Multiple sclerosis is a disease of the central nervous system. The insulating sheath around the nerves is progressively destroyed. This leads to a variety of distressing symptoms. It typically affects young adults. The cause is still unknown. New approaches to treatment are being tested including antibody therapies and a factor that may help nerve regeneration. Hopefully, future therapies for this devastating disease will be more than just palliative.
Disease: Multiple Sclerosis
Last update: June 2008
Intro
FAQ: What is it?
Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a disorder of the central nervous system. Normally, nerves of the central nervous system are surrounded by an insulating cover called the myelin sheath. In MS, this sheath is progressively destroyed. When this happens the nerve dies. The patient's symptoms depend on where the damage occurs but can include double vision or blindness, speech difficulties, muscular weakness, incontinence, fatigue, pain and mood alterations.
The cause is unknown, but the immune system is thought to be involved in the inflammation that accompanies myelin destruction.