Multiple Sclerosis: Types, Causes and Management

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic inflammatory disease that causes progressive demyelination and neurodegeneration in the central nervous system (CNS). It is the most common demyelinating disease of the CNS in humans. In this disease the insulating covers of nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord are damaged. There are several symptoms of this disease, such as double vision, blindness in one eye, muscle weakness, and trouble with sensation or coordination. The causes of multiple sclerosis include dysfunctional immune system, genetics and environmental factors, like viral infections. There are specifically four types of MS, namely, clinically isolated syndrome (CIS), relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS), primary progressive MS (PPMS), and secondary progressive MS (SPMS). Neuroimaging, analysis of cerebrospinal fluid, and evoked potentials are the major diagnostic tools that can be used in this disease. Therapy and medications are recommended for the management of this disease. The aim of this book is to present researches that have transformed the study of multiple sclerosis. It will provide comprehensive knowledge to the readers.