General Information About MS Disease
Disease Details and Frequently Asked Questions
It is a condition where the body's immune cells erroneously attack and destroy the electrical insulation sheaths (myelin) surrounding nerve fibers in the brain and spinal cord.
In the vast majority of patients (Relapsing-Remitting type), the disease suddenly flares up and neurological deficits are experienced (attack). Weeks after the attack subsides, the body repairs part or all of this damage, and symptoms fade.
Frequently, the initial symptom is blurred vision or vision loss in the eye (optic neuritis). Additionally, numbness, tingling, loss of strength, electric-shock sensations in the arms/legs, gait and balance disturbances, and profound fatigue are observed.
The exact cause remains unknown. It is believed that in genetically predisposed individuals, the Epstein-Barr virus (mononucleosis), severe vitamin D deficiency, and smoking act as triggers for the disease.
Contrast-enhanced MRI scans of the Brain and Spinal Cord are performed to detect the white plaques (lesions) left by myelin damage. If necessary, a cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis obtained via lumbar puncture is evaluated for oligoclonal bands, indicating immune activity.
To immediately halt the damage during an acute attack, very high doses of intravenous corticosteroids are administered. In the long term, lifelong disease-modifying (immunosuppressive) therapies in the form of injections or tablets are utilized to prevent relapses and stop the progression of the disease toward disability.
Our health library contents are prepared for informational purposes only and with scientific data available at the time of recording. For all your questions, concerns, diagnosis, or treatment regarding your health, please consult your doctor or a healthcare institution.
