slow progression, along with symptomatic management and rehabilitation to maintain functional capacity.