Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an immune-mediated inflammatory disease that attacks myelinated axons in the central nervous system and often causes significant physical disability over time. The hallmark of MS is symptomatic episodes "separated in time and space," heralded by symptoms of central nervous system involvement. These attacks or exacerbations last longer than 24 hours, with relapses occurring months or years apart and affecting different anatomic locations. Numerous clinical situations have been associated with increased or decreased risk for relapse, particularly as research evolves.
Of the four disease courses identified in MS, the most common is relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS), characterized by a cycle of relapse and remission. In the initial stages, RRMS has a largely inflammatory pathology which, over time, becomes primarily neurodegenerative. Most cases of RRMS ultimately evolve to secondary progressive MS (SPMS) after about 15 years, though disease course is variable. In general, treatment of MS encompasses immunomodulatory therapy (IMT) to address the underlying immune disorder together with therapies to relieve symptoms.
Can you recognize the clinical situations associated with increased or decreased risk for MS relapse? Test your knowledge with this quick quiz.
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Cite this: Kerstin Hellwig. Fast Five Quiz: Treatment In Relapsed Multiple Sclerosis - Medscape - Jun 30, 2022.
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