Overview
Definition
Immune-mediated inflammatory demyelinating disease of the central nervous system.
Epidemiology
Most common non-traumatic disabling disease in young adults.
Etiology & Risk Factors
- Autoimmune destruction of myelin
- EBV infection (possible trigger)
Clinical Symptoms
- Optic neuritis
- Intranuclear ophthalmoplegia
- Weakness
- Sensory loss
Clinical Approach
Diagnosis
- MRI Brain/Spine (Dawson's fingers)
- CSF (Oligoclonal bands)
Management
- High-dose steroids (flares)
- Disease-modifying therapies (Ocrelizumab, Interferon beta)
Complications
- Permanent paralysis
- Blindness
- Depression