Course of Multiple Sclerosis
Multiple Sclerosis (MS) typically follows a relapsing-remitting course wherein a patient completely recovers from an attack, but develops a similar or different complaint after weeks or months of complete relief.
The disease may run a mild course in some individuals, whereas it may be severe and debilitating in others. Treatment can modify the course of the disease.
The course of the disease may follow any one of the following patterns :
1. Relapsing- Remitting Type
Majority or 85% of patients with MS fall into this category.
They may suffer from the initial attack or repeat attacks (flare ups) for weeks or months which then disappears (remission) and the patient makes a complete recovery. The early symptoms of multiple sclerosis remit and relapse at a later date.Many patients fall into this category at the time of diagnosis of the disease.
2. Primary Progressive type
This type may occur in 10% of patients. The disease shows a gradual downhill course with no remission, in other words these patients do not recover from the first attack and the disease progresses relentlessly.
This type is also seen in those patients above the age of 40 years when the disease first strikes.
3. Secondary Progressive Type
The relapsing remitting type may enter a stage of continuous worsening of the patient’s condition. Relapses may occur in addition to the continuous deterioration.
4. Progressive relapsing Type
This type is rare with new symptoms appearing suddenly in the primary progressive type or existing ones becoming worse.
